44 32 1900 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/001761d9323fa4d3720391dcfab29160.PDF 0e3303d004792ae225140bd0ba92708c PDF Text Text ,111,1, Iijl^ljipfpiilwwwi Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. AUGUST 1. 1947 Mathiasen Signs Up; Agreement Is Called Best In Tanker Field PHILADELPHIA—True to the promises made to the men sailing the ships of the Tanker Sag Harbor Cor­ poration, the Seafarers International Union this week sign­ ed a contract with the company calling for the highest wage and overtime rates ever known in the maritime in­ dustry. This company was recently won by the SIU in a National Labor Relations Board bargaining election. The Cominle Tactics A good lesson in how com­ munists operate to capture control of trade unions is indicated by a letter, sent in anonymously to the LOG, written by James Romanoff, former MEBA official, to one of his comrades in the MEBA New York office. Portions of the letter, plus explanatory material by the Editors, appear on page 3. Seafarers and readers of the LOG are well aware of how communist party mem­ bers seek to get a strangle­ hold on a union's apparatus so as to force the union to follow the straight and nar­ row Moscow line. No. 31 New Contract Signed; SIU Gets 5% Increase And Paid Vacations t NEW YORK—Eight companies, among them some of the largest carriers of freight cargo in the United States, this week signed a contract with the SIU calling for a 5 per cent wage increase across the boards, paid vacations after a year of service, and nine paid holidays at sea for members of the Deck and Engine Departments. This last provision was already a part of the Stewards agreement. balloting showed the Union a hands-down victor, with t The eight companies which only two votes going to the'® broke the solid front of ship­ company. The NMU with­ owners were Alcoa Steamship drew at the last moment, Company; American Liberty without explanation, and Lines; A. H. Bull and Company; YORK—The last ally of the CIO union has been taking resentation they have been seek­ Bull Insular Lines, Incorporated; therefore did not appear on theNEW Cities Service Company in lickings in elections on both ing. Eastern Steamship Company; the ballot. Although the first obstacle has South Atlantic Steamship Com­ its attempts to stall an election coasts and on the Great Lakes. NMU Withdraws From Cities Servire The announcement of the Tankers Sag Harbor pact came just at the time that the National Labor Relations Board sent rec­ ords of proceedings on the Cities Service Company case to Wash­ ington to ascertain whether or not an election will be held in that fleet. Some of the best features of the SIU freight ship agreemelits are embodied in the new con­ tract, while other features in­ clude 28 days vacation per year, all holidays at sea to be paid for at the overtime rate, and ahy work performed in port after 5 P.M. and before 8 A.M. also to be paid for at the overtime rate of pay. MEMBERS PROTECTED The overtime rate provides for $1.10 per hour for those earning less than $210.00 per month, and $1.40 per hour for those making $210.00 or over. Although the agreement was sighed for one year, it contains an exclusive SIU provision that the wage question can be reopen­ ed any time during the life of the contract. This protects the mem­ bership in case the cost-of-living risest Negotiations commenced the latter- part of May and moved along sporadically due to com­ pany stalling. However, all fea­ tures of the recently executed contract are retroactive to May 28, so the men sailing the ships have lost nothing. The Negotiating Committee for the Union consisted of J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer; Paul Hall, Diftctor of Organization; Eddie Higdon, Philadelphia Port Agent; and Robert Matthews, special Headquarters Repr-esentative. in its fleet of tankers quit the field on July 28, and made it certain that a bargaining elec­ tion will be held in the near fu­ ture. That ally was the National Maritime Union, CIO, which played the company's game after the Isthmian election was won by the Seafarers, and would prob­ ably have done the same thing after the Cities Service election goes the same way. The NMU backed out by not being represented at a National Labor Relations Board hearing held on July 28. Representing the SIU were Morris Weisberger, International Vice-President; A1 Kerr, organ­ izer; and Mr. Parness, la\^yer from the staff of Ben Sterling. Also present as qbservers were Secretary-Treasurer J. P. Shuler and George "Frenchy" Ruf, or­ ganizer. In a formal discussion on the situation, the company would not agree to. an election in its fleet to decide a bargaining agent for the unlicensed personnel unless ordered to do so by the NLRB. Therefore, a copy of the hear­ ing, with all the pervious records of the case, will be forwarded to the Washington office of the Board, where a decision will be rendered on whether or not an election is to be held. PRESSURE SUCCESSFUL On one point, however, the company did give in to Union pressure. It was agreed, that if an election is ordered, the bar­ gaining unit would include all the unlicensed personnel in the Deck, Engine, and Stewards Departments, with the exception of Pursers and Radio Operators. The withdrawal of the NMU from the proceedings comes as no surprise to the Seafarers since After having been beaten in the Isthmian balloting, the NMU held up proceedings in the Tank­ er Sag Harbor (Mathiasen) Cor­ poration, and pulled out of the runnings at th? last moment. VICTORY IN SIGHT On the Lakes the SIU badly defeated the NMU in the Huron election, following which the NMU stalled the Wyandotte hearings as long as possible and then took a run-out powder. Now that the NMU has drop­ ped out of the Cities Service case, the SIU has a chance to bring to those seamen the rep­ been hurdled, and an election is virtually certain to take place, the job of the SIU membership has only started. There are nu­ merous men in the fleet who have questions regarding Union policies and procedures, and it is the responsibility of all good Union men to sail those scows and give correct answers to any queries that come up Shoreside organizers cannot do the job alone, but with coopera­ tion of men who ship as volun­ teers, the task can be wrapped up in short order and entered as a win in the Seafarers column. SIU Reopens Washington Office In keeping with the action voted upon by the Seafarers In­ ternational Union Convention in Chicago, and ratified by the membership, Matthew "Duke" Dushane, has been appointed International Representative on Legislative Affairs and has been sent to Washington, D. C. Brother Dushane represented the Union in Washington during the war. He will keep in close contact with all legislation affecting the maritime industry and the labor movement. Any requests from the Ports for information or service should be channeled through Headquarters so as to prevent duplication of work. pany; Seas Shipping Company; and Smith and Johnson. The vacation clause stipulates that men employed on one com­ pany's ships for one continuous year are to be granted one week's vacation with pay, and for each subsequent year of continuous service shall receive a vacation ^f'^'dayrwithYuTl'pay. StYting date for computing continuous time is July 31, 1947. CONTRACT EXTENDED The original agreement enter­ ed into on October 23, 1946, plus the amendments and changes in­ corporated in the new contract, is extended until July 30, 1948. However, the question of wages can be reopened by the Union at any time, a provision that is not contained in the contracts of any other maritime unions. Th e increase in wages and overtime is retroactive to and in­ cluding June 16, 1947, while all other provisions go into effect July 31. Representing the Seafarers during the negotiations were J. P. Shuler, Paul Hall, Joe Algina, Bob Matthews and Steely White. AFL-CIOUnitylsA Nust', Green TellsMurray WASHINGTON — AFL Presi­ dent William Green told CIO President Philip Murray again last week that there is no Chance of common action between the two organizations without or­ ganizational unity. In a letter to Murray, Green said that he had submitted the ClO's proposal to the AFL's Ex­ ecutive 'Council. Gi-een said that the Executive Council "decided it would'be impossible to formu­ late a common and unified policy of action for the purpose of pro­ tecting living standards of Amer­ ican people and to assure effec­ tive political expression on the part of organized labor and to elect progressive representatives to the U. S. Congress as set forth in your letter, without first end­ ing division within the ranks of labor thru the establishment of organizational unity. "This is a primary requirement to the success of any plan or pro­ gram as you outlined in the third paragraph of your letter." Murray had proposed to Green that the AFL and CIO form a common legislative front to fight the Taft-Hartley bill, but this suggestion was rejected by Green who insisted that organic unity mi^st be discussed first. Green concluded; "I extend to you and your associates in behalf of the Executive Council of the AFL an invitation to meet with representatives of the AFL at some convenient date within the ranks of labor and establish la­ bor solidarity and organizational unity." �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, August 1, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFx\RERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N- Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J, P. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Best In The Business Just as the Seafarers International Union has always led the way for unlicensed freight ship personnel in wages and conditions so docs the Union now blaze a path in thfe tanker field. Hospital Patients The new contract just executed with the' Tanker 5ag Harbor Corporation (Mathiasen Tankers) embodies the best wages and conditions ever known on tankers, and includes the exclusive SIU provision that wage scales can be reopened by the Union at any time during the life of the contract so as to protect the Seafarers membership against rising prices. When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Tankermen have long been the most badly treated of all seagoing men. While victory after victory was being j won in dry cargo companies, the wealthy oil companies wliich ov/n their tankers successfully withstood organi­ These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, zation. as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging Men Now In The Marine Hospitals But now the story has changed. The SIU has now consolidated its strength on the waterfront, and is ready and able to bring real representa­ tion to the men who sail the tankers. The Sag Harbor contract is only the first and will be followed in rapid succession by many more. Organizing Sag Harbor was no pipe. It took an in­ tensive campaign with the full cooperation of the mem­ bership and the officials, t<} bring about a victory. The .same spirit that won Isthmian, Huron, and Wyandotte, was also in evidence in the Sag Harbor drive. Cities Service is next. It will be a hard fought, dingdong battle, because" the company does not like the idea of having its unlicensed personnel represented by the mili­ tant Seafarers. The company is certain to try every dodge in the books to prevent organization in the fleet, but it can be done, and it will be done. Volunteer organizer;; turned the trick in every victory won by the Union. That must be continued in the Cities Service campaign. Not every one who applies for a job will be accepted, but enough will pass the scrutiny of Watchful company officials to be able to carry the SIU message to every ship in the fleet. It worked in Isthmian—it worked with other com­ panies—and it can't miss in Cities Service. Sag Harbor seamen who have the best contract in the tanker industry. With hard work, the same thing can be true of unlicensed Cities Service seamen. I X heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. * NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL M. PISKUN G. ROGERS JOSEPH DENNIS C. F. CONSTANZA L. GROVER H. SELBY C. MACON R. WALTHER BOB WRIGHT JOHN MAGUIRE t 4. t BALTIMORE HOSPITAL CHARLES BURNEY J. J. O'NEAL M. PLYLER E. L. WANDRIE F. O'BRIEN E. M. LOOPER J. WYMOND D. G. PARKER E.. CAIN JR. LEROY CLARKE , J. TARQUELLOS J. ZANADIL F. MILLER D. COPPAK D. P. KORALIA • P. PODOLSKY WILLIAM MOORE R. GORDON L. COOPER REUBEN VANCE M. FINDELHURST H. GREEN 1. t. 1. I t, - t STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL CHICAGO MARINE HOSP. N. NEILSEN LOUIS JOHNSON J. MORRISON STEVE SCHULTZ E. J. SIDNEY HENRY LALLY J. A. DYKES t i. t E. E. CASEY NEPONSET HOSPITAL E. F. PAUL L. CLARK P. FELICIANO J. S. CAMPBELL P. GELPI E. FERRER II. STILLMAN J. R. HANCHEY T. J. KURKI C. LARSEN E. P. O'BRIEN L. L. LEWIS C. KERSTENS J. R. LEWIS P. C. CARTER You can coD'act your Hos­ pital delegate jt the StatenIsland Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) L. C. J. R. H. J. TORRES SCHULTZ HAMILTON A. BLAKE BELCHER T. EDWARDS t 1. 4 MOBILE HOSPITAL M. D. PENRY J. G. HARRIS ARCHIE SANDY H. HUISMAN J. CARROLL T. J. FAITER M. COLLIER C. E. FOSTER WILLIAM FAWELEY E. L. MEYERS J. C. KEEL U. S. MORGAN R. G. VARNON i i. BRIGHTON HOSPITAL L. ANDERSONR. BAASNER -f. R. LORD E. JOHNSTON E. DELLAMANO H. WALSH R. MORRISON �Friday, August I. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Letter From Former MEBA Official Shows How The CP Works in Unions "Trying to recruit Chief Eng­ A1 Rothbard is another so-call­ That so-called confusion has led ineer. So far he's read several ed commie trade union expert. to the best conditions and wages pamphlets including Herb Tank's His activities center around in the industry for all seamen, Communists on the Waterfront, worming his way into honest while the "educated" NMU is Marx's Value, Price, and Profit, trade unions and turning them embroiled in an internal struggle plus Book Find Club montl?ly into transmission belts for Mos­ that makes them easy game for cow propaganda. Whenever he the shipowners. issues." So goes a letter from James fails to change the union, he By PAUL HALL Communist - dominated unions Romanoff former official of the resorts to disruption and wreck­ are never run for the best in­ Number one on the parade of questions heard around the Hall Marine Engineers Beneficial As­ ing. He has been placed by the terests of the members liip. these days is, "What can we do to beat the Taft-Hartley Act?" Not sociation, CIO, addressed to communist party in charge of Whenevec the party line changes, only is it a good, live question—it's a damned hot one, too. This "Dear Arthur," and dated June penetration into the SIU, as well the leadership of the union pulls newly enacted anti-labor law is lined with fangs. So, let's take 6, 1947, from Copenhagen, Den­ as other AFL unions. the membership along the new a look into the situation and see just what the hell we—as individual mark. This letter was anony­ track, even if it means selling COMMIE TRAITORS members as well as a trade union—can do in the event this poison­ mously sent to the SEAFARERS them down the river. ous measure is set in motion in the Maritime industry to our detri­ LOG. Romanoff does not mention Comrade Rdfhanoff can have ment. why France of 1940 outlawed the There are few, if any, exper­ First off, this act should not immediately affect the SIU. Al­ communists. It was then that his partners Lannon .and Roth­ ienced trade unionists who do though it becomes law on Aug. 22, the provisions of the act ban­ France was battling for life bard. They will never make any ning the closed shop do not apply to contracts in ^rce until Aug. 22, not know how communists op­ against the Nazis, and due to headway in the SIU because the 1948. • Under these conditions, our agreements are solid until that erate. Commie strategy is to in­ the pact between Hitler and communist record speaks for it­ date, in as much as our Union has extended its contracts, along filtrate, drav/ attention to non- Stalin, the French communist self, and it is a record of deceit trade union issues, and have with various clarifications, until lhat date. party actively sabotaged the war and treachery, capped by a "noWhen our present contracts expire in 1948, as will hundieds of their contacts take part in co.m- effort. High communist officials strikc pledge in peacetime," other union agreements throughout the nation, the stage will be mie-front organizations and act­ refused war service and escaped which made every sincere trade set for plenty of fireworks. For on August 22, or before, it will be ivities. to Russia where they directed unionist sick to the stomach. It can be easily seen that Com­ their underlings in treachery and against the law'^or any steamship opei-ator (or other employer) to sign a so-called closed-shop contract. Then the chips will be down, missar Romanoff is following the sabotage. as far as the SIU is concerned. We'll be put to the test to prove same tactics. Not only in France did the we're big enough to maintain our Union Hiring Hall clauses, which First he wormed his way into commies work for a Nazi Vic­ are the backbone of our Union's existence. the confidence of the Chief Eng- tory until Hitler turned on his As time goes on, we may run into various other provisions' ineer, then he gave him a lying partner, Stalin. In other coun­ of the Taft-Hartley law as it affects our organizational work and'pamphlet by a self-admitted com- tries th% CP forced unneces.sary union procedures. For instance, the law specifies that no union can'munist hack to read, and then he strikes and held up war produc­ Robert J. Watt, AFL Interna­ be certified even after winning a steamship company in an election j led him to one of the "fronts," tion and tried to spread their tional representative and the until each official files an affidavit stating he is not a member of in this case the Book Find Club, lying propaganda in the Armed the Communist party. man who has represented United which distributes books that fol­ services. We'll deal with this section when we come to it, as the dead­ low the "Line." But as soon as Russia was at­ States labor at the International line for filing has not yet arrived. v tacked, it was a different story. Labor Organization since the U. CURRAN AND CP SUP Faces Problem Then it became "Russia P'lrst," S. joined that body in 1936, died The letter, which was written The problems of our ^affiliates, the Sailors Union of the Pacific when Romanoff was on the SS even to the extent of being will­ suddenly on July 25 aboard the in particular, are of more immediate concern in face of the threat John A. Donald, Smith and John­ ing to have the American Labor SS Saturnia on his way home to the closed shop. The SUP's contracts, which have not been re­ son Steamship Company, goes Movement enslaved by the boss­ from an ILO meeting in Geneva. newed, expire Sept. 30, 1947. Indications point to an old-fashioned on" to say, "Sure hope things are es, just so that Stalin could have Brother Watt came up the hard brawl should the shipowners try to knock the props from under shaping up better for June 15 all the materials he needed to way, advancing from the paper conquer and enslave more ter­ the SUP's Union Hiring Hall, which they rightfully enjoy at the than when we left. Have they mill in which he first worked, ritory and people. present time. got Curran back on the right through various AFL posts When September and the SUP's contract expiration come, there track yet or is he finally at long And When Romanoff speaks of which culminated in his appoint­ is no question that the SIU will take advantage of the clause in its last permanently derailed? When the "confused, misled members" contracts—the only one of its kind in the marine industry—allow­ issues get sharp, these phonies of the SIU, what he really means ment as International AFL rep­ ing renegotiation of the wage question. Besides being aimed at always jump off the sinking is tliat the Seafarers has been resentative. Watt was always in the fore­ getting more money for our membership, this move will also have'^^'^^ a bulwark against the kind of front of the fight to prevent the the means of our lining up support for our affiliate. It will enable. . , infiltration that has made the us to pitch in and throw our support to our SUP Brothers. If the! letting Curran back on the National Maritime Union, a n d j communists from dominating the West Coast shipowners aim to beat the SUP against the wall, they '^^ht tiack obvious y le eis to other unions which allowed the labor scene, and he was instruJoe's fight against the commies commies to become dominant, in- | mental in keeping the AFL out had better figure on us going into action, too. in the National Maritime Union, to a stooge outfit not interested of the Soviet-dominated World and the attempts to unseat him What We Can Do To Prepare in anything more than maintain­ Federation of Trade Unionists. Now comes the question: What can we do in the meantime to or foi'ce him to toe the CP line. ing control for Stalin's agents. He will be sorely missed byprepare for these struggles, which appear to be inevitable? A little further in the letter, The SIU is willing to continue American labor, and by the la­ Most important is that we all exert every bit of our individual Romanoff says, 'I want Lan- being "confused and misled." bor movement the world over. and collective energies to put our Union in the best shape possible. non's ear for about 60 minutes That's the one job every Seafarer must go to work on. when I get back to give him In my opinion, the best way is to take active interest in every some first hand facts and obser­ phase of Union activity by: 1) Attending all regular meetings and vations regarding Norfolk MEBA, putting questions on any point that is not clear; 2) Contacting all NMU, and MCS, MFOW, CP still in there pitching for the young guys in the Union who may not know the score and stressing situation." SIU is Brother A1 Waterman, an • to them the need for following Union policy and programs on mat­ A1 Lannon is the waterfront oldlimer and ardent Seafarer ters affecting us all; 3) Educating every doubting man to the fact contact man for the communist from way back. Now rounding that unless we're prepared for the final showdown, whether it be party, and as such has been re- L^^ second year aboard IsthSept. 30 or Aug. 22, 1948, we surely will perish; 4) Tell all hands sponsible-for a large portion of 1 Waterman played an on all ships to salt away a few bucks to take care of his family and the disruption which has split important part as a volunteer in supplement the Union's assistance while he's on the bricks in case the maritime unions in the past the organizing drive which result­ of a long, tough battle. ten years. ed in the Union's certification as Finally, we should all be on guard against attempts by ship Further in ,the letter, Roman­ colective bargaining agent for owners, either through .an outright move to smash our union hiring hall by refusing to ship men from our halls, or through attempting off states, "Tell Rothbard that the line's unlicensed personnel. he's got a hard job — AFL con­ No job is well done until it is to plant stooges on our ships to cause trouble, chaos or disruption. centration. May be years before carried through to a successful he'll be able to observe notice­ wind-up. Brother Waterman be­ Direct Action Is Best Defense These are but a few things individual members can do. It is able results with the SIU. These lieves, and he puts his beliefs in­ these things and our policy of economic action at the point of pro­ boys are some of the most con­ to practice. That's how come he duction that provide our best defense in case of attack in our ex­ fused, misled members of the just signed on his fifth Isthmian istence. It will demonstrate that by direct action labor has a quick, American Labor Movement. It ship, the SS Rider Victory, And he's going to "keep sailforthright fighting answer for the termites who are gnawing at is, in my opinion, this fact that adds to the importance of the ing Isthmian" until there's an . labor's hard-won gains and seek to send them crashing back to the undertaking. Should have been SIU contract to benefit all hands, AL WATERMAN "good old days" and 40 bucks a month, blue linen and maggotty done years ago. Still, it's not Brother Waterman, who has chow. And its something the boys who talk of "third political parties" too l^te. Better Ij.'e than never. been going to sea more than 25 followed by a three month stint as a means of beating the Tafts and Hartleys can't match. Our pro­ Who would have thought the years, got himself his first Isth-|on the Twin Falls Victory. Before shipping on the Rider gram is swift and sure, theirs is long, drawn-out and guarantees France of 1940 that outlawed the mian job on Mar. 6, 1946, when CP would have been the France he went aboard the Baton Rouge Victory, he was a crewmember nothing. We Seafarers have successfully brought about conditions in of 1946 and 1947? An optimist? Victory to voluntarily give out on the Allegheny Victory. No! ! A Marxist. If great nations the story of the SIU and the ad-| What will come after the Rider this' industry that years ago were waterfront pipe.dreams. We , have made it possible for seamen to rightfully live like of the world can be changed, vantages of membership in the Victory, isn't quite definite in Bi-other Waterman's plans. He's any other human. We aim to keep things that way. The Seafarers then I'm sure that a workers' leading waterfront Union. Next was the Mandan Victory not moving off Isthmian until it will fight, anybody — anywhere — anytime — to see that seamen mass organization like the SIUen which he spent nine months, signs on the dotted line. SUP can also." remain free human beings! «, Watt Dies On Way Home From ILO Meet; AFL Representative Volunteer On Sth Isthmian Ship �T^E SEA^d:RER:^ LOC Page Four Friday. August 1. 1947 zrt: Unity Of Htembers Basis Of SlU Growth REPORT By J. P. SHULCR, Secretvy-Treasurer Since the last regular meeting, negotiations day, state that an election should be held shortly have been completed between the Seafarers In­ in the Cities Service fleet. According to the Or­ ternational Union of North America and the fol­ ganizers' reports, this election will keep intact Our Union has been growing; As long as that spirit of colowing companies: Alcoa Steamship Company, ihe long string of election victories the SIU has by leaps and bounds. And as it operation exists in our organiza- American Liberty Lines, A. H. Bull and, Com­ run up in tlifc unorganized field over the past two , •-Ition, we won't be beat. Our propany, Bull Insular Lines, Inc., Eastern Steamship years. takes on strength and size, it gress will continue along with Company, South Atlantic Steamship Corppany, A Senate Committee passed a bill recommend­ flike any organization, be it lawell-being of the membcrSeas Shipping Company, and Smith and Johnson. ing that alien seamen who sailed on, U. S. mer­ bor union, steam.ship company or,ship. Our agreements have been amended and extend­ chant vessels during the war be allowed to con­ steel mill) has a growing need We will be able to beat all ed to July 30, 1948. tinue sailing American merchant vessels, regard­ for greater cooperation and co­ enemies of labor, whether it be The Negotiating Committee has a full report less of their alien status. ordination if it is to operate ef­ an anti-labor congre.ss, political which will be read at the New York meeting Another bill favorably reported by a Senate cliques within who would ruin tonight, carrying the amendments which are Committee is the length of time a seaman can ficiently and economically. stay ashore and still be eligible for treatment in In these two important factors our union to further their own subject to action by the membership. aims, or other unions who by The Negotiating Committee is now meeting the Marine Hospitals. •—cooperation and coordination— their actions show they have no with Mississippi and 'Waterman Steamship Com­ ' Heretofore, a man has only been allowed 60 lies the basic reason for Union right to be called labor unions. pany, as well as other outfits contracted to the days on the beach and still be eligible for treat­ growth. 0. SlU and further reports will be given on these ment in marine hospitals. This bill would allow For a solid example of what a Every section of the Union ap­ uiecting in the immediate future. a seaman to be eligible for treatment in marine lack of unit3' or cooperation can paratus depends heavily on co­ Headquarters officials have met several times hospitals as long as he makes his livelihood in the do, look at the NMU. Its leader­ operation, whether it be the or­ since the last meeting with representatives of the maritime industry. ship has split into two factioms, ganizing department, the book­ Stewards Department Representatives in sev­ each intent on achieving its own Isthmian Steamship Company in regards to ne­ keeping department, Patrolmen, gotiating an agreement. The Isthmian Steamship eral ports have endeavored to outline the Stewends. the Dispatchers or negotiating Companj^has made several proposals to the Sea- ards Department work in detail. This has caused One side is constantly blasting farers. They have been studied. The Union's committees. ^numbers of letters from Stewards and other mem­ Without this essential coopera­ ihe other and vice-versa. The counter-proposals will be submitted this week. bers in the Stewards Department to be sent to A meeting will be held shortly between Isth­ .Headquai-ters protesting these detailed outlines. tion, we'd be up the well-known union's position, as a result, has been weakened inestimably. mian and the SIU to begin negotiations on these creek. It is impossible for a man ashore to outline in Let's make sure this never proposals and counter-proposals. The membership detail the work for each Stewards Department GOOD EXAMPLE happens to our organization. will be advised as to the outcome of these meet­ aboard a ship. This work is generally outlined in the agreement and the details should be left Suppose when a Patrolman Let's get in their and plug for the ings; An agreement with the Mathiason Tankers, Inc., up to the Steward, and all cooperation should be came aboard your ship for the betterment of the Union. payoff and there was disputed Let's bring all our beefs be­ has at last been reached and a complete report given him to see that the Stewards Department overtime—your overtime—you'd fore the membership, I mean just will be made to the membership tonight on this work is carried out in a practical manner. After action taken in the International Con­ turned it over to him, signed off that. I don't mean to tTie atten­ agreement. Th,e membership will recall that this and then took a powder. tion of John Barleycorn, the bar­ is the first tanker outfit to be contracted to the vention and ratified by the membership, Matthew Your chances of collecting this tender, that "woman" or anyone ^^tlantic and Gulf District of the SIU. The con­ "Duke" Dushane has been sent to Washington, disputed overtime have taken a outside the Union who has no ditions of this agreement are much better than D. C., as International Representative on Legis­ any other agreement in the tanker field. lative Affairs. good boot in the fanny. The Pa­ business knowing it. Let us hope this will only be the beginning There will be certain things coming up in each trolman's chances of collecting Remember that section of the and in the near future a number of tanker com­ port which should be referred to Dushane in your dough for you get the same Oath of Obligation which reads: panies will be operating under contract to the Washington. Many of the things coming up in boot in the same place. "I promise that I will never Atlantic and Gulf District of the Seafarers Inter­ different ports are of the same nature and in A simple example, it neverthe­ reveal the proceedings of the national Union of North America. order to prevent repetition, all matters that are less shows the necessity for one Union to its injury or to per­ The Organizers, as a result of a meeting held to t^e referred to Washington should be channeled form of cooperation. son not entitled to know it." with the National Labor Relations Board on Mon- through Headquarters Office. Take a look at the great pro­ gress made in the organizing field by the SlU in the past two years. Suppose, for example, there had been no cooperation between What the Seafarers means to its membership—and to all maritime, which benefitted the shoreside organizers and the from SIU victories—is shown by the following table, listing the wage increases won by the members who voluntarily sailed SIU in not quite a year's time. In that period, for example, an AB's base wage rose from those ships. The money, effort, S155.00 to $191.99, almost a 25% increase, and—but read for yourself: everythi.ng would have been That the sale of ships to for­ wasted. eign countries, many of them to Pre-Strike Scale After Scale After New Scale Fortunately, as the results non-maritime nations, is con­ Rating Scale Retroactive to General Strike 6% Increase show, cooperation was present. tinuing at a heavy pace, is cor1946 1946 Mar. 11, 1947 June 16.1947 We have been certified as collec­ raborated by a report of the tive bargaining agent for Isth­ Maritime Commission. Bosun $162.50 $228.17 $205.00 $217.30 mian and we already have con­ Bosun's Mate—Day Work 204.05 214.25 192.50 In the two month period from tracts with Mathiasen—our first Bosun's Mate—Watch 180.00 190.80 200.34 April 1st to May 29th, 207 Amer­ East Coast tanker agreement— Carpenter 162.50 205.00 217.30 228.17 ican built vessels were sold to and several new companies, such Storekeeper 157.50 197.50 209.35 219.82 foreign operators. The majority as Kearney, St. Lawrence Navi­ AB Maintenance 155.00 187.50 198.75 208.69 of the ships, 113 in all, were gation, Bloomfield, etc. Quartermaster 155.00 172.50 182.85 191.99 sold to British companies. Ships Cooperation did it. If it hadn't AB 155.00 172.50 182.85 191.99 were also sold to smaller mari­ existed, the seamen who rode Watchman 150.00 172.50 182.85 191.99 time nations such as Greece and those ships probably would be in OS 132.50 150.00 159.00 166.95 the Netherlands. some other union by now or still The report also disclosed that unorganized. Chief Electrician $252.00 $294.50 $312.17 $327.78 30 ships were sold to non-mari­ Asst. Electrician 182.50 227.50 241.15 253.21 COOPERATION SPARKS ALL time nations with Panama get­ Unlic. Jr. Engineer—Days 187.50 230.00 243.80 255.99 ting 24, Columbia, 3; Peru, 2 Take a look at the Union struc­ Unlic. Jr. Engineer—Watch 187.50 205.00 217.30 228.17 and Honduras, 1. ture, procedure and representa­ Machinist-Plumber 194.50 237.00 251.22 263,78 The heaviest purchaser of ships tives. Cooperation and coordina­ Deck Engineer 162.50 205.00 217.30 228.17 for the Panamanian flag was tion improved the efficiency of Chief Reefer Engineer 252.00 269.50 299.95 285.67 the Overseas Tankship Corpora­ them all. The bookkeeping sys­ 1st Reefer 220.00 237.50 251.75 264.34 tion, which purchased 11 vessels. tems have been revised so that 2nd Reefer 201.00 218.50 231.61 243.19 Not mentioned in the report, records are handled more smoothEngine Storekeeper 197.50 209.35 219.82 however, was the fact that Over­ "ly and efficiently. Engine Utility 155.00 217.30 205.00 228.17 seas Tankship is a Panamanian Your Union regulations are Evaporator Maintenance 172.50 190.00 201.40 211.47 company owned by California Oiler—Diesel 155.00 changed from time to time to 195.25 206.97 217.32 Texaco Company. Oiler—Steam 155.00 meet existing conditions. The 177.50 188.15 197.56 During this two month period Watertender 155.00 bringing about of these changes 197.56 177.50 188.15 American operators purchased Fireman-Watertender 155.00 depends on the cooperative spirit 177.50 188.15 197.56 80 ships. between the membership and Firemen 145.00 186.43 177.55 167.50 With the sale of the 207 war Wiper 132.50 194.78 officials in the various ports. 160.00 185.50 built vessels, the total number When an elected official ne­ of ships sold under the Ship $233.20 $244.86 Chief Steward $202.50 $220.00 glects his duties, the member­ Sales Act of 1946 now totals 217.30 228.17 Chief Cook 182.50 205.00 ship shows its interest in the 1000. 228.17 217.30 Night Cook 8t Baker ..^ 182.50 205.00 welfare of the Union by bring­ 196.10 205.91 Second Cook 167.50 185.00 ing this condition to the atten­ 185.50 194.78 Asst. Cook 157.50 175.00 tion of the Secretary-Treasurer 159.00 166.95 Messman 132.50 150.00 and the members in other ports, 159.00 166.95 Utility Man 132.50 150.00 BO that the situation can be cor­ rected. By JOHNNY ARABASZ rU' s-' J- How SIU Raised Seamen's WageslnOne Year MC is Stiff Seffing Ships At Fast Pace �TVE SEAPAltWiiS IJ&G Friday.' AU^^st' 1.'^M7 Page Fire Port Montreal I' Part of the crew of the MV Gadsden, taking it easy on deck before going into Mon­ treal for fun and relaxation. The crew is com.aosed of some SIU men from the States, and quite a few from Canada, some of whom came from the CSU. Standing at far right is Bosun Berger Hansen, an SIU oldtimer who knows the score. He and Stewards Delegate Gene Woods have really kept the Gadsden on the ball. Just off the MV Gadsden, Ken Griffiths, OS, stops to trlk to Mike Quirke. right, organizer. Said Ken, "It's a good Ihing for Canadian seamen that the SIU is here to stay. Most good men in the Canadian Seamen's Union are fed up with being pawns for communism." Far left. Mike Koshelka,, a former CSU member who now advises his old shipmates to sail on SIU ships and "get edu­ cated to real trade unionism." Gene Woods, left. Stewards Delegate, goes a long way out of his job to help the new men understand SIU contracts and methods of Working. He's a good example of a real SIU man, and is very popular with the crew. Hard at Work is Carpenter Federik Kakkum. right, but never too occupied to help out the newer seamen. Brother Kakkum is an SUP member, at present holding down a job on the Gadsden. - 1 j I * iil ^ -*• Si:..,:; -SSi'iif- ''I I; ' I Ja |k ' --bXs Engineers and extierts coihe doWn to watch the dperatibn of the'specijal hWvy datgo gear whenever the Gadsden loads or unloads. Here shd is. "loaded with Ibtoimbtives in the hatches, and a decklbad oF barges in sections. To Montrealers. it looks like the shipi is carryihg niost of the rolling slock of the Pennsyl­ vania'Railload or the Canadian Pacific'Railroad. X- \ �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Boston Calls For Clarification Of Certain SlU Shipping Rules mi WH By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON—Business and ship­ ping have picked up considerably in the past week, with plenty of indications that it will get even better.^ Possibly the confusion arises from the fact that the rule was waived in regard to the tankers. As a matter of fact, when these Shipping Rules and the Constitu­ tion are taken up in the columns During the past week the SS of the LOG, they naturally re­ Bessemer Victory, Waterman, ceive wide-spread attention, paid off here, as well as the SS the LOG is unquestion^ly Peter Helms, Pope and Talbot; 'well-read publication. Members who would skip over the SS Belgium Victory, Water­ man; and the SS Wolf Creek and a reading of the Shipping Rules, SS Sunset, Pacific Tankers, both copies of which are available to all—as well as the Constitution of which paid off in Portland. —will receive their education on In transit were the SS WesUnion matters through reading leyan Victory, Seas Shipping, the LOG. with no beefs other than a cou­ This is becoming increasingly ple of members mksing the ship; the SS Calmar, with a perfoiTner11 evident and therefore Ye Editor to get pull^ off here; and final.Tmight consider setting up a per­ ly, the SS Yarmouth and the manent featui-e, with a few seem­ half-dozen miscellaneous scows ingly ambiguous paragraphs clar­ which leave the avenue every ified each week. Included also could be unusual beefs arising day. out of the interpretation of the Payoffs coming up this week contract. are the SS Casa Grande and SS And now that I've handed over Stones River, both out for six a new batch of work to the hard­ months with all-SIU crews. The Belgium Victory has been working Editor, I can sign off pulled off the Pan-Atlantic run, until next week. and, according to Waterman, will remain on the Antwerp-Rotter­ dam-Boston run from now on, with the first sign-on for this voyage coming up on Monday. • • SHIPPING RULE TROUBLE Friday. August 1. 1947 Baltimore Shipping Slows Down, MO NEWS ? ? Should Pick Up In Week Or So Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: ' JACKSONVILLE SAVANNAH CLEVELAND BUFFAI^O TOLEDQ GALVESTON MARCUS HOOK MOBILE J The ceajdline for port re­ ports, monies due, elCw is the Monday proceeding pub­ lication. While every effort will be made to use ia the current issue material re­ ceived after that date, space commitments generally do^ not permit us to do so. By WILLIAM RENTZ BALTIMORE — For the last two weeks shipping has been on the slow bell, but from the looks of things, we should be busy again very soon. Of course, rated men are still at a piemium, but we seem to be getting enough to keep the scows sailing. We paid off six ships last week, with no major beefs on any one of them. What minor gripes there were we settled right on the ships to the satisfaction of the crewmcmbers. The gashounds and performers are still getting a hard time here, and that's the way it's going to continue until those characters get wise to themselves. Montreal Branch Teaches Unionism To CSU Men; Straightens Out Gashounds And Performers This Union is too big to allow a couple of guys to foul things up for everybody. CIO Shipyard workers are-still on strike, and although they have not asked us for any help, we are respecting their picketlines a.'- we always do. Those men are really having a rough time, and .the compar.ies that made so much money during the war won't even sit down and bargain honestly now. We are still working hard on Isthmian ships, and there are plenty of volunteers who wanT to ship out on those vessels so as to make sure that Isthmian signs a good SIU contra.ct. The bo.ys figured that they have waited long enough, and now they want aetiort—and fast. For the first time in many months we have so many oldtimers on the beach that it is im­ possible for us to list them. Needle.ss to sa.y, these men have plenty of stories to tell, and there is always a lot of activity wher­ ever they are. Maybe by next week they will all be on ships bound for foreign shores and new adventures. All payoffs were clean and By GENE MARKET spot to witness the actions of That was an easy one to an­ without incident; however, the some of our members who har­ swer. When I explained that we MONTREAL — Now that the Shipping Rule concerning length bor the idea that, because it is a did not go for allowing a hand­ of time allowed for Tripcard men|^"^°'^^ has cleared away and the our membership's ful of picked officials to lay down (i.e., 60 days or round trip) gave, overworked pieeards of the Mon­ resolutions do not hold. the policy of our organization treal Branch can get time to rise to a beef. without a vote from the entire A lot of guys seem to have the breathe, we will see to it that we Just about 5 per cent of the^„ idea in their heads that the membership, he expressed sur­ niembership feels that this rule ^^e LOG's "No agreement isn't in effect in for­ prise that our organization could should be interpreted as follows: j^j-ews" list eign ports. Well, a gentle re­ function so efficiently and with When a Permit man joins a ves-! „ minder to all concerned: When such speed on matters of urgency. sei and makes a round trip, he " disconcerting to work 12 you are in the port of Montreal After I explained to him how must get off in favor of a book ^ ^hen pick up or its vicinity, be sure you have all of our members are kept up; man; if coastwise, the Permit- the LOG and find our name the day off granted to you be­ to the minute on all matters re­ man is entitled to 60 days before included on the "No News" list. cause, if a Patrolman hits a scow garding our business, he admit­ However, we are all of the he can be bumped. and finds anyone ashore without ted that we have a pretty fine opinion that the best reminder Then, of course, there are those proper excuse during working set-up. who contend that if the round we could get to stretch our day hours, then Brother—it's your By SALVADOR COLLS As a matter of fact, he and his trip .foreign is less than 60 days, just a little longer to include neck and don't bother to squawk buddies left the Hall here de­ SAN JUAN—Booming is the the Permitman is entitled to an­ our activities into the LOG, is because you stuck it out. termined to' find out who, if word for shipping down Puerto the quiet little column that soi other trip. Many Canadians, ex-members anyone, voted his top officials apologetically tells us to get on Rico way. There are nine jobs In line with the recent dis­ or the commie CSU, are back into office. the ball. on the board in all departments, cussion of Shipping Rules in the No doubt the membership after having sailed out on SIU with not a taker in the house. LOG, it would be enlightening "to LOSING CONTROL which visited Montreal this year ships. Needless to say, they have The "Beagle" just passed by the all Port officials as well as to the can vouch for the representation had their eyes opened, particu­ The clean trade union struc- door and we delegated her a commembership, to have Rule 35 larly those who have had the they have been afforded here. ture of the SIU, with its non- mittee of one to round up the clarified in a hard and fast man­ It seems that every ship hit­ good fortune to attend any of political, seamen officials, will, beachcombers. ner. ting this port has a quota of beefs our meetings. surely lead' to the end of the It may be necessary to stop all a mile long and we have been As one man remarked,. "Jeez! commie control .over Canadian shoregang work until some of obliged to act as Patrolmen, you guys vote on everything, seamen. these boys ship. I don't like to do counsellors, mothers and, in the don't you?" it, but desperate situations call Every day we get reports from case of performers, mothers-inWe don't have to go into any men who have been intimidated desperate remedies. law. more detail. That simple state­ and beaten up because they dared The only alternative is to give A good percentage of permit- ment tells an important story. At long last the Seafarers to mix with SIU members. The a flock of the hangers-on letters men and a few full books have has forced the hand of Ihe Stalinist storm troopers who run ^ for papers. There's too damn had to learn the hard way, that anti-union Cities Service the CSU are very worried, now j many of these letters being issued our membership is definitely op­ Company, and in a short that it is apparent that they are these days, as this membership posed to the antics'of gashounds while an election should be losing their iron control over is goiqg to wake up some noneand joyriders. held to determine a bargain­ the Canadian seamen. ' too-distant day and learn to their Every case of performing in sorrow. ing agent for the unlicensed this port is being taken care of Almost every day they send personnel in the fleet. Bull has the Kathryn, Hewes, and these union-wreckers are be­ their stooges in to 'see and hear The SIU has a better than all they can, and it must seem a, ^^^^"Sston, ^ Elizabeth, Dorothy ing sent on their way back to the good chance to sweep the elecStates minus their permits and, little too democratic to these and Cape Breton in the Island, -tion, but victory can only be monkeys to find that we leave while "Waterman has the Hur­ in the case of a couple of book assured if volunteers get jobs men, minus a payoff. all our doors open and carry on ricane and Wild Ranger. on those ships and stay with There's also an SUP scow, the no secret business behind closed SHIPPING BRISK them until the voting is over. Sioux Falls Victory, lying in San doors. Shipping has been brisk here Juan. She had three beefs on That's the way Isthmian Ex-CSU men who came in here deck and "Rebel" Parrish—four and a rated man doesn't even get was won; that's the way all time to sit down and read or Another remark that was passed with the seat out of their pants, all together! our big companies were write an article for the LOG be­ here in the Hall should have been worn out no doubt from waiting We settled the beefs and turn­ brought under the SIU flag. Tor jobs in their own hall,' and ed "Rebel" over to the tender fore we ship him. heard by more CSU men that' Now is the time for action. whom we have shipped out, are We have had to job-action a there were present. ministrations of the local headApply for jobs on Cities coming back into port looking few ships to get them properly hunters. He was as fat as a Service tankers, talk SIU NO BIG SHOTS fat and healthy and dressed like stored, but we are of the opinion goose when he trotted ashore, but while aboard the ships, and that the local agents are gradu­ A CSU, man, among several a million dollars. he has been sadly plucked by stay aboard until the votes ally getting educated so we will who came up to look the Hall This proves our most important now. are cast. have less trouble in getting the over in enquiring as to our Con­ point: "We of the SIU are in­ Social note: Frenchy Michelet Then Cities Service will be scows shipshape. stitution, asked me why did we terested, not in politics, But In was seen lugging a case of Don SIU, tool This port, being outside the not have a National Executive!Pork Chops, Q into his den of iniquity -for Continental U. S., is the perfect body, the same as his U^ion. ' AND "WE GET THEM! cooking purposes! Manpower Lack Hampers Branch In Puerto Rico Keep Sailing Cities Service • �THE SEAFARERS Friday, August 1. 1947 LOG Tankerman Good Shippiog, City Elections keep Port Tapipa On Its Toes Also in Tampa were a couple of members of the weaker sex (perhaps I should more accur­ ately say the fairer sex) who were down from Marcus Hook for a two weeks visit. When they return north with stories of how this country has them beat up thtu-e, Blackie Cardullo will be wanting to head south. In preparation for the election of city officials i-oming up in September, the political cam­ paign in this town is getting un­ der way hot and heavy. This Will be Labor's one big chance to re­ Bob Allen, who sails in the move some of its foes from the Black Gang, is now in his drivers' seat. Labor is all set and j^urlh month as a volunteer organized to go down the line organizer aboard Cities Serv­ foi' the man who has to work ice tankers. Bob's union train­ for a living, instead of for some­ ing started way back—he held one who dances to the tune a book for 20 years in the AFL played by the big money boys machinists union. He expressed and slave drivers who control regrets that William Knight this city at the present time. couldn't be pictured with him. Settlement Of Shipyard Strike Will Bring Phllly Good Shipping By EDDIE HIGDON til midnight to get all the over­ time beefs squared away and i!ie crew paid off, it was really a pleasure to handle this job. The ships delegates had done a fine job and the whole crew was sober from the time the ship arrived until after the payoff. "Ihe crew was from Mobile, most of them being book mem­ bers, and first-rate examples of a good SIU crew. A help in the shipping situa­ tion down here is the fact that Bull Line vessels are running in here regularly. Most of them are bringing down general cargo and picking up phosphate to carry on the return trip. As a result of the laying up of three Waterman coastwise ships, we have a few rated men on the beach now. In this group is the crew sent out to Japan three months ago on the Bret Harte, which returned recently. These men are catching up on their fishing and what have you. No doubt they'll all be ready to go shortly., PHILADELPHIA — I see by Ihc papers that the shipyard •workers and ship repair mtu. are considering a $.12 hourly settle­ ment. This being the case, I her lieve that shipping in Philadel­ phia will be back to normal again soon. Right now, we have two ships in port, awaiting repairs. Shipping for the past week, has been very slow. We had two payoffs and 21 -ships in transit, and there are quite a lot of men on the beach at this time. Application for a permit to op­ erate cargo ships between this port and Houston, Texas by the Newtex Lines of New York is pending Interstate Commerce Commission approval. The Portuguese Compania Trans Atlantica Centro Ameri­ cana has scheduled its first sail­ ing from this port for July 31. The vessel will touch Buenos Aires and Montevideo. The Taft-Hartley Act is still creating quite a controversy in all the local papers. One paper here states that Representative Hartley says that if this law real­ ly would hurt organized labor, he would be the first one to try to have that part of the law re­ pealed. Well. I believe that if this statement from him is true, then the AFL legal staff should in­ form him that the whole damn bill is harmful to labor and that the Congressman should start to have the whole Taft-Hartley Act repealed. For the second time within a week, a Russian freighter which was launched as an American vessel and eventually found its way to Soviet registry under Lond-Lease entered this port. _ She is the SS Baku, a 7176 cargo ship; she will carry a car­ go of anthracite to South Amer­ ica. She is consigned to MooreMcCormack SS Company; Rank And File Committees Check On Crews' Conduct In Every Port By RAY WHITE Keep it Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship is a clew ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have Vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. First Assistant Learns Lesson And Three Seafarers Collect By EARL SHEPPARD By C. SIMMONS TAMPA—Shipping is on the up-grade again and along with it we are enjoying a boom in business after a rather slow week here in the port of sun­ shine, oi anges and lovely ladies. "Day and Night" has been our theme song, as we worked around the clock taking care of ships entering this area and rounding up replacements. There are three Waterman and two Bull Line ships, in addition to an American Hawaiian vessel in here at the present time. The Hay Wire is bound for Japan af­ ter we put practically a full crew on her. >Ve had the Ora Ellis of the Waterman line payoff last Fri­ day and, although it took us un- Page Seven NORFOLK—The affairs of the Union are in good shape and there are no beefs pending in Norfolk. The educational pro­ gram laid down by the Member­ ship through Headquarters is be­ ing pushed to the fullest extent. It is understood that per­ forming and neglect of duty of members aboard ship has to stop. The Membership is taking direct action against offenders in all cases. Rank-and-file Committees are boarding ships in all ports, in­ specting quarters, messrooms and checking to see if the Union is being put in jeopardy by per­ formers. Fines, suspension of permits or probation is the pen­ alty. It is the duty of • every book man, especially ships' delegates, to see that a ship-is run Unionstyle. This doesn't mean uphold­ ing members who stick their shipmates with their watches or let the Union standards down. If members are missing watch­ es and reporting everyday in a drunken condition, they should be informed immediately by the Delegates and book members, that if this practice continues they will find themselves on trial be­ fore the membership. If this action is taken it will help eliminate most of the perforining. "A Union ship is a clean ship with every member doing his duty." This will make your Union a stronger and a more respected organization in the fight to bet­ ter wages and working condi­ tions. This is a point that should be taken up and discussed thoroughat ships' meetings in order to help educate our Permitmen. W. R. Baccus, PR-8635, J. A. Elliott, P3-8633, and L. R. Lamb, P3-8634, Permitmen, donated $25.00 apiece to buy new pool balls and cue sticks for the Nor­ folk Hall. A Corhmittee was ap­ pointed and purchased these items immediately. NEW ORLEANS—We shipped about 250 men last week, and no matter how you figure it, that's good shipping. We also paid off six ships and signed on the same number. There were a few minor beefs on the scows, but all were squar­ ed away okay. The First As­ sistant on the SS John Hathorne. Waterman, was an exNMU member, and this was the first SIU ship he had ever been on. He told the FWT he wanted the floor plates cleaned with oil and kerosene after each watch, and he didn't mean inaybe. When they put it dowm as overtime, he just laughed. Well, he's laughing out of the other side of his face no-w. We collected overtime for the men to the tune of 82 hours for Ger­ ald G. Gelpi, 78 hours for Paul Vaugh. and eight houis for J. Ladnier. Metal Workers roped in by an anti-labor phony like Higgins. The Marine Arrow, Isthmian, the first C-4 and the largest freighter ever to hit this port, came in last week with a load of rubber. Got a lot of public­ ity in the local newspapers. There was quite a turnover of personnel, and a number of our men made jobs on her. We've also been busy contacting the tugs here in the harbor. SICK CALL Brother Leroy Clarke, ex-Pa­ trolman, is still in the Marine Hospital here and it looks as though he will have to stay there for quite some time. He asks that his friends and former shipmates write to him. Brothers Bill Moore and Bob Wright made the same request. Bill and Bob had to have blood transfusions, and it would be a good idea for Brothers to stop by the hospital in any port they happen to be and donate a pint of blood and have it reserved for SIU members. Think it over. Brothers! They can collect this money by writing to Mr. O'Neal, Water­ man Steamship Compan\- office in New Orleans. We also had two beefs on the SS Del Monte, Mississippi Steam­ ship Company. One was for a MM pulling ice in excess of eight hours, and the other was for a man on the wheel shining brass. The company didn't want to pay, but after the crew held up By MAURICE DOLE the sign-on for four days, the .-'.SHTABULA—Well, it looks dough was paid out. as though the LCA is up to its The gashounds and performers old tricks once again. It has a seem to have taken cover and hot tomato in Ashtabula who's we have very little trouble any following its line by shipping green kids and friends. As far as the LCA is concern­ ed, the oldtimer and the man who has been sailing the T.akes for any length of time is out. The LCA today is afraid of the 'experienced seamen on the Lakes. They know that these men are fed up with the LCA's two Etewpot system, lousy conI ditions with little or no over­ time. lack of security, and that they want the protection and se­ curity of an SIU contract. Three Midland ships arrived in the past couple of days, and more. The wise guys know that there were only two jobs to fill. if they cause any commotion The men sailing these ships dothej' will get the a.xe, pronto. not pile off like they do from PLAYING BOTH ENDS the unorganized LCA ships. There were two big strikes Some of these ships need as going on down here, at Higgins. many as eight replacements Incorporated and Johns-Man- when they arrive here. The men. ville Company, but the J-M ac­ don't want to stay on these open tion ended last weekend with a shop LCA ships, so they get off. victory for the union. HANNA NEXT However, at Higgins, that Now that Huroir and Wyan­ phony outfit is up to its old dotte are on the SIU bandwag­ tricks. When the AFL went on on, it looks as though the Hanna strike some time ago. Higgins fleet will be next. Plenty of bargained with the CIO. Now progress is being shown in the with the CIO out on the bricks, SIU's drive to organize the un­ Higgins has asked the AFL organized on the Lakes. Look workers to stay on the job. for several more elections and He's a smart man, and work­ SIU victories in the next couple ers are pretty dumb when they of months or so. play his game and fink on each Here's another thing to re­ other. We hate to see the AFL member: With the recent influx of new members into the SIU, crewmembers aboard SIU ves­ sels should hold those Union meetings as regularly as pos­ Check the slop chest be­ sible. fore your boat sails. Makef' That's the best way for the sure that the slop chest con­ new members of our Union to tains an adequate supply of learn the score: by seeing other all the things you are liable Seafarers in action, running to heed. If it doesn't, call the their own meetings in typical Union Hall immediately. SIU style with genuine Union, democracy. LCA Prefers Green Hands On Its Ships Check it - But Good A,.. �THE SEAFARERS Page Eigbt Membership Has Duties in Addition To Benefits By FRED FARNEN LOG Gear-Grabbers Hurt Union The membership of Ihe Seafarers International Union has consistently reaffirmed its position that gear-grabbers can't be good Union meti. Any individual who stoops to pilfering gear such as coffee percolators, linens, etc., which are placed aboard SlU-contracted ships for the convenience of all hands, is, above all, guilty of a malicious disregard of his shipmates' welfare. Crew conveniences on most SIU ships today are not there by accident. They are there because of the Union's successfullyfought struggles to bring greater benefits and comforts and to provide decent conditions for the membership while out at sea. These-hard-won conveniences are for the benefit of ALL HANDS. They ARE NOT to be appropriated by any individual for his own personal use. "Violators of the membership's wel­ fare will be dealt with in accordance with the firm stand taken repeatedly by Seafarers in all ports. Friday. August 1, 1347 Members Violate Article 32 Of Shipping Rules By BENNY GONZALEZ DETROIT — This column is man there and let him know that Article 32 of the Shipping in answer to the numerous your ship is in port. Ask his Rules reads that if a man wants advice on any unsettled beefs, , queries from SIU members ask­ time off, the Ship's Delegate and how to take care of any un­ ing what they can do to further shall call up the Union Hall for usual situations aboard your improve the already high con­ a replacement. The replacement tract standards of the Seafarers ship. is to be on the job for not le.ss Keep accurate account of your International Union of North than twenty-four hours and not America, AFL, Great Lakes Dis­ overtime, and make certain that more than seventy-two, and the trict, and otherwise help to build any disputed overtime is signed man taking time off shall di­ just like your okay time. That's a bigger and better Union. rectly pay his relief man at the Membership in the best damn proof that you actually worked regular overtime rate as per Union in the maritime industry the tiine, even if it is disputed. agreement. Remember the SIU slogan, "An bar none, the SIU-AFL, brings For the past three weeks this with it certain responsibilities SIU ship is a clean ship." Do rule has been violated. Jobs are and duties as well as the num­ your share of keeping your quar­ called in by the company for erous benefits such as top wages, ters properly cleaned and in members who are paying off, hours, working and living con­ shipshape condition at all times. By RED SIMMONS and a man is dispatched from Another responsibility of the ditions. Calmar scow, we ran into an­ SAN FRANCISCO — All SIU the Hall. He gets to the ship members is to go aboard their Some members, luckily only a other problem. Here the Black only to find that the man he ship in a sober manner. There's officials who are interested in small minority, look upon a Gang fouled up the works. They is supposed to replace has just no place in the SIU for drunks Union as a sort of slot machine carrying out the economy pro­ with a very high rate of payoff. and performers. The guy who posals made by the last Agents' continually took off in port, re­ made up his mind to make an­ fused to stand watches, and gen­ other trip, so a day's wages is all These individuals consider their goes aboard his ship gassed up, Conference have plenty of work erally acted in a manner not be­ the replacement gets out of it. monthly dues as the amount they or who gets gassed up while on-, Brothers, that is not right, and duty, is a detriment to the to do. Just settling real beefs coming good Union men. drop in the slot. takes lots of time, but when I was aboard the ship about the practice must stop. Then they mentally pull the Union. The replacement should not Yes, there are plenty of things phony beefs come up, that's too three times, pleading with the lever, and expectantly wait for a men to cut out the performing accept a day's pay. but should winning combination to appear you can do as an SIU member much. and get down to business. If we demand the job that is rightly and pay off with a substantial to keep the Union strong, an(3 Last week the SS Pennmar, had had replacements, we would his and the Union will stand make it even stronger. gain. We are now in the midst of Calmar Lines, came into Port have gotten those guys off in right behind him in this matter. "Wouldn't it be swell if we could work things out as easily an all out organizational cam­ with a shipload of complaints. On short order. RIGHT WAY as that, and with as little effort? paign on the Great Lakes. Crew- investigating, however, I found This monkey business has got In the event any member of members from the ships of two that the crew was mainly at to stop. I am recommending DOESN'T WORK the crew wants time off, there companies have already voted fault, and that the Ships' Dele­ that Headquarters take action is a correct way of going about However, such a system does heavily for the SIU as the Union gate was in no condition to set­ and bring it up at the next meet­ it. Notify the Ship's Delegate to not work out. A lot more must of their choice. tle anj'thing at that time. ing, and from here on in I am call the Union Hall for a stand­ go into a union besides j'our During the balance of the This Delegate started his per­ putting charges against any man by — keeping in mind the fact current month's dues, or your 1947 sailing season, we expect forming before the ship left from pulling any violatiop, of the rules. that a stand-by cannot be called , initiation fee, if you're a new­ several other companies to be S. F., and he continued throw­ Brother Hal Banks, SUP or­ for less than twenty-four hours comer to the ranks of the SIU. voted, and the seamen sailing ing his weight around all through ganizer, tells me he has just or for more than seventy-two. A union is only as strong as its these ships are strongly pro-SIU. the trip. about sewed up a contract with This man is to be paid at the members make it, and no strong­ Crawley Towboat Company here, regular overtime rate by the Whenever your ship is docked er. That's why the members In the Canal Zone the men in the Bay Region. man who takes the ^free time. must put in as well as take out, near one of the unorganized were not given shore leave, but This is quite a deal, and in That's the only way to get a not only money but effort, too. ships or you run into some of they went ashore anyhow, and One of the first membership these unorganized Lakes seamen, as a result, the ship was delayed view of tile situation which ex­ relief. isted in that outfit, I hope we If the company calls for a duties is to attend all member­ talk SIU to them. ^ hour and a half. have it in the bag soon. They're already strong for the man, and he is shipped off the ship meetings, either on ship­ On returning to the States, some "We are enjoying some fine Board, that job is his. Let's put board or ashore. The SIU -is a SIU, but a little additional talk members of the crew took off weather out here. That good old an end to all the confusion, and democratically operated Union, about our Union, contracts, without permission in San Pedro California sunshine can't be beat, let's live up to the Shipping and only with your attendance working and living conditions and San Francisco. and I often wonder why every­ Rules which ai-e the life-blood and full participation will it re­ will prove to them that the SIU On the SS Mastmar, another one doesn't live in San Francisco. of our Union. main a democratic organization. is the only Union for them. Full participation means that you should get on your feet and have your say whenever you have anything constructive to involved? While all this petty She had plenty of legitimate and imposed $50 and $25 fines, offer. It's your Union, Brothers Thieves Fall Out strife does nothing to .better the beefs and these beefs and dis­ respectively. and Sisters, and it's up to you MONTREAL—There is an old lot of Canadian seamen, it helps puted overtime were presented All hands were entirely satis­ to keep it that way. Have your axiom about thieves and what the Companies. They figure that to the Norfolk Agent and Pa­ fied with the decision, and the say, and then let the other fel­ happens when they fall out. This while the CPers are fighting trolman in a clean cut and in­ boys in this port are highly en­ lows have theirs. can be supplied to the commies among themselves, they have lit­ telligent manner. thused ivith this rank and file It also means to take part in all on the Montreal waterfront to­ tle or no time to spend attending A conference was arranged at committee's shipboard inspection elections and referendums, serve day. "Rat" Sullivan made the to the seamen's just demands. the Norfolk Hall to straighten and rulings at the trial. on committees whenever neces­ headlines again this week, after So—about all Joe Seaman can out these beefs. Present were a Ben Rees sary, and otherwise take part in a rough night in Montreal's Can- hope for out of this mess is that company representative, the all Union activities and func­ dian Seamen's Union hangout, the assessment to pay for the liti­ Captain of the ship, the paymas­ tions. Be an example for the the "Coq d'Or." gation involved will not be more ter and the ship's delegates and newer members to follow, and than ten bucks. It appears that Sullivan and the crewmembers involved. carry out the SIU motto, "Bro­ one of his trusty henchmen walk­ Off the record. Brothers, the Some 300 hours of overtime therhood of the Sea." ed into this joint loaded for bear, Canadians who really want clean for gangway watches were in At long last the Seafarers SHIPBOARD MEETINGS and found it in the shape of a Trade Unionism are coming into dispute because the Skipper had has forced the hand of the When you're aboard ship, you goon-squad sponsored by the the SIU. The dirty situation in anti-union Cities Service the wrong slant on the" agree­ should see that Union member­ Commie Seamen's Union, who the CSU does nothing but help ment. Company, and in a short ship meetings are held as often promptly went to work on their break the strangle hold of com­ while an election should be All logs were scratched. In as possible, at least once every ex-president. munism here in Canada. held to determine a bargain­ fact, the conference, which func­ two weeks. Sullivan howled copper — and ing agent for the unlicensed Mike Quirke tioned like the Supreme Court in Take an active part in these three of his ex-playmates wound personnel in the fleet. action, resulted in great satis­ i. %. meetings, and -lend a helping up in the local hoosegow, but The SIU has a better than faction to everyone, except the hand whenever possible to the not before they had made a few Good Unionism good chance to sweep the elec­ Captain. *&iger and newer members. alterations in Sullivan's bridgetion, but victory can only be NORFOLK —With more jobs The Frelinghauser came in work. They need your help. assured if volunteers get jobs on the board than takers, ship­ with reports of the presence Then, came the dawn. Sulli­ See that you elect responsible on those ships and stay with Union members as delegates van charged the CSU with all ping remains good in this port. aboard of a couple of performers, them until the voting is over. from their respective depart­ kinds of assault and the CSU So far this week there have been .^volunteer rank and file com­ That's the way Isthmian ments. Under the Taft-Hartley came back with counter charges four payoffs here: the Trindad mittee of book members, intent was won; that's the way all "Slave Labor" Bill unions are of everything except killing the Head, Moran, Earl A. Blum- on seeing to it that good union­ our big companies were quist, John Fisk and F. A. Fre- ism and not performing prevail­ responsible for their representa­ King's Deer. brought under the SIU flag. ed aboard the vessel, accompani­ While all this is going on, the linghauser. tives and their actions. That's Now is the time for action. The John Fisk presented a ed the Agent and Patrolman on why it's doubly important today CSU was presented with a cute Apply for jobs on Cities to elect only sober, responsible little libel-suit thrown into their neat picture of good unionism. a visit to the Frelinghauser. Service tankers, talk SIU The committee heard the members to any Union position. lap by the Canadian Steamship She was crewed with Balfimore while aboard the ships, and boys, all of whom had lot of charges against the accused and Whenever your ship stops at Lines. stay with them until all the How does all this effect the local pride in the way they did ruled that the Steward and Chief votes are cast. a port where there's an SIU Cook were guilty of performmk, Hall, call the Agent or Patrol­ membership of the two Unions Ithings. Frisco Agent Has His Own Beef, Performers Better Take Warning The Patrolmen Say.. Keep Sailing Cities Service �• - ViT- "J'j Friday, August 1, 1947 THE SIU ALL THE WAY SEAFARERS LOG Rome Is Really A Wonderful Place, But Beware Of Petty Larceulsts By ARTHXra THOMPSON The trouble is trying to find that opening sentence. You ju.st gotta have one and it's always hardest to find. I pi'omised the Editor Fd give him something for the LOG, and he, trusting SiU Contracts Protect Seamen From Abuses By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO —During the past week shipping for all ratings has been good with the except­ ion of Deckhands. Most of the members are sticking like glue to their jobs because the SIU wages and working conditions are so much superior to those on the unorganized ships and the ones under contract to the NMU and LSU. Seafarers are protected by their contracts from being work­ ed outside of their ratings and are given overtime for any work over their allotted eight hours. Page Nine The MV Walter R., of the River Terminal Corporation, is contracted 100 per cent to the SIU. Down in New Orleans all the towboats are rapidly going SIU. and a good deal of the credit should go to Warren Wyman and Trussell Beatrouse, Towboat Patrolmen. The Walter R. runs between New Orleans, Lake Charles, and Texas ports. Buck Stephens, N.O. Patrol­ man, sent in the pictures. soul that he is, seid he knew he could depend on me. Now I went and failed on him and he'll probably never depend on me again. Anyway, last week I was trying to dig up that open­ ing sentence and something hap­ pened out on the .street which brought out all the neighbors. The" next day I thought I'd find some time, but fate step­ ped in again. My wife found an apartment (honestly!). This' call­ ed for a lot of running around, shifting gear from one place to another and before I knew it the day was gone. Then, of course, there were the usual activities of a seaman ashore, interspersed with a few beer sessions and still I couldn't find that opening' .sentence, But now I know the Editor is still waiting,^so here we go: OUT OF BONEYARD The Claude Ketchum, built over two years ago, made a six month's trip and then was rele­ gated to the boneyard. After a re.st of eighteen months Water­ man chartered it and a couple of days after we were Italy bound. The first trip was uneventful. The Skipper and Chief Mate were swell guys and the Stewards Department was all we could ask for. , The second trip v.as not so good. The Skipper and Mate were still okay, but we had dif­ ferent Stewards this time, and I'm sorry to say the feeding took a turn for the worse. ^ The messmen were as near perfect as could be, but the eats were lousy. When we got to Civitavecchia (sneeze it) v/e were all given a couple of days off either befoie or after a week­ end, which gave us four full days and five nights to have some fun. Most of "us went to Rome, which was only a couple of hours away. If you've never been there before, take my ad­ vice and go if you get the chance. In the nineteen years since I started going to sea, I've never had a chance before. I couldrft describe the visit and do it justice, so I won't try, but I can honestly say I had the best trip since before the war, but it would have been dull if I hadn't had the chance to visit Rome. There's one thing you .should be careful about, however. As you probably know, most for- NO OVERTIME On the LCA ships, they work you ten, twelve or any number H6Y, A/VMDeOof hours and then give you a A RICH corresponding number of hours ^r^ERlCAfJI Business and shipping are still erally sent home as workaways, By JOE ALGINA off without the payment of any booming here, and it's a slow while Alcoa uses the non-union NEW YORK—A payoff and overtime. day that doesn't keep all the of­ men. We warned Alcoa that the We've been receiving a num­ sign-on can be lots of trouble, or ficials on the run to negotiations, monkey business had better stop, ber of stories concerning how they can be as easy as blowing payoffs, sign-ons, and settlement and we mean it. the Ordinary Seamen are really the foam off a gla.ss of beer. We paid off the men of the of beefs. being pushed around on the In good old- SIU style we are USSR Victory, India Steamship There are a few things to re­ LCA ships. As a result of this, member, and if a man just fol­ taking care of beefs at the .point Company. Those men took the the turnover of OS on these lows these simple rules, the job of production, and we mean to ship from Galveston to India, ships is really terrific. and were repatriated back to the of the Patrolman will be made keep it up. If one of the deckhands raises easier, and the whole procedure Alcoa Steamship Company 's Slates by plane. It was a profita beef, he is immediately fired on a rampage again down in the .table trip for the men. and they eign ports have a special rate will be smoothed out. and accused of being an agita­ Islands. When SIU men get off said they were well satisfied. for Americans, and Rome is no 1. After being paid off, don't tor or disrupter. Then his name the ships. Alcoa has not been The new i-epair lists are avail­ exception. Even though you're float around the ship. See goes on the LCA blackli.st, and hiring SIU men who are on the able for all. Use them so that a seaman and working for a liv­ the Patrolman right away, he's through as far as sailing on beach, but have taken any but the Patrolman can see to it that ing. you're supposed to be rich pay your dues, and get your the ship is in shape before ar­ and they'll soak you if they can. any of the LCA ships is concern­ Union members. Book right back in your own The guys left behind are gen­ ticles are signed. ed. This could never happen on pocket. TAXI RACKET an SIU ship. 2. Make sure you hand in your Lakes seamen are getting wise But there's a bit of larceny overtime to the Department to this. That's why they're flock­ going on which you can beat if head within 72 hours of when ing to the SIU Halls and asking you know the score. Every taxi the work was done. about membership in the SIU. and carriage has a meter which 3. Show up at sign-ons. If a few ORGANIZING FRONT rings up so many lires per trip. guys don't show up, the com­ On the organizing front, the But if tbe meter clocks up say By WALTER "SLUG" SIEKMANN pany asks for replacements SIU continues to make plenty of 500 lires you're only supposed to and tries to hard time the During the past few years this Book the same as we do. In all Ipay about half that — even if progress. We've already won Union generally. Sure, the SIU of ours has grown not only probability, however, they knoW, you are an American, two elections this season,' and men who miss the ship may in strength and power, but also the contracts better because it is before the year is over, we'll There is a chart in every taxi have plenty of good reasons, in numbers. part of their job to do so. have a number of other outfits which tells you how much you but each crewmember should Ordinaries, Wipers, and MessUNFOUNDED GRIPES ^ should pay. I don't know why voting SIU. make it his business to know men have been coming in on Recently we were told a storj' Some men come up to the Hall this is, but I found out that I the time of sign-on—and be Tripcards and Permits and have and complain that the Bosun is had been paying double until I by an NMU member whose there! grown wise to the ways of SIU a louse because he broke the was tipped off by a native. name is being withheld for ob­ By just doing the above-men­ procedure and policies by read­ men out at 8:30, or a MM will vious • reasons. It seems that There are probably more some NMU representatives tried tioned three simple things, all ing Union literature and asking try to tell a Steward how to run schemes for separating you from to get aboard an NMU ship in money and overtime can be col­ the help of Brother members who his Department, but all these your dough, but I didn't have gripes usually come from guys time enough to check on all of the Chicago area, but were re­ lected' easier, and ships will sail already know the score. In that way the Union has con­ who are not interested in learn­ them. But if you get the chance fused admittance by the crew- on time with no griping from the tinued to improve. ing the job and who try to get load your pockets with cigarettes members who declared that they shipowners. All of the men who hold rat­ away with as little work as pos­ and go to Rome. didn't want any phonies aboard ings now can remember back to sible. Don't think it's like New York, their vessels. the days when they had to be This Union is going to continue because all the barber shops are That's really the payoff. Even All Departments shown how to make a round, or in the same "gct-up-and-go" run by Italians. It's different, the NMU members themselves When your, ship docks, it a splice, or a gravy. That same manner that has made it the and I'm sure you'll like it. are beginning to realize how is a good idea to have a list thing is going on today, yet dominant factor on the water­ phony their outfit actually is. I should mention the first Mate of necessary repairs to give some newcomers fail to. remem­ front. The head of a Department, and Skipper by name. Captain And when the crewmembers on to the Patrolman. This will ber that the Stewards, the Bo­ shipping in a key rating, is there Grady Robertson and Chief Mate their own ships start repudiat­ help in letting the company suns, and the Chief Electricians as part of the SIU contract, and Thomas Manley are two swell ing them, that really shows how know exactly what has to be should be recognized as the he's going to stay there. guys, and you'll like sailing witji low their reputation has fallen. done to get the ship in tip­ heads of their respective Depart­ Any man who thinks that, he them. Don't spoil them. In comparison, the SIU is set­ top condition. ments. can ship in a key rating always Well, here I am still lookingting the pace for every outfit on These men hold key ratings, has the right to try for those jobs. for that opening sentence, and Seafarers don't have to sail the Lakes. They all wait to see not because somebody loves But until a man succeeds in forg­ the little woman is still impat­ beat-up ships. Do your part what kind of a contract the SIU them, but because they know the ing ahead, he should cooperate iently tapping her foot and tell­ to make every ship a clean, signs, and they they try to get score. They are Union members with his Brother members who ing me to get the lead out so I well kepi vessel. as close to the SIU scale, but just like we are, and pack a hold jobs of responsibility. think I'U skip it this time. not SIU conditions, as they can. Payoffs And Sign-Ons Can Be Made Easy For All —\r SIU Strength Lies In Cooperation Between Newcomers And OUtimers �» Page Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, August 1, 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS w P'- Cavalier Crew Sets Up Shipboard News Sheet ^ Intensifying their plans to bring about a greater de­ gree of eooperaliun among all hands and to knit them rriore closely into a solid unit, SIU crewmembers of the sleek, new Alcoa Cavalier have embarked on program of Union education with a breezy news sheet, first edition of which SlU'CONTRACTED LAKES VESSEL Note For Writers Carl Cowl, Seafarer who has sold a number of stories for SIU men with wriling ability, is still looking for good novels. He feels sure that among the Seafarers are some who can turn out a book the public will go for. Brother Cowl is taking a short trip but will resume his literary marketing when he returns. Meanwhile, he asks that Brothers with book-length material submit their manu­ scripts to him care of the Seafarers Log. 51 Beaver Street, New York 4. N, Y. Enclose self-addressed, stamp­ ed envelope to insure safe return. "was distributed on the last home-T plans call for subsequent edi­ bound trip. Named the Cavalog, the paper tions of at least four pages and is "published by the Deck, En­ "that will be the real beginning gine and Stewards Departments' of the paper," the Cavalog states. unlicensed personnel." The name Printing is done by the hecto­ of'vthe paper was suggested by graph process, which uses a gela­ J. • A. Bersen, FWT, and was tin pad for making multiple chosen after due consideration of copies. In the initial issue is a report several titles and sketches of on beefs aboard the vessel. Of mastheads submitted by the these, the Cavalog says: crew. Brother Bersen's mast­ head design was also selected as STATEMENT ON BEEFS Paddling the most appropriate. "All in all this has been a 2 ISSUES EACH RUN fairly smooth voyage, with a minimum of beefs. The thing Editions of the Cavalog will be that has given the main trouble run off twice during each of the is friction between crewmembers Cavalier's regularly scheduled arising over who is to do what, Caribbean cruises—one on the why, how and when. southward journey and one on "The accepting of easy over­ the return trip to New York. Conceived to carry out the edu­ time and the refusal of hard cational program which the SIU overtime is a case that gives is currently stressing aboard all everyone bum kicks. A good its contracted ships, the Cavalog, Union man never free-loads on through its staff, revealed its in­ his shipmates. Tough jobs are a tentions at the July 2 shipboard hell of a lot easier when all hands mating. Under the subject of pitch in and get them done to­ GOOD SHIPMATES Education, the minutes report gether. WORK TOGETHER." the holding^ of "a general dis­ "Red" Campbell AB, (up for­ In Port Alcoa, Port of Spain, ward) and Johnny Hisko, DM, cussion on the scandal sheet which we are printing—and its were several other SIU ships. In shove off from beach in Rombenefits to all—in bringing the addition to the Cavalier. Among blon, P. I. three departments together to them were her sister-ship Cor­ form one solid group aboard sair, the Manrope Knot, John Paul Jones and the James ship." At the meeting, the Chairman Walker. proposed "that at the beginning The Cavalog also announced of each voyage one man from that current and back copies of each department be elected to the SEAFARERS LOG will be When Seafarer "Red" Camp­ gather news of his department available in a Port of Spain gin bell paints word sketches of bucko for the ship's paper." mill, the Plaza. "This is not an Skippers apparently he dips his The first edition, a one-page advertisement for the joint," says pen in acid. "Red" recently paid job on 81/^ X 11 ^^2 inch paper, was the Cavalog, "Drink where you off a Waterman ship whose mas­ issued as a "sample." In addi- like but pick up your papers ter^ inspired him to whip out the tipn to two issues on each trip. there." old quill. The result was a de­ vastating but comic blast. He called it a "hangnail sketch. ANGLERS ON THE WILLIAM R. DAVIE Read on and you'll see why: "When next year's Academy Award winners are announced he will be chosen ahead of Mar­ tha Raye and Joe E. Brown for the biggest mouth. As a child, he used to win all the pie-eating contests — why not? — all the other kids had only one mouth. "This year he had several of­ fers from Hollywood—they must be retiring Lassie Maybe they snould co-star them. I'd like to see him get ahead He needs one. "What we need are less ships in the boneyard and more skipIjers. Since the first day I met him O'Sullivan became Amer­ ica's No. 2 heel. He reminds me of a recent movie—the "Beast With. Five Fingers." However, he does have two fine points—his head and his nose. "This guy is so tight if he had double pneumonia he wouldn't give you half. He throws money around like manhole covers. To sum up this character, he hasn't ' "^' Steward Floyd Hillier (left) holds healthy lobster, while any enemies—his friends all hate d}ii,ef Cook Frank Vitale displays a meaty codfish in photo at him." • ' Tight. Fishing was good while lads were in Dingwall. Nova Looks like the guy got "Red" Scotia. Jimmy Little. Purser, took pictures. sore. Bucko Makes 'Red' See Red The ore carrier W. G. Pollock, Midland Steamship Company, passes through "Soo" locks. Photo was submitted by a former member of the crew. John Stepanik of Buffalo. Tells Of €rew's Heroism In Blast On Newhall Hills A vivid eye-witness account of the heroism and fear­ lessness displayed by Seafarers aboard the shattered tanker Newhall Hills after she was ripped in two by an explosion in the English Channel was related to the LOG last week by Alfred L. Hollenstein, a crew-'S : member ardous task werq B. J. McNally, Brother Hollenstein's stirring M s.sman. and E. B. McAuIey, story stemmed from his desire to Oiler. They were quickly follow­ make known the individual ex­ ed into the boat by Carl Kohls, 2nd Cook; Frank McCormick, ploits of courage of his ship­ AB; Karl Jaklin, QM, and Chuck mates during the dangerous Deck Maintenance. moments following the blast Spencer, Joining the crew men were the touched off when the Newhall Junior Third Engineer and Hills was rammed by a small Second Mate Roper, Holenstein craft at 6 A. M. May 24. No trace said. of the ramming vessel has been Working quickly the men re­ found since the accident, which moved Bolehala's body and re­ caused the death of Ed Bolehala, turned to the amidships section Seafarer who was on look-out of the ship. Just as they were when the crash occurred. climbing aboard, the paint locker "I'd like to say a few words, blew up and moments later the said Brother Hollenstein, "in be­ entii-e bow .section gave way, Hol­ half of the men who volunteered lenstein continued. to go in a boat from the stern to bow which was severed from, UNLIMITED PRAISE the main part of the ship when He said that the courage of explosion ripped apart Nos." 1, 2 the men couldn't be praised too and 3 tanks below the water highly, a fact which had been line." earlier supported by the Newhall CALLS FOR VOLUNTEERS Hills' skipper. "1, as well as the others, who The Captain called for volun­ teers to look for Bolehala from witnessed this epic in choppy whom nothing had been heard, waters," said Hollenstein, "want Hollenstein continued. "At the to state through the LOG that the time, the forepeak was on fire courage of our men when their and on this T-2, like most others, shipmates are in danger cannot the paint locker is on the port be told too- strongly. side a bit aft of the peak," he "Several of these men who pointed out. risked their lives are married and This condition added to the have families. McNally and the dangers presented by the fact Second Mate both are fathers." Brother Hollenstein, who for­ that the tanker's bow was prac­ tically hanging by a thread and warded his account of the trag­ ready to give way any moment, edy from England where the Newhall Hills is undergoing re­ the Seafarer explained. pairs, concluded: First to volunteer for the haz"1 would also like to bring out the fact that even though we are 3,000 miles away from the Union hall, we had great help via the telephone and cable system from Don't hold your pictures and stories of shipboard acti­ the SIU hall in New York and I am sure.that when we reach the vities. Mail them to the Sea­ States on the Ernie Pyle we shall farers Log, 51 Beaver St„ New York 4, N, Y. If you have real SIU representation waiting for us." haven't the time or don't feel in the mood, just forward de­ He was right. When the crew tails. We'll do the rest. Pic­ was repatriated to New York last tures will be returned if you week, SIU representatives went wish. right to work. All beefs were squared away in short order. Send 'Em In �Friday. Augusl 1. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ships' Minutes In Brief Turner that Union Agent see MILWAUKEE CLIPPER. May company offiacls about installing' I 18—Chairman^ John ylosephfek: steam table-in topside pantry. L.j I Secretary Paul Kelly. Fine of $1 approved to be levied against Arena and J. H. Smith made ancF * .'•econded motion that comple those not i keeping toilets and VYATC^/ OUT f-lopchest be installed. A moshowers clean. Motion carried to fO(Z THE / lion by L, Fuslier, seconded by purchase black board out of Casey that no member of the ship's fund and have it placed in crew sign off until every over­ the messroom. Motion carried time beef is .settled to satisfaction that a list of vacant rooms be of'all concerned. kept so crew porter car\ straight­ en them up when vacated. Mo­ S. 4. S, tion carried that department ANDREW JACKSON, June 8 delegates makt; lists of their de­ —Chairman Jerry Palmer; Secpartmental beefs and bring them letary Ted Filpow. Delegates in to the next meeting for dis­ ALCOA CLIPPER.' Chairman Keyes (Engine), J. Irving (Deck) cussion. Motion carried to assess J. E. Booth; Secretary M. Green- and M, Dwyer (Stewards) gave each member 25c fur the ship's berg. Minutes of previous meet­ their reports. Ship's Delegate fund to be paid within one week. ing read by Thurston Lewis. Mo­ Palmer summarized a Headquar­ tions carritid; that adequate keys ters Report to membership which A, S. 3, ; NOONDAY, June 15—Chair- for quarters be supplied crew on appeared in the LOG, covering .tnan H. Workman; Secretary H. reaching New Orleans; John action taken on proposals made THAT SIU SHIPS CARRY THESE DAYS. PER­ Havery-Morris. Everything un­ Ponson recommends next agree­ at Agents Conference. Crew FORMERS WHO SMASH THE GEAR AND THE der control in all departments. ment all for extra man in pantry passed motion giving full sup­ Motion carried that all men stand and one in Stewards mess. Have port to Delegates and shipmates PETTY LARCENY GUYS WHO WALK OFF WITH by at payoff until they are re­ Agent supply working agree­ in achieving goal set by ConIT HARM THEIR SHIPMATES AND MAK£ IT lieved by men from Union Hall. ment befor^ sailing on next trip. f-erence. ' JMORE DIFFICULT FOR THE UNION TO IM­ Captain is to have mail forward­ Paul Frazer elected Stewards Delegate and J. E. Booth Ship's ed to Honolulu from Mobile and PROVE SHIPBOARD CONDITIONS, KEEP L. A. (This was reported done). Delegate. YOUR WEATHER EYE PEELED FOR THESE Brother Smith elected Ship's i 4. 4. GEAR -GRABBERS. Delegate. Crew asked to speak HURRICANE. June 26—Chair­ their minds before end of trip man Bill Mitchel; Secretary Tiny and to get all beefs straight be­ Simpkins. Department Delegates fore last minute. Everyone had reported eevrything okay. Mo­ his say at this meeting. tion made by Bill Manley. sec; ^ ^ onded by C. McMahon that every SEATRAIN TEXAS, July man is respon.sible to back up, Chairman Wm. E. Pepper; Sec Steward in getting stores and retary M. Riechelson. Steward m By HANK supplies before ship sails on next is ordering cots and Ship's DeleUp here in New York shipping is so good that not only were trip. Mitchel and Simpkins of-j gate Riechelson is writing to 99 men shipped on Monday of this week but every day or nearly fered motion—passed—to, have company and Union Hall about J. 4 S. every other daj' there are quite a few jobs in all departments left minutes read afternoon before matter. Delegate will talk to LAFAYETTE. March 30 — Captain about having Mates turn on the board with no taker.s. In some ports these jobs wouldn't be Chairman Steve Krokovich; Sec­ ship sails from Mobile for beneleft on the board for even half a day. Brothers! . . . Here are some fit of new men who -join ship. | men to on handling of ships retary Ken Smith. Motion by more addresses of the American Merchant Marine Library Associa­ Motion by D. O. Riley, seconded]stores while in Port of New York Hill, seconded by Underbill, that Repair ^ists called for. It was tion where you Brothers can telephone or ask in person for a library by W. D. Purdey not to pay off any man in Deck Gang late or stressed that the better care all of books and magazines for your ships, which are free and delivered ship after 5 p. m. or on Sat. after­ missing a watch be fined; carried hands took of gear already had quickly, too. In Baltimore: Municipal Recreation Pier, foot of noon and must have a shoreside unanimously. Motion by Chropaboard the easier it would be to Broadway, Telephone Wolfe 4992 ... In Philadelphia: Pier No. 4 delegate aboard when paying off. raysk. seconded by Laffer. to have win improvement. South, Foot of Chestnut Street, Telephone Lombard ... In New Barney Rogers act as Ship's Dele­ Orleans: Foot of Poydras Street, Telephone Magnolia 3849 . . . 4. 4. 4. gate. Discussion of using PO's ALEXANDER CLAY, April 26 In Norfolk: 406 East Plume Street, Telephone Norfolk 4-9631 ... In. mess as another mess for crew —Chairman Charles Scott; Sec­ Savannah: 2 East Bay Street, Telephone Savannah 2-1000. was ruled out. After discussion 4. 4. 1 retary Robert Callahan. Election on shortage of glasses Steward From the SB Topa Topa over there in Bremen, Germany. ol Delegates; Charles Scott promised to increase supply. Mo­ Brother John R. Marshall writes that his wife and family back (Deck), Vic Cooper (Engine), tion by Underbill and Fondula here in fhe Stales really enjoy reading the LOG every week. and Eldon Cullerton (Stewards). passed—if Patrolman sees fit to » 4. 41 4. And they'll keep on enjoying if, loo. Brother Marshall, because tie up ships after checking steres, MORNING LIGHT. June 22— Karl Ingbritsen was elected Ihey're now receiving if at the new address ... To Brother Peter crew will do so. Chairman Earl, Kramer; Secre­ Ship's Delegate. Crew called for Gvozdich down there in Smiihterry, Pennsylvania: Your shiptary P. H. Maffioli. Delegates new shower head in Deck Dept. 4. t male, Bosun Christensen, shipped out a tew months ago. wish­ and for repair of lockers in 12-4 CHARLES NORDHOFF, April gave reports, with John Hulak ing he had known what ship you were on and when you were watchroom. Matches and butts 14—Chairman A. Arnold; Secre­ for Deck, Jimmie Boyles for En­ coming in .. . Last week we saw good old Brother Joe Marceux— are to be kept off pasageway tary Gi Everet. Engine and gine and Charles Caldwell for in from a trip. deck, noting to be thrown out of Stewards department delegates Stewards stating that there were X X X reported all running smoothly; no beefs in their respective de­ portholes. Rest rooms to be clean­ ed by different department each We have just been informed that Brother Francis J. Orscheln partments. Motions carried: To Deck Delegate said 16 hours in week. just opened up a bar-room in Kansas City, Missouri at 2204 East investigate reason for lack of his department was under dis­ 15th Street. Congratulations and smooth business . . . We're won­ pute. It was brought to crew's launch service in Ponce; that no dering how Brolher Tommy Hannan, {he oiler and citizen of Chicago attention that overtime should be one payoff until beefs are settled is getting along—with his voyages and championship pinochle put in for sougeeing or painting by Patrolman; to see Engineer games? We haven't heard about him or seen him in New York for gun crew messroom. Men were about repairing washing ma­ a long time ... By the way. Tommy's shipmate. Brother Joe James, told to get receipts for launch chine. Observed two minutes of just blew into town after a trip. Brother James wishes he'd stop service in Carupano. t Took up silence in memory of departed missing his other shipmate Deck Engineer Weaver Manning by a subject of getting new springs Brothers. day or so everj' time he comes in. Joe wants to see Brother Man­ for bunks. It X 4. 4. 4. ning soon, indeed. "WALTER E. RANGER, July G ALEXANDER LILLINGTON. i 4. 4. —Chairman John A. Ziereis; Sec-^ rotary Chester Just. All depart- June 15 — Chairman Johnny Brother N. H. Lundquist may still be anchored in town ment delegates reported every- Walker; Secretary Kenneth Forwaiting to ship out. How did you make out with the "u.i.". thing okay. Motion carried to tenberry. Motions carried: that Brother Lundquist? . . . Here are some more oldtimsrs who may have clarification on duties of condition of medical supplies and be anchored in town or may have sailed recently: J. Gates. % % ^ Third Cook, discussion on subslopchest be investigated on re­ Bosun E. Andersen, A. Velasco Chief Cook F. i^llen, L. Swerling. ALCOA CORSAIR. June 15— ject by Steward and Chief Cook.!turn to port; that all portholes L. Hestres. T, Casey, Woodrow Woodill. R. Hupttleisch, B. Chairman A. (Blackie) Banksion; Frazer. C. Burns, A. Curry. R. Fretes. R. Maldonado. V. DiSecretary J. H. Seaver. Acting Under Education, a discussion be repaired when ship arrives in giacomo. J. Weiner, C. Brummer, J. Murray, H. Veasey and Ship's Delegate gave detailed re­ was held on the Strike Fund, Port; that investigation be made J. Farquhar. port covering crew' conduct, co­ wh-at it is ued for and the rules i"to alleged shady Union activity •ti4operation, and rules for the set­ and regulations concerning it. ut Steward put off ship in San NEWS ITEMS: Arthur R. Lewis Jr., President of the Robiij tlements of beefs. H" announced More variety in night lunch was I edro. Lihe, describing projected weekly sailing between Africa and the 4< 4- 4that following meeting Brother called for. Discussion on sanitaUnited States by Robin Line vessels, commented that "there should tion of messroom and part of LOUIS McLANE. June 2— Charles Cummings would take be more shipping than there is cargo to move." We have bought or crew should play in keeping it Chairman Percf Boyer; Secretary crew pictures for the LOG. R. K. Girz. Delegates reports ac­ committed ourselves to buy the necessary fleet of 12 or 13 ships to clean. Brother Bankston elected Ship's cepted. All hands went on record provide regular weekly service. ,We believe that these ships, which Delegate by acclamation. De­ i 4. 4. are modified C-3 freighters will be suitable for this purpose. If TULANE VICTORY. July 6— agreeing that every man aboard partment Delegates gave reports. they' are not enough we'll buy more or build more." The fact that Chairman S. Korolia; Secretary has duties to perform which must Fines Vvere set up for infractions Ships Delegate be carried out. Steward agrees other countries are building new ships doesn't mean the United of rules made by ship board wtohn Zimmer. membership. Second Steward Korolia read previous meetings to put out two batti*and two face States should get off the high seas.,.,. . That's good news, indee<i and Chief Cook thanked crew minutes. Delegates Jensen (Deck), towels every Saturday along Brothers! ... Our last item is a bit of a flash about Blackie Vince for cooperation. Brothers cau­ Turner (Engine) and Basar (Stew- with other linens. Motion car- Kane, in New York right now, who says that he wants Brotheir tioned on getting to ship by sail­ ards) gave departmental reports, j ried to change rnattress covers Woody Lockwood in P. R. to know that he and Brother Bill Thomp­ son are goinfi to South Africa to look the beach over! Motion by Fusilier, seconded by whenever necessary. ing time. SFOiLERs/ CTTOOKA LONG, HARD FIGHT TO WIN THEGEAR CUT and RUN 1 I �*1 T'H E S E'ATAE Eirs L tJi G Page fwelve Legion Fights To Put Skids UnderSeamen THEY DO NOT Friaar/Alagusl 1. 1947 FORGET DANISH PASTRY IS DISH FOR BROTHER BORMAN To the Edilor: This will be but *a brief dis­ course on the fair city of Coppenhagen and its female citizens. Those good-lookers seem to my travelled mind to be as^ close to our American ways as any I've jet set eyes upon. Yes sir, these darlings love American travellers and the loose ways we have with their native "gelt." But, like I said before, the girls here arc nice and friend­ ly. Our .ship, the SS John A. Don­ ald, stayed here about 12 claj'S unloading coal and many of us wished it could have been 120 days. The city itself is really large, with quite a few canals, nice beaches, and good, cold beer. To Ihe Edilor: That oldtime labor-hating or­ ganization, the American Legion has now banded together with the reactionary politicians to beat the American seamen out of their right to join a veterans or­ ganization. In California, they are push­ ing through a law which would deny the American Veterans Committee the privileges held by veterans groups. The American Legion is backing the law, claim­ ing that the AVC is not a bonfide veterans outfit because it ac­ cepts merchant seamen with war service as members. The American Veterans Com­ mittee is the only vet's outfit that is fighting for passage of the measure now in a Congressional committee and known as the Members of Ihe Sailors Union of the Pacific gafher at meeting to pay respects to memory of tw.o Brothers who died July 5. 1934 resisting strike-breaking move during bloody waterfront strike. Known as "Bloody Thursday." the day is observed annually by the SUP. Ex-Gob On Isthmian Ship Hails SIU's Win To the Editor: '•Seamen's Bill of Rights." It has consistently fought for legisla­ tion to improve seamen's condi­ tions and is the only legitimate organization which admits sea­ men to its membership. LEGION vs. SEAMEN The American Legion, on the other hand, has put up the stil­ lest fight to deny us any im­ provements or benefits, calling us "draft dodgers," "war profiteers" and other typical Legion labels just as ridiculous. All this is of course part of the same labor-busting program as is the Taft-Hartley law, which was backed by the Legion along wth other reactionary groups. There is only one way of stop­ ping these people and that is to get behind your Union and other progressive groups, such as the AVC, in the fight to, beat these phonies on all fronts—in the elec­ tions, in the courts, and last but not least, at the point of produc­ tion. Per (Whifey) Lykke LOG Goes To Barbados Iliv-, Itv. To the Eddilor: As some of your boys visit my place of business when they are in port, I would like to have you send me some copies of your newspaper, the' SEAFARERS LOG, each week so the .men who drop in here will be kept informed of what is going on. I shall be glad to be of service to them by distributing the pa­ pers. G. Samuel ' Royal Windsor House ' ' Bridgetown, Barbados ....(Ed. Note: Will do!) Congratulations on the SIU's victory in making the oceans a little cleaner and a better place to work on by gaining a long overdue vote aboard the Isth.mian line's ships. It was a long fight but it's good to see a Union that's iri there pitching for its men to come out on top. This letter may seem a little strange, , especially since its com­ ing from an ex-Navy Armed Guard signalman but I can't re­ strain-from dropping a line, as there was a time when I sailed under the same conditions as you fellows. It happened to be my misfortune to be assigned to an Isthmian ship on ny first trip to sea during the war. SAW SEAMAN'S SIDE Maybe it was fortunate in a way. The combination of a typi­ cal Isthmian Capt. Bligh and a moronic mate, who stands on the bridge half the day bowing and saluting the skipper, then does three or four hours of the Deck Department's work; plus a Navj^ lieutenant, who thought he was still back in the hills practicing criminal law—all these guys try­ ing to run the crew ragged real­ ly taught me what kind of a deal the merchant seamen were up against. Personally, I was forced to do many hours work on the bridge that rightfully was overtime for the Deck Gang, but not one man could say a word. This could go on endlessly about Isthmian but you fellows know pretty well about that so maybe because of it you'll understand this letter V little better. After too long a stay aboard that hell ship I was ready to take on anything but, luckily, was transferred aboard a Waterman ship with an SIU crew and con­ tract. All I can say is that when I went aboard I knew how those fellows who had been in prison camp felt when they were freed. After six months of" this SIU ship, I was transferred to a Brit­ ish tramp, where some conditions were better than those aboard Isthmian. From Italy back to the States, I was on an American ship and although better in some inspects Than Isthmian, it had an NMU crew and I can honestly say, as an impartial observer, that those iiien fought more among them­ selves than with the company in trying to better their conditions. It had me wondering whether two unions with the same general purpose could be so completely opposite. Well, I got my answer when my next ship was an SIU Liberty. It was a pleasure sail­ ing #with t.ho.se fellows of the Seafarers and every so often I still drop in at 51 Beaver Street and then have a few beers with some of the fellows when they're in port. One of these days I'm likely to take to sea for a living and when that happens this is one fel­ low who knows where a seanran gets the best there is to be had —in the Seafarers. Well, I guess I've had my little say, so here's wishing you all the luck and speed in the world in getting that Isthmian contract signed. Vincent J. Horan Staten Island. N. Y. Log-A-Rhythms- Saga Of The Signal Hills SUBMITTED BY THE SIGNAL HILLS CREW. Listen my friends and my story I'll spill Of that famous voyage of the Signal Hills; She sailed out of Texas a bright early morn. Long before' breakfast, along about dawn. Composcd by LEE W. BIGNALL, We all went on deck to look at the tank. There was no doubt we had God to thank. The drydock was found; the hole we did see And it looked like a New York subway to me. While officials were making their plans. We went ashore to look over the lands. She nosed for the Atlantic. Italy-bound All by herself, not a tow .boat around; The odds were against her all the way. But she made Savona on the arrival day. They told us we were going to a beautiful- place. Where the girls were pretty and dressed in lace. A towboat pulled up and threw us a line. We were leaving for Genoa in a very short time. She discharged cargo, the crew went^ ashore. Looking for what is called "molte amor;" And cognac, wine, whiskey and gin To live up to a sailor's rep for sin. They finally decided that work should be done. So it was "enti bacini" number one; Now we had time in Italy and were wise. But they had a system for us wise guys. At last orders came to sail that night. Everyone was aboard and politely tight. The twelve-to-fOur took her out. They always do. without a'doubt. The same as in of her places before. With plenty gf cognac and molto amore. We spent all our money on each fair dame. But we're merchant seamen and not to blame. She headed for Bahrein to pick up oil. Then back again to the Italian soil But the thing you're about to hear Is what postponed the Signal Hills' career. After all, we had hit a mine. To forget it, took a good time; After six short months, she was ready to leave And the whole bloody crew was plenty peeved. The Four-to'-Eight ^were standing their' trick. When she took a mine for' a final lick. The bridge just finished ringing 4 bells. And at 0602 there was holy hell. With Italy fading over our stern. Our sbuls were afire and our hearts did yearn. Those people over there' were really nice. I wouldn't sell their friendship for any price. It hit on the port side the top came out. The GM thought it was a water spout. The bells started ringing, the whistle' blew. While the lifeboats were manned by the crew. Now we're back in the U. S. A. But there's ohe'thihg I want to say: We" had lots of fun and thHlls On that famous voyage of the Signal Hills. The lights went out. the plant was' dead. That ended the thing called "full ahead." ' :t . ...I'r BIKES AND TAXIS You see lots of people on bicy­ cles but not many cars. Taxis come fairly high, and it still takes.bread and butter coupons to buy a decent meal in a rest­ aurant. At the gates to the docks, we ^•e hordes of kids ranging from two to twelve years of age, with but one thought on their min^s— chewing gum. But, naturally, the female citizens have first claim cn any gum, candy, etc. They all .'^cem to have a passionate love for the stuff and they aren't brand-conscious, as yet. I want to mention Copenhag­ en's skidrow. Brothers, there ain't nothing like it. You'll see some sights you'll Tlever forget. I think when I say, "Man. I wish we were going back tb Co­ penhagen next trip," that I'm expressing the thoughts of all of my shipmates. Slim (Stew) Borman �T,HM S^A^AnjEKS LOO Triday, Augi^t 1, 1947 CRACK CREWMEMBERS QR ALCOA CORSAIR Page Thirteen Canadian Seamen, Disgusted With CSU, Turn To Seafarers To the Editor: I want to thank "Steamboat" O'Doyle for his splendid article on Brotherhood in the June 6th LOG. I think he stated all of our feelings well and I hope all cur Brothers read and live up to it. I also want to thank the offi­ cials of our Union for their ef­ forts. in behalf of the alien sea­ men who did such a good job during, the war. We aboard the MV Gadsden have a wonderful Bosun, Berger Hansen. On the last trip to France he and his crew did a fine job and set a record for un­ loading locomotives. All his men would go to hell for him if he asked It of them. We .all know that the better work we do the easier it will be to get better contracts and conditions for Sea­ farers. Spic and span in the familiar white-caps of the Seafarers, Deck Gang members of the Cor­ sair are. front row. (left to right): H. L. Yeats, AB; Jack Seltzer, AB; Shorty Graham, OS; Mon­ roe Dubuisson, DM; J. Thompson, GM. 2nd row: "Pop" Brown; Blackie Bankston, Bosim; A1 Bicnel, OS; N. Hansen, DM; Ralph Piehet, DM. Rear row: E. J. McDonald, Carpenter; Tex Sharpless, DM; Otto Pedersen, Bosun's Mate; and Bill Moore, DM. Member Airs View On Financial Aid To Other Unions Brother, Gene Markey of the Montreal Branch did everything he could for us, ably assisted by Patrolman Mike Quirke. Brother Markey is giving the commies a tough time. Against the SIU's clean open tactics and the truth it is giving out on the CSU, the commies' dirty, underbanded tricks have failed at every turn. I talked with a lot of CSU members and they said they were all sick of the commie-con­ trolled union, as they hope good leason to be. The small beefs that any SIU Delegate could handle is too much for their pa­ trolmen and the boys in the of­ fice. It's just the same old tac­ tics the commies use all over the world. There are a lot of boys in the CSU who will be good SIU Brothers before long. You may think I'm praising Markey a lot, but you can ask HELPED IN MONTREAL anyone on this ship and they'll We left Montreal on July 3, tell you the same—he's doing a after all hand had had a good wonderful job. He was telling time ashore. Our friend and me the CSU has some goons punching our guys around. In fact, we have two ex-CSU boys the goons worked over before the last trip. This is working against the CSU, because it is showing their membership what the commies are and how they work. To Ihe Edifor: The program set up by our or •ganization at the last Agents conference seems to be pa.ying off. From the last few reports made by the Secretary-Treasurer I can see that things are moving along smoothly and the Union' funds are on the increase. I should like to state that the Union representation in the vari ous ports that I have been in ha.s been first class. But there is one thing that must say I don't like. And that is when any other union goes on strike, our organization goes all out in support: I'm for support­ ing them most of the way. I al­ ways agree to respect their picketlines. I'm even willing to go along with them and walk the picketlines for them, to help them physically as much as pos­ sible, so that they can get what they are asking for. I'm for all that 100 per cent. But when our organization passes resolutions to support them fi­ nancially, like in the telephone workers, the white collar work­ ers of Wall Street and the ship yard workers, I don't see how the set up of reducing expenses can be made to work out. Or is it a program to reduce expenses in pennies and then throw away dollars? G. Nunez (Ed. note: The membership, in passing the resolutions to aid their brother Unionists in need, did not regard their financial support as "throwing away dollars." Spending money to beat union-busters is an invest­ ment in job securiy and the protection of wages and work­ ing condifions which are con­ stantly in danger of being re­ moved by the employers unless all organized labor is ever vigi­ lant, The passage of the resolu­ tions in question was aimed at keeping organized labor's posi­ tion invulnerable—the Seafar­ ers, as well as the other un­ ions.') Members of the Corsair's Black Gang pose in front of main control board. Identification, un­ fortunately, did not accompany picture. (Fix by Charles Cumrnings.) Step-up Action On Performers, He Urges To the Editor; we don't wake up they are going In the last couple of months 10 throw some more at us. The machinery for this is all there has been a change m officals in the Gulf area that ha.5 set up in both the SIU and SUP. been for the betterment of the All it needs is a strong, con­ Union as whole. There still re­ tinuous drive by all officials in mains a cleaning up job in which both unions. Quite a few complaints are all the officials must work to­ gether with one single object, drifting into the Galveston Hall namely, to clean up all the per­ about men being rolled. All we formers, gashounds, gazoonies, and punks of other description who in their performances aboard ship are giving the Union To the Editor: a bad name. Brothers, as you all know we In the past, it has been the sometimes get the business in practice of a lot of officials in foreign ports—a short change the Union to play ball with these deal here, a gyp thei-e and most donkeys and to oppose the ef­ of the times a fast shuffle by the forts of the men who are trying local populace. to clean up the situation. It is But we, the undersigned, have high time the good Union men found and sti'ongly recommend, take a stand against the perform­ a place in Naples where we ate ers, otherwise we are going to and had a good time for very wake up some day with a lot of little money. We bi.dieve if the good contracts and no jobs. boys from our ships go to this ACTION NEEDED place they will not regret it. We have in the past failed to The LOG should be available bring any kind of organized ac­ there shortly as we are request­ tion against these people. The ing the Editor of the LOG to put result is the Taft-Hartley bill the place on the mailing list. The just passed by Congress and if name of the spot is the Res­ SIU CHEERS CANADIANS The pictures and story about the Canadian ship Mont Holland and its CSU crew that appeared in the June 6th LOG is a good example of how most CSU men feel about their union. They now have the shining light of the SIU before them. They see the con­ ditions and bigger pay we get cn our ships, without any com­ mie's iron hand cracking the whip. They see in the SIU that each man can state his beef, and be heard, and that he can ex­ pect something to be done about it. 1 know the fellows on this ship can't say enough for the SIX/ ;hips and contracts and how, when they have a beef, it is squared away—-but quick. Brother, 1 hope I'm in Canada the day we have our final vic­ tory over the commie CSU. I know that day isn't far off. I don't drink but 1 sure will have one that day. A commie is more dangerous to the working class than a rattler is to a farm boy. At least a rattler warns before it strikes. When we're rid of the commies, not only seamen, but all the working class people will be better off. can say is, you can't protect men who won't protect themselves, if you go into the joints here and f+ash your money around you are going to get it, so don't look for any sympathy from us, as there are enough troubles caring for TOOK SULLIVAN YEARS regular union duties without 1 was reading an article (en­ wet-nursing a bunch of gasclosed) about Pat Sullivan on hounds. R. G. Anderson how rotten the commies are and what they're doing against un­ ions. 1 can't see how it took him so long to see that the commies taurant Giovannina, 32 Via Trin- are a bunch of finks. And isn't ita Degli Spagnoli, Naples. it strange that he should start 11 Seafarers the CLSU about the same time the SIU began organizing in (Editor's note: The LOG will Canada. soon be available for all Sea­ Another thing. A lot of Cana­ farers to read while sipping dian seamen are under the false their vino russo at Giovanimpression that Sullivan is head nina's.) of the SIU in Canada, so why not have some posters made of the Brothers who are our officials Afk/uMt/foo and send them to the various seamen's clubs. As you know, it is an old commie trick to start false rumors that may help their cause, and then iet it keep rolling so they can capitalize on it. -A \ Eugene Wood MV Gadsden SIU Patrons Okay Neapolitan Spot lootfATrr^.. �Page Fourleen 1 IS - ^ IJ • ' - THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. August 1, 1947 AFL Bulletin On Taft-Hartley Act «» Now that the Taft-Hartley Bill has become the law of the land, every labor union in the country will bo faced with the tremendous task of understanding the very numerous and complex changes in the law and of adjusting their operations to these changes. In order to aid in this difficult task, the office of the General Counsel of the American Federation of Labor will, from time to time, prepaiv and distribute bulletins and memoranda advising our affiliates of their new obli­ gations and of the various steps they should take to protect their interests. This first bulletin is intended to anticipate and an­ swer the more important practical questions immediate­ ly confronting labor unions, including questions arising under those provisions of the new law which became effective when it was passed on June 23rd. At the outset, some comment must be made respecting the application of the Taft-Hartley Act to the building trades industry and other local industries. As is well known, the old Labor Board, as a matter of administrative discretion, did not apply the Act to .such industries. However, that cannot be relied upon as a guarantee that the new Board will follow the same practice. 1. WHAT IS THE STATUS OF EXISTING AGREEMENTS CONTAINING CLOSED-SHOP OR OTHER UNION-SECURITY PROVISIONS? All existing closed-shop, union shop, maintenance-ofmembership, or other union-security agreements enter­ ed intg prior to June 23rd, 1947, are valid and enforce­ able for the full term of tiie agreement, even though that agreement has two or thiee or more years to run. It is important to note, however, that if an^^ such exist­ ing agreement is renewed or extended, automatically oi otherwise, at any time after August 22, 1947, then the union-security provision is no longer operative. There­ fore, it is recommended that any presently existing agreements containing union-security clauses which have more than a year to run- be left untouched unless it is deemed more important to obtain a new agreement at the expense of union security. 2. MAY UNIONS NEGOTIATE NEW CLOSEDSHOP OR UNION-SECURITY AGREEMENTS? The new law or union-security agreements does not . go into effect until sixty days after the enactment of the law, namely, August 22, 1947. Accordingly, until August 22nd unions will retain the same freedom they now have to negotiate any type of closed-shop or union,security agreement, but they can be made only for a period of one year. In the case of any existing union-security agreement having no more ihan fan monlHs io run, it is suggested that unions attempt to renegotiate or renew such agreement prior to August 22, 1947, thereby getting the benefit of the added year of union security. 3. WHAT IS THE STATUS OF CHECK-OFF PRO­ VISIONS? All check-off agreements executed prior to June 23rd continue in full force and effect until the expiration of such agreement.! or until July 1, 1948, whichever date occurs first. Check-off provisions, unlike closed-shop provisions, may not be extended or renewed or ne­ gotiated after June 23, 1947. After June 23rd the new regulations on check-off agreements which require in­ dividual authorizations go into effect as do all agree­ ments executed after that date. Any check-off agree­ ment made after June 23, 1947, whether it be a newagreement or an extension or rene'wal of an old agree­ ment, must comply with the new law relating to check­ off provisions in order to avoid both criminal and in' junctive proceedings. After June 23, 1947, the only lawful of check-off agreement that may be negotiated is one whereby the individual employees involved have given to their em­ ployer written, individual authorizations, which au­ thorizations may be revoked after one year or at the expiration of the agreement, whichever occurs first. What is rendered unlawful are the so-called "auto­ matic" check-off provisions whereby the employer, without the individual written authorization of each of the employees involved, makes direct payments to the union. Such agreements, if made after Ju^e 23rd, constitute a crime subject to a fine of .$10,000 or a year's imprisonment, or both, and, in addition, are subject to immediate injunctions without any of the protections of the Norris-LaGuardia Act. 4. ARE UNIONS IMMEDIATELY LIABLE FOR ENGAGING IN BOYCOTTS, JURISDICTION­ AL STRIKES OR BREACHES OF COLLEC­ TIVE AGREEMENTS? Yes. Boycotts and jurisdictional strikes are dealt with in two different titles of the law, Title I and Title III. Under Title I they are made unfair labor practices which may be prohibited by the Labor Board, and, also, the Labor Board is required to seek an immediate injunction restraining them. Under Title III any per­ son who is injured by such boycotts and jurisdictional strikes may sue for damages. Title I does not become effective until August 22, 1947. But Title III becomes fication of agreements that expire within fifty-nine immediate effective; Therefore, boycotts and jurisdic­ days after August 22, 1947. tional strikes prohibited by the law expose unions to 6. WHAT REPORTS. AFFIDAVITS. ETC., MUST immediate suits for damages. UNIONS FILE BEFORE THEY MAY SECURE Similarly, suits for breach of contract are dealt with ANY RELIEF FROM THE LABOR BOARD? in Title HI and hence they, too, will subject unions to As before stated. Title I which establishes the new immediate damage suits in the Federal courts. Accord­ ingly, and for the further reason that the ability of Labor Board, prescribes unfair practices for unions, unions to police their agreements by disciplining em­ and requires the filing of reports and affidavits as a ployees engaging in wildcat strikes has been virtually condition of obtaining relief under the Act, is not ef­ destroyed under the new law, it is suggested that unions fective "until August 22, Y947. Therefore, there is no hereafter refrain^from agreeing to no-strike claii.se.s in need to bo immediately concerned with the filing of collective bargaining agreements. We give this advice reports and affidavits, because these need not be filed reluctantly, but the restrictions placed upon labor or­ until August 22nd. Further information and advice ganizations under the new law leaves us no alternative. concerning the filing of such reports will be sent out It should be noted in connection with the question of in a siihsequent. bulletin. 7. V/HAT LIMITATIONS DOES THE LAW IM­ boycotts and jurisdictional strikes that the law does not POSE ON THE POLITICAL ACTIVITY OF prohibit every kind of boycott and every jurisdictional LABOR UNIONS? strike. Specifically, the Act outlaws any strike or in­ ducement to strike against an employer, or refusal to Labor organizations as such (but not officers or work on or handle his goods, if an object of such members thereof acting personally and on their own action is any of the following: behalf) are prohibited from making any contribution 1. To require any employe, or a self-emploj'cd or "e.xpenditure" in connection with the election of person to join a labor or employer organization. any Federal' legislator such as Senator, Congressman 2. To require any employer to cease using, selling or other Federal official. This prohibition applies to or transporting the products of any other emregular elections, primary elections, political conven­ • ployer, or to cease doing business with any other tions or political caucuses involving Federal candi­ person. dates. The prohibition clearly forbids direct or out­ 3. To require some other employer to bargain with right money contributions to- a political candidate and a labor organization which has not been cer­ also includes a contribution of any thing of value, tified by the Labor Board as the representa­ such as a donation made directly to the candidote, and tive of that other employer's employees. for his own use, of literature, radio time, paid ads, use 4. To require any employer to bargain with a la­ of meeting halls for speeches to the public (but not bor organization where another labor organiza­ speeches to union members), etc. tion has already been certified by the Labor Thus far the Act is clear. However, by the addition Board as the representative of his employees. of the above quoted wofd "expenditure" to the pre­ ,"). To require any employer to assign work to one viously existing law, it may be claimed that the pro­ particular labor organization rather than to an­ hibition extends to any type of expenditure whatso­ other (unle.ss the employer is failing to comply ever made in connection with any Federal political with an existing certification.) election or nomination, such as, for instance, expendiThe foregoing is a summary of what kind of juris­ 'ture of nj,oney by a labor organization to publish a la­ dictional strikes and boycotts unions cannot engage in. bor newspaper setting forth a candidate's qualifica­ Other strikes against employers for pure economic tions or lack of qualifications, or the hiring of radio objectives, such as improvements in wages and work­ time or newspaper space for a union's own use to ing conditions, engaged in by the unions representing urge the election or defeat of a political candidate. If the employees of such employers, are not restricted by that is the intent of Congress in amending the Corrupt the new law except to the extent that they might in­ practices Act through the Taft-Hartley Act, then it is volve national emergencies and except with respect to our firm opinion that the law as so applied would be notices discussed below. illegal and unconstitutional as an invasion of the free­ In respect to what type of jurisdictional strikes or dom, of speech and press guaranteed as a civil liberty boycotts unions may now engage in, in spite of the under the First Amendment of the United States Con­ provisions of the new law, it is possible at the present stitution. In recently declaring unconstitutional a com­ time to state only as follows: parable law proposed' for referendum in the State of 1. A union may strike or picket a particular em­ Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Supreme Court, in a ployer for recognition as the representative of unanimous decision, stated as follows: that employer's employees if no other union has "But under the proposed law the political ac­ been certified as the representative of such tivities of l,abor unions are not regulated or curbed employees. If another union has been certi­ but are substantially destroyed. Deprived of the fied for only some of the employer's employees right to pay any sum of money for the rental of a in one unit, a union may strike to obtain rep­ hall in which to hold a public rally or debate, or for resentation rights in respect to the other em­ printing or circulating pamphlets, or for advertis­ ployees in other units. ing in newspapers, or for buying radio time, a 2. Union members may, acting individually or union could not carry on any substantial and effec­ through their union, refuse to purchase the tive political activity. It could not get its messages products of an unfair employer and advise and to the electorate. Its rights of freedom of the press request others to refrain from purchasing such and of peaceable assembly would be crippled." products. This can be accomplished by appeals (Howe V. Secretary of the Commonwealth. 69 N.E. in the form of handbills, radio, speech, or picket(2) 115, decided September 20, 1946.) ting addressed solely to the consuming public, Under the Bill of Rights any union whose purpose it requesting the public not to purchase unfair it is to further its own social and economic program by products. seeking the election of candidates favorable to such 3. Members of a union which has been certified program and the defeat of candidates unfavorable to as the bargaining representative may engage in such program has full freedom to use the facilities of a jurisdictional strike if the employer assigns •press, radio, handbill or speech to accomplish its ob­ their work to any other group of employees. jective, and no law can flatly and unqualifiedly destroy 4. Other types of customary boycotts involving this freedom. peaceful picketing and peaceful refusal to work, We therefore advise that, in connection with either such as refusal to work on or transport non­ a caucus, convention, primary election or final election, union made goods or unfair products, are ap­ labor organizations may expend such funds as they parently outlawed by the new law, but the con­ desire to compile and distribute to their membership stitutionality of such a prohibition is fn'doubt. and affiliates and to the public the voting records, Test cases will undoubtedly arise in the near speeches, or other statements of Federal candidates; future, and the American Federation of Labor the unions may purchase radio time and discuss the will coordinate and assist in such cases. In the merits and demerits of candidates and their platform meantime, unions are warned that violations in relation to labor's welfare; unions may print or have subject them to lawsuits for damages. printed newspaper ads or articles containing similar The question _of what boycotts and jurisdictional discussions they may send officers and" organizers to strikes are unlawful is a very complicated one. It will make speeches at union as well as public meetings and be further discussed in another bulletin to be issued may gay for advertising and hall hire of such meet­ in the near future. For the present the foregoing will ings; they may even invite a candidate to appear at suffice. such meeting if the purpose is to have him explain his position on matters of interest to labor. In short, labor 5. MAY UNIONS BE GUILTY OF UNFAIR LA­ unions may continue to engage in all the ordinary ac­ BOR PRACTICES BEFORE AUGUST 22, 1947? tivities (except, of course, direct financial contribu­ No. As indicated above. Title I of the Act does not tions to political candidates as discussed above) which become effective prior to August 22, 1947. However, to in the past had customarily been engaged in by them avoid any misunderstanding, we repeat that unlawful affecting political qandidates and parties, when the boycotts, jurisdictional strikes and breaches,of agree­ union's purpose is to further its own social and eco­ ments are dealt with in Title III and hence subject nomic program and when such activities are under­ unions to immediate damage suits; and we repeat, too, taken without agreementv or arrangement with any our recommendation respecting termination or modi­ candidate. �Friday, August 1, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fifteen •virrTTi^v!^ PERSOKALS NOTICE! SS HASTINGS Mcmbeis of the crew who witnessed the accident resulting in the death of Brother Vincent Russo, OS, on June 27, when the Hastings was in London, are urg­ ed to got in touch immediately with Robert Matthews at SIU Headquarters, 51 Beaver ' St., New York 4, N. Y. 3^ THOMAS H, SANCHER NEW YORK When you paid your July INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS dues in Mobile, you were given C. Johnson, $1.00; W. Bickford. a Tugboat receipt by mistake. $2.00; J. Fernandez, $1.00; H. E. Par­ Contact the Mobile iTall and son. $2.00; J. B. Wilson, $2.00; B. O. have the receipt exchanged for Svenblad, $2.00; j. A. Mitchell, $3.00; C. M. Bailey, $3,00; F. Esposito, $3.00; an A&G receipt. J. E. Mitchell, $2.00; J. F. Ross, $2.00; S. t ' it E. L. Simpson, $3.00; T. W. Hammond, THOMAS E. THOMPSON $1.00; L. Ayiles, $1.00. W. Davis. $3.00; , C. Conkle,. $1.00; \ The Delegate of the SS Wil­ A. L. Smith. $1.00; V. Allen, $1.00; liam C. Bryant has turned your R. A. Byron, $1.00; A. A. Peets, $1.00; papers over to the Agent of the J. Arabasz. $3.00; V. Romolo, $2.00; J. J. Martus, $2.00; Wm. Pachuta, New Orleans Branch. $1.00. 4. M. Cawn, $6.00; S. O. Ching, $5.00; Brothers holding receipts M. Berlowitz. $3.00; E. Olsen. $3.00; B-45745 through B-45750 are re­ R. J. Peters, $3.00; A. C. Cherney. quested to forward them to Head­ $1.00; M. Rzenkowick, $3.00; ,\. W. quarters, 6th Floor, 51 Beaver Riimmel, $3.00; Fl. Reinson, $1.00; Don Wojcik, $2.00; R. J. Bilolti. $2.00; Street, New York 4, N.Y. JAMES FLYNN Contact Nellie Pureell, 1200 Roistcrtown Road, Baltimore 8, Mf]. it it i. ESTEVAO SILVESTRIM Please communicate with your family at F a rr o u p i i h a. Rio Grande do Sui, Brazil. it SS WARD HUNT SS MANDAN- VrCTORY D. 5. Albright. $28.00; J. C. Drake, $1.00; Ivan Swit. $2.00; D. E. Hughes. $2.00: J. P. Tassin. $2.^0; E. HajaisIron. $3.00; A. Thompson. $1.00; R. C. Swensen. $2.00; R. A. Borch, $3.00; N. R. Willet. $2.00; J. Reyes. $1.00; H. B. Babine, $2.00; S. Castinlioni, $2.00; L. Monforte. $1.00; H. Tauch. $1.00: H. Allen, $2.00; Otis E. French. $2.00; A. Fernandez. $2.00. SS MADAKET C. '-G. Cooke. $2.00; E. F. Howell. $1.00; C. Bush. $1.00. it it EDWARD WALTER SHAW Your papers, which were for­ warded to wou in Puerto Rico, have been returned. You can pick them up in the fourth floor baggage room of the Ne wYork Hail. C. L. Graham. $2.00; O. O. Millan. $1.00; Crejtrs Donation, $18.00. SS DE SOTO j. E. Rucker, Jr., $1.00; C. Burton, $1.00; Crew of SS De Soto, $45.00. SS HASTINGS J. M. Harris. $1.00; D. C. Keller, $2.00; R. T. Shields, $1.00; H. F. Heath, $12.00; B. Zawacki, $2.00; ANDREW^ GEORGE R. Golden, $2.00; G. Carlson, $1.00; Get in touch with Attorney P. J. Chonison, $2.00; Wm, Dovrnie. Benjamin Sterling regarding set­ $2.00; E. M. Hickman. $2.00; A. Guerreiro. $1.00; D. Surgeon, $5.00. tlement of your case when you SS ARCHER were injured on board the SS NORFOLK J. F. Yonner. $2.00; H. F. Sloan. Frederic Gaibraith on Septem­ INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $2.00; N. Volpe, $3.00; F. S. Apell, ber 27. 1946. D. B. Peele, $2.00; C. O. King, $3.00; T. F. Yarbrough & Crew, $12.00; $2.00; L. A. Kelly. $2.00; V. Kelly, R. R. MacKenzie. $10.00. it it i. $2.00; J. N. Neilsen. $2.00; J. W. SS ALCOA CllTTER EARL LAWS A. Buday, $1.00; 1. W. Magarvy, $3.00; Farril Ellis, Kumierski, $1.00; Get in touch with Bill Lee, $2.00; R. E. Miller, $1.00; T. A. Jones, R. S. Friend, $3.00; .A. L. Chandler, $3.00; F. H. Boocks, $3.00. 78 Decker Avenue, Staten Island, $2.00; Lawrence Smith. $2.00; Elon W. K. Priddy, $3.00; D. A. Davfs, Jr., N.Y. Telephone number Gibi-aiter Bruce. $2.00; Francis Monier, $2.00; Harry Miller. $2.00; J. H, Hudson, $3.00; H. C. Whitehurst, $3.00; F. P. 8-0368-W. $2.00; W. A. LeBourgeois. $2.00; J. M. Fuchs, $1.00. it it it H. Eitmann. $2.00; Thomas C. Keating, BOSTON BERNARD THUE $2.00; O. L. Robertson. $1.00; Paul C. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Carter. $3.00. Your family of Muskegon, M. Mitchell, $2.00; O. Klippberg, SS JOLTET VICTORY Mich., has had no word from $1.00; B. Llorens, $5.00. D. C. Southwood, $5.00; G. R. CroR. Orr. $4.00; B. Simpson. $1.00; you in a long while and is ex­ well. $2.00; L. M. Byrne, $2.00; R. M. Joao, $1.00"; C. Novmrd, $1.00. tremely anxious to hear from Perls. $2.00; V. K. Filipic, $2.00; D. GALVESTON you. A letter is being held for Flockhart, $5.00; F. C. Christner, $2.00; R. Bentz, $3.00; W. A. Barwacz, $1.00; INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS you in the Baggage Room of the R. E. Tippe, $3.00; W. B. Pedlar. $1.00; A. E. Buck, $2.00: G. L. Williams, New York Hail. A. H. Birt, $1.00; C. V. Gladhill, $1.00; $1.00; R. M. Raines, $1,00; H. B. F. J. Macislak. $2.00; T. H. Groskoer, Raines, $1.00; C. J. Maybrier. $1.00; $2.00; .A. W. Bean, $2.00; P. Winiar- J. Jilka, $1.00; R. E. Lee, $4.00; A. L. czyk. $3.00; W. Stoveland, $1.00; Nordahl, $2.00; L. Pardeau, $5.00; J. Lapata, $2.00; S. Jurinko. $2.00; J, E. Liles. $4.00; C. E. Butler .$2.00; T. E. Richardson, $3.00; A. Aawa, Ebbie L. Cribb. $1.00: O. L. Simpson. Wages and transportation for $7.00; E. R. Crowe!!, $2.00 $2.00; W, Porter. $3.00; A. R. King. the following men who were - SS NEWBERG $2.00; H. M. Connell, $7.00. laid off the SS Claude Kitchen, M. F. Lormand, $1.00; L. L. Phillips, W. .A. Brown. $2.00; H. L. Moat. in Philadelphia, July 3, can col­ $2.00; E. Sandberg, $5.00; Manuel $3.00 G. H. Perry. $3.00; M. Google, Flores, $1.00; H. J. Gillan, $4.00; C. G. $2.00; G. W. Salter, $2.00; H. H. lect at the Waterman line office. D. F. Lyons. $1.00; New York: Fletcher, $1.00; R. L. Gresham, Jr.. Brown, $2.00; $1.00; George Pavlica, $1.00; A. T. J. E. Kilgore. $10.00; E. A. Edwarde. D. DeDuisin; A. E. Jansson; Creed, $2.00; A. M. Cox, $2.00; F. A. $1.00; P. M. Jones, $1.00; R. N. Kelley, A. Thompson; E. Patanen; V. Fava. $1.00; W. A. Meyers. $2.00; $5.00; James J. Meigs, $30.00; A. R. Makko; G. Viitala. D. E. Erase, $2.00; W. Horsfall, $2.00. King, $2.00; P. M. Stallings, $12.00. T. Sepe, $1.00; J. C. Davis, $3.00. SS SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY A. H. Gonzalez. $2.00; T. H. Little. EARL W. EBBERT $2.00; G. E; Harwell, $2.00; P. Rod­ Contact your mother Grace riguez, $2.00; C. A. Moser, $2.00; M. C. Ebbert, • 55 North 52 Street, Andrews. .$2.00; G. M. Everett, $2.00; Philadelphia 39, Pa. N. T. Tala, $2.00; A. Suela, $2.00; J. Riley, $2.00; J. DeMiderias, $2.00; P. Vlahas, $2.00; G. DeLuca, $2.00; A. T. Arnold, $2.00; D. R. Berry. $2.00; L. N. Kelley, $2.00. SS LIVERMORE ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. C. W. Nicholson, $1.00; B. E. Hayes, Phone 5523 $2.00; C. H. Smith, $1.00; J. G. AtherBALTIMORE ..14 North Gay St. ton, $1.00; J. T. Mohan, $1.00; R. Calvert 4539 Pierce. $1.00; F. .-^nderegg, $5.00; J. W. BOSTON 276 State St. Veacb, $1.00; A. B. Lynn, $1.00; H. Boudoin 4455 Muncie, $2.00; R. A. Bergholtz. $1.00; BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. H. Peterson, $5.00; F. T. Campbell, Cleveland 7391 $2,00; F Bessett. $2.00. CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. SS JEFFERSON CITY VICTORY Superior 5175 E. Anderson, $1.00; R. F. Gribben. CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. $1,00; S. J. Towson, $1.00; P. Salvo, Main 0147 $1.00; W. Ambrose, $1.00; J. Brady, DETROIT 1038 Third St. $1.00; P. G. Zander, $1.00; E. Ambrose, Cadillac 6857 $1.00; A. G, Price, $1.00; T. E. Walker, DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. $2.00. Melrose 4110 SS MANDAN VICTORY GALVESTON 308'/2—23rd St. G. Hassell, $1.00; S. C. White, $1.00; Phone 2-8448 B. A. Bierilo, $1.00; H. E. Martin, $ 1.00; SS LOUVERTURE HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. G. H. Marsh, $1.00; F. J. Calvin, $100; A. J. Jannello, $3.00; F. L. Pettingill, Phone 58777 1 H. French, $1.00; J. A. Vazquez. $1.00; J. D. Delgado, $1.00; C. Holliday, JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. $5.00; S. Monardo, $1.00; G. O'Rourke,. $2.00; H. E. Sandridge, $2.00; R. A. Phone 5-5919 $2.00. Mendez, $2.00; F. R. England, $1.00; MARCUS HOOK I'/j W. 8th St. SS MARINER The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ E. C. Blosser, $1.00; R. Morion. $2.00. Chester 5-3110 J. Figueroa, $1.00; J. Rivera, $2.00. SS LIVERMORE MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. farers International Union is available to ail members who wish SS E. A. MILLS L. C Galente. $2.00; P. J. Descartes. to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of Phone 2-1754 G. Menendez, $4.00; R. Gonzales, $3.00: H. L. Alexander, $1.00; J. S. MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St. their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have NEW ORLEANS ......339 Chartres St. $4.00; J. W. Mason. $4.00; M. Ros- Koziol, $1.00; A. R. Tonon. $3.00; Magnolia, 6112-6113 lington, $3.00; H. L. Smith, $1.00; W. T. .Atchason, $3.00; E. L. Martin, the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every SIU branch for this purpose. NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. J. L. Smith, $1.00; L. , Jones, $4.00; $3.00. HAnover 2-2784 G. Menendez, $8.00. SS WARNER However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU SS STEPHENS NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. C. W. Patterson, $2.00; 11. E. Kirkhail, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the M. J. Segedi, $1.00; A. Friend, ' Phone 4-1083 $1.00; land, $1.00; George Knai, $1.00; Tom PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. T. Navaro; $2.00; E. Hoffman, $1.00; Hong, $1.00; A. Arnesen. $1.00; R. LOG, which you can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS LOmbard 3-7651 C. Litchfield, $1.00; V. Acabeo, $1.00; Swillinger, $1.00. LOG, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. S. E. Burnett, $2.00; W. H. Harwell, SS CITY OF ALMA , Beacon 4336 $2.00; C. F. McCole, $3.00; C. Corbea, A. MuelJer, $1.00; M, Daly, $1.00; RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. $2.00; L. A. Marsh, $2.00; F. A. Mulder, H, Keene, $2.00; W. F. Barth, $2.00; Phone 2599 $1.00; M. C. Otero, $2.00; B. Bonafon, C. Hixson, $2.00; E. Kusgen, $1.00; SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. $2.00; A. Anvitarte, $1.00. F. Havard, $2.00; W. G. Morris. $2.00; Douglas 5475-8363 SS ANGELINA P. J. McGinnity, $2.00; L. Santa Anna. SAN JUAN, P. R. . .252 Ponce de Leon S. Fauntlery, $4.00; R. Santos, $1.00; $1.00; J. B. Elliott, $1.00; W. R. San Juan 2-5996 P. j: Ortiz. $1.00; B. Hubbell, $2.00; Mcllveen, $2.00. SAVAI^NAH 220 East Bay St. P. P. McGrath, $1.00; S. J. Controls, SS F. NORRIS Phone 8-1728 $1.00; A. Realbuto, $1.00; E. Harrison, J. Schaller, $1.00; J. T. Martin, SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. $1.00; C. Ramsay, $1.00; J. W. Gall$2.00; J, Farrel, $2.00; J. CT. Gray, Name Main 0290 ardo, $1.00; R. P. Hall, $2.00; A, C. $1.00. TAMPA ....1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Ruiz, $100. SS R. HARRISON Street Address Phone M-1323 SS BEAUREGARD O. B, Arrowood, $1.00; J. C. F TOLEDO 615 Summit St. F. Szwestka, $1.00; R. A. Heger, Siginon, $1.00; John Sampaio, $2.00; Garfield 2112 $6.00; J. Jimenez, $5,00; J, Velez, $1.00; C. iB. Harlow, $1.00; Melvin R. Massey, City StateWILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Sam Shupler, $2.00; A. P. Lazzaro, $2.00; W. L. Forest, $2.00; C. F. Terminal 4-3131 $1.00; S. W. Lesley, $1.00; W. S. Sonne, Frances, $2.00; Thomas Petroff, $2.00; VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. Signed $2.00; A. W, McArthur, $1.00; C. Music, C, Patello, $2.00; N. A. Barbour, $2.00; Garden 8331 $200; M. P. Perez. $1,00; A, W. Kub- J. Wordf, $2,00; J. Saterne, $11.00. VANCOUVER ....144 W. Hastings St. acki, $1,00, , SS PATTERSON Book No. Paciflc 7824 SS COLABEE A. Asaro, $2.00; Crew of SS Pat­ I. Ostrowski, $5,00, terson, $10.00, * 4« if it SIU HALLS MONEY DUE Notice To All SIU Members PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION To the Editor: I would like the SEAFARERS LOG mailed to the address below: �-rn THE SEAFARERS Page Sixteen •• '--JP'* Friday, August 1, 1947 LOG emssm WKEW/ • =. w '£be^aisrer^ dioes il a^ain I *Ihe iieca SlU contract luiaiAWTHlASEK ClMiffiRSMHABB<aiC!C3KP.;) i^'S^6he$t^^ bta?fi2e^s! 1^ X Is-'- • 1- m ifc |s^•^ m I I I I i 9 9 fei, f. fc. fS f 0 ^ \/<mfORmsiUA sHOEEK MTEiiiananii mooK ,.,.A„ � 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 August 1, 1947 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. IX, No. 31 Description An account of the resource Headlines MATHIASEN SIGNS UP AGRREMENT IS CALLED BEST IN TANKER FIELD NEW CONTRACT SIGNED SIU GETS 5% INCREASEAND PAID VACATION NMU WITHDRAWS FROM CITIES SERVICE SIU REOPENS wASHINGTON OFFICE AFL-CIO UNITY IS A MUST',GREEN TELLS MURRAY LETTER FROM FORMER MEBA OFFICAL SHOWS HOW THE CP WORKS IN UNIONS UNITY OF MEMBERS BASISOF SIU GROWTH HEADQUARTERS REPORTS MC IS SELLING SHIPS AT A FAST PACE MV GADSEN HITS PORT MONTREAL MONTREAL BRANCH TEACHES UNIONISM TO CSU MEN;STRAIGHTENS OUT GASHOUNDS AND PERFORMERS MANPOWERS LACK HAMPERS BRANCH IN PUERTO RICO GOOD SHIPPING,CITY ELECTIONS KEEP PORT TAMPA ON ITS TOES FIRST ASSISTANT AND THREE SEAFARES COLLECT SETTLE OF SHIPYARD STRIKE WILL BRING PHILLY GOOD SHIPPING LCA PREFERS GREEN HANDS ON ITS SHIPS RANK AND FILES COMMITEES CHECK ON CREWS'CONDUCT IN EVERY PORT MEMBERHAS DUTIES IN ADDITION TO BENIFITS FRISCO AGENT HAS HIS OWN BED PERFORMERS BETTER TAKE WARNING MEMBERS VIOLATE ARTICLE 32 OF SHIPPING RULES ROME IS REALLY A WONDERFUL PLACE BUT BEWARE OF PETTY LARCENISTS SIU CONTRACTS PROTECT SEAMEN FROM ABUSES PAYOFFS AND SIGN-ONS CAN BE MADE EASY FOR ALL SIU STRENGTH LIES IN COOPERATION BETWEEN NEWCOMERS AND OLDTIMERS CAVALIER CREW SETS UP SHIPBOARD NEWS SHEET TELLS OF CREW HEROISM IN THEBLAST ON THE NEWHALL HILLS SIU SHIPS' MINUTES IN THE BREIF Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/1947 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/6eb7e59698ae5f68112be7c8aed331fb.PDF 6e38e4d2a42b019cf9b9840a6f42a3f0 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. SURVIVORS OF ACCIDENT AT SEA More lhan a monlh ago the SS Newhall Hills. Pacific Tankers, was rammed and cut in two in the English Channel. SIU member Ed Bolehala. AB. was killed by the explosions which rocked the boat following the crash. Above are some of the members of the crew who have just returned to the States. This crew was praised by the Master of the ship for the "sheer guts" they showed in manning the hoses and standing by the engines while a raging fire threatened the center tank. White Caps off to all of them! House Gets Bill To Extend Medical Service For Seamen WASHINGTON — What-sea­ men have been fighting for over a long period of time may soon turn out to be a reality. By that is meant hospital and medical service for seamen who have been on the beach for more than Waterman Adds To European Run The Waterman Steamship Cor­ poration is doubling its services from New York to Antwerp and Rotterdam. Two sailings will be made every week, instead of the hitherto once-a-week sailing. A Waterman ship will now leave New York every Tuesday for a direct run to Rotterdam, with another vessel departing every Friday for Antwerp. Waterman also has announced that its intercoastal service, known as the Arrow Line, which it will operate jointly with Sud­ den and Cristenson, Inc., will be­ gin operations on Aug. 1 on a fortnightly basis. Neither New York nor Boston will be included in the Arrow Lines initial schedules, which will be made with chartered Vic­ tory ships. The first sailing on Aug. 1 will be made from Balti­ more with subsequent calls at Philadelphia and Charleston, S. C. No. 30 NEW YORK. N. Y., FRIDAY. JULY 25. 1947 60 days after the date of the last discharge. It is common - knowledge that many seamen, out-of-work for more than 60 days, have been refused treatment at Marine Hos­ pitals. Now if HR 4163, which is dt present in the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Com­ merce, becomes law, seamen will be accorded the same rights which are granted to members of the Army, Navy, or Marines. The pending bill is intended as an amendment to the Public Health Service Act, and provides that seamen "who are or have been" employed on "board in the care, preservation, or navigation of any vessel, or in the service, on board, aof those engaged in such care, preservation, or navi­ gation, and, (2) any person who (A) has been so employed, (B) has not changed his occupation as a seaman, and (C) by reason of age, unavailability of jobs or disability is not able to work," is henceforth entitled to medical and hospital service. Only pressure from seamen's unions could have brought about the introduction of such a bill, and it will take even more pres­ sure to make sure that the bill passes. When open hearings are held, the Seafarers International Union will be represented and will press for the enactment of the measure. ' NLRB Calls Meeting On The SIU Demand For Cities Service Vote The drive to- organize the un­ licensed seamen of Cities Service Oil Company entered its second round this week when the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board, Second -Region, announced that a representation hearing would be held on July 28. This hearing would have been held quite some time ago, ax-^ept that the National Maritime Union had filed charges of "un­ fair labor practices" against the company — charges which were recently withdrawn, thereby opening the way for a bargain­ ing election. There is no doubt but that the NMU will claim a place on the ballot. There is also little doubt that the NMU will suffer the same defeat which it has suffer­ ed whenever it came up against the SIU in bargaining elections recently. Slickest Trick Of The Year A little inside story on the art of manipulation—one that makes the late Harry Houdini look like a second-r^e street corner pitchman—came out of a hearing held by the State of Washington's Department of Transportation. Subject of the hearing were the rate increases asked by the Black Ball (that's the right name) ferry line monopoly. Said Capt. Pebody. the company head, as he leaned back in the witness chair: "Now, the fret that the state built those bridges down there (in San Francisco) and we were able through—I don't mean to brag about this but I have got to get this one over—through careful planning and careful manipulation to go down there and get, for practically nothing, 17 of the 21 ferryboats that were owned by the S. P. Golden Gate Ferries, and the further fact that by careful planning and careful manipulation we were able to sell one piece of our equipment that gave us more money than we paid for six vessels that we bought in 'Frisco, and that before the program was over, by selling four pieces of equipment that we. owned we got one and a half times what we paid for the whole fleet, without that, we couldn't have done it." Two Bilk WouU Aid Alieia Uncle Sam may yet remember the alien seamen who helped de­ liver the goods during the dark­ est days of American history. Two bills to recognize the role played in the war effort by alien seamen are currently receiving consideration in the House of Representatives. Already approved by the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee is a mea­ sure to allow aliens with war­ time service aboard American ships to sail all U. S. ships. If enacted by the Congress, this bill would supersede the law that went into effect May 31 ban­ ning aliens from American sub­ sidized vessels. The second bill, introduced last week by Rep. Emanuel Celler of New York, calls for the granting of citizenship to all alien sea­ men who have three years of v/artime service on American ships. Passage of these two measures would bring to a successful con­ clusion the strong fight the Sea­ farers International Union has been waging in behalf of all alien seamen. "••v; All unlicensed personnel will be included in the bargaining imi^ eligible to vote, except for Pursers and Radio Operators. It is estimated that more than 300 Cities Service employes will be affected. STRONG SUPPORT On February 14, 1947, the SIU turned over to the NLRB pledge cards for more than four-fifths of the total strength of the bar­ gaining unit. This is an indica­ tion of the popularity of the SIU with these unorganized seamen. The first shot in the campaign to organize Cities Service was fired on October 31, when the SIU petitioned for an election in that company, claiming a suffi­ cient number of -the unlicensed personnel had authorized the SIU to act as their bargaining agent. Although this was undoubtedly true, the action of the NMU in charging the company with "un­ fair labor practices" held up pro­ ceedings until this time. NJ. Now Pays Compensation To Jobless Seamen TRENTON, N. J.—The state of New Jersey this week announced that it was prepared to pay un­ employment compensation to outof-work seamen who in the last two years worked on vessels of the War Shipping Administra­ tion. The weekly payments would range from $9.00 to $22.00, for a maximum of 26 weeks, depend­ ing upon the wage levels and du­ ration of jobs when last em­ ployed. Seamen, willing and able to work, but who cannot find suit­ able employment, are eligible. Work at other jobs covered by New Jersey law also counts. Payment eligibility may expire soon for seamen who have been idle for some time, and they are therefore urged to apply as soon as possible. Claims should be filed at the nearest State Employment Serv­ ice to where the applicant lives, and must be accompanied -with either of the following: United States merchant mariner's docu­ ment or merchant seaman's cer­ tificate of identification, contin­ uous discharge book or certifi­ cate of discharge, and union book. �THE Page Two SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 25. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the Ui •^ SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers President HARRY LUNDEBERG 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-Presider>t 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER - Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY ----- Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 The Task Ahead The men of the Seafarers International Union were thriiled last month when the National Labor Relations Board announced that the Union had been certified as the bargaining agent for the unlicensed seamen of the Isth­ mian Steamship Company. Mingled with the thrill, was a feeling of relief that the hard work and money expended on the campaign had borne fruit. A lot of men settled .back and said, "Well, that job's over. Now let's relax." But the job for the Seafarers Ls not over as long as there is one unorganized company left on the American waterfront. Just as an infection can start from a slight cut on the finger, so can the shipowners and operators use one non-union company as a spearhead in an all-out, anti­ union drive. Even while the Isthmian campaign was going on, the SIU was planning and taking part in other organizational activities. Within the past few months elections were won on the Mathiasen Tankers, the Huron Transportation Com­ pany, and the Wyandotte fleet. It takes men to organize these companies. No com­ pany gives in to the just demands of Jihe men sailing the ships, unless the men are organized into a strong union that can fight for better wages and conditions. Volunteers have to work aboard" those ships carrying the me.ssage of unionism to men who need the help of a strong union, but who don't know how to go about getting it. Just recently the SIU petitioned for an election in the Cities Service tankers fleet. More will follow; and volun­ teers will be required to sail those ships, talking union and acting in good union fashion, until they arc added to the growing list of SlU-contracted companies. What SIU seamen have today in the way of decent wages and conditions was won by men who thought of the seamen's movement first, and of themselves second. Cities Service can be organized; the Great Lakes can be completely organized; all non-union shipping in the United States can be brought under the SIU banner—if Seafarers will volunteer to go aboard unorganized ships to do the job. So, now is not the time to relax. Now is the time to see the shoreside organizers in all ports and ask for an assignment. You may not be hired by the company the first time, hut you can keep trying. That's the only w;ay to keep our standards high. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card. giving your nam^ and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital\ Men Now In The Marine Hospitals These axe 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 writ­ ing to them. % NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL J. A. DYKES E. E. CASEY J. PROBST E. F. PAUL C. CAHILL P. FELICIANO C. LANGSTON P. GSLPI L. COOPER H. STILLMAN W. CAUGHEY T. .1. KURKI R. LUXEMBURG E. P. O'BRIEN J. L. WINN C. KERSTENS F. McNUTLY P. C. CARTER F. HOMANN . M. PISKUN G. ELDRIDGE G. ROGERS LEROY CLARKE C. F. CONSTANZA^ V. A. QUINN H. SELBY M. A. HIGGINBOTHAM R. WALTHER A. J. LeJUENE XXX J. ZADAVIL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL E. L. WANDRSI E. M. LOOPER M. PLYLER F. O'BRIEN J. J. O'NEAL J. WYMOND A. B. ZIELINSKI E. CAIN JR. R. B. WRIGHT J. TARQUELLOS J. E. MAGUIRE F. MILLER C. MASON D. COPPAK W.BROCE P. PODOLSKY J. DENNIS R. GORDON E. P. JANOSKO M. FINDELHURST H. W. WATTS H. GREEN X X STATEN ISLAND, HOSPITAL XXX NEPONSET HOSPITAL N, NEILSEN L. CLARK J. MORRISON J. S. CAMPBELL E. J. SIDNEY You can con+^301 your Hos­ pital delegate, jt the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) E. J. C. L. J. L. C. J. R. H. J. FERRER R. HANCHEY LARSEN L. LEWIS R. LEWIS TORRES SCHULTZ HAMILTON A. BLAKE BELCHER T. EDWARDS XXX CHICAGO MARINE HOSP. LOUIS JOHNSON STEVE SCHULTZ HENRY LALLY XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL L. 'ANDERSON J. CALHOUN (SUP) R. BAASNER R. LORD E. JOHNSTON E. DELLAMANO H. WALSH R. HUNT H. SMITH J. DRUMM R. MORRISON �Friday, July 25, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Gt. Lakes Negotiating Committee iWeetsWith Huron On SIU Contract By PAUL WARREN the Hanna seamen that they are I eluded from the bargining unit waiting patiently for a chance to which is to vote on the union of register their vote for the SIU their choice. as the Union of their choice. They have also requested that Hanna seamen have not for­ they be allowed to argue orally gotten how NMU goons and ter­ in this case, another factor which rorists attempted to intimidate serves to hold up the proceedings. them during the NMU's so-called In the meantime, SIU repre­ strike of 1946 in an attempt to sentatives are bending every ef­ force Hanna crewmembers into fort toward the holding of a the ranks of the NMU. speedy election among the Wil­ Hanna seamen are also well son seamen. We feel that Wilson aware of the fact that they have seamen have been denied SIU nothing to gain from member­ conditions, wages and union rep­ ship in the one company Lake resentation for too long. Sailors Union. This is another fleet in which This outfit is tied so closely to both the LSU and NMU are con­ the shipowners that the LCA centrating their organizational would be running their affairs, if efforts. Very few Wilson seamen Hanna seamen joined the phony are falling for their line of phony LSU. propaganda, as a majority of Hanna seamen want no part them have' signified their wish of either of these outfits, but to become members of the Sea­ they do want the SIU. They farers. know that the SIU leads today, Wilson seamen, just like the like it always has, in securing the Midland seamen last year, and best possible contracts with the the Huron and Wyandotte sea­ best possible wages, hours and men this year, are fed up with conditions for the Lakes seamen. LCA conditions. They, too, realize that the SIU leads on the WILSON STALLED An election for crewmembers Lakes when it comes to winning of the Wilson Transit Company the best damn contracts for the ships is still stymied temporarily seamen on the Lakes. through the company's efforts to Yes, the SIU leads today, and stretch out the case before the the SIU because of its strength and militant membership will NLRB in Washington. Wilson attorneys have pleaded continue to lead on the Lakes just that the Chief Stewards and as we lead on the Pacific, Atlan­ Utility Engineers should be ex- tic and Gulf Coasts, too. DETROIT—Thanks to the At­ lantic and Gulf District, we've had the capable assistance of Brother Lindsey Williams up here on the Lakes for the past iew days. By PAUL HALL Lindsey is up here for the ex­ press purpose of drafting the Maybe he doesn't know it but the guy who puts the best argu­ new Huron Transportation Com­ ment in the shipowners' mouths everytime they try to knock down pany agreement in line with the our conditions is the donkey aboard ship who probably doesn't know the first thing about a seaman's job and tries to cover up demands and requirements of his lack of knowledge by sounding off like a super-militant. What the Huron seamen. Since NLRB certification of he doesn't know about his job he makes up for by running off at the mouth. Most of the members have, at one time or another, the Seafarers as the sole bargain­ ing agent to represent the Huron watched this type of guy operate. It's pretty well agreed that a good Union man never substi­ seamen on June 16, crewmemtutes his Union book for ability to take care of his job aboard ship. bers of the two Huron ships, the However, not once, but several times lately, situations have arisen SS Crapo and SS Boardman, have where a guy found he couldn't handle the job for which he had been patiently waiting for good been shipped and instead of asking one of his shipmates to wise him news concerning the contract ne­ up, used the line; "I'm a good Union man and I carry an SIU book." gotiations. This week, the second meeting A defense like that is strictly from the bilge. Now its no dis­ grace not to know everything about a job because savvy is some­ with the Huron management will thing we all pick up as we go along. But it is a disgrace to try to take place and the actual open­ hide that lack of knowledge by falling back on the argument that ing of contract negotiations will begin. holding a book solves everything. At the first meeting with this Beef Hits Electricians management, arrangements were In most instances, this beef comes up in regard to Electricians. made to secure passes for board­ It generally develops when a Chief Electrician orders an Assistant ing the Huron ships, exploratory to do a certain job, for which, in some cases the guy lacks the proper discussions on the agreement know-how. Instead of simply admitting he's stumped and taking were made, and a date for the advantage of the chances to learn, the Assistant has been known next meeting was set. to reply, "I'm not supposed to do that kind of work." Since then, and with the valu­ When the Chief Electrician insists the work has to be done, able aid of Brother Williams, the the old song and dance comes up: "I'm an SIU member and you new contract demands have been can't tell me what to do." Well, its nice work if you can get it drawn up and presented to the but a guy must have a little more in his tool kit than a lot of sharp Huron management for their con­ talk. sideration. Wage demands are A Chief -Electrician is, in the same respect as is a Chief on a comparative basis with Steward, a key man—and a Bosun, and he has definite work for those secured in the recent Mid­ which he is responsible. The Assistant Electrician works directly land wage agreement. under his jurisdiction and is naturally responsible to him. WYANDOTTE AGREEMENT Should an Assistant Electrician or for that matter, any guy As of July 16, the SIU was aboard ship, be he an AB, OS, Messman, or what have you, be certified by the NLRB as the sole told to do a job by the Chief Electrician, Bosun or Steward and By AL KERR bargaining agent for the unli­ the work is one of his duties, he should do it. No sound argu­ censed personnel of the Wyan­ ment exists for a refusal. Now that the NMU has with­ gaining representative in recent dotte fleet. Now that this cer­ drawn the unfair labor charges elections. Happens A Little Too Often tification has come through, I Cities tankermen know that There have been too many instances lately where guys didn't meetings with the Wyandotte which they had filed against the the SIU is the outfit that has know their .stuff and took advantage of the fact that they are management leading to an SIU company in the Cities Service made the seamens' wages and Union men by trying to twist the incident into a Union or personal agreement will be started at once. case, the National Labor Rela­ working conditions what they are beef. Wherever possible, members witnessing gags like this should We are fully confident that tions Board will be able to go today. Not only has the Seafar­ do their best to set the guilty party straight. when the Huron and Wyandotte ahead and process our represen­ ers taken the lead in the estab­ We -all have to learn and it is up to the guy who does know agreements are finally signed tation case. In line with pro­ lishing of working conditions and the score to pitch in and help break in the guys who still need a that the crewmembers of these cessing our case, we have re­ wages, but will continue to hold little boost in learning how. two fleets will be completelj' ceived a notice from the Board the lead in the maritime field. This applies to Union education as well as job education. We satisfied that they are the best^ to the effect that a hearing will ( For the Seafarers to be able to of the SIU have a policy which we believe in—that the place in agreements on the Lakes, and be held in this case on July 28th, win the election in the Cities which Seafarers can best learn how to handle their jobs is aboard that they will set a new standard 1947. • fleet as we did in the Isthmian ship at the point of production and not in government training for other contracts to shoot at. At this hearing it will be de­ fleet, it will be necessary for the schools. We must demonstrate ihat this policy can be practicable cided as to who will be allowed membership to come forward HANNA PROGRESS as well as a principle. to vote, what date the voting and volunteer again as they did Progress is expected in the The whole thing, then, boils down to this: If a guy doesn't shall start, and whether or not then. seem to be able to handle a job he is supposed to know, lend a Hanna case from the NLRB in the voters will vote by mail or Although the men that are on hand by telling him how. On the other hand, if he isn't interested Washington. The Board has to j manually. the Cities Tankers will undoubtdecide on whether or not the in learning and pulls the old cover-up, "I'm a Union man and you The Seafarers has no doubt ly vote for the SIU, many of can't do anything about me and my job," then the quicker you Chief Steward shall be included at all that the Cities Service fleet them have questions in regards in the bargaining unit, and we take care of the character by setting him straight or unloading will vote SIU the same as the to the Union Constitution and the should have a decision on this in him from the ship, the better it will be for the Union and its mem­ Isthmian Fleet did. The men who other benefits of a Union. At the near future. bership. Rumors have it that both the are sailing the Cities Service times it is impossible for the Affects Union Hiring NMU and LSU are working like; tankers have seen the Isthmian shoreside organizers to get on The mention of so-called key ratings on board ship brings eager beavers on the Hanna fleet. ^ fleet, Huron, Wyandotte and board these ships. Therefore, it up a highly important point. Our membership, and the entire water­ However, we have it on direct several Gulf Tugboat outfits vote would be a big help to have a front knows that the SIU is one of the few unions that ships key authority from the majority of for the Seafarers to be their bar- Union man riding the ship to answer any questions of this type personnel, such as Chief Electricians and Chief Stewards, right off that may come up. the hiring board. The shipowners made a very strong effort at our "Wliy not take a run around to last negotiations to take this hard-won right away from us and the Cities Service office at 70 the negotiating committee had a hell of a tough time to keep them Pine Street, N. Y. It's on the , from doing it. The membership of the Seafarers International Union has 7th floor, to your right when you It is the natural thing and the intelligent thing, then, for us consistently reaffirmed its position that gear-grabbers can't be get off the elevator. Don't let to support these Chief Stewards and Chief Electricians aboard ship good Union men. Any individual who stoops to pilfering gear them know that you belong to after we have shipped them from our Halls. To fight for the right such as coffee percolators, linens, etc.. which are placed aboard the Union or they won't have to ship these men from the union hiring hall and then force them SlU-conlracted ships for the convenience of all hands, is. above a damn thing to do with you. to put up with some lazy bum that i-efuses to carry his end of the all. guilty of a malicious disregard of his shipmates' welfare. "When you go, report back to load aboard ship doesn't add up. Crew conveniences on most SIU ships today are not there the organizers as to whether or We won't allow men sailing in these ratings to hardtime any by accident. They are there because of the Union's successfullynot you filled out an application, SIU man. But they have responsibilities. Let's meet them half-way. fought struggles to bring greater benefits and comforts and to talked to any of the men in the Unless we follow this policy we are running the risk of having provide decent conditions for the membership while out at sea. hiring hall, or whether or not the company demand the right to select their own people for these These hard-won conveniences are for the benefit of ALL you heard anything about the jobs. If the njembership is interested in keeping these two im­ HANDS. They ARE NOT to be appropriated by any individual movement of their ships. portant jobs right where they are—on the union hiring board— for his own personal use. "Violators of the membership's wel­ A few minutes now may mean they'll damn well support these men when they have a reasonable fare will be dealt with in accordance with the firm stand taken more jobs on the board to choose beef aboard ship. repeatedly by Seafarers in all ports. from later. Take up this point at your next shipboard meeting. Discuss Ship Cities Service! it thoroughly. SIU Membership Still Has Big Job In Cities Service Gear-Grabbers Hurt Union J:.:;,::, �THE Page Four SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 25. 1947 THANKS FROM SHIPYARD WORKERS Dirty Ship Is Pain To Crew And Officials Reuther Beats Commies In UAW Industrial Union of Marine and Shipbuilding Woricers of America Aifilialecl wiih (he Congrats of Iiiduslrial Organiiations NEW YORK REGIONAL OFFICE 1133 Broadway : New "Vork, N. Y. WAtkins 9-8952 By HARRY M. GALPHIN l!« When wc took the Enos A. Mills, Bull Lines, out of the boneyard in Charleston she was a clean ship in spite of her long lay up, but it wasn't long before she looked like she had been in the boneyard since the first World War. We made a trip to Europe and came in to New York for the payoff. Patrolman Gonzales, who handled the payoff, called the crew together and told them that there would be no payoff until the Mills was cleaned up. Most of us were heartily in agreement with Brother Gonzales and we all turned to, and in a July 10, 1947 Mr. Paul Hall, Int*l Ist ¥io« Pres. Seafarers Int*l Union of N, A. 51 Beaver St. New York 4, N. Y. Dear Paul: Tharks a lot for your fine resolution regard­ ing support of our strike by the S. I. U. Our union is fully aware of our mutual co­ operation in the past and here's hoping everything comes out alright. Here's luck, also in your present nego­ tiations, and that you make out O.K. Warning Bell Sounds: Don't Smuggle Butts Fraternally, Charles A'. Leone Reg, DiT, CALthm HARRY M. GALPHIN CC: Ross D. Blood, Nat. Sec. Treae. Thomas J. OallaKher, Org. Dir. DETROIT — President Walter Reuther, of the United Auto Workers-CIQ, won one of the ioughest battles of his labor career last weCk when a referen­ dum of UAW members voted down amalgamation with the United Farm Equipment Workcrs-CIO. The Reuther victory was con­ ceded by UFE President Grant Cakes who complained that "We cannot accept this result as au­ thentic expression of the UAW rank-and-file . . ." Rcuthor's success was seen as e sharp setback to Vice-president R. J. Thomas, and Secretaryti-easurer George Addes who has been favored by Communists for UAW president. • Reuther sup­ porters contended that the amal­ gamation proposal was a device by which the Thomas and Addes forces could pick up 450 conven­ tion votes to unseat Reuther. ~ Word has just been received from Germany that the -Captain and Second Officer of a Water­ man Lines ship were fined for trying to smuggle cigarettes into Bremen in exchange for di­ amonds. The Skipper was sen­ tenced to pay $3000 or serve a year and a half in jail, and the Mate was fined $300. It has also been learned that all seamen are searched before going ashore, and are under sur­ veillance while in Germany to prevent any thing of value leav­ ing the country. Remember, when you get into that sort of trouble, the SIU can't do you a bit of good. Even Joe Volpian, Special Services Repre­ sentative, won't be able to get that kind of log broken. short while the vessel was ship­ shape and we paid off. Above is a reproduction of a letter sent to the Union by the Industrial Union of Marine and The morning after the payoff, Shipbuilding Workers of America. CIO. thankin? us for adopting a resolution supporting their however, I stopped in the scull­ stand even before they hit the bricks a month ago. In a few past instances the SIU has assisted ery and from the filth and junk the Shipyard workers, and the best wishes of the Seafarers are behind the lUMSWA in its laying around, one would neve!present struggle with the shipyard owners. 'think the place had been clean­ ed the day before. The messroom, and scullery were terrible. I've seen some crummy ones, but this one took the cake. All the oldtimers aboard, Moon NEW YORK—For a long tiipc March 30, 1945, during a stop­ very quiet when it came to pro­ He confines himself almost ex­ Mullins, the Bosun, Patty O'Neill, the Daily Worker, organ of the page, "Not An Hour's Stoppage! tecting workers' rights from the clusively to the period between AB, and a few others turned to American communist party, has The Mines Must Be Seized!" bosses and the government dur­ 1934 and 1936; the reason for that -with a will, but below in the slandered honest union officials ing the whole course of the war. is obvious—from then on the The Montgomery Ward strik­ Stewards Department it was a because they would not allow ers, hounded on one side by Honest trade unionists know paper was constantly guilty of different story. themselves to be led around by America's number one open- by now that there is no sincerity attacking honest labor unions Aboard the Mills there were a Stalin's nose-ring. Very few, if shopper, and on the other side by in communists, and that they and whitewashing those which lot of youngsters who didn't any, did anything about it—be­ a bosses' government, found an­ would not hesitate for an in­ followed the line as set down in seem to care too much about the cause of-' the old myth that the other enemy in the communists stant to cut labor's throat if Moscow. care of the vessel. Most of them Daily Worker was a labor news­ and the Daily Worker. they thought that it would help It will be interesting to watch felt that they were aboard for paper. Pai-ty-liner Harry Bridges orr Stalin'.s policy pf world con­ what happens. If Curran wins •a pleasure jaunt, but if they were Recently, in the fight for power dered his warehousemen his suit it may set a precedent m quest sent down to a ship and found ' in the National Maritime Union, Montgomery Ward's St. Paul unit In opposition to Curran's at­ that wUl force the Daily Worker it as filthy as the Mills, they the DW has been supporting the to continue work after the CIO tack on the DW, Ferdinand would be the first ones to I'aise commies, and employing their Retail, Wholesale and Depart­ Smith, Secretary of the NMU, de­ to rely on facts, not on the hatehell. usual tactics of mud-slinging, ment Store Employes quit work. votes his July 18 column to de­ filled scrlbblings of viciously an­ It's up to us to keep our ships character a.ssassination, and out­ fending it. ti-labor, pro-Stalin writers. "CALL IT SCABBING" • clean. The Patrolman in New right untruths designed to prove York did as much as he could to that the opposition to the com­ When he was appealed to bring clean up the Mills, but we mies is trying to gain control of this practice to a halt, he re­ -shouldn't have to-be told. the union so as to wreck it. plied, "We -will handle Chicago As SIU members, we pride Cur ran has cracked back at the orders eight hours a day, call it ourselves on clean ships both paper with a suit for libel, while scabbing if you want to." while we are aboard and when at the same bewailing the fact Freedom means the right to can way," was clarified later in "Call it scabbing?" Is there we leave them for another gang, that the Daily Worker "once was pay starvation wages. the hearing. If a man went to anything else to call it? a paper which carried truthful so let's get together and bring So said a liberty-loving mem­ a public sale, he safd, and bought The Daily Worker jumped statements on unions." in a clean ship that will be no Curran easily forgets or glosses right into that one. In story after ber of the Congress of the United an article cheaply it was his headache to us, the Patrolman or over the way the DW has con­ story, the M-W strikers were States in a subcommittee hear­ right and he added: "If he hires the next crew. sistently attacked labor when it called scabs, and the government ing a few days before the na­ a worker cheap, that's the Amer­ was advised to treat them as tion — and the Congress — cele­ ican way of doing it." was the commie line to do so. brated the signing of the DecSchwabe's definition of free­ such. MINERS REMEMBER lai-ation of Independence. dom was made in response to a The record is long and filthy. Note to- Arthur Thompson, The congressman. Representa­ question put to him repeatedly Can anyone have forgotten The commies and their anti-la­ F. Curls, and other LOG con­ tive Schwabe, a Republican from by Rep. Arthur Klein of New how, during . the coal miners' bor paper backed President tributors: Sorry, but timely Missouri — was arguing against York. Klein asked if "freedom strikes, the commie paper ran Roosevelt's plan to draft labor, material forced us to hold inci-easing the minimum wage meant the right to pay starva­ even though all non-CP elements columns of abuse against the your stuff over, but they will miners and their leader, John L. of organized labor had denoun­ from 40 to 60 cents an hour, say­ tion wages?" appear very shortly. How "If you put it that way, yes," Lewis. ced it; they advocated retaining ing that it was against the about more? — The Editors. answered Schwabe, who believes Well, the miners haven't for­ the "no-strike" pledge even aftef "American way". His conception of the "Ameri­ in the "American way." gotten the DW Jieadline on the war was over; and they were Commie Sheet Has Had Lang AntHaber Retard Congressman Defines Freadem: 'Right Te Pay Starvation Wages' To Our Contributors A �r Friday, July 25. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Hall In Mobile Is Center Of A Growing Port Leff, Cal Tanner, Mobile Port Agent. Cal is an oldtimer in the Union and did an outsanding job organizing during the Isthmian campaign. At the last convention of the SIU. he was elected a Vice-President of the International. Mobile is a busy Port, and under the able di­ rection of Brother Tanner, things run smoothly all the lime. Hard at work dispatching men to ships is Bobby Jordan, Dispatcher. Bobby also helps out as a Patrolman when the need arises. Shipping is good in Mobile, and it keeps Bobby on the run keeping the vessels crewed up. Above is a picture of the special meeting called to give the news that the Seafarers had been certified in the Isthmian bargaining election. More than 400 members were present, most called off ships in the harbor, and the Hall rocked with cheers and applause when the news was announced by Agent Tanner. Present also at that meeting were Director of Organization Paul Hall, and Gulf Area Organizer Lindsey Williams, At the close of the meeting, the men who had volunteered to sail Isthmian under low wages and poor conditions were called forward to ro;eive the thanks of their Brother members. These men, and men like them in every Port, were the ones responsible for bringing': Isthmian under the Seafarers banner, and to them goes the credit, for making Isthmian SIU, too. I "iV This is what the Dispatch Board looks like from out front. The above picture was taken during an hourly call, and shows Seafarers throwing in their cards for jobs they want. In true democratic fashion, the man who has been registered longest has,first crack at the jobs that come up. However, with ship­ ping booming, no man has to stay on the beach for a long timfr unless he wants to. Charley Kimball, one of the Patrolmen (behind the counter) discusses a beef with Brother Wilford Tracy. Left out of the. pictures on this page, are Doorman Whitey Lewis and Patrolman Jeff Morrison, both of whom just didn't stay put long enough ' for. the LOG,photographer to get. a- shot. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 25. 1947 Organize Non-Union Outfits Now, Or Suffer When Shipping Slumps By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — Since July to fire the bullets at th«! bigwigs, 2 we have had 29 ships in here, to help undo what they have albut few payoffs. Where we did ready done to labor, have a payoff, all beefs werej The beef of the week was a settled right on the ship, at the Brother who called into the Hall point of production. Here's the and stated that he was an Oiler listing of the scows which have and that he turned the steam off touched here so far this month: | on deck as the Deck Engineer SS Steel Navigator, Aram was ashore. He asked whether Pothier, Clyde L. Seavey, Rider or not he was entitled to be paid Silence this week from the By SONNY SIMMONS Victory and Steelmaker, all Islh- for this work, Branch Agents of the follow­ mian. I He further stated that the Deck TAMPA — During the past for the good ship SS Florida. ing ports: SS Joseph Hews, Cape Breton, Engineer told him whoever turnfew days shipping slowed down She is scheduled to go into dryBenjamin Williams, Edith, and cd steam on or off the deck JACKSONVILLE a bit, and a damn good thing too, dock the last of October or the Evelyn, Bull Lines. | would be paid for it. since our shipping list is almost first of November, and we hope MONTREAL SS Grange Victory, Cornell I informed the man that if the completely used up. Waterman to be able to keep her running SAVANNAH Victory, Belgium Victory, Al- Deck Engineer was ashore and has taken three Victories off tlie with a full crew until at least CLEVELAND fred Moore, and Columbia Vic- he was told to shut the steam off coastwise run, so now shipping then. tory. Waterman. jdcck, that he, the Oiler, was enBUFFALO will stay at a normal pace. BEEFS GALORE SS John Weyorhauser, Robin titled to, be paid for it. SAN FRANCISCO For a long time we have,been Hood, Robin Tuxford, and MaRight before he hung up, howThe last trip the Patrolman BALTIMORE beefing about not having a pay­ rine Runner, Robin Lines. ever, he asked what union was made to the Florida, he found GALVESTON off in the Port, and last week SS Baylor Victory, Hattieburg he talking to. I answered, "This more beefs than on all the pre­ our wishes were granted when MARCUS HOOK Victory, and Birmingham Vic- is the SIU, and a damn good vious times put together. Every­ the SS Ora Ellis, Waterman, tory, American Hawaiian Lines. Union.' SAN JUAN thing was ironed out finally, and blew, in from a five-month trip. "Oh,' he said meekly, "I am a Besides these mentioned above. everybody made happy. This TOLEDO After waiting all this time, the we had a bunch of tankers drop member of the NMU and I man Keys is a hard guy to do ASHTABULA ship paid off at midnight that thought I was contacting my own in here in transit. business with, but we managed same day. union hall." The aeadline for port re­ to get things squared away. COAL MOVING SOON The ship was in good shape, Since we have to cut down to ports, monies due. CICM is Shipping has been slow in re­ however, with a typical SIU crew making only one trip per month the Monday proceeding pub­ gards to payoffs and the few on her. All beefs were settled to the ship, things will be a ships coming in for annual in­ lication. While every effort where they had come up — on litle tougher to handle, but with spections have not been able to the ship — and overtime was will be made to use in the ™ T. of Delegates on the get repairs due to the shipyard settled the same way. It was iri •.> , , current issue material re­ „ 1 . ,., Florida, it s a sure bet that they " strike. Within the next week, a pleasure to payoff a scow like -will be able to keep the situa­ ceived after that date, space however, we think things will that with all hands sober and tion well under control. commitments generally do pick up and shipping will be not a slip up. These men are strictly on the back to normal. not permit us to do so. We are still having trouble ball, and they never pass up a By EINAR NORDAAS Most of the ships were in getting ABs and Blackgang men chance to cooperate with the transit and most of our shipping DULUTH — There are a few officials. was replacements for these Lakes carriers who The fish are biting and the transit ships. Since the miners ^^j^k that the Taft-Hartley Act beer is cold at Drew's Fishing have gone back to work, it looks ,,,35 j^g^ go they could Camp. Our Patrolman went up like coal will be moving pretty on the seamen who there Sunday and caught 57 soon and this being the case, I g^ii these ships for a living, stump knockers. It was raining believe Philly business will pick time the least beef comes By HERBERT JANSEN that day, but the way the fish up soon. I yp^ some bucko gets the bright were biting, a fellow couldn't CHICAGO — During the past The writer has put in seven i^ea to threaten the crew witn concerned, the NMU is finished tell whether it was raining or week, shipping in this Port has months on the beach, made the the T-H law row. None of the unorganized not. picked up a little. Altogether we Union Hall every morning at ^hose characters better wise Lakes seamen want this bank­ ANTI-LABOR CANDIDATE eight and left every night, at ^p -j-hey work for a living too. .shipped: 7 ABs, 9 Firemen, 4 rupt outfit. Coalpassers, 16 Stewards, 2 Cooks five, six days a week, and be-.^nd that same Slave Law might Hardly a day pa.s.ses, but what Our esteemed Mayor has come lieve me, I would have been used against them unless they and 2 OS, up to date. NMUers as well as unorganized j out with the announcement that Paying her usual visit was the Lakes seamen flock into this .he will run for reelection. For very glad to take an unorganized a solid front with the unliMidland ship, SS Carmi Thomp­ hall, asking about SIU member-, his platform, he is using the censed seamen against the shipson. Among the missing was the ship, and how they can become ] record he built up in the past Let this be a warning to you owners.. tardy book members. If we don't] Saturday and Sunday overtime Tanker Westcoat, and she was a members of the SIU, with the four years. crew up these unorganized ships jg practically unheard of on those steady Chicago customer all last SIU taking over their ships. This record consists mainly of and get them under contract, wejghips, and many men would flock year. The SS Michigan is just Response to the Seafarers or­ using the Police Department as will see the day that we will re-j j^to the SIU if is wasn't for some rbout ready for her crew now, ganizing drive on the Lakes has a. strikebreaking agency. Both gret that we didn't sail and or­ cock-and-bull stories that are be­ and will be in operation within been so good that a number of the SIU and the Teamsters were ganize them. znen on NMU contracted ship.^ fouled up by the police on his ing passed around. One story is two 'weeks. Let's get together and sail these that we are charging enormous The D&C ship, SS City of have been sending in pledge cards orders. ships. Cleveland 111, was also in Port. for the SIU. They're fed up with initiation fees. The Chief of Police, "Machine Reports are that this is the only that phony outfit, and want the Gun" Eddings, is also running For the benefit of all who are HOT AND HEAVY Port she ever hits on time. Some lob security and union represen­ for Sheriff. If these two phonies The Taft-Hartley Act seems to misinformed, wc would like to rumormonger claimed that it'.s tation that only an SIU contract are elected, then things will be­ come up for very heated discus­ clarify the whole matter; Since because the C III boys want to can bring to them. come even tougher for labor sions of late; in fact, it becomes the beginning of the 1947 sea­ hit those North Clark Street We have only one word for down here. so heated at times that it is be- son, we have not charged any initiation fee whatsoever. A full spots and gurgle some of that these disgusted NMUers, and that There are some damn good Book is issued for the first good old Chicago brew. We won­ is to clean out the commie hot- men running against the antider? ' month's dues. shots, rid their organization of labor ticket; one candidate car­ Saw a recent article in the the bickering politicos who are My advice to any one who is ries a card in the Plumbers mixed up is to come into any NMU's propaganda sheet, the always quarreling among them­ Union, the other is a strictly Hall in the Great Lakes District Pilot, where they are sounding selves, and prepare for the day union contractor. Stumping is off about conditions on SIU ships. when the SIU will be the only and get the score. hot and heavy, and these men This is really a laugh. Here's the union on the Lakes for unlicensed have a good chance to beat MTC MEETS NMU criticizing the SIU, and seamen. That day is not far off. Mayor Hixon and company. JUSTTALK/NG I The Maritime Council had its they have sorne of the worst con­ OMHOWTOBeATj regular meeting at the Superior ditions on the Lakes on their THETAFr-HARruy Labor Temple on July 15, and it own contracted ships! UW/ I v/as well attended considering It's common knowledge on the that- many delegates take their Lakes that the NMU contracted The membership of the Seafarers International Union has vacations at this time, ships have the worst conditions consistently reaffirmed its position that gear-grabbers can't be coming dangerous between men' Among the subjects discussed of any ships, with the exception good Union men. Any individual who stoops to pilfering gear . of opposite views. However, to was the drive to organize the un- of some of the unorganized com­ such as coffee percolators, linens, etc., which are placed aboard date the only action being taken organized. Every Delegate pres- panies. SlU-contracted ships for the convenience of all hands, is, above against this measure by these ent pledged his support in all How can any of. the NMU poall, guilty of a. malicious disregard of his shipmates' welfare!, arguing militants' is the fact that ways possible. Our next meet- liticos find time to take up any ^Crew conveniences on most SIU ships today are not there they want to batter each other ing will be held in Ashland, Wis- beefs for the members when they by accident. They are 4here because of the Union's successfullyconsin, on August 10. around. spend most of their time fight­ fought struggles to bring greater benefits and comforts arid to I believe that the best way Shipping has been good up ing among themselves and push­ provide decent conditions for the membership while out at sea. for our Union to handle this is here at the head of the Lakes, ing the party line? These hard-won conveniences are for the benefit of ALL a voluntary assessment—one like' and we expect it to continue, The NMU has reached such a HANDS. They ARE NOT to be appropriated by any individual the $2.00 SIU assessment and this With hot weather at the lower state of disintegration that it's for his own personal use. Violators of the membership's wel­ being the case instead of chew­ end of the Lakes, our turnover only a question of time before fare will be dealt with in accordance with the firm stand taken ing each other up in an argu- should stay okay for quite some this outfit is finished on the repeatedly by Seafarers in all ports. naenJ, you will have ammunition time to come. Lakes. As far as organization is Tampa Shipping Back To Normal NO NEWS ? ? Just As Shipping List Empties 1-Month's Dues Gets SIU Book On Great Lakes NMU Is Finished On The Lakes, Its Members Fiocking To The SIU Gear-Grabbers Hurt Union �Friday, July 25, m7 THE New Orleans Ready To Back SlU Negotiators READY SEAFARERS FOR DAVY LOG JONES Page Seven Weather Is Hot, But Labor Keeps Cool In Port Of Norfolk By RAY WHITE By EARL SHEPPARD NEW ORLEANS —The Broth­ ers here in this Port are prepared to hit the bricks to back up the demands of our Negotiating Committee. The last meeting here made that very clear when they went on record as being heartily in ac­ cord with Committee's proposals of a 5 per cent wage increase, two weeks vacation with pay, and overtime for all Departments for holidays in port and at sea. With black smoke hurtling high into the air, the blazing schooner looks just about ready to go down. And go down she ^id, but not before the crew of the Robert Hart was able to take the crewmembers off. It was a heroic rescue at sea, in the best Seafarers tradition. They also agreed to let the working rules stand as they are until September 30, 1948. NORFOLK — At the present time the weather is plenty hot down here, but the labor situa­ tion is calm. Not only for us, but for the other unions in this section. The crewmembers of the SS Robert W. Hai't, Waterman, had CJ hot time recently, but every­ thing came out okay. The Hart went to the rescue of a burning schooner, and took the entire ticw off just before the schooner v/ent under. It was touch and go for a while, but the expert .'•eamanship of our men was the big factor in the rescue. Shipping is .still booming in all three departments. The Dis- Any attempt made by the op­ erators to take away the con­ ditions which we won the hard way should be met with economic action at the point of production.! The Brothers are very serious about that, and they mean to strike to protect the provisions of our SIU contracts. The way we sum it up in these parts -is that the operators are attempting to use the Taft-Hart­ ley Act to blackjack our Com­ mittee into making concessions that would be distasteful to the entire membership of the Sea­ farers. That doesn't go down so good, and if the Negotiating Comrhittee gives the high sign, we will be organized to give the ship­ owners a hard time. CREWS COOPERATE It is, therefore, impossible for a Patrolman to be present at every sign-on. However, to as'^ure the membership of their rights, and to see to it that no ship leaves here improperlystored. the Union has an agree­ ment with all companies that if a ship is not .stored to the satis­ faction of the Delegates and the crew, the crew will be signed off articles by mutual consent. This has not happened to date, and in events where the Patrol­ man couldn't make a ship, the Delegates have done good jobs in keeping everything in order. In paying off ships, I have no t'ced that there is less perform­ ing. I think that the LOG has o'one a lot to help curb the situa­ tion by making public to the membership the facts, and also warning what happens to guys who insist on throwing their weight around. KEEP IT UP I have one recommendation, and that is for the LOG to con­ tinue the good work, and to keep BLOODSUCKERS The Taft-Hartley Act came in for considerable discussion, and it was the concensus of opinion that the Slave Law will play in­ to the hands of the parasites who are thirsting for union blood. Be­ fore they get any of our blood, they will have to battle us, down to the last man. patchc-r has quite a time filling the rated job.s, but so far we have managed to keep them sailing on time. Nine SIU .^hips have paid off here in the last two v/eeks, andi twice that number have called in transit. Most of the latter sign foreign articles here. This cre­ ates a bit of a problem for us since we have only one Patrol­ man, plus myself, to cover the entire waterfront. These men, crewmembers of the SS Robert W. Hart, Waterman, went to the rescue of the burning schooner shown above. Using their skill to good advantage, they were able to get the crew off before the schooner sank. These pictures were sent in from Norfolk, and the LOG Editors are sorry that no names accompanied the pictures. HAVE A SPOT OF TEA, 6ROTRERSP Slow Week Ends, Boston Now Hums With Activity Shipping is very good,* especial­ ly in the Deck and Engine De­ partments. Any Brothei-s who By JOHN MOGAN find it a little tough to get out in the other ports can come down BOSTON — After a \'t-ry slow here and catch a scow to the week in this port, things have land of those curvaceous South started popping again, and it ap­ American Senoritas, down San­ pears that we will still see plenty tos and Buenos Aires way. of activity for the rest -of the I'd like to close with a little month. poem. It may be a feeble at­ The scows paying off in this tempt, but it sums up how ef­ area were the SS Waco.sta, Wa­ fective the Taft-Hartley Act will terman, which came in with onlv be if a union uses its economic- three overtime beefs, all of which strength. 'vere taken up and settled by An ode,Jo the Taft-Hartley Bill Brother Jim Sweeney in short or­ der; the SS Horace See, Libei'ty It probably will live until tanker, which also paid off very It runs up against ole John L's clean; the SS Wolf Creek, which will. paid off in Portland; and the SS Yarmouth, which has settled down now so that the turnover in the crev/ is practically negli­ gible; and the six excursion Reports have been coming .^-teamers, "which pay off twico in citing dirfy deals given a month. seamen by several laundries, In transit were the usual West which profess to "cafer to Coast American Hawaiian and men of the sea." Luckenbaeh scows, the Water­ Roland Velasco of Ihe SS man Pan-Atlantic ships, and a Arch Hopkins reports that couple of Isthmians which were Ungar's Laundry of St. John, covered completely and found to N. B., picks up laundry "pe in excellent condition. aboard ships in thai port, Keep Your Shirt On with the promise that it will returned by the weekend. The promise is never lived up to. "They don't say., in which year it will be returned," says Velasco, warning Seafarers to keep their laundry out of Ungar's hands. r.. . The next week starts off with a bang—a tanker payoff sched­ uled for early Monday morning; the SS Wesleyan Victory, also arriving Monday to payoff and crew up; and an Isthmian from the Far East to cover. This plus other miscellaneous -stuff will keep us jumping. Even though Waterman has announced that they intend to discontinue calling For a long time ctrlfain issues at the Port of Boston on their have been kicked around quite Pan-American run, it seems that Ireely, and of a necessity Broth'.-r the Port wiU be busier than ever. Shuler had to co.me here to sur­ vey the lay-out. This he did. J. P. VISITS BOSTON and at the meeting he addressed The last regular business meet­ the membership, giving them the ing of the Branch was enlivened background of all the inter-port beefing. He made specific recommen­ dations as to the economy pro­ gram, and spoke tn length as to the importance of keeping har­ mony within the Union. His talk was well-received by all hands, and his presence here for the meeting will go far to-, ward eliminating further bick­ ering among officials. giving the membership the low down on performers and g,ashounds. • This Union does not uphold any member who gets gassed up misses his watches. It works hardships on other Brothers when this happens, and any­ body who continues this prac­ tice will wind up on charges, with a damn good chance of los­ ing "his book. The same thing applies to men who wait until payoff day to get drunk, and then try to give the boarding Patrolman a bad time. It's a wise SIU member who It Wiis a hot night in Boston sees which way the wind is blow­ on metding night, and it was ing, and straightens himself out gratifying to everyone present before it is too late. by the presence of J. P. Shuler, to have the Secretary-Treasurer Secretary-Treasurer. make the motion (which was car­ ried unanimously) to have fans installed in the hall. - All Departments When your ship docks, it is a good idea lo have a list of necessary repairs to give to the Patrolman. This will help in letting the company know exactly what has to be done lo get ihe ship in tip­ top condition. Seafarers don't have to sail heat-up ships. Do your pari to make every ship a clean, well kept vessel. Chief Stewards When the SS Pipe Springs was in here, the boys took up a col­ lection of $13.27 for the Brothers in the Brighton Marine Hospital. That's the spirit! At this writing, we have just been notified that an unexpected payoff will also take place on Monday—the SS Peter Helms, a Pope & Talbot scow with an SIU dfeck crew. And so to work, with all the good intentions in the world to produce another literary spasm for the next issue. If your requisition is cut, or if the food is not up to par. notify all three Delegates ai once so that the ship will not sail until the matter has been straightened out. It is the responsibility of ihe Steward to check the stores before the ship sails, and any complaints made far at sea won't do the crew any good if they have to eat short rations or poor food. �TBE SEAFARERS Page Eighl Form Provides Easy Way Of Keeping Shipboard Records LOG Leaves Post By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—A new form to I It was this blast that took the make departmental records uni­ life of Ed Bolehala, who had form on all ships has just been served his Union well as an run off by the Union. Distribu­ j volunteer organizer in the Isth­ tion is already under way and mian drive. Among the beefs settled here all Delegates will have copies was the one aboard the Los An­ very soon. geles tanker Newberg. This ship The new form provides a is going into lay-up status, and simple method of keeping a rec­ was supposed to have paid off ord of the men in each depart­ last Friday, July 18. No dough ment and shows at a glance their was available on that day and standing in the Union. the payoff was postponed until Spaces are provided for mem­ Saturday. bers' names, Book numbers, dates It was the same story on Sat­ to which dues and assessments urday; "No cash." The payoff are paid at the time of sign-on, was put over until Monday, the -and the date each member will crew meanwhile getting a small pay to at the payoff. draw. These new forms will be filled On Monday, the men were in by each Department Delegate paid off, but only up to mid­ at the first shipboard meeting. night of the previous Friday, the Thus, he will have the name of, original date set for payment. and know the score on, every We immediately contacted the man in his department. company. The result: All hands At the payoff, the forms are , were paid up to midnight Mon­ to be given to the Patrolman, day. who will then be able to see the status of each member at a glance. Time and effort will be saved all around. Friday. July 25. 1947 Seafarers, Mine Workers Prove United Membership Cannot Lose By FRED FARNEN "Smiling" Bill Higgs. Night Dispatcher in the Port of New York, who recently resigned his job to ship out as Second Stew­ ard on the Alcoa Cavalier. Bill is a real SIU oldtimer. and had quite a hand in making this Union as strong as it is today. DETROIT—Since the opening of navigation on the Lakes this Spring, the SIU has more than proven that it is the only active union on the Great Lakes which is fighting the battle of all sea­ men to secure the best possible wages, overtime, hours and con­ ditions in the industry. SIU gains made through direct j negotiations with the passengei and sandboat operators have given Seafarers sailing on these ships the highest wage scale for seamen any place in the world. Since then, the agreemdht reached with the Midland Steam­ ship Lines on wages has given the men sailing Midland .ships the highest wage scale on any bulk freighters." Now negotiations are under way with both Huron Transpor­ tation Company and the Wyan­ dotte Transportation Company. We expect that the results of these negotiations will set a new The Patrolmen Say.. EARLY PICK-UPS It has been called to our at­ tention that some Delegates have been picking the members' books aboard ship far in advance of the time it is necessary. Aside from the fact that the Delegate then has to safe-keep every book for a good part of Busy Organizing MOBILE — In the last two weeks this port has been boom­ ing. I wonder if it's ever going jto slow up — not that we want it to. Any book man that comes into the port of Mobile won't have to worry about spending his time In a gin mill or park, as he can take a ship the day he registers. The Patrolmen here have been working along with the Agent organizing the Marine Allied Workers, We have made con­ siderable progress. The first thing we did along the.se lines i was to bring all tug boats under the MAW charter. These riggers hold meetings every Monday, and everything is going along in good SIU style. We paid off the Del Valle. Mississippi, on July 7th, and I never met a better bunch of fellows — all sober and willing to aid the Patrolman in any way they could. These fellows took up a collection of $50 for our Brothers in the sanitarium at Fort Stanton. Things like this prove that sea­ men are the best people and are always willing to help a ship­ mate. Whitey Lewis Ship-Shape NEW YORK — The Mirabeau B. Lamarr was ship-shape from stem to stern when she pulled the trip, this procedue is wrong into this port* last week for the for another reason. payoff. Manned by a heads-up When ships arrive in port, crew of Seafarers, the Lamarr many members wish to go up presented no problems at pay­ to the Union HaUs before the off time. The boys aboard are payoff. They cannot do so, if the a credit to the Union. Delegates are in possession of Besides being a capable bunch, their books. the ciew was very cooperative. Delegates are, therefore, urged There were no beefs; not even to pick up the books just prior one hour of overtime was dis­ to the payoff, at which time puted. they hand them over to the Pa­ The Lamarr lads didn't forget trolman making the ship. The Taft-Hartley Act is a their less fortunate Brothers, SHIPPING IS GOOD catch-all piece of legislation, either. They turned over a do­ Shipping and business in this j and since the Editors of the LOG nation to be distributed among port remained active this w^ek are not lawyers we're not sure 'Seafarers in the Hospitals, and prospects for the coming what the score is now. on boy- j Jim Drawdy week indicate a mild boom. In I cotts. But one thing we are sure Walter Siekmann fact, plenty of tankers are ex­ of, and that is that no good union ' \ A A pected in here during the next man will use products of a comT?n Till Tuesday two weeks. ! pany that uses unfair labor prac­ New York Patrolmen haven't tices against its employes. NEW YORK — There's an old had a chance to cool their heels I The R. J. Reynolds Company, adage that goes something like due to the steady pace in. mak­ makers of Camels Cigarettes, had "Neither a borrower nor a lend­ ing payoffs, sign-ons and visiting a strike a few weeks ago, and or­ er be," and I find it a good one ships throughout the harbor. So ganized labor promptly started to follow. Of coui'se, there are if you see one of these Patrol­ switching to other brands. The times when a man is caught men with his feet smoking and economic pressure was too much short and needs a little boost talking to himself, you'll know and soon the company settled. until payoff time. the reason. Put now comes the joker. Ten Lately, however, a lot of men All beefs on ships that came in days after settlement, 500 of the have been having trouble on this week were settled at the workers were let out on the various ships when crewmembers payoff. In addition, the beefs of grounds that their jobs had been borrow money during the course the Newhall Hills crew, which given to scabs. That's a lockout, of a trip, which they intend to was repatriated to New York this in any man's language. [pay back when the ship .pays week, were squared away right So we're not asking you to boy­ off. here shortly after their arrival. cott Camels, but there isn't any j • The joker is that when the The tanker is still in an Eng­ law that can force you to smoke day for paying off comes, the lish yard undergoing repairs to I them. Maybe by walking a -mile borrower isn't aboard. Instead, the damage caused by a terrific away from a Camel, organized the guy usualjy makes it his explosion, when she was rammed labor can force this rich com­ business to pay off at the Com­ by a small craft in the English pany to deal from the top of the missioner's Office, thus beating deck for a change. Channel. the lender out of his dough. ELECTION COMING The port of Mobile now has 14 tugs under SIU charter, the crews of which average from 75 to 100 per week. We have also petitioned the NLRB for an election covering all riggers in the Waterman repair yard which will mean from 50 to 75 jobs. Camek Bars 500After Strike There isn't much that a Patrol­ man can do with this type of a beef as it is a personal matter between the lender and the borrower, but there is plenty the crew could do to such a parasite. Remember, we all work for a living, and none of us is obli­ gated to support one another while we are employed. Before lending a five spot or a ten, stop for a minute, think twice before you dig deep. Make sure the guy putting the bite on you is i-eliable and can be counted upon to live up to his promise. There is no reason why you should suffer just because some guy takes advantage of your generosity. So, in a nutshell, the old adage "neither a lender nor a borrower be," is still a good one. I sure wish I coqld practice what I preach, but you can bet I'll sure try like hell. Louis Goffin high in take-home pay for these new SIU * members sailing the self uhloaders. Only through the complete co­ operation of the entire SIU mem­ bership have these gains been made, and it should prove to all Great Lakes seamen the neces­ sity of joining the SIU and tak­ ing an active part in bringing SIU conditions and wages to all Lakes seamen. UMW LESSON The recent outstanding gains made by John L. Lewis and the United Mine Workers Union should prove to the entire labor world that a strong union can win out against tremendous odds —as long as the members stick together one hundred percent, and put up a strong fight to win their legitimate demands. Enormous pressure in the form of propagandized public opinion, press, radio and government an­ tagonism failed to stop the Mine Workers from securing the best contracts they ever signed. Let us seamen on the Great Lakes learn our lesson from the example set by the Mine Work­ ers. They achieved their victory through the unity and solidarity of their membership, and proved beyond any doubt that such strength can win out any time it lines up in a just cause. On the Lakes, the SIU is the only union that has set a goal for the seamen, and then gone out and won that goal. When­ ever the SIU sets up a program for the seamen, we have the strength to go out and win that program.^ We won the 44 hour week for the passenger boats, the 40 hour week for the sandboats, and the 40 hour week for the bulk car­ riers. Wage gains were also won along with hour gains. All of these were firsts on the Lakes. , The SIU sets the pace, and others follow. Why not join the SIU on the Lakes and become a part of the greatest maritime union on the continent of North America? Be a leader, not a follower. Join the SIU today! Huron Seamen Help Committee In Drawing Up Union Contract By LINDSEY WILLIAMS ALPENA—The city of Alpena I Certainly, the SIU can be is really one of the friendliest, proud to have as clean-cut a most hospitable, small cities it's , group as the Huron and Wyan­ ever been my pleasure to vi.sit. dotte seamen as additions to the After coming up here with Paul SIU membership ranks. These Warren to spend a couple of men fit right in with the fighting days on Union business, it seem­ traditions of the Seafarers. They ed as though I'd known most of have proved that they have what these people for a couple of it takes when the chips are years or mOre. That's the way down, and that they'll fight for they make you feel—strictly at their union—the SIU ! home—in Alpena. A second meeting is scheduled We came to Alpena to meet with the Huron management for some of the crewmembers off Monday, July 28, and negotia­ the Huron .ships, study their tions will be completed just as working conditions, and find out soon as possible thereafter. what they wanted in the way Wages should be on a level with of contract demands from the the Midland scale which is the Huron management. highest on the Lakes today. _ As a result of meeting with All in all, it won't be long now these men and talking over their before Huron seamen have the mutual problems, it was com­ benefits and protection of an SIU paratively easy to sit down and contract giving them the same draft our proposed agreement for high wages, standards, working Huron as we had a much clearer picture of Huron conditions after and living conditipns as other talking things over with the Seafarers now enjoy under SIU crewmembers. contracts. �Friday. July 25. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine AroundThe Great LakesWith The Seafarers A Great Lakes Seafarer points to the announced results of the Wyandotte election shortly after posting on the bulletin board of the Cleveland Hall. Of course, it was a Seafarers victory, and marked the second in as many elections. Notice the copy of the LOG posted on the right side, announcing SIU certifi­ cation as the bargaining agent for unlicensed Isthmian seamen. On the Lakes, the SIU is looked upon as the only organization capable of bringing better wages and conditions to the men employed on those ships. i . That s a nice Hall the Great Lakes District of the Seafarers International Union maintains in Cleveland, located at 1014 E. St. Clair Street. In front of the Hall are. left to right. Paul Warren, Great Lakes Assistant Organizational Director, and Stanley Wares. Cleveland Port Agent. As in other SIU Halls, literature and copies of the LOG are available to Union Brothers and to those who want to find out about the advantages of membership in the Seafarers. Ouite a number of men come into the Hall for information each week. While wandering along the Detroit waterfront, the LOG photographer snapped this pic­ ture of an old three masted derelict, the J. T. Wing, right, docked near the foot of West Grand Boulevard, with the Ambassador Bridge to Canada in the background. Rumor has it that the NMU organizers are so disgusted at not winning anything on the Lakes that they are thinking of trying to get the Wing. » » » After the result of the Wyan­ dotte election was made known. Organizer Paul Warren con­ gratulated the men who had done a fine job in making the victory possible by their work on the SS Conneaut. Shot on the left shows, left to right. V/arren. Elzie Wicker, Joseph Lawrence, and John Rottaris. Brother Rottaris' nickname is Curly, and it's not hard to un­ derstand why. i- ft X One of the D&C cruise ships on the Great Lakes, the Greater Deiroit, disembarking passen­ gers at Detroit after completing B voyage. She's manned by SIU crswmembers just like her four sister ships—the Eastern Stales, Western States, City of Clovelsnd III, end the City of Detroit III. It's a busy scene rs t.he passengers leave after h.nving enjoyed a cooling cruise on a luxurv ship. But aboard ship there is no confusion as the experienced SIU crew secures the vessel and starts getting preprved for another voyage. That's the advantage of hav­ ing Seafarer.? who know their jobs, and who carry them out in a seamanlike manner. XXX ii&i- v �N. THE Page Ten SEAFARERS Friday, July 25. 1947 LOG SHIPS' MIMUTCS AMD MEWS Harmony Between Captain SS Strong Back; Rudder Damaged And Crew Sparks Trip On Off England Delayed Ship 2 Months Isthmian's Rider Victory All hands heaved a long pent-up sigh of relief when the SS Caleb Strong finally put in at New Orleans for the payoff recently. Out nearly four months on what was originally to have been a seven or eig'it weeks trip to Bremen, Germany, the Strong piled up an eventful log of untoward incidents, highlight of which was a har1owing period in heavy seas without the use of her rudder. On the fourth day of the op­ Also, by the time the ship pull­ eration, the tug's wire parted and ed in the records showed that a new hawser wire was bent on one crewmember had been en- and towing was resumed. Next gaged, one had been married, one i the Dexterous radioed for had died, and the wife of another j assistance, stating she was inhad given birth. The strong men gf making sufficient of the Caleb Strong had quite a headway with the tow. Wqrd lime of it. was received on the Strong that Story of the Strong's rude rud­ the Turmoil, England's largest der was gleaned from a carefully tug, was being dispatched to the kept log of one of the crewmem- scene, She made it two days later. bers, Joseph (Windy) Walsh. j STORY STARTS i BOTH TUGS AT WORK Both tugs took up the towing 'With orders to call at Bremen that were later changed to read job, halted once while the DexEmden, the Caleb Strong cleared j terous threw another line aboard New York April 9. She dis-lto replace one that had parted, charged 8400 tons of grain in the Progress was good for four days, German port one week later. On the vessels averaging close to 150 ^ April 16 the coastwise pilot was miles per day. put off at Dover, England, and There were no further inci­ the ship headed for New York. dents and on May 10, the Strong The trouble that was to keep tied up in the harbor at Liver­ the vessel out at sea almost two pool to await her turn in drymonths longer started April 21, dock. A week later she was when Brother Galindez, AB, re­ shifted to Langton Graving Dock ported to the Second Mate that No. 1. It was June 13 before all the Strong was not properly an­ repairs were completed but next day the Caleb Strong was bound swering her rudder. for the States. . Examination revealed that the Capt. Hewlett is reported to lower half of the countered rud­ have greatly pleased with the der was jammed "hard left," work done by the Strong's Deck while the upper section was an­ Gang. He said the men had done swering the helm. The Strong's master, Capt. C. H. Hewlett then "a marvelous job is tying up the lows so quickly," according to radioed London for assistance. Brother Walsh. Previously it l.ad been er­ At the payoff in New Orleans roneously reported that the skip­ July 2 all hands, except the Deck per had sent an SOS, then can­ Engineer and one Ordinary, sign­ celled it. No SOS was sent be­ ed off for a short breathing per­ cause the Strong was never in iod. great danger and the skipper's message, directed to the Water­ man Steamship Corporation's ALL SET TO London office, merely asked that a tug be sent. Final Dispatch The recent deaths of two Sea­ farers—James Powers and Wil­ liam B. McAboy—were reported to the Log this week. Brother Powers, a retired book member who had sailed as FOW, died in the Marine Hospital. Sto­ len Island, N. Y. on July 7. Born Oct. 12, 1916, Powers had teen a Union member since Feb­ ruary 1945, wfien he joined in the Port of New York* He held Book No. 41035. He is survived by his mother, who resides in Bridgeport, Conn. Information from the Balti­ more branch said that Brother McAboy died suddenly at sea on July 4. Burial took place at sea. McAboy was in good standing in the Union. Surviving are his wife, Inga; a son, Edward A., and a daughter, Virginia. The family resides at 2831 Sunset Drive, Baltimore, Md. J. 4. Seafarer John G. Riley of the SlU Great Lakes District died last week in the Chicago Ma­ rine Hospital. Known as "Bur­ goo Scotty," he had been in ill-health for some tirne. Dur­ ing the early part of this year he was aboard the SS Wescoat and aided greatly in the Great Lakes organizational drive. SHOVE OFF FARALLON TO RESCUE The day after the rudder be­ came fouled up, word was re­ ceived on the Strong that the' Moran tug Farallon and her crew» of Seafarers were on the way. Nothing further was heard until] April 24. The Farallon had been' severely damaged in the heavy seas and had sent out an SOS herself. Then the British tug Dexterous was reported on the way to the Strong, which by this time had drifted some 90 miles. Radio contact was established with the Dexterous and five days later she pulled alongside the Strong. Her first two shots missed but the third one landed her line successfully on the hap­ less Waterman ship. Liverpool, England, 1100 miles away was the destination as the tug and her' tow set out. The tug strained and her towline creaked as high winds and heavy seas buffeted the two ves­ sels. Progress was slow. The lower half of the Strong's rud­ der which had been jammed was now missing. Members of the SIU-SUP Deck Gang aboard the SS Carls­ bad relax a moment to allow Seafarer Lester J. Moore to "shoot" a picture. The men had just finished pulling in the lines at Hoboken. New Jersey. Moments later the Carlsbad was under way on her South American trip. Explaining winter gear men are wearing. Brother Moore writes, "it was very cold when this photo was taken. Rather, the crow was loud in At one time or another most Seafarers find a ship that has a I;its praise of the officers who. in­ topflight gang of olTicers, and, stead of giving the men a hard strangely enough, that goes for time, worked with them in close vessels-of the oft-cursed Isthmian cooperation and harmony. The Skipper of the ship, "a damned fleet. Charges of "bucko Mate, good Skipper," as the crew "whip-swinging Skipper," and phrased it, is Captain John "hard-time Engineer" are com- Boughman, who gave great cred­ it to the crew, calling them "the finest bunch of seamen I've had." NOT ONE LOG Evidence of the excellent rela­ tionship existing aboard is the log book on the Rider which is completely void of charges 3 . Seafarer J. P. paintinq a block Rider Victory. Pople. AB, aboard the mon enough aboard Isthmian ships, but such charges wore con.'^picuously absent aboard the Rid­ er Victory on its recent ' trip across the Pacific. Phone Workers Thank Two SIU Crews For Aid Isthmian seaman Blackie Day. a former service man. wants very much to join the SIU. The traditional trade union solidarity of the Seafarers demonstrated by two SIU crews against the men, and at no time in the Port of Mobile during the has there been any disputes be­ recent telephone strike, brought tween officers and men. a grateful acknowledgement from The ci-ew aboard, the majority an official of the Southem Fed­ of which is SIU, has done an^xeration of Telephone Workers. cellent job of impressing the The SIU crews—from the ves­ Isthmian seamen and NMU men sel Cape Romain and the Henry aboard with their knowledge of Longfellow—gave financial sup­ seamenship and their demonstra­ port to the phone workers Mo­ tion of union ability. bile local apart from the official The non-SlU part of the crew, backing of the strike by the SIU after seeing the Seafarers in ac­ Branch in the port. tion, has^expressed itself as be­ Daphne Blankenship, secretary ing desirous of joining the SIU. treasurer of the Mobile Joint Lo­ Almost unanimously they put cal 007 of the telephone federa­ themselves in full agreement tion, sent identical letters of apwith the SlU's program. preciatton to both crews. Text of the letters received by OLDTIMER HELPS the Cape Romain and Longfellow One of the oldtimers aboard, crews follows: and one who aided in establish­ South. Fed. of Tel. Workers ing the excellent working ar­ Mobile Joint Local 007 rangement between crew and of­ 213 Conti Street ficers, is Red Gibbs, Bosun. Mobile. Ala. Gibbs, who has worked as both "Gentlemen: We take pleasure at this lime a shoreside and shmboard organ­ in expressing our appreciation izer, is one of the best Bosuns to to each individual member of take a ship through the western, your Union aboard the SS Cape ocean, according to the crew. Most of the men aboard the Romain (SS Henry Longfellow) ship felt that the SIU will have who contributed to our local an easy time in negotiating a union in time of need. With your help we will win— contract with Isthmian now that without it. the fight would be all barriers have been removed. While Isthmian has tough much harder. Stick to us. as unity is what we all need to mates and skippers on some of break down this big monopoly its ships, the example set by and have a good organized la­ Captain Boughman, his officers bor group. We'll fight to the and the crew of the Rider Vic­ tory, shows that shipping can be finish. Daphne Blankenship smooth for all hands on Isthmian vessels. Secretary-Trees." �Friday, July 25. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SlU Ships' Minutes In Brief ROBERT M. T. HUNTER, June 8 — Chairman M. Pappadakis; Secretary §. Musco. Ship's Dele­ gate asked members to pay to the ship's fund at first draw. De­ partmental Delegates reported no beefs. New Business. Repair list drawn up and approved. Good and Welfare: Following .several complaints about the condition of the ship's library and i-ccreation, the following Brothers volun­ teered to handle the job: Library: Nyl&nder and Bosun; Recreation: Bismuth and Koskey. One min­ ute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. [range. Scuttlebutt on port sideto be repaired. To install a der­ rick over ice-making machine to take ice out. Good and Welfare: Discu.ssion about not enough juice on tables and the shortage of pitchers. Messboy beefing about cups left on tables and suggests fine for same. Compli­ ment given to the Cooks for the .good food. One minute of silence gp yot; QAN AlAkfA for Brothers lost at sea. 4- 4- i HIGHBALL iOV QAN WRtfE CELILO, May 27 — Chairman CiF you MAVe AWyfHlNGMaurice Ncrris; Secretary Floyd AT ALHO SAY -ANO WHO Bonnell. Good and Welfare. RAPHAEL SEMMES, June 4— Length.v discussion on toilets, Chairman Ranallo; Secretary showers, messhall, living quar­ J. S- Si A CO0?i.£ Of Williams. Discussion on the leAPJZPA, May 15 — Chairman pnirs mentioned in the previou:-; ters, wind shoots, etc. MemberAS30RT15D W0(2D3 INTO ."-hip voted to give the Purser a Gene Dauber; Secretary L. Da­ minutes. It was found that all A7AUBN\J^lCfPe, vis. New Business: Motion car­ repairs were taken care of ex­ vote of thanks for being very ac commodaling to the crew. Elec­ SrPlMKLE Li6eEAuV ried to bring to Patrolman's at­ cept the amidship drinking foun­ tion of delegates. Woodrow tention the beefs on water and tain and the Second Cook's lock­ lAllTH Pei^iOOS AMD OOMAVHS, W£U. Sf/Jp ship's condition. Motion that all er door. A repair man who came Woodill, Ship's Delegate and IbTHE LOG-AWD ]£T THB ^ITORS ^oRRyAmfT Deck Delegate; Raymond W. members holding linen are to re­ aboard said the fountain was not THeM. AMVlldl/SiG GOES - LETtEeS: Morrison. Engine Delegate; Floyd turn it to Steward. Motion car­ worth repairing. Good and WelA. Bonnell, Steward Delegate. POHMS, REPORTS, oeseR\/AT»OMS CM THE LABO/? ried to have bulletin board plac­ lare; Discussion on the Mate hav­ All present .stood in silence for StfOATlOAJ, £7C; — AND A80V& ALL ^ THD&E ed in messhall. Motion carried ing one of the day men soogeoone minute in remembrance of MINOWS' OF yoLip. SHIPS ATEHTINGS. that no gear be placed in laun­ ing eight hours a day alone. departed Brothers. dry room. One minute of silence Crew felt that Mate was dis­ for lost Brothers. criminating against the man. Steward requested that silver­ ware be returned as his supply is getting low. 4, i 4, NIANTIC VICTORY, May 3— Chairman John Johnson; Secre­ t 4. t • By HANK tary Donald P. Stafford. Deck De­ FRANKLIN K. LANE, June 29 partment delegate. Brother Bren- —Chairman Emile Degan; SecreIf any of you Brothers climb aboard your ship and find you nan, stated the Deck Department itary V. A. Lawsin. Delegates re- need a library of books and magazines you can either call in per­ s> s> s< CAVALLIER, June 8—Chair­ had no serious beefs with the I ported no beefs. M. H. Cross son or telephone the American Merchant Marine Librar\' Associa­ man G. Pacanouski; Secretary exception of repairs that were elected Ship's Delegate. Motions tion, giving them the name of the ship, location, etc.. and they'll John Jelletle. Deck Delegate re­ not taken care of in port. Broth­ carried that all should cooperate supply the library in a jiffy. In New York, they're at 45 Broadway, ported 1500 hours overtime. Also er Prince, stated that all was fine in keeping ship clean; that each telephone BOwling Green 9-0220; in Philadelphia: Municipal Rec­ mentioned that a workaway, an in his department. Brother Kidd, department use respective head reation Pier, foot of Broadway, telephone Wolfe 4992. So if you SIU member, was being carried Steward Department Delegate, and showers. Also that wind have no library of books and magazines aboard ship or if you want back to the States. Engine Dele­ requested that the galley stove chutes with screens be placed in to replace the old library then do so. Next week, we'll name some gate reported one hour of dis­ be repaired as she had no storm all portholes in messhall. other ports where the American Merchant Marine Library As.sociaputed overtime. Stewards De­ bars on her. Motion made by tion supplies the ships with libraries free and quickly. 4 4 4 partment Delegate urged that on Chief Cook Riddle that ship's LEBORE, July 9—Chairman E. 4 4 4 the next trip a delegate for the delegate be elected. Brother DiPielro; Secretary P. L. Fenton. Last week we saw Brother Steve Di Girolamo and his mus­ galley be elected to handlp beefs Prince elected to the position. Minutes of previous meeting read tache, \yho just came in Baltimore where he paid off from his Good and Welfare: Suggestion for that section as they have been and accepted. Motion by DiSouth African trip. Steve met Johnny Meghrian, the Engineer, that each man do what he can to so numerous. Everything out­ Pietro, seconded by John Huhta, and his mustache, down there, who sent us his best regards. This side of the galley running l-.eep wash room clean. One min­ starting July 9, that members of week we met Johnny talking with Joe Barringer, the Electrician, smoothly. New Business: Motion ute of silence for Brothers lost Ore crews who ride six months about shipping right out again . . . Charlie "Carioca Red" Benby Brother Carr, Ship's Delegate, at sea. continuously be given full books way is still in town . . . Little Robert "Scotty" Morton is going to have ice tea cooler placed in in SIU. Motion by Bosun Dexter, down to Baltimore to pick up his mail, etc. "Scotty" says that messrooms and secured to bulk­ seconded by King, and carried he saw his shipmate, Julius "Tex" Morton, and his dark mus­ head. Motion by Carr that if a that men on shipping list 60 days tache about a month ago . . . Brother Alex J. Janowski is down man does another man's work who refuse to take a job on Ore in Baltimore, too . . . Brother Dusan Dei Duisan, otherwise for more than a day or night, the ships in case of necessity be 4. t 4. known as "Old Chile " is in town right now with his mustache. person whose job was done by DESOTO, May 26 — Chairman brought before trial committee. Where's your shipmate. Brother Arthur Thompson, did he ship another shall pay that person Don Hall; Secretary Philip Reyes. 4 4 4 out? ... To Brother Weaver Manning: Your shipmate, Joe overtime pay. Motion by Brother Chairman gave a brief talk on BEN WARNER, May IBJames, shipped out recently right aJgter coming in from a trip! Badger that Patrolman be con­ unionism for the benefit of the Chairman Jones; Secretary Ker­ . . . Our best regards to the crew of the SS Charles Hull, Ameri­ tacted for washing machine. Mo­ permit men and explained why shaw. Reports of departmental can Liberty Line. Keep the ship clean and happy, fellas! tion by Joe Miller that Room 33 meetings aboai'd ship are neces­ delegates read and approved. 4 4 4 be alloted to 2nd Steward the sary. Election of Delegates. Suggestion by Brother Betoney same as on the Clipper. Good and Johnny Weir, Deck Delegate; that messhall be kept clean at all One of the oldest Gulf oldtimers is in New York right now. Welfare: General discussion on George Thomas, Engine Dele­ times. Ch. Steward suggested Brother J. Quimara, the Steward, how's everything with you? the food, for and against. The gate; D. McCallum, Stewards that all men working in galley .... Here are some more oldtimers who may still be anchored Steward was present, and after Delegate; Philip Reyes, Ship's should be cooperative but do in town waiting for a ship: W. Montalvo, M. Flores, G. De Jesus:, every man, including the Stew­ Delegate. Motion carried that their respective jobs and be out E. Caligiura, J. Lewis, C. Patraiker, J. Bujewich, E. Blaha, A. Graf, ard had his say, it was decided each member of the crew donate of thae galley by the prescribed J. Cruz, C. Morales, S. Johanssen, Frank Fromm, (Gulf oldtimer), J. that the menus and feeding were at least $3.00 at the end of the time. Suggested that water hose Pape, M. Salcedo, F. Nonziaute, L. Hogan, L. Kimbriel, J. Latorre, S. satisfactory. trip; donation to be split between of the galley by the prescribed Rodriguez, M. Rosenberg, G. Ostolaza, A. Duddle, V. Acabeo, P. the LOG and Brothers in the shoreworkers can have drink­ Barbosa, J. Cabral, Steward J. Calhoun, Steward A. Espeneda, hospitals. Brother pointed out ing water without entering ship's Steward V. John.son, J. Clamp, W. Hockman and D. Crockett. that the LOG is operated on the housing. 4 4 4 goodwill of the membership and Here's a letter from Brother Woody Lockwood from down its continued publication, with­ there in San Juan, Puerto Rico, dated July 16: How's everything out interruption, indicates the in New York? The Beach here is getting crowded. Sorry to hear 4* 4- 4* value and esteem the member­ that my old pal, Blackie Vince Kane, didn't get here. His best JAMES SWAN. April 13 — ship places in the Union's paper. friend, Dumbe, was expecting him. The Beachies here are all Chairman Martin A. Mickel; Sec­ Good and Welfare: Steward re­ 4 4 4 working. "Red" Morgan, Tommy Murray, Beachie Benny and COLABEE, July 12—Chairman retary W. C. Hall. Delegates re­ quested cooperation in not leav­ Vic Sukenick are shore-ganging on the SS Kathryn and "Boy ported no beefs. New Business: ing cups, dishes and other mess- A1 Monahan; Secretary E. CinSmokem Pipe" Lindon is on the J. Hewes. I'm on the sick list tron. Everythng okay in all de­ Motion made and carried to have room gear on deck. with a busted right hand. You should come down here and get partments, delegates reported. Steward increase night lunch. % % some of this sunshine for that office pallor of yours. When are General discussion on linen and BEATRICE, June 1—Chairman Steward instructed to obtain we going to get the LOG here on time. As the LOG crew knows, other items in Stewards Depart­ D.- Darrigo; Secretary Charles milk at Bale Comeau. Recrea­ there is a ship leaving Brooklyn, Pier 22, every week. Brother ment. Good and Welfare: Sug­ Zinn; Engine Delegate, Florencio tion room duties to be continued Frenchy Michelet is down here. I think he likes Puerto Rico. It gestion made to use fresh fruit P. Marquez, reported no beefs as on previous trip. Motion by may be the sunshine. He sure is doing a fine job down here. as long as it lasts then break out except disputed overtime con-, W. A. Vobis that matter concern­ Well, regards to everyone." fruit juices. Suggestion made for cerning sailing hour. Deck and ing cigarettes be turned over to 4 4 4 each man to return his cup to Engine Departments' okay. NeW| Patrolman on arrival in N. Y. Okay, Brother Lockwood, thanks for the newsy letter about sink after using and for the mess- Business: Motion carried to check Under good and welfare it was you beechies down there. The shortage of newsprint and several man to leave out t6n cups and on the poor ventilation. Clothes recommended that lights be in­ other things cause the LOG to be delayed slightly. Woody, tell stalled along catwalk on star­ ten glasses for the crew to use at wringer ordered. Chief Cook Tommy that our ship keeps sailing faithfully over the kitchen ice-box! board side to reduce accidents. night. wants cold water on the galley' HASJO'T) - jusrwp CUT and RUN �THE Page Twelve f IA SEAFARERS Fridap, July 25< 1947 LOG VHE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS BACK FROM A HECTIC TRIP SS Semmes Men Made Knots Repairing Port Fan At Sea To ihe Ediior: In my last letter to you I told of some of the troubles of the v/oe-is-me Semmes. As a m.atter of fact, that is about all I have written about in my last two letters. In the last one, which I v/rote just after leaving Manila, I don't think I mentioned the latest and worst breakdown of this floating junkyard. At 11:30 p.m. May 8, the port fan gave out. At midnight the Chief Engineer, the Deck Eng­ ineer, two Wipers, the four day men and the 12-4 watch on deck turned to to tear out the burned out fan. This they accomplished by 6 a.m., when the 4-8 and the 8-12 turned to. WHIRRING AGAIN By noon, when the first gatig came back, we had the fan jn place and plastered in with as­ bestos. By 5 p.m. the fan's elec­ tric motor was in lin^, with only the electrical connections to go. The fan was turning over at £ p.m., the fireman made steam in the port boiler and we were un­ der command again. In aU, the repair work took about 18 hours, which is exactly half the previous fastest time that any shoregang had been able to do this work. Members of the Black Gang who read this should be ashamed of having a bunch of "ropechokers" do their work. During the entire repair job, damn little was seen of most of the Engineers and unlicensed engine room rat­ ings. DID IT AGAIN They didn't seem to trust"* this repair job to the Deck Depart­ ment, however, so when we got to Honolulu a shore gang came aboard and tore it apart again. Since leaving Honolulu we haven't had any trouble — that is, no trouble up to the time of this writing. If all goes well we should be in New Orleans around ihe I7th of this month, with a probable payoff in Mobile. Let's hope this will be a bet­ ter-conditioned ship when she comes out of the yard after a six weeks rest. But no matter how good she comes out, you could never again get this crew on her if she were the last ship aUoat. The Patrolman that pays off the Seemes will have a headache, as there is quite a bit of disputed overtime both in the deck and engine departments. Milton B. Williams SS Raphael Semmes Log -A-Rhythms Painting: The Mast By THURSTON J. LEWIS • -I' iiSutK Wilh chairs made fast. We painted down. From atop the mast. Around and around. There the air is clean. And the view is grand. And the trees are green— If you can see the land. Off to the left. Was the open sea. And each deft stroke. Was a mark for me. The The And The It watched in wonder. As we painted the mast. When a single blunder. Would have been our last. The SS Raphael Semmes finally made it back to the Slates after a rugged 5 Vz months trip to the Far East. Among those in the Deck Gang were the ABs pictured above. From left to right: T. Holt/ M. Town.=!end, J. Hisko. Milton Williams, and L. Walberg. "Red" Campbell, submitted this and the photo below to the Log. X Guys On O'Gara Had First-Rate Trip To Antwerp To the Ediior: Just arrived in port on the Waterman scow, Francis J. O'Gara, after a trip to Antwerp. We had a good trip going over and coming back. We had three swell Mates aboard: Chief Mate John T. Mahoney, Second Mate Len Spoorman and Third Mate Jack Hunt. SIU OFFICIALS, HALLS ON BALL, BROTHER FINDS To the Editor: As a constant reader of the SEAFARERS LOG, I have notic­ ed very little written about our officials. I sometimes wonder if the membership ever gives thought to the good work they are doing for us. In the past four months I have bad occasion to register and ship from New York, Norfolk, Balti­ more and Mobile. It was a real pleasure to walk into the Halls in these ports and find the Agents and Patrolmen there to greet me . and the other brothers with a glad hand and a smile. Brothers Ray White, Curly Rentz, our 1st Vice-President Paul Hall and Vice-President Cal Tanner are really doing a fine job. I have not met the other officials, but from the excellent condition of the union I'm sui'e that all the other officials are equally as much on the ball keep­ ing the Union #n a clockwork basis. The Hall here in Mobile, where I'm relaxing at the moment, is centrally located, big, roomy and well lighted with plenty of com­ fortable leather chairs and setees with red leather upholstering. It is very comfortable here on these hot days with exhaust fans and large floor fans keeping the air in circulation. It sure makes -a-man proud to belong to an or­ ganization with such high stan­ dards. I've seen quite a few of the oldtimers around,. ,and shipping, is good, so I'm told. James Porter wind blew high. clouds were wool. in the blue sky. moon was full. Feeding preparations get under way on the Semmes. Stew­ ards Department men performing the task are. left to right: M. Miranda, Baker; J. Lopez. 2nd Cook; J. Sanchez. Ch. Cook, and T. Tooma. Steward. Campbell's note accompanying the photos said the trip, featured close to 20 breakdowns during the voyage to Kobe. Shanghai, Manila. Batangas. Romblon. Honolulu and Balboa. There were also a fire in the No. 2 hold, and in Kobe, a ruckus between an American soldier standing gangway watch and a Japanese resulted in the letter's death. 'Dark Ship'Left Him In Dark To the Editor: Believe me, I am forced to write this after reading your re­ view of the book, "The DatK Ship," (LOG, June 6). My opin­ ions are somewhat stronger and not all printable, as T read the book last winter but hated to ad­ mit reading it. It turned my stomach with each turn of a page. Characters in the book crawled all over each other to drag family skeletons out of the closet as far back as the 16th century. Positively pu­ trid, poorly written. It is effec­ tive only with the simple-minded characters around whom the story was written. I suggested to the librarian that, she file this "masterpiece" in a dark corner, instead of v/here I found it arqong "heavy reading." However, I do recommend a good, impartial, . well-written book entitled, "Lowdown on the Unions," by Ff. Smith. Also suggest that Frenchy Michelet and Steamboat O'Doyle get their r.oggins together and write a masterpiece. They are well able. Best wishes for continued suc­ cess. ' T. Bishop Alton, in w.;-: .fSfiS*/. These three mates are t'he tops. It sure was a pleasure sailing with them and a hell of a lot of fun, both at sea and ashore. We wish there were a lot more Mates like them. It sure would make sailing more pleasant. If anyone has a chance to ship with these guys they should take the job. The one bird aboard who is a bit of a character is the Captain. Heis a good egg in some respects but his main wfeakness is interlering with the work being done aboard. He will not let the Mate run the deck gang or check overtime. Perhaps a word to the good will wise him up as he has the mak­ ings of a good Joe otherwise. The Stewards Department, headed by Jim Lomas, cooper­ ated all the way with the crew. We had French fried potatoes twice a week and real Italian spaghetti. There is no lack of good food on any ship that has Jim in the gfilley. I noticed that the LOG was handed out in most places in Antwerp, which was good to see. Keep up the good work. Brothers. Salvalore Frank, Gulfport, Miss. The ground swells broke. In slow white spray. And the sea-wall stones Kept them away. Cristobal's roofs Were red in the sun. Where many a love's Full course had run. With chairs made fast. We painted down. From atop the mast. Around and around. Where the air And the view And the trees If you can see is clean grand. axe green— the land. Shave And Shower —But No Dominoes To the Editor: This is Brcgg but not beefin, instead I have a few words of praise. If you have the occasion to go to Gulfport, Miss., go to the West Pier Cafe. A nice guy owns it and if you need a drink or a shave when you are broke, you'll get one; if you have gear on a ship, he wiU get his. truck and take it off or move it on. 'He'll even stake you if he can, but please, let's not run: it into the ground. It's a swell place. Another place in Gulfport that I recommend is the Anchor Bar. If you treat the owner right he will do likewise. If you need a shave, ask for a razor; if you need a lift back to town, he will see that you get there. Visit all you want, but a word of caution— leave- the dice table alone. Buddy Bregg �T HE Friday, July 25. 1947 SE AF ARERS LOG AWAITING HER TURN Strong Union Needed To Back Labor Law Stand .• •.'.•A..- Knot Banana Eaters Act As Ship's Ballast To the Editor: To Ihe Editor: The Taft-Hartlgy Act means there are rugged days ahead for all organized labor. And there'.s no time for fooling around if we mean to protect ourselves and our Union. We are writing to you about one of the stinkeroo trips that a man following the sea will run mto occasionally. Don't get us wrong, we are not habitual grip­ ers, but this you must know about. We signed on in Mobile, Ala­ bama on April 15, and left the next day for Philadelphia, Pa. Well, we got up there okay but it was cold as hades when we got (here and there wasn't any heat on board. Naturally a guy com­ ing off deck after tying up likes to come into a place that is warm, but it was just no soap. The boiler wouldn't percolate. Again, don't get me wrong about the heat, 1 mean — wo got it for an 1 our one day, but that day it was nice and warm, so when we came in off the deck we sweated our heads off. 1 know that the other departments -felt the same as we did. Well, we had a meeting after we left Philly and decided to put in for so many days subsistance, and when the "Old Man" and the Chief Engineer heard about it they nearly blew a gasket. The black gang was told that they would make no more overtime and the others were told it was ridiculous. i;iW iJ Right now is the time for all SIU members to make our Union stronger and get ready to fight this slave labor law put over on us by the Congre.ss. We've got a program that says the SIU will regard as a lockout any stunt any one may try to pull to use the Taft-Hartley law to smash our Union hiring hall. It's a darned good program, but we have to act to show everybody we're going to make it stick, ii; and when a beef on it ever comes up. That means that every mem­ ber must get in there and pitch. All of us have to work to make the Seafarers strong, if we're going to be able to back up our program. It is true that the SIU is most always ready and able to fight anybody it has to. But in my opinion this will probably be the biggest of them all, so there's no use in taking chances. The Fire Island, tug of the Moran Towing and Transporta­ tion Company, as she looked prior to her transfer recently to the Alabama Drydock in Mobile. Unpopular Anti-Labor Law Seen Headed For Boneyard That's the reason why we want t-j get the decks cleared for act­ ion. The Union has got to be on i-s toes and ready to go any­ To the Editor: time, anywhere. Walter Siekmann Senators Taft, Hartley, Ball and the rest of the antigroup in Washington can BRIGHTON HOSPITAL labor now take their well earned vaca­ BEST ON COAST, tions after turning in such a good job for the employer group who, BROTHER SAYS as Senator Taft said, pressed the •? To the Editor: anti-labor bill on them so ur­ gently. Just a line or two from the They can take a rest from their Brighton Marine Hospital to give you the latest up here. There are puppeting for the employers, but quite a few SIU boys here whose they will find that their legisla­ names you can find on the hos­ tion, if passed, will not result in rest for the employers whom they pital page (Page 2.) hold so dear. Everyone here seems to be It has been pointed out repeat­ ouite happy and well satisfied. edly that the passage of sudi a This is a swell hospital and I law will result in more strikes know as I've been in about all of them along the coast. Some of the fellows in here were hurt quite seriously, but in a very short time they are up and around. The fine atmosphere and hospitality no doubt aid greatly in speeding recovery. 1 expect to go under the knife this week so you see 1 picked a good hospital for the undertak­ ing. I'll get my barnacles scraped and be out of this first rate ship­ yard in no time, ready for the first ship that hits port. and labor unrest than now takes George Meaney place. Taft and his NAM cohorts Brighton Marine Hospital will find out that passage of a law does not take care of the situation. Deck Men Salute The experiment of prohibition Stewards Department proved that when the majority of people in this country do not To the Editor: approve of a law, that law will We, the SUP-SIU deck gang be openly flouted and become i of the SS Robert Forbes, Ameri­ thing of contempt. can Haywire, want to say a word This law will prove that point of praise for the good Stewards again when the bill's authors will Department on this vessel. gradually b9come targets for de­ • The galley and messrooms are risive and jeering cartoons and a credit to the department. And statements as were the sponsors of the 18th amendment. the chow is of the best. Worthy of special mention iiv They will find that organized the department are Steward labor does not intend to give up Booker T. Jones and Second the gains that it won through Cook James R. Lewis. In fact, bitter fighting and bloodshed of the whole gang is tops. militant union men. Jail sentences and^ "legal" un­ Deck Gang SS Robert Forbes ion busting will not stainp out the practice of millions of Amer­ icans organizing into unions to fight for their rights. It will prove to be no more effective that the 18th Amendment was in attempting to keep a guy from having a beer. Henry Chappell MEMBER BEEFS ABOUT MISSING FORT NEWS To Ihe Editor: 1 have a beef with some of our officials. 1 see where you are always asking for letters to the LOG, while at the same time some of our agents do not bother to send in regular news about what's go­ ing on in their ports. What kind of business is that? Boston, Philly and New York are regular customers in the LOG, but some of the other ports don't have news often enough. Some of the ports missed far too often are Mobile, Jacksonville, Savannah, Norfolk, as well as our new port, Montreal. What's the matter with those port agents? I've seen guys from those ports who ask, "Why isn't a story about our port carried in the LOG?" 1 ask the same question. After aU, that's why we have a paper, so the membership will know what's going on. So, Dear Editor, why not put the old pressure on these fellows and let's hear what's happening in all the ports, instead of just what's going on in a few of them. Blackie Colucci Send 'Em In Don't hold your pictures and stories of shipboard acti­ vities. Mail them to the Sea­ farers Log. 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. If you haven't the time or don't feel in the mood, just forward de­ tails. We'll do the rest. Pic­ tures will be returned if you wish. Page Thirteen 25th of the month he was paid off and went to the Panama hos­ pital for treatment. He wrote us and told us that his skull was fractured, but some of us doubt it as we don't comprehend any­ thing that would be hard enough to do that to his skull. (He's back aboard now; we picked him up in Panama the other day.) He is an Okay guy. From Columbia we went to Santa Rosalia, Mexico, where we discharged a few tons of cement and took on manganese ore. God, 1 think that stuff should be a penalty cargo. It's about the blackest ore there is, and about the blackest anything could be except a certain guy's clothes; he never washes them. Do you want to hear more about the grub? I hate to do this as I'm afraid you'll have cramps like we have. We have about three different menus. One for breakfast, one for dinner, and one for supper. Day in and day out. Greasy spuds, rotten eggs, mold­ ed bread (hardtack would be better), weevils in the farina. The only thing that we have plerity of is meat, and the only reason we have a supply of that is because there are so many worms in the chow. ACTION WAS NEEDED I think that something couldTIME FLEW have been done about this chow As the days flew by (at ten situation by the company, as they knots per) that subject was for­ knew the docking conditions in gotten and we were once more Columbia, and we could have on a nice trip. Off the Bahamas been informed of this while tran­ we fished, sunbathed, and ate lousy grub. If this guy is a Stew- siting the Canal. All in all it hasn't, been too bad erd, I'm a mate, and I'm not as as all hands are paying off with I'm only an OS acting AB. More quite a few "C" notes and a few singles. Thank God, though, that we pull into Mobile tomorrow morning. The Skipper, Captain John Brady, and Chief Mate R. M. Curtice, as well as Chief Eng­ ineer George Kirker are swell men and it is a pleasure to sail with them. 1 have been on for two trips, and wish 1 could stay on for another. This is a good company to sail for, and they put out a lot of OT. No beefs on that. We didn't have any fights, but griping and still we sailed on. 1 guess that is because the men Well, finally after so many are too weak from starvation. days we got to Panama and on Francis C. Podia, Jr. to Buena Ventura, Columbia, For the crew of MV Tag Knot Oh, yes, in Panama we got some bananas that were so green and they never did get ripe. Had j some banana cake made out of them, and some guys were silly enough to eat them and at present we are using them for ballast. To the Editor: South America, land of Spanish Most of these so-called leaders senoritas and amour. Bah. Every time we turned round it was of the country keep trying to peso this and peso that. We were stamp out crime, but it seems to scheduled lo be there for about me that this Taft-Hartley Act is ten days, but as this is an Amer­ nothing less than an invitation ican-Hawaiian ship and Grace for the people to start a real for a Lines practically owns the port, crime wave (if fighting we lay out in the stream for living can be called a crime). The average man doesn't like Iwenfy-fhree days. So far on this trip we have been gone 46 days to go hungry, 1 know 1 don't. If and we are stored with fifty some this Act is allowed to stay in ef­ odd days of grub. Brother, are fect we will have a depression much sooner than most people we tightening our belts. Fruit juices and ice are as expect. It will hurt the working scarce as nylons were during the man, but not the capitalist, who war. The only thing that is dif­ will always grow fatter whether ferent is that there isn't a black- we have depressions or prosper­ market agent around the corner. ity. Therefore, 1 say, this bill is On the night of May 18, our bos'n went ashore and got conk­ nothing but a political club on ed on the noggin with something the workers' heads, and if I get that wasn't soft. He staggered hit hard I'm going to fight back. back to the ship in the early Down with the Taft-Hartley hours of the morning and then Law. Jack Oliver crapped out in his sack. On the Taft-Hartley Law Called A Menace �Page Fourleen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 25. 1947 Summary Of Taft-Hartley Act Provisions {Coutinned From Last Week) UNLAWFUL STRIKES AND BOYCOTTS Sec. 8 (b) 4 (A) (B) (C) (D) This prohibition on the employer is mild indeed, and it is nothing at all compared to the prohibitions against certain strikes and boycotts by unions. The Taft-Hartley A'ct makes it unlawful for a union to en­ gage in a strike or concerted refusal to handle goods or perform services, or to induce other employees to take similar action, for any one of the following objects: 1. To force an employer or self-employed per­ son to join a union or an employers" associa­ tion: 2. To force a person to stop using the products or services of another person: 3. To force another employer to recognize and bargain with a union unless the union has been certified by the Board; 4. To force any employer to bargain with one union if another union has been certified by the Board; 5. To force an employer to give work to one particular union or craft as against others un­ less the particular craft has been certified by the Board. This section of the Act is dangerous, because anj'one injured by the prohibited acts can sue in the federal courts for damages. Certain points are clear. In the first place, it does not apply to any appeal to consumers not to patronize a struck or unfair employer. It does not apply to direct strikes over wages, hours or working conditions. It does prohibit three kinds of direct strikes: (1) a strike to compel an employer to join an employers' association or a union even if. he is a working employ­ er; (2) a sti'ike against a rival union which has been cer­ tified by the Board; and (3) a strike over jurisdiction, unless the union claiming the work has been certified by the Board. It prohibits most sympathetic action by one union in aid of another union having a dispute with the same or another employer. Both the union seeking sympathetic action and the union giving it are violating the Act. It makes it unlawful for a union to extend any strike or boycott to other employers or to the suppliers or customers of the struck employer. There are two situations in which sympathetic action is permitted by the Act. First, where the main dispute is caused by the i-jefusal of an employer to recognize or bargain with a union of his employees which has been certified by tlie Board, other workers can refuse to handle the products of the struck employer or refuse to furnish services to him. But, it must be noted that certification by the Board under the new procedures will, in many cases, not be easy. Moreover, the duty to bargain has been reduced to a mere formality with which any employer can readily comply. Second, a union can direct its mem­ bers not to cross a picket line and enter the premises of a struck employer, provided that the strike is beingcarried on by a union which is the authorized represen­ tative of the employees of the struck employer. This strike ca'h be over any issue, but the union refusing to cross the picket line must be sure of the status of the striking union. Representatives and Elections EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATIVE—Sec. 9 (a) A representative is defined by the Act to mean an individual or organization. The representative chosen by the majority of the employees in an appropriate unit has the exclusive right to negotiate contracts and to administer them. But an individual employee or a group of employees have the right under the Act to take up their grievances with the employer, provided the representative is notified and allowed to be present. Moreover, any settlement or adjustment of a grievance must be in line with the contract between the employer and the union. As a practical matter, an employer will not make a,settlement without consulting the union, because otherwise the union could claim that the set­ tlement violates the terms of the contract. APPROPRIATE UNIT—Sec. 9 (b) Under the old Act, the NLRB had complete dis­ cretion to decide what was the appropriate unit; wheth­ er, for example, it was an entire plant or separate crafts within a plant. Under the new Act, a craft union can, on demand, secure a separate election; and no craft group can be included in a larger unit unless a ma­ jority of the group votes against separate representa­ tion. The fact that the NLRB has previously established a larger unit in any particular case does not prevent a well-defined craft group from now asserting its claims. PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES • In the same way, any professional employees can get a separate election and cannot be included in a Unit with non-professional employees if a majority of them vote for separate representation. PLANT GUARDS -V Plant guards and other plant protection employees cannot be included in a unit with other employees. .•H- On this page we present the official AFL analysis of the Taft-Hartley Act. Part appeared in last issue, the remainder this week, to be followed by bulletins an­ swering specific questions. The best way to fight the law is by knowing exactly what the provisions are. Save this section for future reference. whether they want to or not. These employees have to bargain by themselves and no union of plant guards can be certified if it is affiliated directly or indirectly with a union of the other employees. SUPERVISORS—Sec. 14 (a) Supervisors, including foremen, have no rights at all under the Taft-Hartley Act, and they cannot be in­ cluded in any unit—mixed or separate. They can be­ long to a union, but the employer can fire them for that reason and he cannot be compelled by law to recognize or bargain with them. PETITIONS FOR ELECTIONS—Sec. 9 (c) (1) (3) Under the old Act, an employer could not file a petition for an election unless two or more unions were claiming to represent the same group of employees. The new Act permits the employer to file a petition for an election if only one union claims to represent his employees. An entirely new procedure is ai^horized whereby any group of employees may claim that a union which is acting as the exclusive representative no longer has a majority. In the past one union could contest the status of another, but now a union can be displaced by "no-union," if it loses an election brought about by the employer or by a group of employees. A union can now be "de-certified." There are, however, some checks upon new elections. First, the NLRB must find that there is a question concerning the majority, though its findings is final and cannot be directly chal­ lenged in the courts. Second, no new election can be held within 12 months after an election. Third, the NLRB can in its discretion rule that a contract for two or three years is a bar to any election during the life of the contract. by each officer of its parent organization. The officer must swear that he is not a Communist and that he does not believe in the overthrow of the government by force or violence. The affidavit is valid for a year and must be renewed each year. If one officer in the local refuses to make out such an affidavit, the local is debarred from any recourse to the NLRB. If a national officer refuses to sign such an affidavit, all the locals are debarred. A false affidavit subjects the individual officer to criminal prosecution for perjury. RUN-OFF ELECTIONS—Sec. 9 (c) 3 This explanation of the procedures and conditions for elections under the Act can be concluded with a brief reference to a few minor points, such as run-offs, consent elections and equal treatment of independent unions. If an election for certification between two or more unions and "No-Union" does not result in a clear majority of those voting, a run-off is held and "NoUnion" is entitled to a place on the run-hff ballot if it is one of the top two choices in the original election. The old NLRB placed only the two top unions on the run-off ballot. CONSENT ELECTIONS—Sec. 9 (c) 3 Consent elections are still allowed, but the new NLRB cannot certify a union without a formal hearing, unless all the parties-consent. The former practice of certifying on a card check or other informal investiga­ tion, where there was no substantial issue, is now pro­ hibited. INDEPENDENT UNIONS—Sec. 9 (c) 2 The Act also directs the Board to give equal treat­ ment to independent unions and unions affiliated with a national organization. This means that the NLRB cannot adopt a policy of keeping "company unions" off the ballot and ordering them to be disestablished, un­ less it also applies the same policy to affiliated unions which have received support from the employer in a particular case. Preventing: Unfair Labor Practices BASIC PROCEDURE—Sec. 10 Violations by unions or 'employers of the unfair DISCHARGED STRIKERS—Sec. 9 (c) 3 labor practices established in the Taft-Hartley Act are The Board may. Under certain circumstances, order prosecuted by the General Counsel and decided by the an election during a strike, if, for example, the strike is Board. Anyone can file a charge alleging a violation over the negotiation of a new contract and the employ­ with a Regional Office. Under the supervision of the er, or another union, or a group of employees challenge General Counsel, the charge is investigated and if be­ the majority status of the striking union. In such an lieved substantial, a complaint is issued. A hearing is economic strike, the employer is free to discharge the' held before a Trial Examiner. 'Witnesse^ and records strikers with scabs or strike breakers. These replaced, can bo subpoenaed, and a Board attorney°acts as prose­ discharged strikers have no claim for reinstatement cuting attorney. The Trial Examiner's decision is re­ even if the strike is called off. And by the terms of the viewed by the Board itself. It issues an order prohibit­ Act, strikers who are not entitled to reinstatement can­ ing further violations, and granting re-instatement with not vote. Under the old Act, both the replacements and or without back pay. If the order is not obeyed, the the strikers voted. Thus, if the employer can fill the Board can apply to the Federal Courts for a mandate, places of a majority of the striking employees, he or the or the party adversely affected can ask a federal court strikebreakers can petition for a new election and the to set aside the Board order. Final appeal is to the Su­ striking union can lose its bargaining rights. The moral preme Court of the Uni^ States. Once a Board order of this is that a union which loses a strike will also lose has been upheld by the Courts, any failure to obey the its legal rights under the Act. This section does not order is punishable as contempt of court by fine or apply to a strike caused by an unfair labor practice on imprisonment. the part of the employer, because in such a case, all the SIX MONTHS' LIMITATION—Sec. 10 (b) strikers'are entitled to reinstatement and are, there­ The Taft-Hartley Act introduces a number of new fore, eligible to vote, while no replacements can vote. features to basic administrative procedure. A charge UNION REPORTS—Sec. 8 (f)-(h) of '.mfair labor practice must be filed within six months There are certain conditions which must be met after its occurrence. by any union which wishes to make any use of the TEMPORARY INJUNCTIONS—Sec. 10 (j) Taft-Hartley Act. Before a union can ask the NLRB The most important new feature of the procedure to certify it, or to hold a union-shop authorization elec­ for preventing unfair labor practices is that the Counsel tion, or to prosecute an employer for unfair labor prac­ can go to the Federal Courts for a temporary injunction tices, it must file a report on its finances and internal to stop any unfair labor practice. If he or his regional structure, and affidavits by its officers that they are not officers issue a formal complaint, they can, without Communists. The reports mu.st be filed with the Secre­ further hearing and pending a final decision by the ' tary of Labor, both by the local in the case and by any Board, go to the nearest federal court and ask for a tem­ national or international organization to which the local porary injunction against the alleged violator, be it is affiliated. The items include the constitution and by­ union or employer. The judge in his disci-etion can laws, names and compensation of officers, amount of find that a prima facie ca.se exists and thereupon issue initiation fees and dues and a description of its internal the injunction. The injunction will last until the case is procedures for the election of officers and stewards, finally determined by the Board. The Norris-LaGuardia calling of meetings, negotiation and ratification of con­ Act is suspended in these cases. tracts, assessments, fines, strikes, handling of funds, MANDATORY INJUNCTIONS AGAINST UNIONS benefits and expulsion of members. The financial re­ Sec. 10 (1) port mu.st show all receipts and sources thereof, assets, Under the Taft-Hartley Act, injunctions against liabilities, disbursements and purposes thereof. Each unions must be sought by the Board in cases involving year the reports must be brought up-to-date by a sup­ unlawful strikes or boycotts, which have been described plemental statement. A copy of the financial reports above. Full authority is delegated to the Regional must be "furnished to all of the members." Offices to handle these injunctions. The Regional Of­ These reports must be made out on form§ to be ficer or Attorney must immediately investigate a charge proscribed by the Secretary of Labor. There is no pro­ alleging an unlawful strike or boycott; he must give it vision in the Act requiring the Secretary to keep any priority over all other business in the office. If he has of this information confidential. If a union fails to sub­ reason to believe that the charge is true, without wait­ mit this information, it is nevertheless subject to any ing to issue a complaint, he is directed to go to the proceedings under the Act brought by others against it. nearest federal Court and ask the judge for an injunc­ It could be certified, if another party petitioned for an tion. The union can be enjoined by a judge in the election, but it could not get any other benefits and it district where the strike or boycott is being carried can suffer all the penalties of the Act. on or wherever it is doing business through an officer ANTI-COMMUNIST AFFIDAVIT—Sec. 9 (h) or agent. This injunction takes effect immediately; and The anti-Communist affidavit must be filed with* lasts until the case is decided by the Board. {Continued on Page 15) the NLRB by each officer of the local in the case ahd �THE Friday. July 25. 1947 (ContiJiiied From Page 14) MANDATORY HEARINGS IN JURISDICTIONAL DISPUTES—Sec. 10 (k) Where a charge grows out of a jurisdictional dis­ pute, the Board is directed "to hear and determine the dispute". Unions can avoid this intervention by estab­ lishing their own voluntary methods foi- settling jur­ isdictional disputes, within ten days after notice of a charge. DAMAGE SUITS FOR UNLAWFUL STRIKES AND BOYCOTTS—Sec. 303 Injunctions against unlawful strikes and boycotts are to be brought by the NLRB lawyers. Thereby the Government provides employers with counsel to bring injunctions against unions. The Taft-Hartley Act also gives the employer, and anyone else who claims he is injured by an unlawful strike or boycott, the right to sue the union, for damages in the federal courts. This suit will not cost the employer or the injured party anything, for, in addition to damages, he can recover the costs of the lawsuit, which includes lawyers' fees. So, if tiie NLRB cannot or will not take up a case for an employer, he can go to court himself. While he can­ not, like the Board, get an injunction, he can collect damages. He can sue the union where the strike or boycott is taking place, or wherever the union is doing business through an officer or official agent. The union can be held libel for the conduct of any agent even if the union did not "actually authorize or sub­ sequently ratify" his actions. One limitation is that if any damages are .awarded, they can only be collected from the union and not from the individual officers or members. Damage Suits for Breach of Contract CONTRACT DAMAGE SUITS—Sec. 301 The breach of contract between a union and an employer is not an unfair labor practice. The con­ tract is, however, enforceable by the union or the em­ ployer by a suit for damages in the Federal Courts. This section of the Taft-Hartley Act does not change in any way the rights and duties of parties to a con­ tract. It does not authorize injunctions to enfore con­ tracts. But the Act does make cerain legal procedure changes. It opens the Federal Courts to such suits where before most of them had to be brought in the State Courts. And like the suit for damages for unlawful strikes or boycotts, the suit can be brought wherever the union is doing business through officers or official agents. On the other hand, while it is hard to limit the liability of a union for unlawiul strikes or boycotts, a contract can completely control the liability of the parties to it. For example, a contractual provision for the arbitration of all disputes, would preclude a suit in court for breach of the contract, unless the entire con­ tract were repudiated by one of the parties. Page Fifleen SEAFARERS LOG Payments by Employers to Unions CRIMINAL PENALTIES—Sec. 302 (d) EXCEPTIONS—Sec. 302 (c) BENEFIT FUNDS—Sec. 302 (c) Unfair labor practices are risky; all of them can be enjoined, some very quickly, and the union may have to pay damages. A breach of contract may like­ wise bring on a lawsuit. But payments of money or anything of value by employers to unions or to union representatives, (!xcept as permitted by the Act,- are absolutely illegal. Both the employer making the pay­ ment and the union officer or agent receiving it arc criminally liable and can be fined $10,000 and given a year in jail. Violations can also be enjoined. The Act expressely excepts any payments made to a union by an employer under a court judgment or an arbitration award, or in the settlement of a grievance. Its two most' important applications are to the check-off and union-employer conditions. The legal check-off has already been explained. The Act does not apply to any benefit schema financed solely by the union and its membership. Ndr does it apply to any plan administered solely by the employer. It docs not apply to benefits paid by the employer directly to individual employee.s, such as sick vacation pay or insurance premiums. The requirements applicable to joint union-employer schemes are technical and any union administering a benefit fund to- which the employer contributes will need technical advice. Political Contributions POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS—Sec. 304 The Taft-Hartley Act makes illegal any "contrib­ ution or expenditure.s" by a union in connection with primary and general elections for President, Senators or Congressmen. A violation is a criminal offense. Senator Taft has claimed that the prohibition pre­ vents a union journal from commenting on political issues if the journal is financed from regular union dues. This interpretation is, we believe, unconstitutional. Union officers and representatives have a right to ex­ press their opinions, particularly on political matters. In 1944, Congress prohibited unions from making political contributions in connection with general elec­ tions. The Taft-Hartley Act extends this ban to include "expenditures" and also to include pilmary elections. "Expenditures" can only mean, constitutionally, pay­ ments made in beiialf of a candidate for political liter­ ature, meetings or broadcasts which express political opinions of the union and its members. Conciliation of Disputes — Other Matters FEDERAL MEDIATION SERVICE—Sec. 201-205 "Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service" is es­ tablished as an independent agency. This Service takes the place of the old "United States Conciliation Ser­ vice" of the Department of Labor. Under the amended National Labor Relations Act, parties to an existing contract must give notice of any dispute over a new contract to the Service. The conciliators, however, are rot given any legal powers and they still operate on an entirely voluntary basis. LABOR MANAGEMENT PANEL—Sec. 205 (a) They'are to be aided by a special panel of twelve members, six from management and six from labor. These men are to assist the Service "particularly with leference to controversies affecting the general welfare of the country." NATIONAL EMERGENCY STRIKES—Sec. 207-209 The President of the United States may establish a fact finding Board, delay any strike action for eighty days, and require a membership vote on the employer's •» last offer in any strike or threatened strike which he believes creates a national emergency. The Board can subpoena witnesses and records. At first, the Board simply reports the facts to the President without any recommendations. If the dispute continues, the Presi­ dent may direct the Attorney General to secure an injunction against the strike or threatened strike. For the next sixty days, the fact finding Board tries again to settle the dispute. If it fails, it again reports the facts and this time its settlement efforts as well, to the President together with the employer's last offer. With­ in fifteen days, the NLRB must hold an election among the employees of "each employer involved in the dis­ pute" to discover if they would like to accept their employer's last offer. The results of the election do not bind anyone; on the contrary, within five days after the election, regai'dlcss of its results, the injunction must be dissolved. The strike can be resumed or the threat­ ened strike can be called. In that event, the President submitlwa full report and recommendations to Congress. The total elapsed time is eighty days. Under the TaftHartley Act, it will be recalled, a union must also give sixty days notice if it wishes to change an existing con­ tract, but this notice can be given during the contract. The "National Emergency" provisions can add eighty days delay beyond the termination of the contract and pile up all the public pressure the government is cap­ able of mustering. The election on the employer's last offer will probably operate like the Smith-Connally strike votes. STRIKE BY GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES—Sec. 305 Government employees are prohibited from strik­ ing under penalty of immediate discharge, forfeiture of civil status, and a three year blacklisting for any fed­ eral employment. This ban includes employees of any wholly-owned government corporation, like TVA. JOINT LEGISLATiyE COMMITTEE—Sec. 401-407 The Taft-Hartley Act is not sure that it has solved the problems of controlling unions and regulating labor relations. As a final touch, it establishes a joint Con­ gressional committee with a $150,000 appropriation, to make a "thorough study of the entire field of labormanagement relations." PERSONALS SlU HALLS ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. JOHN J. O'NEIL "ALABAMA" WEATHERWAX Phone 552^ Contact the Seconii District E. LaF. Deal Jr., who is now BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Court of Esse.x, Amesbury, Mass­ in the Army, lost your address. Calvert 453D achusetts, as soon as possible. BOSTON 276 State St. He would like to hear from you Boudoin 44S5 so he can repay the loan made !• i SBUFFALO 10 Exchange St. last Fall during the MM&P WILLIAM F. GUY Cleveland 7391 Your mother is extremely anx­ strike in New York. Write to CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. him at Fort Benning, Ga. Superior 5175 ious to hear from you. CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. 4. 4- 4. 4. S. S. Main 0147 BOSTON $3.00; D. v. Etheridge, $3.00; V. JAMES LEON OSBURN FORREST S. COX DETROIT 1038 Third St. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS McCloskey, $1.00; J. H. Crockett, $2.00; Your daughter, Helen Osburn, Cadillac 6857 Mrs. Charles Lytle wouW like . .L. Williams, $1.00; S. Bartoletti. (No Name). $2.00. DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. is anxious to hear fi'om you. Her to gel in touch with you re$3.00; E. Padilia. $2.00; G. Dejesu.s. NEW YORK Melrose 4110 address is Spratt, Alabama, $2.00. gar(fing your son. GALVESTON 308'/j—23rd St. SS IVEW LONDON Route 2, Box D, 4* 4* 4GALVESTON Phone 2-8448 C. D. Hunt, $1.00; G. Goss, $1.00; HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS J. H. . Girouard, $1.00. DANIEL J. CAREY Phone 58777 WILLIJIUM ^,\TOCK L. Hite, $5.00; C: Richards, $3.00; SS GATEWAY CITY Contact your mother as soon JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. C. O. Greenwood, $2.00; O. L. RagGet in touch with Toni BanJ. B. Beye, $1.00; F. O. Blanco, $1.00; as possible and, also, mail your Phone 5-5919 land. $3.00; "E. M. Felker. $3.00; A. Hakos, $1.00; J. Toro, $1.00; E. W. toja, 109 E. Houston St., New MARCUS HOOK I'/j W. 8th St. B. Grazes, $3.00; D. Rivera. $3.00; Kurz, $1.00; R. H. Simpson, $2.00; navy discharge to her. York 2, N.Y. Chester 5-3110 F. L. Kaufman, $2,00; R, A. Derrough, I M. Awall, $1.00; E. V. Matinki, $2.00; 4* 4' 4MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. $2.00; D. Calrera, $3.00; B. J. Sage, P. Lohas, $1.00; H. Randoja. $1.00; 4. 4. 4. ALBERT MC DAVID Phone 2-1754 $3,00; E. E. Madison, $10.00; H. Nelli. HERSHEL PORTER J. Fedson, $2.00. Your mother is very anxious MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St". $3.00; A. Peckin. $5.00; L. A. Hillery, Communicate with William MSS LAFAYETTE NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. $10.00; L. Q. Strange, $4,00; B. Grazes. to hear from you. Alper, 900 Jefferson Building, Wm. R. Brieze. $2.00; L. R. Pimentel, Magnolia 6112-6113 $5.00; P. J. Hayes, $1.00; Y. Pedrazo, 44. 4$3.00; P. Legdon, $2.00; M. Sovick, 1015 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. $1.00. ESSEN A. JOHNSON '$2.00; C. W. Heppding, $3.00; G. A. HAnover 2-2784 Pa., concerning your claim for J. M. Walsh, $2.00; M. Marines, I Lueth, $2.00; S. Trzcinski, $2.00; V. E. A leter from Townsend & injuries sustained aboard the SS NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. $1.00; C. McDowell, $1.00; Domingo I Joyce, $2.00; G. A. Muschinski, $2.00; Phone 4-1083 Doyle, Counselors-at-Law, 921 Norvana. Lallave, $6.00; J. Sidor, $5.00; Fiord K. H. Smythe for crew, $20.00. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Bergen Avenue, Jersey City, Dominski, $2.00; C. J. Stalsworth. 4. 4. 4. Lombard 3-7651 SS CAVALIER $4.00; E. Nelson, $4.00; Martin Sierra, New Jersey, requests that you PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. S. Regner. $1.00; C. M. Bailey, $1.00, CLARENCE E. TOBIAS $6.00; A. J. Anderson, $,3.00; John contact them immediately. Beacon 4336 SS C. NORDHOFF Get in touch with your mother Weimer, $7.00; W. Gustavson, $4.00. RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. J. R. Davis, $2.00; F. Sarmento. 4- 4. 4. at once. Phone 2599 NORFOLK $2.00; E. Pantoja, ^2.00; J. B. Dixon, ARCH JACOB SODERBERG SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $2.00; C. J. Butson. $2.00. Contact your brother Carl A. Douglas 5475-8363 SS COASTAL STEVEDORE E. T. Petterson, $1.00; A. W. AlmSoderberg, 3422 Columbus Ave., SAN JUAN, P. R. ..252 Ponce dc Leon gren. $3.00; L. Pierce, $3.00; R. C. No. B 80703, (No Name), $1.00; San Juan 2-5996 Cartwright, $3.00; C. E. Mosley, $3.00; Jose Rodriquez, $1.00. Jacksonville Fla. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. T. G. Jones. $3.00; J. A. Barone, $2.00; The SIU Hall in Baltimore in­ INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS 4- 4" Phone 8-1728 J. O, Hudgins, $3.00; L. Clegg, Jr., R. Ygulski, $2.00; A. Cramer, $2.00; tends to clean out its Baggage FRISCO MARTENS SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. $2.00; H. H. andernian, $3.00; P. Mont- i. Heilpern, $1.00; J. Palmeri, $1.00; Room. Some gear, which has BILL KENNY Main 0290 joy, $3.00; E. S. Hogan, $3.00; W. L. M. Gitchul, $2.00; G. Miceli, $2.00; Anthony J. Durbano is going been held from one to six 'years, TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Pope, $3,00; F. W, Tingle, $3.00; M. J. J. Arbasz. $1.00; R. Brooks, $3.00; . Phone M-1323 Layden, $3.00; L. C. Baccus, $3.00; J. S. Zuba, $1.00; E. L. Rerbo, $1.00; to Italy as a passenger, and is cluttering up the room. This TOLEDO 615 Summit St. R. E. Foster. $1.00. . M. J- Acosta, $5.00; D. B. Gardner, wants you to get in touch with baggage will be held for sixty Garfield 2112 R. H. Hogan, $3.00; H. T. Archer. $1.00; O. A. Michael, $3.00. him at the following address: days,' and if not claimed in that WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. SS COASTAL MARINER $3.00; S. C. Foard, Jr., $3.00; B. M. San Benedetto, Imperillis, Pro- period of time, wjil be opened Terminal 4-3131 T. M. Larsen, $1.00; L. M. Newberg, Swinson, $3.00; G. L. Hewitt. $3.00; LO($ AOHOg'^LCl NOTICE! W, P. Midgette. $3.00; J, Ac Mentzer, $|i;06. vncia di Aquia, Italy. and the contents distributed. �. ••:"'.r';..-4r:;^'-^' Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG • . - •.. .. . Friday. July 25. 1947 m LAST OBSTAClfHASBefN moVSO I#" » STAY ON YOUK SHIP-UMTiL YOU HAVE HAO A CHANCE TO VOTE IDRTHE CONDITIONS AND WAGES AND SECURITY THAT WILL ONLY COME THRU A* $19 CBim/ � 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 July 25, 1947 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. IX, No. 30 Description An account of the resource Headlines: NLRB CALLS MEETING ON THE SIU DEMAND FOR CITIES SERVICE VOTE HOUSE GETS BILL TO EXTEND MEDICAL SERVICE FOR SEAMEN\ WATERMAN ADDS TO EUROPEAN RUN SLICKEST TRICK OF THE YEAR N.J. NOW PAYS COMPENSATION TO JOBLESS SEAMEN TWO BILLS WOULD AID ALIENS THE TASK AHEAD GT. LAKES NEGOTIATING COMMITEE MEETS WITH HURON ON SIU CONTRACT SIU MEMBERSHIP STILL HAS BIG JOB IN CITIES SERVICE GEAR-GRABBERS HURT UNION DIRTY SHIP IS PAIN TO CREW AND OFFICIALS REUTHER BEATS COMMIES IN UAW WARNING BELL SOUNDS: DON'T SMUGGLE BUTTS COMMIE SHEET HAS HAD LONG ANTI-LABOR RECORD CONGRESSMAN DEFINES FREEDOM: 'RIGHT TO PAY STARVATION WAGES' HALL IN MOBILE IS CENTER OF A GROWING PORT ORGANIZE NON-UNION OUTFITS NOW, OR SUFFER WHEN SHIPPING SLUMPS 1-MONTH'S DUES GETS SIU BOOK ON GREAT LAKES TAMPA SHIPPING BACK TO NORMAL JUST AS SHIPPING LIST EMPTIES NMU IS FINISHED ON THE LAKES, ITS MEMBERS FLOCKING TO THE SIU NEW ORLEANS READY TO BACK SIU ORGANIZERS WEATHER IS HOT, BUT LABOR KEEPS COOL IN PORT OF NORFOLK SLOW WEEK ENDS, BOSTON NOW HUMS WITH ACTIVITY NEW FORM PROVIDES EASY WAY OF KEEPING SHIPBOARD RECORDS SEAFARERS, MINE WORKERS PROVE UNITED MEMBERSHIP CANNOT LOSE CAMELS BARS 500 AFTER STRIKE HURON SEAMEN HELP COMMITTEE IN DRAWING UP UNION CONTRACT AROUND THE GREAT LAKES WITH THE SEAFARERS SS STRONG BACK; RUDDER DAMAGED OFF ENGLAND DELAYED SHIP 2 MONTHS HARMONY BETWEEN CAPTAIN AND CREW SPARKS TRIP ON ISTHMIAN'S RIDER VICTORY Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/25/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f19e86d6dabd895b80e9a836f9d80d8f.PDF 818bb369ae4912cd69995de2198a21db PDF Text Text m Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Frisco Gets AFL Conclave in October NEW YORK. N.Y.. FRIDAY. JULY 18. 1947 'BLOODY THURSDAY" TRIBUTE The challenge which big busi­ ness has thrown at labor has been accepted, and the trade union movement is prepared to demand, and fight for, its full rights under the Constitution of the United States. Tlie first meeting of the nation­ al labor body since the passage of the Taft-Hartley Bill will be faced with many problems of interpretation and opposition to provisions .oi the Act. This was made clear in an analysis of the Taft-Hartley Act, which has recently been released by the American Federation of Labor, and which is now being distributed to union officials. The entire report, plus three bullet­ ins, will be carried in this and subsequent issues of the LOG. Plans will be made for joint action on many of the Act's major stipulations. RESOLUTIONS Resolutions to be submitted to the convention must be in the hands of the AFL SecretaryTreasurer at least 30 days before the inauguration of the proceed­ ings. The resolutions may be sent directly to the SecretaryTreasurer after adoption, and need not be considered by city or state federations. In addition to the Taft-Hartley Act, the delegates will also take a stand on housing, rents, prices and other economic, social and industrial problems. The convention will continue in session until all business has been completed. Seatrain Vessels To Resume Scheduled Stops At Texas City Seatrain vessels, which have been stopping at Belle Chasse, La. since the Texas City disaster, will resume sailings to Texas City on Jyly 25 from Edgewater, N. J. The company's piei'S, which were damaged in the April 16 disaster, have now been suffic­ iently restored to permit their use. The company had been grant­ ed the privilege of using Belle Chasse, La. until July 31 for this run. Seatrain ships, how­ ever, will continue to stop at Belle Chasse on certain runs with calls at Havana in each direction. \ AFL Releases Full Analysis Of'Slave Law' i With American organized labor facing the most crucial period in its history, the 6oth Conven­ tion of the American Fedeiation of Labor will got underway in San Fi-ancisco on October 6th. All unions affiliated with the AFL will be represented, the number of delegates to be de­ termined by the iiumber of mem­ bers in. each union. The con­ stitution of the AFL calls for the election of delegates at least two weeks prior to the conven­ tion. and the delegates must be in good standing in the AFL. No. 29 Sleuart end Mission streets. San Francisco, where two SUP Brothers were shot down and killed on July 5. 1934. members of the Sailors Union of the Pacific join wiih representatives of other waterfront organizations to pay homage to the Brothers who sacrificed their lives in the great strike. "Bloody Thursday " will live long in the memory of union seamen. Akoa Pilgrim Crew Saves Shipmate In Dramatis Night Rescue At Sea By L. W. HIGHSMITH Following a pleasant voyage from Montreal through the isl­ ands, then to Georgetown we headed north for Port Alfred, Canada, on June 21. The weather was fine, with a light easterly wind and a moder­ ate easterly sea with swells. Later the wind freshened slight­ ly, causing the sea to be choppy so that the vessel shipped spray forward. Our gangways were suspended by the bridles and trapped in to the sides of the ship. As the seas appeared to be increasing, it was decided that they should be unshipped and nested at the boat deck to prevent the pos­ sibility of them being carried away. The Bosun, Brother J. P. Mor­ ris, was called and together with several of the deck crew who were willing to work, it being Saturday, commenced unchipping the gangways for nesting on the boat deck. HURLED OVERBOARD The Starboard gangway was nested without much difficulty, after which the Deck Gang began work on the port gangway. The Bosun, while attempting to unfasten the bridle, stepped on the gangway. The gangway slip­ ped and the Bosun was hurled over the side into the ocean. Due to the quick thinking of Brother John Reed, a life ring was immediately thrown in the vicinity where Morris entered the sea. Immediately the alarm was given the Second Mate and the engines were stopped and turn­ ed hard left. This maneuver, no doubt prevented Brother Morris from being drawn into the screw. With the accident, lookouts were posted around the vessel and in the cross trees. Our course was reversed and we began making circles. As your reporter, 1 take this way of say­ ing that on every man's lips was a prayer for our brother, who most of us thought had gone to a watery grave. At about 1850 hours, just eight minutes from the time Morris went overboard. No. 2 lifeboat was launched with Chief Officer R. L. Oriez in command and manned by Brothers John Reed, Emil Hogback, Reuben Ruttkay, and Lester E. Parker who stuck to their oars as if they were old veterans at the business at hand. In the meantime, the Captain had our position broadcast to all vessels and shore stations, ad­ vising them to what had oc­ curred. our searchlights were switched on and ranged continually in the surrounding water. In addition, of course, all hands were on deck doing what they could to effect a rescue. While circling in the vicinity after complete darkness had set in, we heard Morris calling again: but for some time, due to at­ mospheric conditions, we were unable to locate the exact direct­ ion of his voice. At 2100 hours, we sighted Mor­ ris with the searchlight, and your reporter saw a smile on his face after he knew we had him in the light. He was broad on the starboard beam and floating {Continued on Page 15) Members of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union have already announced their position in re­ gard to this vicious "chain gang" legislation. In no uncertain terms, the SlU has gone on record as not tolerating any interference with Union Hiring Halls, and to consider it a lockout if the pro­ visions of the Taft-Hartley Act/ are used against the Union. ' Most of tlie labor movement has followed the Seafarers lead in this respect. Both AFL and CIO unions have resolved to by­ pass the National Labor Rela­ tions Board, and in the face of the hysteria whipped up by the passage of the bill, John L.' Lewis and his Mine Workers won the best contract in its his­ tory from the operators. Every effort will be made to test the constitutionality of the new law in the courts, but until that happens, labor will scrap the "no strike" clause, and fight it out on the picketlines with, economic action. The text of the analysis of the Taft-Hartley Act begins on page 14. Merchant Seamen Are Eligible For Vet Housing In New York Although it apparently has not for those with four or more been widly publicized, merchant j children. All apartments in-' seamen with wartime discharges complete kitchen facilities. who ai'e married and have at Situations which the housing least one child may procure authority regards as dire are apartments m various veterans merchant projects operated by the SEARCHLIGHTS ON York State Housing Authority. Our lookouts were very busy ali Applicants however, tnus be in the time looking for a possible ^^e_ed of housing facilities. spot where Morris might be According to information fur- eviction from their present homeriding in his life ring. As we nished the LOG, accomodations Applications may be made at circled, one of the Bow and available are two rooms for the New York State Housing Bridge lookouts heard Morris call­ couples with one child, three Authority, Veterans' Emergency. ing. rooms for families with two or Housing Division, 270 Broadway, It was dark by this time and three children and four rooms New York City. �I. Page Two THE SEAFAREHS LOG Friday, July 18, 1947 SEAFARERS. LOG Published Weekly by the f" r'/" Ir. SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence StT, Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-Pre^dent 86 Se.neca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULPIR - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED I'ARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 10.38 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY Secy.-Treas. Canadian District ' 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, -B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office i in New Y'ork, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 The Last Hurdle ..I IvJ This past week the NMU withdrew its charges of unfair labor practices against the Isthmian Steamship Company, and thus bow^ed out of the picture completely, The way lies open now for the SIU to reach an agreement with the compajiy, so that the men who sail the ships will be protected by a Union contract and the combined strength of all Brother members. It is not to be believed that the NMU bowed out gracefully. Far from it. After being totally repudiated by the Isthmian seamen, the NMU did its level best to have the vote thrown out, and failing that, stalled pro­ ceedings in a shameful fashion. Both the NMU and the company could take little comfort from the results of the election. The NMU re­ ceived less than two-thirds of the SIU total, and the "no union" vote was so low as to be almost invisible. By that vote, the unlicensed Isthmian seamen proved two things. First, that they v/anted to be represented by a union, as witness the small company vote; and second, that they wanted the Seafarers, which is proved by the grand total rolled up for the SIU. There is no further reason for the company to re­ fuse to come to terms. Certainly this largest carrier of dry cargo in the world can afford to grant the same wages and conditions which are standard on SlU-contracted ships. Shipowners who operate under SIU conditions are still piling up huge profits, and there is no reason to be­ lieve that Isthmian can't do the same. The Seafarers International Union has a clear man­ date from the men who sail the ships. By voting over­ whelmingly for the Union, they have said, "We want the SIU to-repre.sent us; we want SIU wages and conditions, and damn fast!" The time for stalling is past—too much time has al­ ready been wasted. Isthmian seamen are becoming im­ patient, and who can blame them? Obstacles put up by the NMU have been success­ fully hurdled. It's high time the Isthmian Steamship Company entered the $IU fold. That's the way the sea­ men voted, and that's what they want. 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 in The Marine Hospitals These are Ihe 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 writ­ ing to them. J. A. DYKES NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL E. E. CASEY J. PROBST E. F. PAUL C. CAHILL P. FELICIANO C. LANGSTON P. GELPI L. COOPER r~ H. STILLMAN W. CAUGHEY T. J. KURKI R. LUXEMBURG E. P. O'BRIEN J. L. WINN C. KERSTENS F. McNUTLY P. C. CARTER F. HOMANN M. PISKUN G. ELDRIDGE G. ROGERS LEROY CLARKE C. F. CONSTANZA V. A. QUINN H. SELBY M. A. HIGGINBOTHAM R. WALTHER A. J. LeJUENE t t 4J. ZADAVIL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL E. L. WANDRSI M. PLYLER E. M. LOOPER F. O'BRIEN J. J. O'NEAL J. WYMOND A. B. ZIELINSKI E. CAIN JR. R. B. WRIGHT J. TARQUELLOS J. E. MAGUIRE F. MILLER C. MASON D. COPPAK W. BROCE P. PODOLSKY J. DENNIS R. GORDON E. P. JANOSKO M. FINDELHURST H. W. WATTS H. GREEN is, X it % X X STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL NEPONSET HOSPITAL N. NEILSEN L. CLARK J. MORRISON J. S. CAMPBELL E. J. SIDNEY ' You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) FERRER R. HANCHEY LARSEN L. LEWIS R. LEWIS TORRES SCHULTZ HAMILTON A. BLAKE BELCHER .T T. EDWARDS . it 4. BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. WHELAN J. CALHOUN (SUP) R. BAASNER W . PARIS R. LORD E. JOHNSTON A. BONTE E. MOFIENE E. DELLAMANO E. HAMATY R. GRALICKI H. WALSH J. WHEATON (SUP) . R. HUNT J. McDONOUGH G. BLACK H. SMITH E. J. C. L. J. L. C. J.R. H. �^f{ Friday. July 18. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG VT" Page Three LSU, LCA Use Poison Pen Letters In Desperate Attempt To Halt SIU By PAUL WARREN By PAUL HALL The place to settle a beef among crewmembers is on the ship where the complaint arises. Several fellows have come to the Union Hall recently with beefs about shipmates after the trip was over and the payoff had been completely settled. For instance, one guy had a beef about the Bosun on the ship he was on, and brought it to the Hall about two weeks after the scow had paid off. He beefed that the Bosun had pushed the crew around and that he wasn't a good SIU man. No piecard, whether he is good, bad, or indifferent can do anything with a squawk like that, be­ cause the man who brought it in was dead wrong to start with. The place he should have settled that gripe was right on the ship, with the crew present. Any crew that calls itself a Union crew can nearly always iron out beefs that arise between crewmembers. If a man on board ship feels that some of his shipmates are guilty of hard-timing any other hands, or are not conducting them­ selves as SIU men, then he should immediately contact the Ships Delegate and call a meeting on the problem. Once a crew takes a position which the majority agrees on, then that is the way the beef is settled. Majority Decision Binding In the event that someone on board is not satisfied with the majority decision, then he has the right to appeal the disposition of the case to a shoreside meeting. Once this is done, the majority decision of the entire coastwise membership is binding. It is to be pointed out that in nearly all cases of such sort the original decision made aboard ship is usually upheld by the shoreside meetings. DETROIT — Recently, the Great Lakes have been flooded with various open letters, some sent out by the Lake Sailors Unipn and others issued anony­ mously (apparently through the efforts of the Lake Carriers As.sociation and/or some of their member companies). The.se letters have been sent through the mail to the unor­ ganized seamen on the Hanna, Wilson and other fleets. All of them can be grouped togPther and truthfully labelled as scur­ rilous, irresponsible and vicious­ ly lying propaganda of the rottenest kind imaginable. We are not going to attempt to answer these vicious articles, nor are we going to dignify them by breaking them down and re­ futing them point by point. But we are going to put you straight on a few union facts of life so that you can judge for yourselves whether or not the SIU is the only union on the Lakes for you to join. First off, the SIU stands on it's record of achievements — wage gains, improvements in hours, overtime and conditions, and the best damn contracts in the mari­ time industry. Lakes seamen know these facts, and we certainly don't have to stoop to the level of these boss-paid propagandists in Let's brief you on what makes order to answer their filthy lies. up the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL. MEMBERSHIP GAINS The SIU is composed of five sep Why do you think the SIU is arate and autonomous Districts. gaining membership by leaps and These are: the Great Lakes Disbounds? Why did Midland sea- , . , ,,, men vote for the SIU? Why did crewmembers of the Huron ships Sailors Union of the Pacific; Ca­ vote SIU, and why did seamen nadian District, and the Marine from the four Wyandotte ships Allied Workers (taking in the and inland overwhelmingly choose the SIU tugmen, fishermen boatmen). as the union of their choice? Notice that word "autonom­ And why do the great major­ ous." It means self-governing, ity of the crewmembers from the a;id each District of the SIU has Hanna, Wilson, Shenango and its own constitution, elects its Steinbrenner (Kinsman) fleets .i^own officers, makes decisions openly express their choice of setting its own policy, and hand­ the SIU as the union to represent les its own finances. them? This means that the Great These Lakes seamen know the Lakes District runs itself, free score about the SIU. That's why from any interference or domin­ they aren't going to let any LCA, ation by any other SIU Districts. NMU or LSU propagandists However, the full str-ength and bamboozle them with their support of the SIU's 91,000 phony line of hogwash. members is available, and the They know that the SIU sets entire International treasury is the pace on the Lakes when it available to assist the Great comes to wages, hours and con­ ditions, and that's why the SIU Lakes District in any prolonged is on the way to becoming the beef, and whenever requested. only seamen's union on the SIU AFFILIATIONS Lakes. First and foremost among the Well, to get back to the union Seafarers affiliations is that with facts of life a la SIU that we the American Federation of La­ started in to give you—Here are bor. It's really comforting to a few facts that you can put in know in times like the present, your pipe and smoke on for a with the vicious Taft-Hartley while, mulling them over in your anti-labor Bill in effect, that the mind. AFL (almost 8 million strong) lines up behind the SIU. The SIU is also affiliated with t he International Transportworkers Federation, a world­ wide anti-communist organiza­ tion composed of millions of workers from the maritime and transportation industries in many KERR countries. Last, but not least, the SIU is mains in the maritime industry it is a threat to our jobs and our affiliated with the powerful AFL security. That company can al­ Maritime Trades Department, ways be used as a sourre for made up of more thaq 200,000 or­ ganized workers from the vari­ scabs and strikebreakers. Sail Cities Service and Tide­ ous maritime and connected in­ dustries. water. Contact the Organizers This organization was founded and give them every assistance last August, and brings the full possible on the unorganized lines. support of the AFL Seamen, It is gratifying to note the Longshoremen, Radio Operators, results of the article we ran in Licensed Deck Officers and a recent issue of the LOG. asking Teamsters to bear in any dispute men to go up for endorsements affecting the affiliates. to their paper's. We have had These facts should be contrasta fair response, but we can never' have too many. Let's keep it up. (Continued on Page 4) The Fight Is Not Yet Over, So Keep Shipping Isthmian There is not much use in a man, calling himself a Union man, By AL to come around griping to the Hall after the matter has been settled. A guy who consistently does this is not a good Union By being certified as bargain­ member because he doesn't have the faith of his convictions to take ing agent for the unlicensed sea­ men of the Isthmian Steamship his beef straight to his own shipmates for settlement. Company, the SIU has won a So, in the future, fellows, if you have any gripes or com­ major battle. But the fight still plaints, be good Union men and iron everything out in a Union­ goes on. The biggest and most like manner. important battle is winning a signed contract with the com­ Learn The Rules pany. The only way we can be sure That a union is as good as its membership, is a very true say­ of doing just that is by having ing. One of the very big things it takes to make a good member Full Bookmen on those ships to is a complete knowledge of union procedure. Constitution, Ship­ llead the non-union men in ping Rules, and by-laws. While a good percentage of SIU mem­ meetings, to tell them of the ad­ bers knows our Constitution and Shipping Rules, too many do vantages of a good trade union, not. This is not confined solely to young members. and to explain to the the Union As a matter of fact, quite a few oldtimers are not thoroughly Constitution and contracts. Only men who have sailed un­ acquainted with the Constitution and the Shipping Rules. This lack of knowledge extends to officials as well. der Union conditions can go For instance, in one port last year, an official took the position aboard those scows and give the that probationary members do not have the same shipping privil­ unorganized men the true facts of Union membership. eges as a full Book man. This, of colirse, is not true. It is impossible for the shoreThe only restriction put on probationary members by the Con­ side Organizer to meet each and stitution is under Section 2, Article IV, which states that, "Proba­ every ci'ewmember during the tionary members shall have voice but no vote." short time that the ships are This means specifically that a probationary member has all usually in poi-t. the rights of a full Book man with the exception of voting privil­ Theiefoi-e, when a Union man eges. This situation where Pro members were forced to register goes aboai'd, he can accomplish and ship with TC men was in effect several weeks before several much more in one trip than an men on the beach, who knew their Constitution, brought the issue Oi-ganizer can in' many months. to the deck and corrected it. MORE COMING Some SIU membei's have an Promotions By Error idea that Isthmian is the only Another instance of breaking Shipping Rules through the lack outfit which the Union is trying of knowledge is allowing promotion on board ship, after one to organize. Don't for-get Cities round trip, of Ordinaries, Wipers, and Messmen. This is a.clear Service arid the Tidewater ships. violation of Shipping Rule number 30. Because of this ignorance These companies ar-e small, but of our Rules, often a bitter beef results which can louse up an they could mean a whole lot to entire trip, as well as cause hot beefs at shoreside meetings. the SIU. They would pr-ovide ad­ The membership should make it their business to study the ditional coastwise runs and sup­ Constitution and Shipping Rules, as well as all Union literature. plement the ones we already have. This goes for officials also. Not only that, but at the same This will help us all to protect our individual rights, and make time we would be eliminating for a bigger and better Union. two other non-union companies A membership ignorant of its own rules and procedure means fi'om the maritime field. As long an ignorant union. An ignorant union has no chance of survival, as one unorganized company re- SIU Stand On Taft-Hartley Act Below is the SIU's program and position on the Taft-Hartley Act as adopted b)' the Union in member­ ship meetings up and down the coast on July 2. 1—The SIU-SUP go on record as not tolerating in any way, shape, or form, any interference with our Union Halls by shipowners or Govvernment bureaus. 2- -The SIU-SUP to consider as a lockout any attempts by any person or persons to use the Taft-Hartley Act to the detriment of our Unions. 3- -We make known immediately to the AFL, as well as to the AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ ment, our position on this matter. -That we call for a meeting as soon as pos­ sible with the Maritime Trades Department on this matter. -That we make known our position on the Taft-Hartley Act through the medium of the Seafarers Log and the West Coast Sailor. 'JI �THE SEAFARERS Page Four ;; ^ CoHs Etonomk Action Answer To Taft-Hartley LOG Friday, July 18. 1847 mMSBHSHlP By LINDSEY WILLIAMS I wish to reply to thai part of cs and their political stooges try Brother Goodman's letter in last some finking stunt that will put By J, P. SHULER. Secretary-Treasurer week's LOG in which he stated the organization in danger—by that all labor unions should unite economic action at the point of July 16, 1947 take advantage of what they con-1 subjected to the various terms of and form its own political party. oroduction. sider will be a favorable sifua- the Taft-Hartley Bill which cov­ Taft-Hartley In my opinion, that is not the ECONOMIC ACTION WORKS tion of the recent passing of the er the matter of union reinstate­ answer to organized labor's prob­ SIU-SUP Representatives Hall Taft-Hartley Act, and try to im­ ments, Headquarters Offices are And no matter what anybody lem. says about this direct action, one and "Weisberger attended the pair our conditions. This mem­ drafting a resolution on this mat­ I think that vicious attacks on thing is damned certain — it AFL Conference of Unions in bership is aware of the policy of ter which is attached hereto and labor can be beat by the unions work.s. V\/'henever it was neces­ 'Washington, D. C., Wednesday, the SIU and before any terms of is being sent to all ports for ac­ without them getting involved in sary, the Seafarers has beeh able July 9, 1947, as was formerly an­ our contracts are surrendered, tion on Wednesday, July 16. politics, and spending lots of we will, of course, hit the bricks. to settle its major beefs by eco­ nounced to the membership. dough and energy on stuff that The membership will be ad­ nomic action. It's a sure, short­ Their report and the program isn't the work of a trade union. vised as to the outcome of the cut way for labor to show its adopted by the AFL was run A union's job is to protect the next meeting with the operators. gmemies it means business. verbatim in last week's SEA­ rights of its membership. When If labor goes in for politicking, FARERS LOG. The summariza­ those rights are threatened, the Union Operations it's got to be ready for plenty of tion and analysis of this bill will Union should be prepared to horsing around. It'll mean be run in the SEAFARERS LOG The retrenching program of take the most effective action months and months, maybe in several parts, the first section the Union is coming along nicely there is to show its enemies it years, of expensive effort—and of this report to be carried in with practically all of the outcan't be kicked around. there's no guarantee that when this coming week's issue. ports cooperating in the matter The membership of the Sea­ it's all over with we'll be any The full impact and the vi- of saving the membership quite farers International Union is further than we arc now. ciousncss of the Taft-Hartley a bit of dough. against political action. It favors The Seafarers way of direct Bill has not been realized by Members are called upon in all the union policy of using eco­ sction is quick and sure. We most organizations as yet. The ports to work with the officials nomic action whenever the bossproved that it brings results. Seafarers, for example, has not as much as possible so as to make In the same way that the SIU yet come into contact with any­ for good representation, at the The last remaining legal ob­ has made economic action work one attempting to use it in the same time keeping it at a mini­ stacle has been removed from whenever the bosses tried to put Maritime Industry. The Union's mum eost. the path, and the SIU is now able a head on our union, all labor position and program to combat It seems as though the ship­ to negotiate a contract with Isth­ unions can show their strength. this Act is carried in this past ping boom which was e.xperienc- mian Steamship Company. The power of all workers— week's issue of the LOG and ed in some of the big ports is The NMU "has withdrawn all whether they ai'c seamen, tool- will be carried permanently in row going to taper off. Book charges and, as a result, the op­ makers, coal miners, or sewing the LOG for some time. members are urged to take all erator is free to negotiate with machine operators — is right The SIU shall be on guard to jobs possible so as to prevent the the SIU. Isthmian has been no­ where they do their jobs—at the prevent the u.se of this Act to issuanee of any more tripcards tified of this action and we ai-e crush this Union which we have (Continued from Page }) production, than are absolutely necessary. now waiting word from them as ed with the facts concerning both worker in this country built with a cost of much effort, For every book members tak­ to the setting of the date for the LSU and the NMU, and theni thiow down his tools time and sacrifice. ing jobs now, it will mean that commencement of negotiations. you can resolve your mind about bosses and their polimuch better shipping a year Results of such meetings will be Negotiations li'cal stooges try to kick us be­ them. from now. made known to the membership. low the belt, it would be a dif­ The Negotiating Committee How can an outfit like the oneThe question of reinstatement ferent kind of fight. The Quarterly Financial Re­ company LSU give j'ou job semet several times with the op­ of members more than one year port for the first quarter has been 'cui'ity, competent union repre­ erators since the last regular PEFiSONAL BUSINESS in arrears in dues and assess­ submitted to Headquarters, and sentation, or any form of support Personally, I don't give a hoot meeting. It seemed as though at ments has been kicked around in it is recommended that an Audit­ in time of a beef? According to whether a guy v/ants to vote or first we would be able to promptseveral .of the ports. ing Committee be elected in the their own literature, dated July not. That's his own business. settle our differences with To prevent any further cross­ Port of New York for the pur­ 1, 1947, all of the LSU officers ai'c When it comes down to the fact these people in the matter of fire between the various ports on pose of auditing the books and men sailing on the Cleveland- that our bread and butter, and all contracts, as laid out in previous this matter, and at the same time bills of the Union for the first Cliffs ships. we've done to win it, is going to j "^ffo^'^tions reports. However, quarter. to protect our Union from being How are those men going to be shoved down the drain, then the situation is now changed. represent you when they are we should all act together. The operators notified us in busy sailing on ships themselves? The answer to the Tafts and our last meeting with them that How is the LSU going to do a Hartleys and their whole crew of they would go along with a raise job for any seamen when their smoke-blowing politicians is eco- in wages, vacation clause, payonly shoreside representative is nf^ic action. WHEREAS; There are certain provisions in the "Taft-Hart­ an attorney, one Meyer Cook ley Bill" which penalize a Union for not allowing any man Let all the labor unions adopt who derives the major portion of the same program that we in the membership in any Union he desires, as well as sections dealing his income from the shipping in­ Seafarers are following and with reinstatements of former Union members, and terests whom he represents in there'd be nothing to it. WHEREAS: Because of the failure of several officials to his capacity as a lawyer? Thirteen million workers all conform with membership rules whereby they have reinstated How is the almost bankrupt acting at one time—at the point men who were more then 12 months in arrears in dues, which and corrupt NMU going to rep­ of production—would make mon­ was contrary to membership action taken on a coastwise scale, resent you and take care of your keys out of the slick-talking as per our constitution, and beefs when their leaders are so ward-heelers who think they can WHEREAS: If these officials continue to follow the policy busy fighting among themselves write us out of existence. of ignoring the rules of our membership on this issue, it may to decide who shall cut up what , That's my answer. Why talk well result in our Union being put in a tough spot because of little pie is left in their treasury? cbout getting all labor into such actions being a part of the Slave-Labor Act, and How would you like to join an political party. Unions are eco­ WHEREAS: Headquarters has repeatedly called this to the outfit whose organizers are now nomic organizations and that's attention of the offending parties and has not yet received the going around urging seamen on where they know the score. ment of holidays at sea for Deck full cooperation of the officials guilty of such, so the vessels which the SIU has Let them adopt militant pro­ and Engine Departments, as well THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That we, the undersign­ already petitioned fur elections grams and then put them into as various clarifications, provid­ ed members in goo4 standing in the SIU, go on record that no to vote "No Union" rather than action when they have to, and ing that we agreed, first of all, Port Agent, or any official, can accept dues from any former vote for the SIU? Is that the you wouldn't hear a word about Lu give up the clause in our con­ member who may be more than 12 months in arrears in dues kind of unionism, NMU style, "slave-labor laws." tract giving us the right to open and/or assessments, and you want? wage scales any time we see fit, and secondly, to allow the com­ No, Lakes .seamen want no BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That all ports forward all pany full and complete reign -in part of either of these phony such applications for reinstatements to Headquarters Offices for the hiring of Chief Stewards. outfits. That's why they are vot­ action, and that once Headquarters has acted on same, the re­ Word has come lo this of­ sults to be made known to the members through Headquarters • V ing for the SIU, and that's why NO SURRENDER fice that the Seafarer Log is Reports and/or communications, and they will continue to vote for not to be found in some of Your Negotiating Committee the only union on the Lakes the seamen's Clubs in for­ BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: That the membership be turned the shipowners down on which is free from internal dis­ r eign ports. made acquainted with the seriousness of this problem and when this proposal, and told the nego­ sension, boss control or foreign and if this policy is adopted thai all officials be instructed to be Whenever in a foreign port tiating committee for the ship­ domination from Moscow. governed by the rules as contained in this resolution. go to the seamen's Clubs and owners that, as far as the SIU Lakes seamen will continue to see if the Log is displayed. If is concerned, we don't intend to Signed by: Signed by: vote for and join the SIU, be­ you don't see it, ask for it. surrender one part of our con­ cause it's the only Union on the Paul Hall, 190 Find out why it is not put J. P. Shuler, 101 tract. We further requested an Lakes with the contracts, repre­ out, and leave some of your Lindsey Williams, 21150 early answer from the shipown­ J. S. White. 56 sentation, security and strength ship's copies of the Log there. ers on this matter and meetings C. M. TannehiU, 25922 W. Higgs, 223 to give them the forty hour week, Notify the Seafarers Log of are scheduled for one day this A1 Kerr, 29134 O. Drawdy, 28523 highest wages in the industry, all Clubs v/here you do not week. Eddie Parr, 96 and the best working and living H. J. Fiekutowski, 23814 find the SIU paper. The Union does not intend to conditions afloat! let the shipowners attempt to LSU And LCA Turn To Lies To Fight SIU Resolution On Reinstatements f\ Attention Seafarers �Friday, July 18, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Deep In The Heart Of Galveston Hall 'J , hi <• ! J .•s-•••> 4 ti Is V Iv. Wh< w'm'ihz V.i ixy-.l m m- -xV. iw hSMaPff C4 Iccpt -iM. ^ > v.i i P>4A . voirR vouR' smeMtm. The busiest place in the Galveston Hall is right in front of the Dispatch Board. Here are the men waiting for Dispatcher Mickey Wilburn to call off the available jobs, and then will be heard saying a voice, "I'll take that one." With democratic rotary shipping, if the man who wants the job has been on the beach longest, it's kis for the asking. Shipping is so good in Gal­ veston that few men stay on the beach any longar than a couple of days, unless, of course, they v/ant to linger a while in the many local hot spots. Leon "Blondie" Johnson, former Port Arthur Agent, and at present a Galveston Patrolman, points to the sign that out­ lines the Seafarers policy. These signs dot the walls in the Galveston Hall, and make clear that the membership and no others control shipping and everything else in this Union. Tr-1 Between calls, these men sit and rest. There's plenty of reading material available, including the LOG, and the men take advantage of that. Many men also use the time to write letters to the LOG, to their friends and relatives, and to their girl friends. There have been many changes in the Texas area, and Keith Alsop, above, is the Agent for Galveston, appointed by the Secretary-Treasurer, and concurred in by the membership. Keith is an oldiimer who started sailing many years ago out of Norfolk. He's held many elective positions in the SIU, and he is doing a. fine job where he is now. Off to the payoff, Ray Sweeney, Pelrolman, left, carries a bundle of LOGs so that the men aboard ship can get caught up on the latest news. It's good nev/s, too, because it announces the SIU certification in the Isthmian election. : lilC Mickey Wilburn, Dispatcher, right, also doubles as a Patrolman. Here he goes over a problem with Dale McDonald, FWT. Mickey also makes ships for payoffs and sign ons, and does his share of the organizing work. A letter to his family is being written by Bill Chastnin, AB. Bill says that one thing he appreciates about the SIU Halls is the fact that he can write a letter or sit and read, if he wants to. — �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 18, 1947 Philadelphia Agent Calls For More Cooperation With Log By E. S. HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — This is a job, instead of the ships' crews hint to the membership — no and it assigns eight to ten men doubt nearly everybody reads to each siiip. the LOG, and sees all of its pages Should the arbitrators decide full of news and views. I wonder that the work is to be done by how many of us ever stopped longshoremen, then the court was to take time out to realize that petitioned that they should also without news we would Mt be decide the number of men in able to get the LOG to read. a hatch gang. On reading my LOG of July River anchorages here were Silence this week from Ihe By SONNY SIMMONS 4th, 1 see where 15 branches of reported this week as filled to Branch Agents of ihe followthe SlU have not contributed capacity, while incoming vessels TAMPA — Shipping remains week. The Deck Delegate cqiled any news. Well, in my opinion. were notified not to proceed up 'ing ports: at a peak here with replace­ for a Patrolman, and when the this is really letting ye olde Ed- the Deleware above Marcus Hook JACKSONVILLE ments as hard to get as a drink Patrolman arrived, everything itor down. I unless berthing facilities were BOSTON of ice water in hell At the pres­ was fine. In fact, the only reason Although each Agent is sup- available immediately. About 1« ent time we have three Water­ they called for an official was MONTREAL posed to send in a piece for the vessels were awaiting cargoes man Victories in port, each of to be told how nice the ship was! NORFOLK LOG it looks like some of them of coal. them calling for a rated man in should be reminded by the July SAVANNAH GIN MILL MEETING both the Deck and Engine De­ 'SAUCERS' EXPLAINED 4th issue that they are falling CLEVELAND partments. Imagine our surprise when a by the wayside. I The Republicans are anxious BUFFALO On top of that, we are having call came the next morning for a While we are on the subject to cut taxes — yet boost rents DULUTH a tough time keeping Deck and Patrolman and the Agent to of news for the LOG, 1 know and food prices for taxpayers. Engine men on the SS Florida. come down to the Channel Bar, that the Editor would gladly You figure it out. Between the The ceadline for port re­ Offshore men don't want the jobs a gin mill right near the Bull print any items that were sub­ skyhigh food prices and these ports, monies due, etc., is since the Florida is in port most Lines docks. mitted by the rank-and-file, so "flying saucers" we're inclined the Monday proceeding "pub­ of the time. We went right down, and let's get together, members and to believe somebody's setting the lication. While every effort There are seven AB and four found the Delegate gassing up. .swamp ye olde Editor with some table up 'thar' to keep up with will be made to use in the Oiler jobs on the board at this He told us that the Mate was news. the prices. current issue material re­ writing, and not a man in the aboard the ship renewing a guy. We paid off the Alfred Moore Mayor Samuel asked all land­ ceived after that date, space Hall. of the Waterman Line last week. lords to refrain from "visiting commitments generally do Had something of a funny Big Mike Gibson and Izzy Cohen undue hardships" on tenants un­ not permit us to do so. were aboard and, between the der the liberalized Federal rent beef on a Bull Lines scow last two of them, they kept the boys control law. He warned that the happy. city will exhaust every possibil­ ity that the law permits to safe­ KEEP ON HATING guard renters. The Taft-Hartley Act is cer­ Speaking of laws, we got the, tainly a hot topic of discussion lowdown on Pennsylvania legis­ these days. I only hope this lation at a meeting held Wed­ By SALVADOR COLLS feeling of utter hate still exists nesday night, July 9, by the on election day. If it does woe Central Labor Union with James SAN JUAN — Shipping is on stantly in a hell of a predicabe it to its sponsors and also the L. McDevitt, president of the the "Full Speed Ahead" bell ment when it comes time to ones who voted in support of it. Penna. Federation of Labor and again after a comparitive slow furnish replacements. "1 am a Republican" or "I am Louis E. Wilderman, attorney of period. The disruptive effect of Those who get off find the a Democrat" should have no the AFL unions, as speakers. the local longshoremen's strike beachcombing so good that they So we went on board, and got Among the bills signed are in­ has about petered out now and don't even show in the Hall the whole story. The Mate told us that the cluded; Ban on secondary boy­ with the ships again entering the until several weeks later. And 'riEv! WHAT IS-THIS ?-THE 'A' A rest of the Deck Gang was cotts and jurisdictional disputes; Island on their regular runs, when they finally do come in, •Tl?AINrAW*^OV»?-LerMEW.' » ashore gassing up, and that he ban on unemployment compen­ shipping will soon boom from it's to take a whack at the really had a beef, not the crew. sation to strikers; all round here on out. shoregang for a few days for A stranger situation you never working hours for women; and Two or three men get off j enough dough to keep 'em in saw. slashing employers contribution every vessel — sometimes as rum and coke and rice and beans. The Mate had a good record. to the state's unemployment com­ many as a half-dozen pile off in the order named. Every time the ship docked the pensation fund. a single scow — so we are conThis piecarding is sure one Bosun had orders to knock off hell of a way to make a living. half the gang, no overtime was The guy who coined the term ever disputed, and all hands "piecarding" had evidently just could turn to on overtime any eaten a piece of Shuler's pie! time they cared to. Not a man PEFORMING DECLINES was on the ship to renew the guy, and the Longshoremen were We make every ship in the place in the minds of American By MAURICE DOLE woz'king cargo. Someone had to harbor at least once a day. The Labor today. What it should be do it. ASHTABULA — One of the and win the best contracts and biggest beef is with the perform­ is, "I am a Union man and am crewmembers off the SS Pontiac, conditions for the seamen — the ers. However, since the mem­ going to vote labor." QUICK DECISION bership has clamped down on A bit of intei'esting news was a Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company SlU! When told to go back to the these characters, we are happy an item in one of our town's' ^hip, dropped into the hall reANOTHER REASON ship and turn to, some of the leading papers the other day,' cently and gave us the lowdown to report that most of them are Another strong reason why the men were in favor of piling off. to the effect that the operators ' conditions aboard his vessel, confining their performing to Lakes seamen should join the We warned them that any man were going to sue the Longshore-1 According to this Brother, they off-watch hours. SlU is the recent enactment of piling off under those circum­ men because they were opening carry the two-pot system a little When we trotted aboard the stances would be bought up on the Taft-Hartley Bill. and closing hatches on coal ^ips further on the SS Pontiac This legislation will take away SS Francis, Bull Lines, we exbeing loaded here. do on most unorganiz- the rights that labor has fought Pe^^^ed the usual petty chow charges, and then they, recon­ sidered. The item stated that this was Lakes ships, years to win. If you are an unor­ beefs. Instead, we were agreeIf we had men to replace those formerly done by the seamen at j Drop into the Pontiac dining ganized seamen without any ably surprised to find the crew characters, we would have done a much lower cost and this work, room where the officers eat, and .strong union affiliation, only by perfectly happy and lauding the done by longshoremen, is cost- you can find the best of every- becoming a member of a strong, Chief Steward to high heaven so right then and there. Labor in Tampa is supporting ing operators millions annually, thing including all kinds of fresh union like the SlU will your Surprised, that is, until we met a full ticket in the elections this (Some stuff, eh boss?) fruit in and out of season. But the belly-robber, who was none fall. Labor is going down the rights be fully protected. d's very different in the crew's other than oldtimer Rudy Keiest, line for a Mayor and seven Already, on many of the Lake ARBITRATION messroom. There you're lucky one of the top men in the busi­ Aldermen. The administration Carriers ships, company officials Whether stevedores or sailors if you ever get any fresh fruit! ness. Keep 'em feeding, Rudy! that is in power now gave us a and officers have begun to throw should open and close the hatch- j Is this another one of the ways their weight around. They know Brothers Lockwood and Mor­ hard time during our strike, and es on coal ships was the prin- that the "strong" Lake Sailors that on an unorganized ship they gan have teamed up with some now we will get a chance to cipal question involved in an Union works for the members, don't have the powerful SlU to half-dozen other beachcombers return the compliment. aciior. filed with Judge Thomas and gets them the best possible contend with. When you have of more recent vintage, and they Bluett, presiding over the sum- conditions? And, according to no union to protect you, you all plan to rent a whole floor mcr court of Common Pleas. their own literature, the officers have no such thing as job secur­ atop the Pennsylvania Bar. tTo settle the question the court of the LSU are working seamen ity, job protection or any of the They are going to cook there, wae asKed to require Local 1291 on the Cliffs ships. They must benefits of union representation too. What's worse — they are If you don't find linen of the International Longshore- know what's going on. under a bonafide SlU contract. going to use Frenchy Michelet's when you go aboard your men's Association, AFL, to arWake up. Cliffs seamen! Get Get wise. Get behind the Sea­ recipes dug up from some old ship, notify the Hall at once. Oitrate the matter with the Gen- rid of that handcuffed "independ- farers drive to organize all of LOG issues. Imagine the kind A telegram from Le Havre or wrtl Committee of Steamship ent ur ion" called the Lake Sail- the unorganized seamen on the of heads these guys are going Singapore won't do you any Lines and Employing Stevedores, j ors Union, and join the only Great Lakes. That's the only way to wake up with after a binge good. It's your bed and you The Union insists that its Union on the Lakes which has that you will enjoy security fol on monkey rum and Frenchy's have to lie in it. "• members are entitled to the the guts and militancy to go out you and your family. • soup! Replacements Scarce In Tampa; NO NEWS?? Even SS Florida Has Tough Time Beachcombing Too Attractive, San Juan Has Few Replacements Another LSU Membership Sellout: Two Stewpots On The Pontiac '{•K s •• AnENTION! b rj �Friday. July 18. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Great Lakes Performers Are Warned By FRED FARNEN DETROIT—Recently, a small number of performers among the Great • Lakes Seafarers have been making a nuisance out of them­ selves, and causing disturbances out of all pro­ portion to their actual numbers. A stop must be called to their anti-union activities, once and for all. The.se particular individuals are a disgrace to the name of the SIU, and the r^uicker they are eliminated from our Union the better olT the Union will be. There is no place in the SIU for a gashound or winehead who comes around the Union Hall causing a disturbanop, mooching or otherwise acting in a manner un­ becoming to a union member. The SIU constitution plainly states in sev­ eral sections that intoxication aboard ship, at Uniort meetings, or in the Union Hall will not be tolerated, and violators will be duly pun­ ished. These sections are going to be followed to the exact letter! CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS Sections of the Constitution which speci­ fically apply to performers are as follows: ARTICLE XX. Section 5. Any member who. through drunkeness or bad conduct on board ship, brings the Union into ill repute or causes the delay of a vessel, shall be lined not less than Five Dollars (S5.00) for the first of­ fense, and for any subsequent offense shall be punished as may be determined by the Trial Committee. ARTICLE XX, Section 9. Any member charged with an offense against the laws and rules of the Union or against the good and wel­ fare of the Union, not covered by any penal­ ties herein described, shall, upon proper trial, be subject to such penalty as the Trial Com­ mittee shall recommend and the Union deter­ mine. ARTICLE XX, Section 11. No drunken­ ness. intoxicating liquors or gambling of any kind shall be permitted in the Union Halls. Anyone violating this rule shall be fined not less than Ten Dollars ($10.00) and not more than Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00). BY-LAWSi Section 3. No member under the influence of liquor shall be admitted to any meeting, and the Chairman shall strictly en­ force this rule. BY-LAWS. Section 5. Any member who disturbs the meeting and who refuses or ne­ glects to obey when called to order by the Chair shall be liable to a fine of Five Dollars ($5.00) and shall be compelled to retire from the meeting. NECESSARY AUTHORITY As you can plainly see from reading these provisions of the Constitution, all of the nec­ essary authority is placed in the hands of the duly elected officials, membership, -and meet­ ing Chairman to discipline by any necessary means those who abuse the privileges of mem­ bership in* the Great Lakes District of the Sea­ farers International Union. Our Union is a strong one, and we have gained a reputation for always pursuing a mil­ itant and just course for the good of all sea­ men. We can't afford to let a few irresponsibles jeopardize the reputation and well-being of our entire membership. Certainly, the vast majority of members in the SIU are conscientious in performing their duties and assuming their responsibilities as members of the best damn Union on the water­ front. For that very reason, all performers are given one final warning. If you feel like acting up, drinking, cussing out someone, or otherwise acting in a manner unbecoming a Union member, stay away from the Union Hall, the Union meeting, or our SIUcontracted ships. Violators of this . are. going to get the works under the Constitution. We don't want performers in the SIU. This. is final! Plenty Of Activity In Galveston; Gashounds And Performers Wane By KEITH ALSOP GALVESTON — What with covering Port Arthur and Hous­ ton, in addition to this port, we are really going 'round and 'round down here. Last week we paid off the Charles Leacock, South Atlantic; the Bret Harte, Watei-man; and the James Gillis, Smith and Johnson. The Leacock and the Bret Harte have already signed on again. The Bret Harte came in from Japan with several members who are oldtimei-s in our organization. Those men were woi'se than any Permitmen I have ever seen. There were quite a few log­ gings which we were able to get rid of, and the men collected 800 hours overtime that was. dis­ puted by the Engineers. Abe Ellis and Nevin Ellis, Preacher Perry, and Pat Whit­ man left Galveston with big fishing trips on their minds. Jack Kelly is back on the beach here after a shoi't vacation in Mobile, and One Round King is still in town — with some money left. ONT^THEIR OWN The shipyard workers at Gal­ veston Drydock and Brown Ship­ yard are out on strike, but we haven't been asked for help yet. The shipyard union seems to have enough men to carry its own load. One tanker each week is the average that comes in to Port Arthur and Lake Charles, and those ships are covered as soon as they dock. One Isthmian ship recently hit Houston, and that was covered by Johnny Ward and myself. We aren't having trouble with the gashounds and performers any moi'e. They found out that drinking ax'ound the Hall would not be tolerated, and it's been cut out. Membership cooperation has been very good, and we hope it continues. It's hardly worth to mention that the state of Texas has the worst labor laws of any state in the U. S. Even without the Taft-Hartley Act, Texas workers have been stripped of most of their rights. The only solution that we can offer is for the membership to be damn sure to use their constitu­ tional rights and vote in the coming elections. In that way we will be able to have men in Congress who represent all of us, not just the big businessmen. The "flying discs" are still around these parts, but fortun­ ately no damage has been done. Chief Stewards If your requisition is cut, or if the food is not up.lo par, notify all. three Delegates at once so that, the ship will not sail until the matter has been straightened out. It is the responsibility of the Steward to check, the stores before, the ship sails, and any complaints made far at sea won't do the crew any good if they have to eat short rations or poor food. New Form For Listing Repairs Should End Company Stalling By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—In an attempt to J coming aboard can see what is halt the practice of companies needed, and the last copy is to .stalling and pretending ignor­ be held at the SIU Branch. ance as to repairs needed on their If this is done, it should put ships, the SIU is preparing re­ an end to the companies' prac­ pair list forms to be carried on tice of stating they know nothing all ships. about a repair list; they can't We've found that a lot of very well ignore four lists. trouble has been caused by the FILL IT OUT lack of a system for the adjust­ At the bottom of the new ment of repairs aboard .ships, so forms will be a place for the we're going to put out these three departmental Delegates and forms and see how they work. the ship's delegate to sign their A recent occurrence aboard the names. Fill it out completely. Charles Nordhoff, Alcoa Steam­ Sometimes omissions confuse ship Corp., is a good illustration of what we hope to eliminate thing.s, especially if the name of the ship is left off. with these new forms. These forms will be in the The Noj-dhoff hit port here a hands of all Agents in the near couple of weeks ago, and at the future; grab yourself a handful payoff the crew turned the re­ before you start your next trip. pair list over to the company. Situi;ti(ms like that aboard the The ship was in port for about Charles Nordhoff are not an two weeks and a rrc!W was called cveryd.'iy occurrence, thank God. lor. The time came for signing In Neiv York, this week, we on and a Patrolman went down had seveial ships that came in to t!ie ship. Ho went aboard and, after for good payo.ffs, which the Pa­ speaking to the Delegates, found trolmen reported a^ among the that nothing had been repaired. best they had had the pleasure to handle. DON'T KNOW NUTHIN The crews came in with all The sign on was delayed and their books, overtime sheets and imiTiediatoly a company official beefs all ready for the Patrol­ hot-footed it to the ship claiming man, and on each ship the crew that he had never received a re­ was completely sober. pair list and knew nothing about The DeSoto and Hastings of it. Waterman Steamship Company However, when he was told were two fine ships, as was the that the crew would not sign on Joliet Victory of Robin Line. until the repairs were made, he The Newburg, Los Angeles immediately did a Houdini and Tankers, gave the Patrolmen an produced the repair list. The easy time, although she had been Nordhoff then sailed in true SIU out for over six months; and the :nyle. That gives j'ou an idea of what the Patrolmen and the crews run into occasionally when a ship is hit for a big repair list. The'.e iiew forms should eliminate much of this, if a simple routine is followed. Four copies of the complete re­ pair list should be handed to the Patrolman at the payoff with everything needed noted in de­ tail. The Patrolman in turn will give one to the Skipper, one to the company, one to be placed Archer, Bloomfield, came in "^vith in the messroom, so the new crew Hying colors. All of them were Shipping Only Fair in Baitlmore, But Should Pick-Up Shortly By WILLIAM RENTZ BALTIMORE — We are ring­ ing the slow bell on shipping down here, but business and shipping should . pick up in the near future. Plenty of ships come in here, in transit, and with the sign-ons that are pending", soon the Hall will be deserted again. All beefs on the four ships which paid off last week were Reports have been coining settled to the complete satis­ in citing dirty deals given faction of every crewmember. seamen by several laundries, All overtime was okayed before which profess to "cater to the first man drew his pay. men of the sea." There were a few gashounds Roland 'Velasco of the SS on the ships, and we pulled them Arch Hopkins reports that off. We also picked up a couple Ungar's Laundry of St. John. of permits. The ginmill com­ N. Bii picks up laundry mandoes are no good to the aboard ships in that porL. Union whatsoever, and this port with the promise that it will intends to live up to the recomreturned by the weekend. mendatio'n to keep the gashounds The promise is never lived and performers in their place. up to. The shipyard workers are still "They don't say in which on strike, and we are respecting year it will be returned." says their jiicketlines. They issue 'Velasco, warning Seafarers clearance cards whenever our to keep their laundry out of men absolutely have to go aboard Ungar's hands. a ship that is within their lines. Keep Your Shirt On Page Seven The action ought to bo over soon, and wc wish those guys all the luck in the v/orld. IN THERE PITCHING Organizing activity still con­ tinues at a good rate. Our men meet all Isthmian ships that hit this place, and we recruit men to go to the Isthmian office for jobs. Some of them get the jobs, some don't, and then we get a couple more volunteers and send them down. Everything is in good shape here, and all the men look for­ ward to the day when we get that signed contract with Isth­ mian. It's been a long uphill struggle; the men who took part in it are confident that they can do the same job in any other unorganized company. The Taft-Hartley Act is caus­ ing a lot of conversation. SIU members are not too worried be­ cause they" know that the Union has bucked tlie Government be­ fore and won, and can do the same thing again, if necessary. fine ships and a credit to the SIU RETIRE YOUR BOOK Although I'x e .said this before, I'd like to mention it once again -—perhaps it will save some Brother a lot of trouble later on. If you have intentions of leav­ ing the industry for good or for a short period, be sure to retii-e your book. Tiiere is nothing dif­ ficult about it. and will greatly lacilitate your returning to sea if you decide to do so later. Merely call in person or mail your bool: to 51 Beaver Street, New York, c, o 6th Floor, and mention that you wish to have your book retired. In a few days your retirement card will be re­ turned to you and you'll be all set. Here are a few items of inter­ est to certain members; Alcoa Steamship Corporation now has their six percent retro­ active pay ready and the checks are being mailed. If you wish you can call for your money in person at their offices, 17 Battery Place, New York. Here's a real oldie that went the rounds but finally is paying off for the men in question. The extra month's wages for the crew of the Richard Henry Lee, voy­ age beginning June 1, 1945, will be ready in about two weeks. �THE Page Eight SEAFARERS LOG PROUD OF THEIR SHIP Plenty Of Ships ComingAnd Going In Now Orleans Tt-iday, July 18. 1947 Frisco Signs Now Contract, Another Coming By W. H. SIMMONS By EARL SHEPPARD SAN FRANCISCO — We have NEW ORLEANS — Everything just finished organizing the is running smoothly, smoother Golden Gate Steamship Com­ than ever before, and it looks pany, which is the sightseeing like N. O. will continue to be a Bay boat, and the contract is humming port. signed, sealed, and delivered. We have three Mississippi supWe are working on the Crow­ erliners, and two Alcoa luxury ley Towboat outfit, and expect ships calling this port home, to have an agreement with this and that ain't hay. company in a short time. Mississippi has the SS Del That's the way it goes out Norte, the SS Del Sud, and the here on the Gold Coa.st. We SS Del Mar; and Alcoa has the keep right after Isthmian, and Clipper and the Corsair. When at the .same time go out after these big babies come in, there's the unorganized companies. plenty of activity. Shipping is good in all ratings, Last week we had five ships and even unrated men don't have paying off. and five ships sign­ to wait too long before making ing on. There were very few a job from the board. beefs, and we are glad to report We paid off the SS Valdosta that only minor beefs came up The entire crew of the SS Alcoa Corsair assembled on deck for a picture. That sign in front Victory, Seas .Shipping Company, on the Del Norte and the Alcoa of the group is one they believe in and live by. It's a good idea, and one that could be used on last week, and had a couple of Corsair. all SIU ships. beefs to straighten out. The These vessels carry a crew of Mate worked on deck, so the better than a hunderd men each, crew demanded overtime and and so they are not expected to collected it.. No gangway watches come in perfect. But we can say were held for the entire trip, that those ships come in as near nine months, and OT was ob­ perfect as any passenger ships tained for that. also. afloat. All told, this meant a lot of The Messroom of the Corsair extra cabbage to tlie crew. sported a sign that could well be hung in the Messrooms of all MATE'S LESSON fury of the German bombers, In 1939, when war clouds were SIU ships. Here is what it said: On the Pcnmar, the Mate also but luckily B. G. came out of it "This SIU ship is a clean ship gathering over Europe. B. G. worked on deck, and he was all without a .scratch. and your home. So Brothers. Zelencic was one of those young paid off by the Skipper. The With the end of hostilities. NOT 1, NOT 2, but the entire men who couldn't decide what Captain, also promised not to Brother Zelencic. was still sail­ SIU crew must do its part to to do with his future. Nothing antagonize the crew anymore, he tried seemed to be what he ing the ships with no intention keep her sailing smooth." as was his praclice on this last wanted. He had held several of giving up the sea. The grip REALLY BUSY trip. jobs, but somehow none of them of the sea was too strong for We have our usual run of gasShipping is still hectic here j seemed to be ju.st what he was him to return to the humdrum hounds here, but on the who-le with more than 300 men shipping j searching for. life ashore. I can report complete coopera­ each and every week. Not many One day he was discussing the tion from all the other members. TOO MUCH HAPPENING oldtimers are left on the beach Gashounds have no place in our as they don't want to miss the problem with his brother-in-law, There was too much to do and organization, if they get load­ god jobs that come up on the who said, "I know just what too much to be seen in the life ed and then become performers. you want. I used to be the board. of a Seafarer for him ever to Nobody blames a man for tak­ Jimmy DeVito, Fritz Rickoll same as you, and I found the give up. If he wasn't sailing, ing a drink, but a man who can't place for me by going to sea." and L. E. Wessels are a few of there was always a new port to hold his liquor is a menace to the oldtimers who are here now. j His brother-in-law, now re­ ;ee or a strike to be won. the Union. These characters have Brother Rickoll boasts of being tired from the sea, had sailed Out on the picketlines he hoof­ I been told that performing and in the Union longer, with less for many years and had been a ed many a mile to insure the ^ phony militancy is out from now seatime, than any other member. , member of the old ISU. ?ontinuation and improvement I on, and the membership is preMost of his time is standby. He knew the value of unions of good conditions and wages . pared to take action against any The towboat field, being work­ B. G. ZELENCIC and so he gave Zelencic a part­ that go wit hsailing. guy who steps out of line. ed by Brother Warren Wyman, ing word of advice before he sent Thursday, July 5, the SUP In the '41 strike. Brother Zelwell-known Isthmian organizer, him off to find a ship. "If you're assigned to the SS Evelyn, Bull observed "Bloody Thursday." ncic was on the line, and during and Trussel Beatrouse is straight­ going to sea, be sure you join Lines. Brother Zelencic found This has been a Memorial Day the demonstration against Harry ening out perfectly. We would a union, and make sure the more than he had expected in for the Sailors Union since 1934. Bridges' Coos Bay raid he carlike to have Headquarters okay going to sea his first trip. The union is the SIU." one page of the LOG for Towlife of a seaman appealed to him. ride a picket sign on Staten Isl­ A large meeting was held in So, with this in mind. Brother the Hall, and flowers were plac­ boat news and pictures in and That was the clincher; seagoing and. Zelencic presented himself to the ed on the spot where our Broth­ around the Gulf. That would The '46 General Strike was dif­ life was the life for him. ers were killed while fighting encourage more Towboat men to SIU late in 1939 ready to take After the Evelyn he took ship ferent, however. He was aboard for the rights which we now en­ write and send pictures to their a ship and hoping that here he I ship in far off Hongkong and would find what he was search­ after ship and found good con­ joy. own Union newspaper. ditions, fine foods and good pay had to make his contribution in (Editor's note: A story about (Editor's Note: Send 'em in, ing for. moral support. aboard them all. Then came He was given a tidpcard and "Bloody Thursday." plus the and we'll print 'cm.) At the moment looking for Pearl Harbor and war. pictures taken on July 5 and another ship in the New York With the opening of hostili­ forwarded by Brother Simmons ties, Brother Zelencic stayed at Hall, Brother Zelencic, who sails will be found elsewhere in this sea and continued to sail as Oiler, is ready to take the issue of the LOG.) throughout the war, taking the first ship that comes up on the By BLACKIE CARDULLO ships through the dangerous board. He has no favorite company, MARCUS HOOK — Shipping Some of the fellows are in­ waters of the South Atlantic ship or run, as they are all the and later through the mine-inhas slowed down a little, but different to the drive, and the Agents and Seafarers have quite a few of the boys have same of the men who sailed Isth­ fe.sted and dive bombed Mediter- same to him. been inquiring as to the rea­ anean. "Some say Bull Lines doesn't been back to see us lately and mian are not volunteering to do son for late deliveries of the feed good, but I always got as During his many trips he that helps to keep things lively. a part in this campaign. SEAFARERS LOG to their good food aboard Bull Ships as heard the whistle of bombs aim­ It keeps the town sort of lively, homes and the outports. At one time it was felt that on the others. So as far as I'm ed at his and other ships and, too. The delay is due to the ter­ we would close up this Hall concerned, they're all the same while in the ports of Casablance Iw' We have been hearing some rific shortage of newsprint since there was no chance of to me." and Liverpool, he felt the full reports about how the SIU lost that has hit most newspapers, getting an election in the com­ Brother Zelencic, who has the Sun Oil Tankers election. which sometimes makes it never sailed other than SIU That's a bunch of bushwash, and pany, but now we know that an necessary for the printer to election will be coming up soon, ships is well satisfied with his was probably started by the halt printing the LOG until and it's our job to stay until the brother-in-law's advice to go to company or the NMU. he gets additional paper. last vote is counted. For the information of all All applications for unemploy­ sea and to join the SIU. Once the LOGS come off This is an open invitation: If ment insurance in New York concerned, we have not yet had He says, "I've only sailed SIU the press they are immediate- * the election, and when we do the there are any men who think State must be made through the ships, but I've ben around men ly mailed out. The only bot­ SIU is a sure bet to wind up on that they can get a job on a who have sailed non-SIU scows, tleneck is the difficulty in top. Everything looks favorable Sun Oil Tanker, they should offices at 277 Canal Street, in­ and from their talk I'm con­ securing sufficient newsprint to the Union, although we could come down and see us. In that stead of the District offices, as vinced that the SIU is the only for the thousands of LOGS use a little boosting from the way we can wind things up in formerly. union that has that mvsterious printed each week. a hurry. membership. something called 'it'." Sailing in The Seafarers Gave This Brether What He Wanted Men Needed For Sun Oil Drive Late Deliveries Attention Members! �Friday, July 18. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine"' Labor Unions Are Really Unfair By JOHNNY ARABASCZ our thinking for us. Yep. we are , Congressmen do not know of a Yessiree. labor unions are un^^upid that we realize that if single reason why they should not smother labor with a bunch' fail- and it must be true, because the Taft-Hartley bill weren't of slave bills. Some of these*' the National Association of .Manthe NAM and C of C lawmakers are members of thdufacturers and the various members would have to continue NAM. They are big businessmen;' Chambers of Commerce have P^^ ^ laborer a half-way de- They own stock in large corpor­ said so. verbally and in p;int, but that now ations. Do we working people thinkthru their stooges, the I'adio and capitalists will try to enjov for one minute that they would'! the press. ^ holiday at our expense—until be stupid enough to reject a billh their greed has driven this counMaybe I shouldn't .say stooge.s, into another depression, and that will out their own swollen because the members of the y,'e. the people, into starvation coffers and sptead the dough out just a little more. NAM own these propaganda wages and conditions, Well, we think that they should'' mediums and there is nothing of course, it really doesn't have and that is why these cap­ the radio and pre.ss workers can matter. To heck with the peo- italist-Congressmen know that do except print and orate what- pl'-- We wouldn't know how to the people are stupid. ever some high priced b— s— Properly anyway, Yes, unions are unfair because ai-tist submits to them. ' We don't appreciate the clas- they have hiring halls where The NAM is Aot alone in its they say so why pay us union members can get a job' opinion. Several Congressmen to buy them. If all work- without having to kow-tow to • .seem to think so, too. Of course. ers could afford a Cadillac there some arrogant employer. these Senators and Representa^e more accidents on We can act like humans in a * tives do not draw their conclus- the highways and in the cities, union hall instead of like stooges ' ions from the people that they the excu.se to cause in a company hiring hall. •e suppo.sediy representing, needless deaths and injuries by Yes. unions are unfair because Their opinion of us voters is that ^^'^n paying^ us enough to buy they permit a man to behavewe are too stupid to know what ^ with? like a man instead of a mouse. is good for us, so they will do I know that some of these We are unfair because we tryto get a worker a living wageand decent conditions. We are unfair to the stock-' owners, bankers, big businessmen ^ because. b.\- paying a worker aPHILADELPHIA—Here's «a good story, which would sound t half-decent wage, they can only belter around Christmas time. It has all the elements needed pile up one or two millions of' to interest all seamen, especially SIU members. dollars instead of twenty orthirty or more. It's impossible to give the name of the ship involved, and By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Representative Membership on a trial commit- tlie constitution is simple. It tee is one of the most respon- calls for the filing of typewritten sible jobs that can be taken by a charges against a man quoting member of this Union, and mo.st the constitutional section violatSeafarers take a serious interest ed. in the task. ( The charges aie then referred It is a serious business, and to mcmbeiship meetings in all the fact that it is approached as ports where they are either acsuch is a credit to the member- cepted or rejected as read, ship of the union. I It accepted, the charges are The task of a trial committee, ' oferred to an elected'.trial comhowover, is not alwavs an easy '^^ttee in the port mo.st convenone. Too often thev find them^oth accused, accuser and selves working with poorly witnesses. A copy of the charges drawn up charges full of mis^o the accused memconceptions and errors, many of at least five days before the them contrary to the procedure outlined in the constitution. | " the accused refuses or negA trial committee, which conto appear, the trial provened recently in Mobile, found as if he were piesent. that many of the charges were LENDER FINDINGS difficult to understand and showFollowing the trial the commited a lack of knowledge of the tee shall render its findings and provisions of the Constitution. .lodgements to the membership The committee in their report, 'meetings: such- findings are final which was incorporated in the changed or rejected byMobile minutes, called attention the majority of the members to this fact. The committee sug- P'-^sent at the branch meetings, gested that members read the ^hile charges a«. pendingparts of the Constitution refer- ^'-gainst a member, any official We are unfair because a de­ ring to trials (Art. 19) and Ofthe Union has the power to the name of the Skipper must also be kept quiet. We can just cent wage pei-mits an employeefenses and punishment (Art. 20). ^^cmand his certificate of mem­ see the company calling the Old Man into the office and beating bership and retain it until final 10 spend more and by spending--' him over the head for this one. FILING OF CHARGES 'disposition of the case. mure keep money in circulation',' By reading the.se sections a A member under charges can keep up employment for the So we don't want to put the Old Man on the spot, but we member can make charges which still continue sailing, however, people who manufacture the art- think that other Skippers could follow his ideas and make for are understandable and can be as the Agent or Secretary-Treasides we spend our money on. better relations with the crews. carried out according to the con- urer will issue him an identiMy charges of unfairness could Instead of logging the crew. Captain took day stitution. 'fication card. go on all day. Til sum it up for day from them for infractions of rules, end then turned the When charges are filed they • This whole procedure in nont.his way. The majority of thd'money over to the Ships Delegate to be donated to the SIU should be typewritten and the legal language is in your Conpeople in this country and alt' Strike Fund, "in case you fellows have enother strike." article or section of the con- ' stitution. j manufacturers hate communism."' stitution referring to the charge If the provisions there are folAt the payoff, the Patrolman was given the sum of S40.00, quoted. i lowed, there can he little cause I Yet the manufacturer, throughfor which he issued an official receipt. If a member reads the con-'for the trial committee to throw his g;-eed for money and power, , We don't expect the rest of the Skippers to follov/ suit, but stitution before making a charge,! out your charges, and the co.mwould lower working and living-' it sure would be an indication of solidarity if they did. Oh, there can be no possibility of I mittee itself will find its job conditions to such a low level'well, maybe some day it will happen oftener. placing a charge against some- much easier and the person on one which will not stand up; and tiial will get a fair deal. liiat the worker would be sus-no member vnll suffer incon­ cepiible to the lying propagandas venience and embarrassment of 'of the commies which promisesfacing trial on charges that will the workei-. heaven on earth — be thrown out because they are ' unconstitutional. By JOE SHIMA Foui- other Lakes fleets — Hanna j NLRB to be petitioned to con- and gives them hell instead. Under the Offenses and Pun­ with 13 ships: Wilson with 12 duct elections aboard others There are several countries in-s TOLEDO — Well, it looks a.s ishment article of the Constituships; Shenango with 3 ships, than the above mentioned com-j Europe that are proving this tion are eleven sections dealing though the SIU really has some- and Kinsman (Steinbrenncr) with panies before the close of the A, ^^ev were half with specific offenses. These thing to shout about. Of course, 5 ships — are now under union regular sailing season. - v- , , cover misrepresentation of elect­ we've always had the best con­ petition before the NLRB to The .SIU now has 29 companies .-ratuiied the\' turned away Corntracts and conditions on the ion returns, paying for employ­ 'P'-tt when they ran intpo conduct elections to select the undei- contract, or in process of | ment, violation of w-orking i-ules, Lakes, but the i-ecent string of union of their choice for col­ being placed under contract, in i the chaotic conditions which fol" gains, both in contracts and new lective bargaining purposes. etc. j the Great Lakes District. No lowed the recent war, they fell'' recruits to the Seafarers, gives RULES ON GASHOUNDS In addition, other unorganized 'Lakes can p,.j,v to the commie crap. us another chance to say, "We , ,, , r- r claim to the same strength , The section dealing with per­ told you sol" Lakes fleets aie on the Seafar­ as tne SIU. or nearly the amount ^ ^ :;dmit that somebody is stuformers, one worth quoting, ^is ers objective list for the 1947 of jobs available for SIU mem- Pid. but I don't think that it First, we started out the '47 as follows (Sec. 5): "Any mem­ season by winning the 44 hour season, and we may expect the ' bers on the l,akes. the workerl ber who, through dnmkenne.ss! week and substantial wage gains or bad conduct on board ship,' ^^ brings the Union into ill-repute succession the Huron or causes the delay of a vessel, ^j^et chose the SIU as their shall be fined not less than ten union; the SIU won the first By HERBERT JANSEN SIU organizational activities in Monski. If you're out that way,dollars for the first offense, and 40 hour week contract on the this area are moving along at a drop in and see them. They'll^ CHICAGO — With the excep­ for any subsequent offense shall Lakes with the conclusion of rapid pace with plenty of unor- j appreciate it. tion of ABs, shipping is still a be punished as a supreme quor, , - . „. . agreements covering all Great little slow in our fair port. Dur­ ganized seamen coming into this We were grumbling about no-^. um may detej-mme aHy yport ,„„aboata, providing big ing the week, we had only the Hall and the one at South ChicSummer weather for a long time ' from the Trial Committee." | regular Windy City run ships, ago to congratulate us on our ^ow, we're getting it. The boys ^ In addition to setting down gams, continued success in winning the ni.e • i • • , offenses which can be charged Next, came the S s winning and only a few minor beefs. . , ,, ^ om in their skivvies — and ? votes of the companies we now caw . Among the customers gracing the Constitution also makes it of the forty hour week, again How. ..vwi... the weather reminds -* have under petition. an offense for the person filing with substantial wage gams, for the beach may be found the them of their sojourn in the hofDown South Chicago way, it the charge not to appear at the the seven ship Midland fleet, and Three Musketeers, Jim Hayman, climates during the recently conI marking the inception of the Mike Hughes and Jim Touhey. looks as though the boys are cluded"wo"rld War II" Section 8 reads: "Any member forty hour week on the bulk car- They're sweating it out until going SIU in a big way. If you're Oh, yes, in spite of the weath­ the call for SS Michigan crew- in the vicinity, drop in. Inciden­ preferring a charge against any riers. Shortly ^f er, the boys are planning, a tally, South Chicago has a new other member and failing to ap- hers of the four yan o e s ips members comes in. dance. We have a one man com­ In the meantime, they keep up phone number — Saginaw 3504. pear before the Trial Committee registered their choice of the SIU mittee in the person of Brother HOSPITAL INMATES to sustain the charge shall pay with, a resounding 68 percent the daily trek to Bughouse Park where they can watch Mother Among the SIU Brothers in Ed Jasanski, who is doing a^ vote! a fine of not less than $30. Nature at work in the form of the Marine Hospital are: Earl swell job of getting things linedd Yes, 1947 is truly an SIU year! The actual trial procedure folgrowing grass. Sewland, Louis Johnson, and Joe up in typical SIU style. lowed by the SIU according to And, this is only the beginning A Good Story Without Names SIU Continues Winning Streak On Great Lakes " A ..1 *. Chicago Shipping Slow; Organizing Keeps Pacei �11 THE Page Ten SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 18. 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Buttons Pop At July 4 Mandan Victory Chow SHOVING OFF FROM SHANGHAI Things were popping the Fourth of July on the SS Mandan Victory — and they weren't firecrackers. What were popping were the buttons off the crew's clothing in the vicinity of their substantial stomachs. Sett?ng the fuse to the whole thing f were three meals prepared under crink of your choice, you could barely move if you were there. the able supervision of SIU Stew­ NOTHING SPECIAL ard A. W. Gowder. Gowder's chowder . gave the crew more These menus, say Mandan reason to celebrate than did the crewmembers wei-en't the ex­ ception. Chow by Gow w,as tops Declaration of Independence. at every meal, every day. Help­ The three menus set up by ing him were, Lester Mahaffey, Brother Gowder and his' food Ch. Cook; J. Vazquez, Night Cook fixing lads of the Stewards' De­ & Baker; Frank Webb, 3rd Cook; partment in celebration of the H. Nicolaisen, Utility: W. Beckholiday would make the Sahara with. Utility; and Messmen A. Valcles, G. Thayer, A. Smith, and Desert water. B. Fisher. HERE WE GO On each menu Brother Gowder For breakfast, a starter was prints some apt maxim. The pineapple juice, followed by hot July 4 one was: or cold cereal. The pork sausages "The Greatest Pleasure in Life and eggs "to order." Potatoes?— is to Do a Good Deed." of course. Hold on, Brothers, go easy on the spuds. Next is hot Evidently, Brother Gowder cakes with jams, jellies and means what he says. He prob­ syrups. Name your drink, and ably gets a kick out of life. So put one of those cold apples or do the guys who eat on his ships, oranges in your pocket, in case for that matter. you haven't had enough. The-' menu for dinner, which' was served up as the Mandan Victory was nearing Miami, slip- Delegates Kit Explained To Seatrain Men Bosun stands over mess on deck of the SS Santa Clara Victory as the Isthmian scow pulled out of the Chinese port. Crew reported having to secure booms and hatches out on the open seas "with everything loose in the holds." Typical Isthmian conditions will soon be replaced by top standards required by SIU contracts. Prospect Of SIU Contract Keeps Isthmian Crew Going Tough as things might gbt aboard some ships, there's always the consolation that its just a bit worse on an Isthmian scow. But the guys who sail Isthmian take consolation in the fact that an SIU contract will soon be stan­ dard equipment aboard all ships operated by that company. Typical example of the crews who are standing by for that Seafarers contract is the one HcoftAyfOe. THERXjeTH/ aboard the SS Santa Clara Vict­ Highlight of the July 6 meet­ ory, which recently wound up a ing aboard the SS Seatrain New Persian Gulf run. Crewmembers Jersey was the introduction to Victor Gardecke and Alfred Northe crew of the new educational folder that is now being placed aboard SIU ships. The folder referred to as the Delegates kit, contains copies of the Organizers Handbook, "Here's How," Union Constitution and by-laws, and several other pieces of union ed ­ ped off with oyster soup. Then ucational literature, and was .ex­ roast turkey with all the trim­ plained by Chairman Bill Gray mings. Snapper fish baked. No Following Brother Gray's ex­ like? Then try the roast Virginia planation, the SIU publications ham. Snow flake potatoes, but­ were placed in the messroom for tered asparagus, candied sweets, the use of the crew. sugar peas. (Oh, daddy! 1 can't The meeting then continued take any more.) with Good and Welfare, during 'N EVERYTHING which discussion was held on On top of all this you got some new percolators needed, the pie — mince meat or pumpkin— cleaning of the drinking fountain, if you were on Gowder's scow, and a suggestion by the chairman that is. Ice cream, too, and water- that the honor system be used . melon and cantalope. You kept to keep the messroom clean at night. washing it all down with ice cold lemonade. Recording the proceedings was Bill Williams. Giving clean slates Lots of other things like pick­ to their departments were, T. D. les, celery hearts and tid-bits of Cannon, Deck Delegate; Bill one kind or another kept your Gray, Engine Delegate; and John "\jaws going between courses. Vic Gardecke,. Deck MainA. Bourg, Stewards Delegate. fenence aboard the Santa. Clara. The gastric celebration wound Victory. up with supper, consisting of cold 7 sliced turkey, or ham, and as­ sorted cold cuts: plain bologna, garlic bologna, liver, cheese, luncheon meat, salami and two ' jcinds of cheese. Fish lovers went '> towp on sardines and salmon and there were eggs for other icVers. Topped off with chilled fruit cocktail and cookies plus the I kunas summarized a few of the more rugged abuses that an SIU agreement will wipe out. Brother Norkunas, a member of the Black Gang, said there was a "helluva difference between conditions on the Santa Clara and those on SlU-contracted vessels." The first week out, Norkunas recalled, the First pleaded a shortage of soap. He gave out one bar every three weeks and soap powder was issued three times in four months. In the Persian Gulf, where a painting job in the dripping temperature caused the men's clothes to smell, with perspiration all gear had to be boiled due to the lack of soap. There were no cots aboard in the tropics, he added, and Oilers and Wipers painted and cleaned floor plates without overtime. Time off and overtime were unheai'd of, Norkunas said, and all the Firemen had at lea.st 50 hours tossed out because the First As­ sistant didn't let them know when the winches were through \/orking. Brother Gardecke said the trip was hot and cold — hot iri as much as no blowers wore thrown into play in the heads and show­ ers throughout the entire trip; cold because there was no heat in the crew's living quarters dur­ ing damp weather in the Med­ iterranean and the Pacific. "After leaving Shanghai for the States," Gardecke continued, "we had to secure all booms and hatches with everything loose while we were out in the open sea." In order to permit, cleaning of the holds, the booms were topped with the ship rolling and hatch boards loose, he said. At Bahrein, the Santa Clara Victory took on a load of 70 oc­ tane gas. Gardecke said that only a single layer of sandbags was placed between the gasoline and the engine room bulkhead. The law, he explained calls for a wooden bulkhead not less than three feet from the engine bulk­ head. Topping everything off, he said, "was the slopchest. Prices were out of line and the stock was inadequate. He cited as a sample the stock of handker­ chiefs. Upon leaving New York for the four month trip, Gardecke discovered there were no hand­ kerchiefs available at all. He blew his top instead of his nose. Smooth Crew Mans Clipper On Gt. Lakes The Great Lakes, in addition to being the means of transporta­ tion. for millions of tons of iron ore, coal, automobiles and mac­ hinery, also is well known for its ci'uises and excursions for thousands of vacationing midwesterners. One of the largest and finest of these cruise .ships, which carries thousands of passengers annually, is the Milwaukee Clipper, own­ ed by the Wisconsin and Michi­ gan Steamship Company. The Clipper, manned by a staunch SIU crew of 55, makes regular runs on Lake Michigan and car­ ries an average of 670 pa.sscngers. SIU MILITANTS The crew of the sleek new vessel, are tip-lop SIU men and women, as has boon proven by their record of real SIU mili­ tancy. In May of this year, the Clipper crew hit the bricks for a new contract and in two days the company conceded to their demands. Having ji'tartcd the summer crui.se season on May 30, the Sca- .'J'" gSpSfeS;;:- ill "Here she is. Ihe 'Clipper Wren.' "Back on the job. sailing again." —Caption by the "Wren." larers aboard are now, after a month and a half together, a smooth working team. One of the stewardesses aboard \yho has several years of sailing the Lakes on SIU passenger ships is Victoria Phillips, better known to her shipmates as the "Clipper Wren." The "Wren", who " submitted photos to the LOG showing life­ boat drill aboard the Clipper, recently celebrated her birthday while out on the restful waters of the Lakes. Her shipmates, in commemora­ tion of the event, made her a gift of an alarm clock, and a little celebi'ation was had by all around t.t the time. THANKS FELLAS Thanking the crew for their thoughtfulness, the "Wren" stat­ ed, "I wish to thank the Clipper crew collectively for their gift. It is not so much the gift I appreci­ ate as the kindly rememberance." With a good part of the summer season still to come, the crew of the Clipper have everything in readiness and , are anticipating capacity crowds. �Friday. July 18. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief SANTA CLARA VICTORY, in his department. Stewards Del­ April 11 — Chairman V. Garegate, Martin Dyer, elected as decke; Secretary Alton L. Yukdelegate. No report. New Businio. Discussion on the unsani­ ne.ss: Motion carried that sani­ tary procedures of messman. De­ tary men in each department be cision to have messman transfer­ responsible for the cleanliness red. Motion carried to ask Chief of the ship's laundry, and that Mate to provide an adequate this duty be rotated each week. number of men to work while Motion cariied that NMU mem­ rigging gear, in the interest of bers anci non-union members safety. Each member requested signed abord in Panama be in­ to keep his overtime sheet, so as vited to the regular membership to facilitate any questions of pen­ meetings as they are under the alty hours, etc., with regards to protection of our contract and retroactive pay. After discussion will enable them to see the Sea­ with the Chief Mate and Captain farers in action. Jerry Palmer a four hour day was agreed upon ^d. Vote taken and George elected as ship's Delegate. due to the excessive heat in the Hall and Robert Harwell, Wipers, .444 Persian Gulf. Due to the lack dmitted to the SIU Earl Cain HENRY WARD BEECHER, of cooperation, the set-up was and John Jankovic, Stev.-ards De­ May 18 — Chairman W. Reidy; partment, accepted, as was John Secretary J. Redden. Delegates abolished. NEW HAS BEEN PREPARED eytHE Sullivan. Motion made by Hill reports accepted. New Business: lit UMlONi LISTING REPAIRS NEEDED ON ' YAKA, May 10 — Chairman to have trip card of saloon pan­ Motion by A1 Lorier that all tryman, lifted. Good and Wel­ YOUR SHIP. USE OF THIS FORM WILL Smith; Secretary Mitchell. Deck books and permits be turned over fare: Brother Finder suggested and Stewards Department Dele­ IT EASIER FOR THE OFFICIALS TO SEE TO to ship's delegate in order that gates reported no beefs. Engine that ciew leave all keys to the he may present them to the IT THAT THESE REPAIRS ARE MADE^ AND Delegate reported a beef between loc'sles for the next crew, Patrolman when ship hits port. PUT AN END To GOATPANV STALLING . it, ^ ^ the four to eight fireman and the Motion by Kane to Vote on ac­ SAMUEL McINTYRE. May 18 ceptance of the Deck Depart­ Engineer. Beef to be referred to Patrolman. New Business: New —Chairman Peter Blanco: Secre- ment tripcarders into the union. delegate elected in Black Gang, tary Edward J. Clark, Delegates None against. Motion by J. Red­ Good and Welfare: Brother reported no beefs. Old Business: den, that crew investigate why Thompson asked men to stop put- Brojjier Blanco remarked that Roberts, a crewmember, is^ be­ ting their feet on the chairs, the crew did not live up to their hind in his dues and assessments Thompson also suggested that the ^Pi-omi.ses in regards to keeping and has had his permit for six Patrolman see the Chief about'mt^ssroom or laundry room clean, months. Motion by A. Lorier that letting him reaiTange the egg- New Business: Motion carried to a copy of the minutes be sent to By HANK boiler system because it is giv-jhave regular door locks changed the SEAFARERS LOG. Motion ing trouble. One minute of sil- to Yale locks since the regular by VanDyke that a copy of the First of all we'll give you Brothers a news item hot off the locks can be opened with almost lepair list be given to the dis­ encc for brothers lost at sea. any key. Motion carried to have patcher in the port of payoff, in press, dated Wednesday, July 16: "New Jersey was prepared to­ it i 4. new toastmaster and coffee pots crder that he may see that it is day under special Congressional action to pay unemployment PONCE DeLEON. June 13 Chaiman William Turner; Secre-'l-ut aboard. Good and welfare: carried out. One minute of sil­ compensation to idle seamen who in the last two years worked on iary Bob McCullough, Deck Del-j Motion by Fred Schwab that ence for departed brothers. vessels of the War Shipping Administration. The weekly payments cgatc Allen Gray reported that i:ghts be installed for crew's would range from S9 to $22 up to a maximum of twenty-six weeks, the Deck Department may collect writing desks. depending on wage levels and duration of jobs when last employed. 250 hours for gangway watqhes 4 4 4. Claims should be filed at the nearest office of the State Employ­ and there is 36 hours disputed ANDREW JACKSON, May 25— ment Service." To Brother Otto Paul Preunler, otherwise weEovertime. Engine Delegate Joe Chairman J. L. Barton; Secreknown as Uncle Otto, the oldtimer and citizen of Florida: Thanks Pinder reported the Engine De-|tary T. Filipow. J. Irving, Deck JOHN W. CULLEN, May 11— for sending up those addresses of Seafarers who want the LOG partment as having 45 hours of Delegate, reported that the rec- Chairman Blackie Stevens; Sec­ mailed to their homes every week. A LOG in every Seafarere disputed overtime. Stewards Del-! ord of shore leave refused the retary M. Burnstine. New Busi­ home for himself and his family is important, indeed ... in this cgate James Hill reported seven crew in the Canal Zone would ness: Delegates reported every­ manner the family becomes sufficiently and clearly acquainted hours of disputed overtime for ^ be kept by him and turned over thing shaping up fine. Motion with the SIU's actions, policies, etc . . . Brother Nick Calzia sends me Stewards Utility and 44 for to the shore representative for by Blackie Stevens that any a short message to his shipmate, Bosun James Scott, who sailed out the galley man. New Business: clarification at the payoff. En- member getting drunk and rais­ recently: "Scotty, I have gone to see your brother at Glenwood Repair list made up and approv- gine Delegate reported no beefs ing hell shall be fined, and the Drive, etc. Write to me in care of his home." money sent to the LOG. Motion by E. Dudek that any member 4 4 4 MILWAUKEE CLIPPER FIRE DRILL drying clothes in the fidley shall We just received a letter from our shipmate. Brother Spuiremove them when dry so as to geon Woodruff, the deck engineer, aboard a. Robin ship in give the next brother a chance Biera, Porfugese Africa: "Well, Hank, we have quite a gang to dry his clothing. Motion by on this ship. Good union men, and very militant. I have sailed M. Burnstine that meetings be a long time and as the years roll along I see many things. And held every Sunday while at sea. I really believe Africa, is getting better than the Coca-Cola and Good ^and Welfare: Chairman Rum run. Well, Hank, as you know, I am getting old. That's Stevens gave short talk on the why I will have to take any port in a storm—and don't laugh. union's responsibilities aboard Continued success with your Hit and Run column and please ship. Suggestion that Purser be mention thai Brother Inar Hansen missed this good run. We contacted 48 hours before ar­ miss him very much. We have a good crew—hut we're still rival in next port to put out short two men." . . . Thanks, Brother Woodruff tor your swell cigarettes for that week and also letter from South East Africa. Write some more if you get for the time the ship will stay in the iimei port. 4 4 4 4 4 4 THOMAS W. HYDE, April 13 Heie are some oldtimei's who may still be anchored in town —Chairman John D, Molini; Sec­ waiting for the ships to come in or they may have sailed recently: retary Henry Adamowiz. New B. Kosow, L. Labrador, J. Michalis, C. Melendez, L. Becker, C. Business: George Liederman Connors, R. Quinn, P. Drevas, J. Dand, W. Lane, J. Cronan, T. moved that no one pay off be­ Maynes, E. Shaffer, I. Tirado, W. Lieberman, H. Bergesser, A. fore all beefs are settled. James Constantine. Also C. Heyes. B. Rodericks. P. Blanco, C. Kappold, Adams suggested that a man W. Conner, L. Zufiaur, P. Carbo, L. Aviles, J. Allen, D. Crockett, stand at each door leading to the K. Frey, C. Bonafont, T. Thompson, J. Pineiro. F. Masterson, A. saloon and make sure that no Rivera, Do Lien Chen, J. Colon, A. Magapage, J. M. Landron, S. one pays off before the Patrol- Dall and M. Arroyo ... A few more oldtimers still in town are; mai^ gives his okay. J. Juliano Bosun Steve Carr, Brother K. Kain, Eddie "Skippy" Gusczynsky, brought up the question of no Brother Paolo Prin'gi . . . We presume that Brother W. "Red" Morria towels and the dates they were grabbed a ship going to the Gulf just like he was talking about to short. Steward A. Schiavone, Brother Pete Bush recently. suggested that rhatter be referr­ 4 4 4 ed to Patrolman as he didn't know exactly what the proced­ This week Brother Charlie Rappold. known as Ropeyarn ure was. It was asked by F. W. Charlie, came up to the hall, respectfully look oft his fedora Moore that all be sober at payoff. and said that he was retiring his hook and going into Snug Good and Welfare: Bosun GallaHarbor where he's been in oft and on in between trips for ghan suggested that all cots be some years. "I'm going into Snug Harbor tor good now. 1 got taken off the deck so they will a letter today. You know, 1 just read today's paper about a be in good condition for the next rich man, 83 years old, who shot himself dead. I'm 74 years ciew. Steward Schiavone sug­ old hut I'll he darned it I'll shoot myself." Well, Ropeyarn Great Lakes Seafarers, crewmembers of the sleek Milwau­ gested that all library books be Charlie, may the rest of -your anchored days he many and kee Clipper are lowered over the side in lifeboat during recent turned in so that they'll be ex­ peaceful and may you keep remembering and spinning the fire drill. changed for a new library. yarns of your long sea life. �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 18. 1947 •THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Seatrain Conditions Rate With Best, Delegate Says |!:' To the Edilor; Why must the Seatrain New Jersey sail short handed every trip, putting an extra load on the men who sail the ship? It is es­ pecially hard on the Firemen, Oilers and Watertenders, as they are always standing six on and six off. That is tough going on a big high-pressure job. 1 Another headache: It is my job as Engine Delegate, to set donkey watches and time off. As you know, half the crew is entitled to time off in each port. Under our agreement, only the Watertender and Firemen, as well as cur one Engine Utility can be used for donkey watches. We now have one Watertender and one Fireman qualified, put­ ting a further strain on our al­ ready badly depicted black gang. QUALIFIED MEN NEEDED Under- our present agreement, Oilers cannot be required to stand donkey watches. If our New York and New Orleans Halls cannot supply enough men, a clarifica­ tion will be necessary, so that any qualified man in the black gang can be required to stand donkey watches. As Deck Engineer, I have plenty to do in port, but I have voluntarily gone below to stand donkey watches. My object being to protect our contract. Til be down there again Wednesday when I should be topside to aid the Patrolman. It can't be help­ ed as there is no one else avail­ able. As you know, Seatrain Lines has the right to hire men any­ where, regardless to union af­ filiation, whenever we of the Seafarers fail to provide enough men. I, for one, don't want to have a gang of finks and commies mixed in with the swell bunch of Seafarers on this ship. ^REMEMBER, NO MONKEY BUSINESS' repair lists, no e.xpense being spared to add to our comfort. All beefs are settled pi'omptly, and it is never necessary to add to the burdens of our already overworked Patrolmen. During my more than three months as Engine Delegate, there has not been one hour of disputed over­ time. In fact, if a man forgets to put in earned overtime, or short changes himself, the Chief will wi-ite it in. The Deck Gang tells rne that the same is true in their department. All Union officials and repre­ sentatives worked long and hard to win this excellent agreement for us, I don't think it is fair of the rank and file to put it in jeopardy by failing to crew up these Seatrain ships. Bill Gray Retired Member Plugfs Seafarers To the Editor: Thought I'd drop the LOG a line or so and let you know I really appreciated being in a swell union. Oldtimers like Jack Kelly and Ray Sweeney, who helped build the SIU, showed me what unionism really is. Boy, that Sweeney really is a Patrol­ man. I retired my book about a month ago, and would like to go to college this fall, however, it just doesn't look like our Sena­ tors and Representatives are go­ ing to pass a Bill of Rights for merchant seamen. I would like to continue rece­ iving the LOG, as I like to keep up with the progr.' sr, of the SIU. Floyd Sharp El Paso. Texas 'AN SIU SHIP IS To the Editor: Unity, as we all know, means sticking together. In my opinion, the SIU is one of the best unions in the world but there is still room for improvement. It is true that we all believe in our Union, but do we all in­ dividually take an interest in bet­ tering our organization? Taking too much for guanted is one of t.'ie biggest mistakes of mankind —and of Union men, too. Our groat Union would last about as long as a snowball in hell without the full support of all its members. We have done a great deal in the past two years Gangway watchma.n Hyrny cautions two visitors after they toward making the SIU one of the greatest Unions in existence. told him they wanted to visit friends aboard Isthmian's SS One of the main factors contrib­ Citadel Victory while vessel was in Port Sudan. Henry Muruting to our great success is the ranka. Bosun, who forwarded picture said the two simians acted leadership we have. It means a like a couple of monkeys. great deal to all of us to have such reliable men in office to protect our interests whether we are at sea or ashore. As we continue working to­ ward our goal of a better life for To the Editor: An ex-United Fruit stiff, non­ seamen, we must all cooperate to union from way back, he takes Please permit me to write a the fullest extent.. To do this a fiendish pride in giving the line to all SIU seamen warning successfully one cannot hold Steward a hard time over the them about the almighty Cap­ membership in two unions, and stores. He thinks men can sub­ tain we have aboard the W. J. divide his alleglancje and his sist on beans. Riddle. energies. Waterman, which owns this Another thing we must all We have a good crew aboai-d, but the Captain is out of this ship, is supposed to be a not- learn well is the great constitu­ world. He is so close fisted that too-bad company when it comes tion which governs us. Those of he will not let the men change to food, but this ship is an ex­ you who don't know the laws of the linen on his bunk. When he ception. Things are terrible and our Union should get in there and find out all about .your or­ wants something done, such as cannot become any worse. ganization. Those who do know polishing his bath or soogeeing So far my record as a seaman his quarters, he tells them it has been very good, but I can't should lend a helping hand to does not constitute overtime. promise it to remain too good see that every member under­ for long under this Skipper. I stands fully what the laws are He pulls inspections every day was in the Army and I thought and what they mean. and snoops around the ship all The SIU is always open to new I saw all the hardtimers po.ssible, night. He has set himself up as ideas and suggestions for the but this guy hits a new low. lord high executioner not allow­ betterment of our Union and its ing the officers to talk to the If you are not made of iron membership. Each man has an crew while not on watch. stay clear of this ship at least ample opportunity to get in his until they get another Skipper "tv^o-bitjs worth," so let's all aboard. stand up and sound off — loud A CLEAN SHIP' James A. Sparrow .and often. SS W. J. Riddle Frank Schutz Riddle Bucko Is No Riddle Days Are Bright When 'Moon ' Goes Down New Orleans Way I have talked with Louis Cof­ fin, Jimmy Sheehan, Steely White and Buck Stephens. All agreed that the Seatrain Lines is a fine company to do business with, and that our Seatrain agree­ ment is the best in the maritime industry. ":1 rv Why, then, do we risk jeopar­ dising such a contract? I v/as in the New Orleans Hall last Wed­ nesday. The place was jampackcd with men, yet we could only get .one Oiler out of a request for two Watertenders, one Fire­ man and one Oiler. TIP TOP SHAPE This ship is the cleanest I have ever sailed, the food is tops, quarters comfortable, and there isn't a bucko Mate or Engineer aboard. We also get more pay than other SIU ships. The men of this crew are friendly, sociable, and excellent shipmates. R. C. Chapdelaine, a former Union official, and now Seatrain Agent, attends promptly to our Sees Cooperation As Spur To Union's Advance Seafarer Raymond, crewmember aboard the SS Elizabeth, shows that Union's slogan applies to his ship. He and the rest of the crew kept on the ball to make ship sleek throughout voy­ age No. 2, reported Luis Ramirez, FWT, whose camera recorded the scene. To the Editor: Speaking of characters, well! We have one down in New Or­ leans holding the Jiosition as doorman in our Hall and he is no one else but the great, muchtalked-about Moon Koons. 'As a doorman he gets the cake. Th.'it job is right down his alley and everyone can say he's the best doorman we've had down in Nev/ Orleans so far. Being punch drupk and having fallen out of the cradle when he was a baby makes him figure he ought to take life a little more ea.sy. Incidentally, he never did care too much for hard work in the first_ place. But who does? Sitting on that nice soft cush­ ion with one of those two for a nickel cigars shoved in his face, he doesn't care whether it rains or snows. Recently a couple of drunks tried to crash the door. In the first place they were NMUers, so Moon put that big belly of his across the door and I doubt if Houdini could have gotten in. Then when business slacks up at the door Moon grabs some one and puts hirn on the soft WfiS/J -mMOOM CC»E30\/ERWc I cushion, walks back, grabs the mike, and croons a couple of songs for the boys. Yes siree, there's never a dull moment in our hall way down yonder in Noo 'Awleens. Percy Beyer �THE SEAFARERS Friday, July 18, 1947 HARD-WORKING SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen News, Pop And Movies Suggested As Lift For Morale At Sea By SS Casa Grande Men To the Editor: We would like to present for careful consideration three inno­ vations which would improve conditions aboard merchant ships. First; Inaugurate ...a policy of requiring radio operators to pre­ pare daily news bulletins. This would necessitate the payment of overtime to the radio operator and require the shipowners to subscribe to news broadcasts. Second: Provide motion pic­ ture equipment for each ship and arrange for suitable pictures and news reels to be supplied for each trip. Third: Take the necessary steps to .see that each ship carries a reasonable supply of soft drinks. WILL PRODUCE GROANS There is no doubt that these suggestions will produce groans and subtle sarcastic remarks in certain quarters but a little thought will make evident the Swan Song On The Swan Bar To the Editor: C. B. Martin (The Beachcomber) writes that the men of the SS Paul Hamilton H^ne made up "one of the best crew's I have had the pleasure to sail with. . . they worked hard to bring the ship in in SIU style." Some of the ship-shape Seafarers who were Brother Mar­ tin's shipmates appear in photo (above) which he forwarded to the LOG. Holding the life ring is the Bosun. Front row, left to right: Red, Deck Maintenance; Buck, AB; Stockvale, AB; Evans, OS, and the OS on 8-12 watch. Back row, left to right: Eddy, AB; the 4-8 AB; the 4-8 OS and Butch, AB. A note accompanying the picture from Brother Martin said that crewmember Maurer, AB, doesn't appear because he was at the wheel at the time. State Problems If You Want Aid, Brother Urges New Sheehan Craft Bounces Off Ways To the Editor: In response to your requests for membership participation in the LOG, I am sending yon an idea which can be kicked around by the membership. Many men have been pleading for education, of which, I be­ lieve, everyone is 100 percent in favor of, but they do not .state specifically what they want. We have on hand in all SIU Halls, the history of the SIU, contracts, constitutions, etc., but the men are confused as to just what they want in the way of education. I have a plan that will eliminat a lot of confusion. Have every man at sea, or in the Hall, take some time and write down what he wants to know or what he is di.ssatisfied with. In that way we can condense and study what it is generally that the membership wishes to know. In the past, I believe it has been our policy to wise each other up concerning matters for our benefit or against it. Therefore, I take this oppor­ tunity to submit to the LOG this bit of information about the "Swan Bar," in Beira, Portug­ uese East Africa. The owner, who calls himself "Briggie," is 169 percent phony. Under the guise of being a sea­ man's friend, this leech is tak­ ing everyone for a ride. Before a ship arrives in Beira, he sends folders to the ship say­ ing that his place is "elegant," "deluxe," and "sophisticated." To read the folders one would think his place was the South African version of the Stork Club. Act­ ually it couldn't come up to the standard of any joint on South Street in New York or South Broadway in Baltimore. The newest addition to the Sheehan fleet, owned and oporated by the James F. Sheehans of Brooklyn, bounced oft the ways June 26, according to word LIMP SHRIMP just received by the LOG'S edit­ or in charge of fleet expansion Big hearted Briggie has just news. lowered the price of beer, but Jimmy, who is a Patrolman in the Poi-t of New York, and his mate Bernice, were reported set­ SUNSET CUT-UPS tling down after the nerve-shat­ tering launching, which saw the new craft christened the Law­ rence James Sheehan. The 7 1/8-pound Lawrence James quickly began maneuver­ ing under its own power shortly after it came screeching oft the ways. The stui'dy little craft was nine montlhs under con­ struction, with Mrs. Sheehan in charge, before the launching took place. The Lawrence James brings the Sheehan fleet up to three — two of the boy class, one of the girl class. The operators declined to comment on future expansion plans. BLACK AND WHITE I know of several cases where men were dissatisfied with a par­ ticular event, until (1 showed them in black and white that it was either SIU law or policy. A lot of men beef, and that beefing can start a lot of trouble becau.se ignorance tends to cause dissen­ sion and confusion. Sure the idea of having every­ one aware of what is going on sounds like a dream but if every ship chairman will make sure that a man puts down in writing exactly what he wants to know, whether it be on the Union structure, organizing, contracts, Paul Hall's middle initial, or what have you, it will give a committee a chance to outline what the Brothers want and steps can be taken in that direction The sooner everyone of us knows the score on our problems, the easier it will be for us to coordinate with the men aboi t us. Ed Larkin wait — he's charging five escudoes (20 cents) for shrimp, which, if you can find them on the plate, are usually "fresh" from three days ago. No other place in Beira charges for shrimp with beer. The LOG is sent to the Swan Bar, but that is one hell of a place for the LOG to be seen, especially when there are so many decent joints where a guy can enjoy his drinking in a wholesome atmosphere for much less. So, if you want to have a good time in Beira go to the joints uptown near the movies. Here are unsolicited plugs for Marlene's Bar, Hotel Beira, Hotel Metropole and Madame Olga's. All you guys who go to Beira can take this "info" for what it's worth. I've blown my top and now I'm happy. I guess I'll hit the sack now with a clear mind. Until I write again, here's for a bigger LOG. A1 •Whitmer SS Robin Hood CITES COMPANY 'DEAL' AS WARNING TO BROTHERS To the Editor: It has come to our attention, that it is a habit df Mr. DeGeorge, of the Philadelphia Waterman Of­ fice, to send ships out of that port without sufficient supplies aboard. This is especially true of ships that have already signed on art­ icles, as on this ship, when he was informed by the Patrolman that we needed milk and other various items, we were told that these sloi'es would be on the ship before sailing time. We sailed, however, without the promised stores. It should be brought to the attention of Mr. De George, and the membership of the SIU, that these ships should be fully stored before the signing of the articles, so watch your step when on a Waterman ship in Philly. Hubert Vickery H. W. Romine. Oiler, above, makes like Charles Atlas. Girls on beaches drool when he shows what dynamic tension can do for puny, underweight men who don't fill out their dungarees^ Ex-weight-lifter Steve Stepanian, 1st Pumpman, flexes his muscles, at right above, and makes a serpentine silhouette as the setting sun cast shadows aboard the SS Sunset at sea. Tony Gambino, AB, fondles birthday cake presented to him by the Sunset's Stewards De­ partment, while Steve Stepanian "shoots" picture. fact that the ideas are timely and important. The United States Navy and Army spent millions of dollars to build and sustain morale, and industrial concerns have learned in recent years, by actual ex­ perience, that money spent for recreation rooms, billiard tables, soda fountains, etc., pays divi­ dends in dollars and cents. In other words, a contented em­ ployee is a more efficient em­ ployee. When a ship goes out to sea, at the present time, for a trip of six or nine months, the crew is largely cut off from contact with the affairs of the world (in a cyjiical sense this could be con­ sidered a break.) And when the ship returns the men who have sailed her are not able to take a normal part in life. They cannot even keep up an intelligent con­ versation due to the lack of knowledge of what has transpir­ ed while they were away. And certainly they cannot vote or take a useful interest in politics. SEES VALUE OF CHANGE It would be splendid, indeed, if this backward condition could be corrected. The ship's radio is of little value in obtaining news on long trips due to distances and weather conditions. Then, too, no one is made responsible for tuning in the radio. Things usually work like this: A mate will enter the chart room where the set is located and turn on a program. Then in a few AND CAKE minutes another mate comes along, does not like the program, and gets something else. Then a third guy decides this second program is no good and turns the radio off altogether. The result is no hits, no runs, no errors. It is true there is no ideal place to show motion pictures on most cargo ships. But in the Army — overseas — pictures were often shown under extreme­ ly disadvantageous conditions with much satisfaction to the men. On ships there is the messhall and some passageways are large enough, and in warm weather pictures could be shown on deck. The idea of the soft drinks is just an added touch to make the trip more enjoyable when you are a long way and a long time fiom home. G. S. Green E. J. Sugany A. R. Jasinsky F. J. Templon George Jennings Thomas P. Curran B. S. Sale L. A. Stoufcuburg Leonard Furman SS Casa Grande ShanghaL China �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 18. 1947 Summary Of Taft-Hartley Act Provisions OFFICIAL TITLE—Sec. 1 The Taft-Hartley Act passed on Juno 23rd is of­ ficially titled, "Labor-Management Relations Act of 1947." The Act is divided into several parts and the first part is a complete revision of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). * COVERAGE—Sec. 2 The NLRA covers any employment which affect.s interstate commerce, unless it is specifically exempted. Federal, state and local governments, Federal Reserve Banks, non-profit hospitals, and any employer subject to the Railway Labor Act are not employers covered by the Act. Individuals employed in agriculture or domestic service, or by their parents or spouse, inde­ pendent contractors, and supervisors (including fore­ men) are not employees. Apart from these exceptidns, the Act can be administered to include all trade and indu.stry which is not strictly local, like retail and service trades. ADMINISTRATION—Sees. 4-6 How far the coverr.ge of the Act is extended will depend, like many other questions, upon its adminis­ tration. The Act is administered by a New Board, con­ sisting of five membeiv., in place of the former threeman Board. The old Board had full control over all its business; the new Board shares its powers with an in­ dependent General Coun.sel, who supervises the per­ sonnel of the regional offices of the Board and has "final authority" over the investigation and prosecu­ tion of all charges and complaints. The Board itself is left with the power to issue general rules and to de­ cide cases brought to it by the General Counsel. RIGHTS OF EMPLOYEES—Sec. 7 Employees have a right to belong to unions and take part in union activities; and under the Taft-Hart­ ley Act, they also have a right not to belong to unions, and to refrain from union activities. The unfair labor practices of employers and unions all relate to this de­ claration of the rights of emplovees. Unfair Labor Practices EMPLOYER UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICES Sec. 8 (a) (1-5) There are five unfair labor practices by employers .which violate these rights: 1. To interfere with, restrain or coerce em­ ployees in the exercise of these rights; 2. To dominate or support a union; 3. To discriminate against employees because of union membership or non-membership; 4. To discharge or otherwise penalize an em­ ployee for filing charges or testifying before the Board; 5. To refuse to bargain collectively with a union which represents a majority of em­ ployees in an appropriate unit. UNION UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICES—Sec. 8 (b) (1-6) There are seven unfair labor practices by Unions: 1. To restrain or coerce employees in the ex­ ercise of their basic rights; 2. To restrain or coerce an employer in the se­ lection of his representatives to deal with the union; 3. To cause or attempt to cause an employer to discriminate against employees on account of union membership or non-member.ship; 4. To refuse to bargain collectively with an em­ ployer where it is the majority representa­ tive of his employees; 5. To engage in certain .strikes and boycotts; 6. To charge excessive initiation fees to mem­ bers' under union shop agreements; 7. To force an employer to pay for work which is nbt expected to be performed. «• EFFECT ON EXISTING CLOSED SHOP CONTRACTS Sec. 102 The first impact of this Act is upon the closed shop, or any type of agreement which in one wgy or an­ other makes union membership a condition of employ­ ment. Any closed shop contract in force before June 23rd is good for the balance of its term, whatever that may be. Any renewal or extension, however, even if automatic, begins a new contract. An existing contract can probably be reopened on any item (e.g. wages) without affecting its union security provisions, if the reopening does not change the term or duration of the contract in any way. Between June §3rd and August 22nd, 1947, a union can enter into a closed shop contract for one year. But any agreement made after August 22nd, 1947, which requires union membership as a con­ dition of employment is subject to the prohibitions and restrictions of the Act. CLOSED SHOP CONTRACTS AFTER AUGUST 22. 1947—Sec. 8 (a) 3. 8 (b) 2 The closed shop and other forms of union security are directly affected by the two unfair labor practices On this page we present the official AFL analysis of the Taft-Hartley Act. Part appears in this issue, the remainder next week, followed by bulletins answering specific questions. The best way to fight the law is by knowing exactly what the provisions are. Save this section for future reference. which forbid employers to discriminate on account of union membership or non-membership, and forbid unions "to cause" employers to discriminate on that account. A contract which makes union membership a condition of employment requires the employer to fa­ vor union men and to discriminate against non-union men. This discrimination by the employer is forbidden whether it is \ione with or without a contract. The making of a closed shop contract by an employer and a union voluntarily may only be subject to a cease-anddesist order; but the enforcement of the contract so as to deprive any person of employment, or the opportun­ ity for employment, will subject both the union and the employer to an immediate injunction and the pay­ ment of any loss in wages suffei-ed by the complaining individual. VALID UNION SHOP CONTRACT Sec. 8 (a) 3 (Proviso) The Taft-Hartley Act permits a union to have a restricted form of union security. This type of valid union security agreement can only be made by a union which has an unquestioned majority status. If this status is questioned, an election must first be held to determine the majority choice. But this clear status is not enough. In addition, an election must be held to determine if the employees wish to authorize the union to enter a union shop contract. PROCEDURE—Sec. (9 e) To get this election, the union must prove that 30% of the employees want an election to be held. The authorisation election must be won by a majority of all the employees eligible to vote, not merely a majority of those who actually vote. If a union fails to win this vote, it cannot ask for another authorization election within a year. Once the authorization has been granted, a union shop agreement can be made and renewed without further authorization elections. However, thirty percent of the employees in this unit can, by a signed petition, at any termination date, demand a new authorization election. This agreement is not only limited to one year, it is also severely limit­ ed in scope. A valid union shop agreement under the Taft-Hartley Act can go no further than to require an individual to join the union within 30 days after being employed; membership must be open to all employees on equal terms; and an employee cannot be discharged under such an agreement as long as he is willing to pay the regular dues and initiation fees. An employee can be fined by the union or expelled for breach of union discipline, but the union cannot force the employer to discharge him for that reason. Both an employer and a union going beyond these limitations are subject to an immediate temporary injunction from the courts, a permanent cease-and-desist order from the Board, and back-pay and reinstatement claims from any individual who loses his employment as a result. EXCESSIVE INITIATION FEES—Sec. 302 (c) 4 The employer may deduct the amount of union dues (and dues only) from wages and pay the amount over to the union only if each employee has individual­ ly signed a written authorization for the check-off. The compulsoi-y, automatic check-off is absolutely illegal. Both the union and the employer agreeing to it are criminally liable to a .$1,000 fine and a year in jail. Agreements containing a compulsory, automatic check­ off made before June 23rd, 10947 are valid up to July 1, 1948. The voluntary authorization, however, can be made irrevocable for a year, at the end of which time a new authorization must be signed. The union may, if it wishes, secure from each employee a check-off authorization, which is revocable at any time. Such a authorization would not have to be executed more than once. UNION INTERFERENCE AND MEMBERSHIP RULES—Sec. 8 (b) 1 The Taft-Hartley Act contains a general prohibi­ tion against "restraint" or "coercion" of employees by a union. These are legalistic words and it is difficult to say what they mean. But two significant points are clear. In the first place, while employers are forbidden to "interfere" with the employee's rights; unions are not. The term "interfere" is omitted with respect to unfair labor practices by unions, and its omission is deliberate. At the very least, ordinary solicitation of union memlDership is not touched by the Act. The Act also specifically safeguards the right of a labor or­ ganization "to prescribe its own rules with respect to the acquisition or retention of membership therein." This means that a union is free to reject applicants for membership and to punish members for violation of union discipline by fines and other penalties. It may also mean that a union member can refuse to work with a non-union man where such association would be a violation of the union constitution or by-laws. The union, however, may not incorporate this rule into a collective bargaining agreement. EMPLOYER REPRESENTATIVES—Sec. 8 (b) 1 (B) The foregoing unfair labor practices by unions are prohibitions affecting individual employees. The TaftHartley Act prohibits a union from committing certain unfair labor practices against employers. A union can­ not "restrain or coerce" an employer in the selection of his representatives to negotiate conti'acts or adjust grievances. This may mean that a union cannot force an employer to bargain through an association, but it does not prevent the union from offering uniform terms to all employers in the same general class. MAKE WORK PAYMENTS—Sec. 8 (b) 6 An employer may complain to the Board that the union is trying to force him to pay for work which "is not performed or to be performed." This section can be given many extreme meanin^g, but it is safe to as­ sume that it does not apply to any payment made for the time of employees, even though no work is actually done in the time paid for. An employee's time is worth payment; what this section prohibits arc payments for which no effort of any kind is required. If the employee has to make his time available to the employer, that in itself requires an effort and prevents the employee from working at some other job. Hence, this section does not prohibit call-in-pay, travel-time pay or other pay when the employee has to keep himself available for employment. It does not apply to any periods of idle­ ness in the course of employment like make-ready or waiting-time. And it does not apply to payments for past service, like vacation or severance pay. It is also reasonable to believe that this section does not regulate the number of employees on a job. The section does not say anything about how much work has to be perform­ ed or whether it is necessary. ' COLLECTIVE BARGAINING DUTY—Sec. 8 (d) It is an unfair labor practice for a union to refuse to bargain collectively with an employer. The term "to bargain collectively" is given a lengthy definition. It means that the parties must meet with each other at reasonable times, and in good faith discuss terms. If an agreement is reached, either party can require that it be put in writing, but neither side has to agree to a proposal or make any concessions. STRIKE NOTICES—Sec. 8 (d) (Proviso) Where there is an existing contract, it is an unfair labor practice for a union to terminate or modify the contract or make any changes in working conditions unless it takes the following steps: 1. Gives sixty days written notice to the em­ ployer; 2. Offers to meet and confer upon new terms; 3. Within thirty days after notice to the em­ ployer, gives notice of the existence of a dis­ pute to the federal and state mediation and conciliation agencies. During the period of the notice, no change can be made in working conditions. This strike notice re­ quirement can be met by giving the notice at least sixty days before the termination of the contract. Any employee who goes out on strike during the waiting period can be summarily discharged by the employer. The same duty is imposed upon the employer, and under similar circumstances he cannot make any changes in working conditions without giving the above notices. He may be enjoined from making any such changes or from locking-out employees before the sixty days are up. UNLAWFUL STRIKES AND BOYCOTTS Sec. 8 (b) 4 (A) (B) (C) (D) "This prohibition on the employer is mild indeed, and it is nothing at all compared to the prohibitions agai/ist certain strikes and boycotts by unions. The Taft-Hartley Act makes it unlawful for a union to en­ gage in a strike or concerted refusal to handle goods or perform services, or to induce other employees to take similar action, for any one of the following objects: 1. To force an employer or self-employed per­ son to join a union or an employers' associa­ tion; 2. To force a person to stop .using the products or services of another person; 3. To force another employer to recognize and bargain with a union unle.ss the union has been certified by the Board; 4. To force any employer to bargain with one union if another union Jias been certified by the Board; 5. To force an employer to give work to one particular union or craft as against others un­ less the particular craft has been certified by the Board. (Qontinued next week) �T H E SEAF A RE RS Friday. July 18. 1947 Page Fifteen LOG Two SUP Men KiUed In 1934 Fight For Seamen's Rights '/A' MEMOR/AM The Brothers v/ho lost their lives during the bloody days of the 1934 Strike will never be forgotten. Pictured above is the Memoria! Meeting held in the Sen Frr.ncisco Headquart­ ers, on July 5. Left to right, Joe St. Angelo. Assistant Secretary^Treasurer Ffarry Johnson. Chairman Chaxles -Gates, and Tommy Thompson. All work halted on all shins- in the harbor. On July 5, 1934, the .shipov/n crs in the port of San Francisco u.sed goons and policemen in an attempt to break the maritime strike then in progress. The at­ tempt was defeated through the fighting courage of the men on the picketiine, and by the solid­ arity of the San Francisco labor movement. Two mai'itime workers, How­ ard Sperry and Nick Bordoise were killed that day resisting the strikebreaking move. Six other i.ames are on the list of those killed in the struggle to establish decent conditions for maritim workers. Hera's the Honor Roll: Parker and Knudson, ILA members, killed by scabs in San Pedro. O. Helland, SUP, killed by a policeman. Williams, a member of the Fire­ men's Union, knifed to death by a scab. Shelby, Daffron, killed while on picket duly in Point Wells, V/ashington. Bruce Lindberg, killed in Hong Kong by r scab carpenter, v/hom Stu HALLS ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. Phone •%523 BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 Stale St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. In Drnmatit Hlght At Sea the shipowners refused to take off the vessel after the strike ended. Lindberg was waylaid by the carpenter and killed because he had ben active in the strike. The strike broke out in May, when picke'ulines were establish­ ed. When the tv/o ILA members were killed, that event indicated r reign of terror that started sim­ ultaneously in every other port on the coast. SCABS USED On July 3 the shipowners start­ ed to move cargo with scab labor, and on the 5th, followed up with an all-out offensive. Sperry and Bordoi.se were killed on that memorable day. On July IG, the San Francisco labor movement called a general slri-ke in protest against the open terror of the hired finks and the political stooges of the employers. The General strike was called off on July 19, and on the same day Shelby Daffron was killed while standing his picket watch. "Victory finally came on August 1. when West Coast seamen and longshoremen returned to work after the shipowners agreed to discontinue hiring through the fi.ok halls. This was the first victory, but It took quite a few more years be­ fore the shipowners became con­ vinced that maritime unions were on the Pacific Coast to stay. Each year the SUP holds mem­ orial services for the Brothers who fell in the struggle. All work ceases aboard ships in the harbor, no shipping or business is con­ ducted at the SUP Headquarters. Flowers are placed on the graves of Sperry and Bordoise, and also on the spot where they fell when shot down on July 5, 1934. All that union seamen have achieved so far is owed to those courageous fighters for unionism who gave their lives for a cause which they believed in. of exchanging • tales and jokes sv.dmming lazilj- near the ship's about how the hardiest seamen side as the rescue was being ef­ in lifeboat No. 1 got seasick, the fected. 'beef arose that these ships should Main 0147 x^nd as lifeboat No. 1 was DETROIT 1038 Third St. be equipped with motor boats, launched, this shark followed the Cadillac 6857 as our present lifeboats -are boat to where Morris was riding DULUTH 531 W. Michigan S'. large and cumbersome and really in his life ring. The men in the Melrose 4110 need experienced oarsmen to boat were warned not to say GALVESTON 30823rd St. handle them in any kind of sea. anything until after they had Phone 2-8448 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. After we resumed our course removed Morris from the water. Phone 58777 and speed, 1 went with the Cap­ Captain C. Kennedy said he JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. tain to see Morris. We found him Phone 5-5919 would like to praise the ala­ in apparent good health, possibly MARCUS HOOK 1',4 W. 8th St. crity which the entire crew dis­ Chester 5-3110 suffering from shock, although he played in carrying out the res­ MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. stated that the only effect he cue. It seemed almost like a Phone 2-1754 felt was-that of being-stiff from MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St. miracle that ' Morris was picked so long floating in the life ring. NEW ORLEANS 339 Charlies St. up when the general weather As a matter of fact, he wanted 'Magnolia 6112-6113 ALBERT NOTTAGE DAINES conditions were very much NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. to turn to in securing the life­ a.gainst spotting him. Your bag containing book, dis­ HAnover 2-2784 boats, but the Captain ordered NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. charges, and other gear is being It was only by the grace of him below for a complete rest. Phone 4-1083 held for you at the offices of the God, and the alertness of all on 1 heard it said by the Captain PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Pullman Company, Room 212, Lombard 3-7651 and other officers on board that board that he was saved from a South Station, Boston, Mass. PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. watery grave. Morris is a clean cut- young man, Beacon 4336 sober, and always on the job. RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. Phone 2599 GREAT FORTITUDE SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. He showed great fortitude Douglas 5475 - 8363 after such a harrowing exper­ SAN JUAN, P.R. ..252 Ponce de Leon The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ ience of floating around on a farers International Union is available to all members who wish San Juan 2-5996 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. dark night in shark infested to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of Phone 8-1728 waters with only a remote their families and themselves w-hen ashore. If you desire to have SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. chance of being saved. Main 0290 the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every L. Crabtree, William Shearer, In fact, a large- shark was seen SIU branch for this purpose. TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Kylcs, John C. Scott, Phone M-1323 Willie However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU TOLEDO 615 Summit St. Young McMillian,' Claude 'E. Garfield 2112 Holley and Gerald E. Forbes, set hall, the LOG reproduces below the foi-m used to request the WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. LOG, which you can fill out, detaclr and send to: SEAFARERS out to effect the rescue. Terminal 4-3131 LOG, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. In the meantime Morris was ROBERT JENSEN VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. Garden 8331 held in the spotlight manned by Get in touch With x^.Tne (Chip) PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION VANCOUVER 144 W. 'Hastings St. Brother Joseph Bryand, and a Larsen at Charlestown Road, Pacific 7824 passenger, Eugene Cote; your re­ Hampton, New Jersey. To the Editor: porter all the time directing the light with the aid of -glasses. JOHN -C. -STEWART, JR. I would like the SEAFARER'S > LOG mailed to the TO THE RESCUE A communication from your address below: At exactly 2125 hours, Morris wife requefets that you get in was ' found - and picked up - by 'WILLIAM A. BROWN touch -with • her immediatbly. Name Your' retroactive money," $175.- the No. 1 -lifeboat, and returned S44" 59, from the P&O"SS Co. is held to the ship. The Ca{>tain was ! RICHARD L. STANTON Street Address for you - by ^Secretary-Treasurer :there all- the time giving orders. Your wife is-very anxious to At 2-200 hours, No. 1 lifeboat J. P. Shuler, at-Headquarters, came ialongside, and after a fe^ hear from you. City State.. it 4> 4> "4 minutes maneuvering to get in JOHN L. GILBONS THOMAS DODD We have been notified that the lee, v/as hoisted and*secured. Signed A letter from the Salvation Mrs. Julia Will^erson is anxious A few minutes later No. - 2 life­ to get in touch with you regard­ boat came alongside and it too Army informs us that your Book No. brother would like to hear from ing your children. Contact her was hoisted and secured. Then, following a few minutes you as soon as possible. as soon as possible. (Continued from Paf^e 1) in the life ring. Our No. 2 life boat, with its valiant crew, was Searching off our port side at the time. Signaling them, -we told them u j i x/r • j x We" had Sighted Moms and to come in, but the sea being chop­ py they didn't receive our mes­ sage. It tiien became necessary to launch No. 1 lifeboat with Sec­ ond Officer R. Schutz in com­ mand. With as brave a body of men as ever manned a life boat. Brothers- Percy A. Gray, John S. Burke, Howard E. Fowler, Claude NOTICE! Notice To All SiU Members PERSONALS PERSOIWLS �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 18. 1947 I I GiTsat Lakes, too, is§oin§ SIU Great Lakes seamen Lnour u)hst they tuant- WRiiY' pROTKTioiii -comim under the •? I I � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 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 July 18, 1947 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. IX, No. 29 Description An account of the resource Headlines: FRISCO GETS AFL CONCLAVE IN OCTOBER AFL RELEASES FULL ANALYSIS OF 'SLAVE LAW' ALCOA PILGRIM CREW SAVES SHIPMATE IN DRAMATIC NIGHT RESCUE AT SEA SEATRAIN VESSELS TO RESUME SCHEDULED STOPS AT TEXAS CITY MERCHANT SEAMEN ARE ELIGIBLE FOR VET HOUSING THE LAST HURDLE LSU, LCA USE POISON PEN LETTERS IN DESPERATE ATTEMPT TO HALT SIU THE FIGHT IS NOT YET OVER, SO KEEP SHIPPING ISTHMIAN CALLS ECONOMIC ACTION ANSWER TO TAFT-HARTLEY LSU AND LCA TURN TO LIES DEEP IN THE HEART OF GALVESTON HALL PHILADELPHIA AGENT CALLS FOR MORE COOPERATION WITH LOG BEACHCOMBING TOO ATTRACTIVE, SAN JUAN HAS FEW REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS SCARCE IN TAMPA; EVEN SS FLORIDA HAS TOUGH TIME ANOTHER LSU MEMBERSHIP SELLOUT: TWO STEWPOTS ON THE PONTIAC GREAT LAKES PERFORMERS ARE WARNED PLENTY OF ACTIVITY IN GALVESTON; GASHOUNDS AND PERFORMERS WANE NEW FORM FOR LISTING REPAIRS SHOULD END COMPANY STALLING SHIPPING ONLY FAIR IN BALTIMORE, BUT SHOULD PICK-UP SHORTLY PLENTY OF SHIPS COMING AND GOING IN NEW ORLEANS FRISCO SIGNS NEW CONTRACT, ANOTHER COMING SAILING IN THE SEAFARERS GAVE THIS BROTHER WHAT HE WANTED MEN NEEDED FOR SUN OIL DRIVE LABOR UNIONS ARE REALLY UNFAIR A GOOD STORY WITHOUT NAMES SIU CONTINUES WINNING STREAK ON GREAT LAKES CHICAGO SHIPPING SLOW; ORGANIZING KEEPS PACE BUTTONS POP AT JULY 4 MANDAN VICTORY CHOW SMOOTH CREW MANS CLIPPER ON GT. LAKES PROSPECT OF SIU CONTRACT KEEPS ISTHMIAN CREW GOING DELEGATES KIT EXPLAINED TO SEATRAIN MEN SUMMARY OF TAFT-HARTLEY ACT PROVISIONS TWO SUP MEN KILLED IN 1934 FIGHT FOR SEAMEN'S RIGHTS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/18/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/96874dcd366b0daa3473f5e31ebb49a9.PDF 7e07740a194c61cace42831577e473a5 PDF Text Text tl •• '"S •••,-••* '^.'^ri.^^" ' Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. I' I k li* ' NEW YORK. N.Y.. FRIDAY. JULY 11. 1947 ^ No. 28 'f, iSeafarers Wins Another; Wyandotte Fleet Goes Sill By 68 Percent Majority The AFL conference of union heads to outout­ line an offensive against the vicious Taft-Hart­ ley Act was held on Wednesday, July 9, in Washington, D. C. Attending the meeting for the Seafarers International Union were Paul Hall, First Vice-President and Acting President in the ab­ sence of Harry Lundeberg, and Morris Weisberger, Second Vice-President. Brother Lunde­ berg is out of the country on business. The conference adopted a fighting program, one which will require the cooperation of every union and every union member. A story on the meeting, plus the full text of the policy statement which was unanimously adopted, appears on page 16. 7 DETROIT, July 8—The Seafarers steamroller in the Great Lakes gath­ ered momentum today as the unlicensed seamen of the Wyandotte Transpor­ tation Company completed balloting on their four ship fleet and hung up an mpressive two-to-one victory for the SIU. A total of 47 votes, or 68 percent •f those^ cast, were counted in the SIU column. This marks the second victnrv victory on the Lakes since the 1947 season started, with Huron Transportation Com­ pany voting for the Union during the month of June. * Field Examiner Ruth Green-t berg conducted the election for the NLRB and Assistant Organi­ zational Director Paul Warren acted as observer for the SIU. Due to the fact that they had al­ ready begged olT the ballot •• • Somewhere, perhaps hidden in who realize that the Gorman' This bill is a stab in the back through fear of an overwhelming defeat, no representatives of thej P|||^ |U||MA|^A one of the Congressional sub­ and Japanese people are suffer- fo American merchant seamen, NMU were present as the Wyan- lUI Iffllllvl O committees, is a bill "To author­ ing from a lack of protein in I By threat of economic action, dotte crews voted. WASHINGTON, July 9 —Ap­ ize the President of the United their diets, and that having fish- the transfer of ships to PanamStarting on June 30, crewproximately 75 percent of the members of the SS Conneaut Honduran registry has States to direct^the United States ing vessels available will aid , . X u.u . been halted, but now comes a were the first to cast their ballots bituminous coal industry yester­ Maritime Commission to charter these people in catching the vast . . , . . , ® bill to make such transfers legal, for the SIU. This ship was voted day signed a contract which certain vessels to persons not quantities of fish which can be under the mask of helping while docked at the Peninsular granted the United Mine Work­ citizens of the United States, and found in the North and Baltic out starving Europeans. ers, AFL, pay raises of 45 cents Salt Works in Wyandotte. for other purposes." Second ship of the Wyandotte an hour, and contained two pro­ Seas. W. D. LOBBYISTS fleet to be voted was the SS Hu­ visions to protect the union from These &re to be chartered un­ But, hidden in the bill, is a Much of the pressure to pass ron. Crewmen on this ship reg­ Taft-Hartley law penalties. der "such terms and conditions x)kor; in fact, two .jokers. this bill is coming right from istered their preference for the The two protections stipulate: as the President shall approve," One of the first provisions the War Department. But, in SIU on the morning of July 1, first, that the miners shall work and ar^ to be confined to states that "the Secretary of War the lobbying to gain support, the while their ship was docked at only "during such time as they "Liberty-type vessels (other than and the Secretary of the Navy, bra.ss hats conveniently neglect the North Plant of the Wyan­ are able and willing to work;" collier and tanker), and vessels respectively, shall be authorized to mention that the others be­ dotte Chemical Corporation at and second, that it will be a vio­ lation of the contract for any op­ designed or convertible for fish­ to transport, in vessels chart­ sides Germans and Japanese will Wyandotte. be allowed to charter the ves­ Then, on the evening of July erator to take court action ing purposes which the ered under the provisions of this sels, and that supplies and equip­ 3, SS Alpena seamen added their against the union. P'resident shall determine are not •ct, supplies and equipment be ment may be transported abroad ballots to those already cast for The first provision defends the necessary to the defense of the longing to the Army or Navy." for American troops in such the Seafarers. Their ship was union against penalties for wild­ transferred ships. United States, or to the promo­ berthed at the North Plant m cat strikes, and the second nulli­ SAFETY ENDANGERED tion and maintenance of an No, the W.D. is puting all its Wyandotte. fies a large section of the newly If this isn't bad enough, fur­ emphasis on the humanitarian Finally, crewmembers of the passed "slave labor" act. American-owned merchant ma­ ther along the bill reads, "The aspects of the bill, and saying fourth Wyandotte ship, the SS rine." The signing of the Mine Work­ Commandant, United States nothing about the consequent Wyandotte, did their share in the On the fact of it, such a bill Coast Guard, is authorized to weakening of the American mer­ ers contract is a clear cut vic­ election by balloting at 10:00 cannot be combatted by those waive compliance with the nav­ chant marine, at the same time A.M. today. They also voted at tory over the Taft-Hartley Act, and proves that the miners were igation and vessel-inspection laws that foreign powers will be the North Plant. right when they walked off the administered by the Coast Guard strengthened and U. S. capitalists Altogether, there were 83 elig- job, declaring, "Let the Senators to the extent and in such manner! allowed to pile up greater promine the coal." (Contimied on Page 6) and upon such terms as may be fits by operating under foreign deemed necessary by him insofar wages and conditions against Almost 500 delegates from as such laws are applicable to which the SIU has battled for American and Canadian ports vessels chartered under the pro­ so long. will assemble Monday, July 14, visions of this Act." American operators can no in New York for the first Inter­ Nowhere does the bill state The Masters, Mates and Pilots, ing holidays, except those fall­ charter-hire Maritime national Longshoremen's Asso­ that vessels chartered to "per­ longer AFL, has negotiated a 5 per ing on Sunday. Commission vessels, but here is ciation Convention since 1943. sons not citizens of the United The new agreement was neg­ cent wage increase for its mem­ a way they can get around the The ILA, which meets in con­ States," cannot then be rechartbership aboard vessels of At­ otiated last week by Capt. Will­ situation, and even turn it to vention every four years, will ered to those people in the U.S. lantic and Gulf operators. iam C. Ash, MMP national vicetheir own_^ advantages. have high on its agenda discus- who would use this as a way of president, following conferences The wage rise, which was an­ The idea of assisting the Ger­ nounced by Capt. E. W. Higgin- with the head of the American sion and plans for a course of ac-, getting around maintaining detion on the new Taft-Hartley cent wages and conditions on man and Japanese people to at­ botham, national president of Merchant Marine Institute. tain a better standard of living the deck officers union, is re­ Act. American owned ships. Negotiations are now under is a good one, but this bill is troactive to June 16 and will way between the union's West The ILA contracts, like those Nowhere does the bill state of the SIU, expire on September that these ships are to charter- only a coverup for further ex­ be made part of the existing con­ Coast representatives and Pacific 30, h month after the August' ed only to those who would use ploitation of merchant seamen, tract. operators. Capt. Ash said he ex­ 22nd Taft-Hartley Act deadline! them to help out the German and and the Seafarers International In addition, the new contract pected an agreement soon simi­ on the signing of closed shop Japanese diet, which is admit­ Union is proud to unmask it as provisions calls for overtime pay lar to the one signed by the such. contracts. tedly low in protein. for work at sea on nine stand­ East Coast companies. New Maritime Bill Is Definite Threat To U.S. Merchant Marine New Contract Big Victory ILA Convention Begins On Juiy 14 MM&P Wins Wage Increase �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 11, 1947 • and'thdts SEAFARERS LOG 9 90 Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District a Qoat Affilialed v/ith Ihe American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. * HAnover 2-2784 / International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. .MORRIS WEISBERGER - Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK Secy.-Treasurcr 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowliiig Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of-the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 26/ It's No Gag In the closing moments of debate, after which the Senate oveA'ode President Truman's veto of the TaftHartley bill, Senator Taft answered a question. Here is the gist of his reply: Hospital Patients A iinicn owned newspaper could not print the record and news and opinions about a candidate for federal office, but an incorporated newspaper can. When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card,, giving your name and the number of your ward.. In other words, a man running for federal office cannot be criticized by the nation's labor press, even though his previous record may show him to be viciously opposed to the best interests of the people whose vote he is courting. No such muffler exists for the newspapers These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, which are owned by the bosses, which can be depended as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging upon to be on the side of big business as opposed to Labor. Men Now In The Marine Hospitals heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ 'We in the Seafarers International Union have never ing to them. played with the politicians, on one side or the other. We STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL do not intend to start now. But this issue goes deeper N. NEILSEN than just the SIU. J. A. DYKES Other unions have tried to influence the politics of this country by supporting one or another of the two major parties. To date, this has not done them too much good, but they should have the right to continue favoring certain candidates if they wish to do so, and if the mem­ bership is in favor of such a course of action. Men who run for public office should be willing to stand or fall on their records. When they try to protect themselves against this democratic procedure, it becomes obvious that they are hiding something that they are ashamed of. The men who passed the Taft-Hartley Act certainly should be. There is not much chance that any section of the new Slave Labor Act will stand up. Both the AFL and the CIO have gone on record to fight the law all the way up to the Supreme Court, if necessary. But it's a sure thing that the section dealing with the labor press hasn't the chance of a .snow ball. There are too. many labor edito.'"s who will risk going to jail to see whetlier this unconstitutional limitation of the rights of free speech can be forced upon the free labor movement of the United States. It's fortunate for this country that such men exist! E. J. SIDNEY E. E. CASEY J. HOSTEN C. B. O'NEAL M. J. DELANEY ^ ' T. J. KURKI C. IBRAIN A. DUDDE M. PlSkUN W. E. STORVIS A. FELICIANO H. SELBY S- S. S. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL A. BUCHENHORNER C. PEDERSEN J. HARRISON G. CARUSO P. STOFFEL A. SANDY R. CHRISTIAN A. R. GUIDRY J. AMAYA H. DAUGHERTY P. La Cicero R. WRIGHT G. GREY H. HAMOND C. CASE F. HAMON J. O'NEILL W. BROSE C. MASON A. WALTERS 4. 4, t BALTIMORE HOSPITAL M. PLYLER F. O'BRIEN J. WYMOND E. CAIN JR. J. TARQUELLOS F. MILLER D. COPPAK P. PODOLSKY R. GORDON M. FINDELHURST H. GREEN % X X. ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL W. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. MCDONALD C. RASMUSSEN J. KOSLUSKY XXX NEPONSET HOSPITAL L. CLARK J. S. CAMPBELL E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY St at en Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—- 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) C. L. J. L. C. J. R. H. J. LARSEN L. LEWIS R. LEWIS TORRES SCHULTZ HAMILTON A. BLAKE BELCHER T. EDWARDS XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. WHELAN J. CALHOUN (SUP) R. BAASNER W. PARIS R. LORD E. JOHNSTON A. BONTE E. MOFIENE E. DELLAMANO E. HAMATY R. GRALICKI H. WALSH J. WHEATON (SUP) R. HUNT . . ; J. MCDONOUGH G. BLACK H. SMITH tk -• �THE Friday. July 11. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG PageThree SIU Wyandotte Victory Is Sign Of Maritimo Sentimont On Lakes By PAUL WARREN By PAUL HALL Things are getting tough for the performers in the Seafarers. In the past few months the membership has shown that it has had enough of these characters and is now, bearing down on them. This attitude is a good thing for all hands and will certainly strengthen our organization. Up to now the membership has been mighty lenient with these guj'S and none of them can say he wasn't given enough rope. Despite the fact that the performers were a tiny minority, they did harm to their shipmates far out of pro­ portion to their numbers. Nothing can louse up a ship as quickly as a couple of gas hounds. Besides ducking out of their share of shipboard work, they toss another hook at their Union brothers by attempting to freeload. Throughout the entire trip they make nuisances of them­ selves. People like these have no right to belong to a Union which the membership has fought so hard to make strong. Union condi­ tions are continually in jeopardy when these guys are around. The Union had a tough enough time getting gear aboard ship and no gashound will be allowed to damage or ruin it. The smoke the performers and gashounds spread around hits your nostrils wherever you go. Whenever the Union negotiating committee goes in for a try at getting wages raised, the first thing the shipownei's want to talk about is the actions of the few screw­ balls. They raise the old cry: "What's the use of putting decent gear on a ship if the crew is going to destroy it?" The performers are not the crew, they aren't even good Union men. But the dam­ age they do is paid for by their shipmates. Luckily, actions like these are at a minimum. But the fewer the better. Every member of the Union should make it his busi­ ness to put in line any bum who may try these stunts aboard his scow. If he doesn't stop his stuff when he's been asked—then stop him the best way you can. Then when the ship gets in have the Ship's Delegates bring it to the attention of the boarding Patrol­ men. You owe that much to yourself. Blowhards At Work A short while back a fellow was up on charges in the Port of New York for conduct unbecoming a Union man. It seems the guy had continually stuck his shipmates for watches. When told by the rest of the Black Gang that he was off base and would be brought up on charges, hq told the Engine Delegate that it couldn't be done because he "knew some of the New York officials." His hot air spiel went right up the chimney. His shipmates brought him up on charges despite his claim that it couldn't be done—and the trial committee handled him in the right way. The essence of what they told him is well worth repeating: "We don't care if you knew Andy Furuseth in person much less some of our piecards—you're wrong and this committee finds you guilty!" They fined this phony 50 bucks. Although it sounds pretty funny,.this incident typifies a cer­ tain type of blowhard,. who loves to tell a crew that he knows a piecard, that they arc great buddies and that he can, therefore, do anything. After paving the way he goes around breaking all the rules, dishing out dirty deals to his shipmates, meanwhile claiming exemption from the rules governing the rest of the crew. This type of guy is strictly a phony. In the first place, what the hell if a guy does know a piecard or all the piecards? He's a member of the same.Union as his shipmates. He has the same obligations and duties as anybody else. If he should know a pie­ card it doesn't make a damned bit of difference. A piecai'd is no different from any other member of the SIU. Not only does the guy who shoots this line hurt himself, he makes the piecard in question look off'base as well. If you should run into one of these "I-know-so-and-so" guys, tell him pronto what the facts of Union life are. * Ship Meetings A Necessity Although most SIU ships hold meetings at sea, some do not hold near enough. As soon as possible after the sign-on every crew should make it its business to hold a meeting and elect the ship's delegates. After that, meetings should be held at regular inter\[als, so that all hands can act on shipboard and Union problems. It is very important that the younger members of the SIU be educated to the necessity of being good Union men. Too many of our oldtimers are not taking enough, interest in this matter. Re­ member, the better Union man a guy is, the more likely it is he will be standing picket duty with you in our next beef. And, ac­ cording to the way the Taft-Hartley bill shapes up, this possibility might not be as far off as some people believe. So the educational value of our shipboard meetings can't be too sti'ongly emphasized. We must be prepared to use economic action to defeat this bill if a situation calls for it. It might mean hitting the bricks. The position taken by the SIU at the last regular meeting to combat the threat of the Taft-Hartley Act is a militant one. Our stand to regard as a lockout the use of this vicious law by anyone in an attempt to harm our Union hiring hall means that we had better be prepared to back up our statement, when and if t .ecessary. V.'t DETROIT — Well, the second step of the Seafarers 1947 organi­ zational drive on the Great Lakes has been accomplished with the winning of the four-ship Wyan­ dotte fleet. Wyandotte crewmembers gave the SIU a nice vote of confidence with a smashing 68 percent victory. First, crewmembers of the two Huron ships gave the SIU a 58 percent vote, with the NMU re­ ceiving a total of two votes! Now, the Wyandotte crewmembers reg­ istered a 68 percent vote for the Seafarers. This is "only the beginning, as crew after crew on the unorgan­ ized Lakes ships have stated that they, too, want the SIU. One big disappointment in the Wyandotte election was the fact that the NMU sneaked off the ballot at the last minute. After stirring up all the trouble in the world for the Wyandotte seamen, and thereby delaying the elec­ tion for several weeks, these phonies were definitely afraid of the shellacking that they would have taken had they remained on the Wyandotte ballot. Now, with the Wyandotte elec­ tion out of the way, we only have to wait for NLRB certifica­ tion before beginning contract negotiations with the Wyandotte Transportation Company leading to an SIU contract. POINTING THE WAY phonies spend union time and union money in fighting personal battles. How can they devote any time to the legitimate de­ mands of their members? How can they find any time to repre­ sent those same members in a beef with the operators? As a direct contrast, go through the SEAFARERS LOG from front page to back. The LOG is strict­ ly a membership organ for the express purpose of printing news of and about Seafarers, import­ ant items concerning the welfare of the seamen, information for the use of all seamen, pictures, stories, letters and items by and for the members. SIU STRENGTH Comparison of the LOG and the Pilot is only one item which reveals the strength of the SIU as compared to the NMLb Cer­ tainly, it's a strong argument for the program, militancy, and the many gains which have been achieved by the fighting mem­ bership of the SIU. Lakes seamen just have to look at the record and, apparent­ ly, many of them have been look­ ing at the record if the results of the Huron and Wyandotte elec­ tions are any yardstick. Men With The Required Time Urged To Get Higher Rating With the results of the Huron By AL and Wyandotte elections now in, it's easy to see what way the The organizing staff has, in wind is blowing on the Lakes. Unorganized Lakes seamen are the past, called upon the mem­ all for the Seafarers. They real­ bership to give a helping hand ize now, as they never realized in several unorganized steam­ before, that the SIU is the only ship companies. Never has the Union on the Lakes with a pro­ membership refused our requests to take one of these unorganized gram, come hell or high water. scows, no matter where the ship Lakes seamen want nothing to was going, when she was leav­ do with the weak sister outfit, ing, or what condition she was the Lakes Sailors Union, because in. they realize that this outfit is too weak and too closely tied to the Now, we have found that in operators to do any good for the several of the unorganized com­ seamen. panies where we are trying to What good could the LSU do get a foothold, there is a short­ their members in case of a lock­ age of experienced Pumpmen out, or in the event of a prolong­ and Machinists. In view of this ed strike? It takes manpower, situation, it would be of great strong union support and strong advantage to the membership financial backing to get any and to the Union as a whole, if place in this man's world, especi­ every man having the necessary ally in the maritime field. time would get the next highest And that's what the SIU has. endorsement in his department. We have 91,000 members in the At the present time there is a five Districts of the SIU. We large number of men sailing as have a strong treasui'y in the OS and Wipers, who could qual­ SIU, and we have the backing ofj ify for endorsements as ABs and the powerful AFL Maritime FWTs. Men having the required Trades Department. In addition, time for these ratings, but who we can always count on the do not get the endorsement, are backing of almost 8 million AFL depriving their fellow members, Brothers. who lack the required time of NMU WEAK jobs. What has the weak, strife-torn, commie-domminated NMU got to offer the Lakes seamen? Their leadership spends two-thirds of their time in constant bickering among themselves, name-calling and political maneuvering in or­ der to gain the balance of power. Also, the NMU leadership, al­ though part of them now dis­ avows commie tendencies, has been tied to the Moscow kite for so long that they don't dare take an independent breath without consulting the party hacks. Read the columns of the NMU propaganda rag, the Pilot, and see for yourselves how these The SIU is the only union on the Lakes today which stands against the organized strength ol the operators as exemplified by the Lake Carriers Association and any of their stooge outfits, and the SIU is the only union on the Lakes which has set those same operators back on their hind ends time and again in a fight for decent conditions on the Great Lakes for all seamen. Who won the first forty hour week back in 1942 for fitout and layup on the Lakes? Who won the forty-four hour week for the passenger and ex­ cursion boats on the Lakes? Who won the forty hour week with other substantial gains for the Lakes sandboats? Who won the first forty hour week for the bulk carriers on the Lakes with the Midland agree­ ment? Who has a record in the entire maritime industry of never hav­ ing lost a legitimate beef? There's only one answer to this series of questions. That is the Seafarers International Union, AFL. And the SIU is the only bona fide Union on the Lakes for the seamen to join. That's for sure! Men lacking required time can't sail in the higher rating and the men who have the time thereby are taking up their jobs, besides losing out. on the chance tc make more money. So how about geting those endorsements. If you have the required time in the Black Gang, especially, go get Pumpman or Machinists endorsement. Contact the or­ ganizers and see if they have any unorganized companies where you can apply for a job. KERR that we were able to win cer­ tification in that outfit. Now we are trying to get an election in the Cities Service and Sun Oil fleets. It will again be necessary for the membership to come forward as they did in the Isthmian drive, if we expect to come out on top in the same way we did on these other un­ organized companies. Under the Taft-Hartley Act it is more important than ever be­ fore that the membership get onto these unorganized scows and ride them. Don't forget, the shore-side organizers can't do as good a job on an unorganized ship in the short time she is i.n port as a good seamen can do on the ship at sea. Sa'l those Cities Service and Sun Oil ships to bring them under the Seafarers' banner. AVC Progressives Beat Commie Attempt To Capture Outfit The American Veterans" Com­ mittee. the only national veter­ ans organization that accepts sea­ men into membership, has just emerged victorious from a pitch­ ed battle that threatened it with being taken over by the com­ munists. Since the inception of AVC, connnunists have been very ac­ tive within its ranks. Last year fijf'y gained control of two of its regions and were threatening greater control this year. With the conclusion of its convention Remember, it was only through at Milwaukee this week, a prothe voluntary efforts of the mem­ labor, anti-communist slate swept bership in sailing Isthmian ships all offices. �T HE Page Four S EAiF A HE RS -«• ' Friday. July 11. 1947 LOE GIVING OUT WITH THE FACTS bive Too Wellv Says Gohimnist Obviously, to Mr. Ruark, jeal- cause the seaman, with a heavy ousy has reared his ugly head, hangover, refused to turn to." During the past war, Robert In the days when seamen worked | If that is the comradeship he C. Ruark, who had been for a for $40 per month and worked admired in the old days, then he brief _timc a merchant seaman, e.xtremely long hours with bum and Hansom Balwin are the was aboard a merchant ship as chow, the unions were non-e.x- only ones who possess it. a Naval gunnc.ry officer. After istant. For some unknown reason, the the war, he returned to his desk Because the men who go to Navy has done an excellent job as a newspaper man for Scripps- sea banded together and fought in turning out men who will Howard and began to write little the conditions that even Ruark prostitute themselves by attacktales a-la-Peglcr about subject^, disliked, and bought conditions j ing the merchant marine which upon which he could vent his and wages aboard ship up to a aided tremendously in making wrath. par with civilian jobs they are the many naval victories possible. Recently .he went back aboard now "plain no damn good." Both Baldwin and Ruark, haya merchant ship, this time as As for the claim that mer- | ing spent time in the Navy, now Two crewmemmbers of the Caleb Strong. Waterman. a passenger, and began a chron- chant seamen were not allowed.set themselves up as authorities James Moore. AB. (seated) and Dan Alvino.. give a LOG Staff _icle of his trip. His first dis­ to man the guns becau.se of on maritime. patch dwelt on the romance of their lack of patriotism, he ne­ member the story of what took place on their ship. As with the case of Baldwin, being out at sea aboard ship, glects to mention that before Ruark, too, should take a Pan­ The men. representing the majority of the crew, tell how but his second and succe.ssive the Navy and guns were put on 'amanian ship if he is so rnuch in they found that a Union disruptor aboard their ship gave them articles were of a different na­ the ships, the seamen took .the love with the "good old days.' greater cause for worry than the bucko mate. ture. ships unarmed through the war He soon lore into the crew of zones, and when guns were first the ship, attacking and criticiz­ put aboard, 30 caliber machine j ing, them for having gained good guns at that, the seamen man­ conditions and wages. Being ned them alone. | aboard an NMU ship, he aimed Finally, v.-hen greater arma­ his verbal blasts at the N.MU ment was put aboard, the man­ crew in particular, but attacked ning scale was insufficient to all seamen in general when he man the guns and the seamen Reports about intolerable con­ strategy of the Isthmian cam- Mr. Westcott seemed to imagine made such statements as; wore not sufficiently trained to duct and .harsh action of ships' paign. the crew the "goals," and the "The jion-Iicensed personnel u.se • the guns. officers toward their crews are coffee can a "football," as he who go to sea today are the His claims of "pull" and "inTheir job was to sail the ships most incompetent, disintere.sted, and see that they reached their not out of the ordinary; in fact, fluence," and hfs knowledge of Phiased it highly paid, best fed, most lu:-:- de.stination: the actual protection I such reports occur with regular- "inner workings" merely serves TORRENT OF ABUSE uriously quartci-ed, and plain no of the ship was up to the Navy. : jfyto cause dissention in the Union's This was the prelude to a voci­ <iamn good of any seamen ever Even after the Navy was put j Slcrics of union brothers work­ ranks. ferous torrent of invective and jto sign on a ship." aboard, seamen always as.-isted ing again.st their own union and CLAIMS DISCOUNTED profanity, whether intended for Trying to out-do Han.son Bald­ in manning the guns. This, he creating dissention aboard ship, win, who attacked seamen last conveniently forgets. however, ai'o" much rarer and are Although his phony claims real or imaginary foes, it is dif­ spring, he goes even further by more dangerous, inasmuch as were discounted and blasted by ficult to say. Having been an officer in the stating' tliat during the war the evei-y union membei' is expected the crew aboard the Strong, such As crewmembers, wo can well Na'.'v. Ruark looks with distaste pro-Russion feeling was so strong to be working for the common men as this are a greater threat visualize the consequences had and so general that the Navv i practices as tne men good of his brother unionists. to the Union's .strength than all: any of the unlicensed personnel having the same facilities as the own gunners had to place it; Aboard the Caleb Strong, Wa­ the -tyrannical ships' officers repeatedly performed in such a officers, such as a lounge room, aboard our ships. fashion during working hours. terman Steamship Company, the thrown together. According to Ruark, the Mer­ ice-cold water and showers. He This type of men always shows ^ou may be assured that Coast crew found cases of both types: chant seamen could have fought, even finds it unusual that the censure, loggings and the Chief Mate and a member of his true color when the chips are I men should eat the same food and serviced those guns, but down, and this one is no excep-1 appendages of modern the unlicensed crew. as the officers. Such things, of Navy men were necessary be­ The actions of the officer were tion. When the crew attempted ma"time discipline would move cause of the "possibility that a course, never happened in the to take a course of action in the ff^'ckly into full operation, abusive and agressive. He sub­ change of relationship with the name of the crew, he refused to In addition, Mr. Westcott is Looking back on the "good jected the crew to displays of Russians might result in our go along claiming that it would strictly a "blue pencil" boy conold days", he claims that in the drunkedness, during which time entire armed merchant fleet sailhurt his status—and he was the cerning legitimate overtime. dear, dead past "there was a he challenged crewmembers to - - • ing happily off to Murmansk, to ships' delegate! Overtime, according to a stipul­ certain camaraderie between the fight with him. These perform­ join the red brethren." ated agreement, doesn't seem to officers and the men. We weren't ances were noted and a letter of As far as his first point is con­ Thus, instead of impressing the faze him, for he has his own pri­ buddies on the ship, but ashore protest drawn up which appears cerned, Mr, Ruark, through his crew with his ability and im­ vate interpretation of what overown contradictions defeats his we were equals and on the ship below. portance, he thoroughly discred­ ited himself in the eyes of -his't'";® ^e, regardless of a point when he tells of the days the Second Mate and I were POOR UNION MAN duly constituted contract. conversational chums." ' when he went to sea. fellow crewmembers. He writes, "I used to manicure He immediately does a switch The crewmember aboard, how­ OWN JUDGE In the matter of the ship's of­ holds all day long, and paint on himself by stating only six ever, was even more distasteful ficer, the crew sums up its case His niggardly protestations on over the side, and then shift paragraphs later "A few years to the men of the Caleb Strong. against him in the letter of pro­ this subject are beyond the scope ship all night on my own time, ago, I saw a ham-handed mate Ho, a member of their own test which follows; of this document, and are amply for a lousy $40 monthly, and bounce a seaman off the bulk­ Union, worked completely con­ I the food stank." head for 1,5 minutes, merely be- trary to the principles of the ' We, the undersigned, desire to dealt with elsewhere. Needless Union; thus his actions were register our most emphatic pro- to say, Mr. Westcott, with his test in regard to'the past actions grandiose total of 470 odd hours, more unforgivable. and conduct of Chief Officer Her­ is the infallible and omniscient This man is the type who in bert Westcott. judge of his own essential over­ the name of unionism sows dis­ time. The deportment of this wopldsention among the crew, and Briefly, this pale imitation of causes more trouble than the be "quarterdeck caesar" during most vicious whip - .swinging the recently ^concluded voyage is a brass hat, by his petty stagea complete negation of the con­ door antics and exhibitions, has Mate. Charges of operating and or­ heavy strain to the already weak Aboard the Caleb Strong he ventional ideas of decorum that created only strife and discord ganizing a black market within Austrian economy and threatens attempted to bulldoze the men are compatible to the licensed amongst the entire deck person­ Austria were leveled at the Rus­ to wreck any plans of stabiliza­ nel to the extent that everyone into bowing before, his will by personnel. sian occupation forces by the tion, is impossible to be counter­ is in unanimous favor of paying stating that he had "pull" with On one memorable occasion Austrian Cabinet, this week. ed since the produce is carried union officials, and with his "in­ while in Liverpool, totally intox­ off rather than endure once more The Austrians, in making pub­ in trucks and rolling stock of fluence" could have anyone he icated, he stumbled into the 4 the assinity and incivility of this lic their charges, pointed out the Russian occupation author­ v/islred brought up on trial. to 8 foc'sle. For no apparent potential "Captain Bligh," that Russian trucks manned by ities and manned with Russian Possibly the man is more to be He also told them that he was reason, in an incoherent har­ Russian soldiers and railway personnel. aboard as a special delegate of angue, he let it be known that pitied than reprimanded, but freight shipments under Russian the Union to observe the new "I am a tough SOB," and pro­ then again, we are merely sea­ orders are bringing in fruit from claimed a zealous will to prove men and know only objective contract in operation. Yugoslavia that is being sold on facts, not psychological explana­ Not content with this, he tried it. the black market at high prices. This incident was followed by tions. to impress the crewmembers If you don't find linen James Moore with his importance by saying several other alcoholic sprees FOR MACHINERY when you go aboard your Walter Gustavson that he knew all the "inner while supposedly on duty. The ship, notify the Hall at once. The purpose of the Ru.ssian's workings" of the Union and had climax of this tragic comedy ocJesus Araya participation in the black mar­ A telegram from Le Havre or aided on occasion in laying down cured when he kicked and heav­ J. Galindez ket, the report relates, is to use ed an empty coffee can at sev­ Union policies. Singapore won't do you any Chee Mohat the money to buy Austrian good. It's your bed and you Some of his achievements, ac­ eral members of the Deck De­ machinery for shipment to Yugo­ Salleh Dall cording to his modest claims were partment who were painting at have to lie in it. slavia. ' William Scott taking part in the Agents Con­ the time. This activity, which lends a In his liquor-soaked illusions. Dan Alvino ference, and assisting in the By WILL IVA HARDY Bucko Mates Are Less Of A Threat Than The Disrupters From Within Russian Forces Foster Black Market In Austria • I- ATTENTION! �Friday. fJtUy 11., 1947 Now Agent in the Port of Nov/ Orleans is Ervl "Bull" Sheppard, ebovo. Bull, who was in charge of all field work in the Isthmian Organizing Campaign, succeeded Steely White THE SEAFARERS The ports along the Gulf are once more taking their rightful place as 8. strong'spot in the SIU Atlantic and Gulf struc­ ture. Some Halls in Texas have been closed down, E.nd these Ports are being serviced by the Galveston Hell. A LOG Editor has just re­ turned from a tour of the Gulf ^'orts. and in this issue and for a few weeks to come, the LOG v/ill present pictures and stories of the activities in New Orleans. Mobile, and Galveston. We lead off this week with N. O.. where Bull Sheppard has recently taken office as Agent. Bull was. first sent into the Texas area and when his job was finished there, he was appointed to his present post. Past issues of the LOG told of Bull's activities in cleaning up the situation which had deyplcped in the Texas area. In both the servicing of the membership, and the organi­ zation of new companies, the Gulf is hitting a steady clip. Much of the credit belongs to the efficient elected officers, the appointed organizers, and the militant SIU rank-and-file. - ! -s Page Five Plenty of jobs on the board, for all types of ships end to all corners of the v/orld. Joe Marlello. Dispatcher, calls them out, and the p ocess of rotrry shipping, the democratic way. starts. Shipping is very good in New Orlens, rs it is in nractically rT SIU Ports at this time. And -it's the man with the oldest shipping card who gets first crack at the job he wants. Every hour on the hour, the Dispatcher calls the available jobs, and as soon c" a man hears the one he wants, he throv/s his card in. If his ce*d ii not superceded bv en older one he gets the job. Nothing could be fairer, and SIU memb rs are prepared to fight to defend that v/ey of shipping fhe Union Hiring Hell and Rotary Shipping. The New Orleans Hall is used for something else besides watching the board and collecting mail. Here a few of the men while away the time ashore by playing cards. This is a hot game, with the losing team setting up the "cokes." No gambling in SIU Halls, but the. players concentrate as if their last dollar WES at stake. "; LOG Just sitting end waiting and thinking. In between calls, these Seafarers heve time to sit and think of the last trip or of the one to come. The New Or­ leans Hall used to be large enough, but now better quarters are needed, and the Union is on the lookout for a bigger Hell. Always expanding; that's the SIU v/ay! " ( Collecting his mail from Dispatcher Joe Martello is oldtimer Frank Shomelfenig. Bosun. Frank holds Gulf Bock number- 276. so .he has been around for quite a long time, and has helped many newcomers. Pointing into the new safe is Ar^nur M. Espey. who lost money, when the old safe was taken out of the New Orleans Hall. Standing to the left of Brother Espey is Chris Hansen, janitor of the Hall. The New Orleans Hall is right in the center of the old French Quarter, and the SIU men can step right around the corner to lift a glass cf thrt cooling brew. Here are a few Brothers doing just that. �[/ THE Page Six Unemployment Benefits Cover Men On WSA Ships In 1946 SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July II. 1947 JUST OFF A HUNGRY SHIP By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Epecial Services Representative Seamen who Eailcd on War Shipping Administration vessels in 1946 became eligible this week for unemploj-ment insurance benefits with President Truman's signing of a bill appropinting funds to cover the payments. Virtually all seamen who sail­ ed in 1946 are now entitled to unemployment benefits, since personnel aboard privately-own ed ships had been made eligible previously. Application are now being ac cepted at state unemploymeni insurance offices throughout ,the country. Seafarers may applj anywhere, however, due to s reciprocal agreement among the various states. In New York, the state un­ employment insurance field office at 277 Canal Street has been designated as the central agency for handling the cases of unem­ ployed seamen and anyone may apply there, regardless of where (Continued from Page 1) he resides. They don't look so gaunt now, but while they were on the SS Thomas Sim Lee, Isthmian ible voters on the four ships of Prompt action is advisable on •Lines, they lost plenty of weight. See story on this page. Left to right, Henry Johansen, Frank the Wyandotte fleet. Of this to­ the part of those men for whose E. Hughes, organizer Whitey Tannehill, who spoke to these Brothers before they caught the ship tal, 1 void ballot was cast; 47 j ratings, there is a scarcity of jobs registered their preference for in New Orleans, Rudy Rice, Weldon Smith, and Joe A. Silva. Although the trip was a rough ..XTT J: T.r TT • 1 foi" whom a period of a the SlU; 22 for No Union; mak-A f x , one, these fellows are prepared to continue sailing on unorganized ships—passing along the SIU ing a total ol 69 valid ballots S! » message. It's fellows like these who have built the Union and made it strong. the beach appears likely, counted. men should go to the nearest A number of crewmen off the state agency — or, if in New SS Wyandotte expressed them­ York City to the Canal Street selves as being well satisfied by address — immediately after the results of the election. How­ their ship pays off and file claim, ever, they were disappointed that .... the NMU had managed to crawl off the ballot and avoided a pub- eligibility under provisions of the lie licking. It did give them some law may begin right away. A few days ago five thin Sea­ way back to the United States, a of oranges, grapes, beans, and It is expected that checks will personal satisfaction that, after causing a delay of several weeks be forthcoming within three to farers came strolling into the little OT was permitted for lettuce." Brothers Hughes and Silva -in the Wyandotte voting, the I four weeks after application has LOG office with a real tale of cleaning out the holds. But that's only part of the ' summed it all up when they said woe. It would be a lie to say NMU was too yellow to face the been filed, but all payments will story. Here's what the men that practically every man in the that they were too weak to talk, be retroactive, Payment will be music of a very bad beating. themselves had to say about the crew lost weight during the trip. but the spokesman for the group, At the conclusion of the vote made by the state wherin the food; "1 lost more than 10 pounds my­ Frank E. Hughes, Carpenter, said counting. Brother Warren stated principal offices of the appliself," said Silva, "and Hughes that when the ship first came in­ that "With the heavy vote regis-j cant's amployer are located, IN ONE WORD here lost more than 1 did." to Port, they would have had a tered by Wyandotte crews for| Payments will not be made, "There's only one word to des­ According to the hardy Broth­ hard time making themselves the SlU, we are very pleased to however, unless the government cribe the food on that ship," de­ ers who survived the trip, th^ heard over the roar of typewrit­ welcome them into the Seafarers agency is convinced that there clared Johansen, "and that word only good to come out of it was ers. family on the Lakes. is no job available in the ap­ is 'lousy.' In five and a half that the whole crew came back "Just as soon as we are certi­ plicant's rating and that his un"But now we've got a few good fied by the NLRB," continued employment is 'a result of that meals under our belts," he said, years of going to sea, that was to- the States resolved to make the worst feeding ship 1 was ever sure that Isthmian signs a Sea­ Warren, 'we'll get together with reason alone. "and we're ready to give out with on." farers contract damn quick. the men on the Wyandotte ships Should there be any doubt -in the whole story." "He's right about that," chim­ "Those men who weren't too and draw up their contract de­ a Seafarer's mind as to his el­ The men accompanying Hughes ed in Rudy Rice. "The food was sure about the SIU when we mands. Then we'll open contract igibility for unemployment pay­ of poor quality and it was badly were Henry Johansen, AB, who started, are now certain that only negotiations with the manage­ ments, he can make inquiry at also was Ship's Delegate; Rudy prepared. We very seldom had through our Union can si^ch con­ ment leading to an SlU contract any state unemployment insur­ Rice, AB; Weldon Smith, OS; anything fresh to eat." ditions be squared away," stated for the Wyandotte seamen. That's ance office, which are now equip­ and Joe A. Silva, OS. Ay except "Even wh'en we were in Haifa," Hughes. "It was worthwhile for what they all want. ped to handle all questions re­ Rice made the ship in New Or­ stated Smith, "and had a chance us to go through what we did in "It won'.t be too long now be­ garding the status of merchant leans on February 19, and he to buy fresh fruits and veget­ order to impress the crew with fore we have elections on the seamen. joined the crew at Houston a lit­ ables, the Skipper wouldn't al­ the advantages of belonging to Hanna, Wilson, Shenango and tle later. low it. It got so 1 would dream the Seafarers." Steinbrenner (Kinsman) fleets. The SIU is fully confident of The Thomas Sim Lee made a winning these fleets just as we typical Isthmian trip, touching at did Huron and Wyandotte. Haifa, Bombay, Ras Tamura, "Lakes seamen want a new Bahrain, Aberdan, and others too deal, and that's why they're go­ numerous to mention. ing for the SlU in such a big In other ways, also, the ship The fourth week of picketing way. They want SlU contracts, By RAY SWEENEY was typical of Isthmian scows. with SlU working and living neared for the CIO Shipyard First of all, overtime was just a GALVESTON — The 49th an­ of Mr. Meyers' speech was made, conditions and providing SlU Workers without a break being ^ word in the dictionary. The only seen in the solid wall of employ­ nual Convention of the Texas and we have one copy in this security." er resistance to the thirteen cents time the crewmembers were al­ State Federation of Labor came Branch which we will be glad to SECOND VICTORY per hour wage increase demand- lowed to claim OT was for tying to an end on July 3, after out­ lend to any other Branch which up, or for weekend work. On the lining a fighting program to com­ lequests it. When informed of the Wyan- ed by the union. dotte results. Great Lakes SecreMeanwhile, the strike which bat the vicious provisions of the GOOGE ADVISES tary-Treasurer Fred Farnen de- cj^aj-^ed with approximately 70,Taft-Hartley Act. Brother George Googe, head clared, "This makes the second OQQ men leaving their jobs, The meeting was held in Dal­ of the AFL Organizing Campaign SIU victory during the 1947 sea-^ broadened this week when 4,000 las, and the writer of this article in the South, also addressed the son on the Lakes. First, the two members of the union, employed was elected by the Branch mem­ Reporls have been coming convention. Green ships (Huron) smacked at Mobile, Alabama, walked out in citing dirty deals given bership to attend the convention. He informed all AFL unions to down the NMU with only 2 votes Monday, July 9. Practically all the speakers seamen by several laundries, make ho move until after the while the SIU garnered 28 votes mjj ouJ i-i. who took the floor had one thing which profess to "cater to , -T ,T • J -.n mi.- • Todd Shipyards, which were and No Union received 18. This „ , in common—and that was the meeting of AFL International men of the sea." CO , , X X, oiTTTinot struck, offered a wage mwas a 58 percent vote for the SIU.' „x u t same thing that brought Dele­ Presidents in Washington, and Roland Velasco of the SS , ,, i crease of eight cents an hour, but Now, Wyandotte seamen reg- ... • , j u gates from all parts of Texas to then to follow the recommenda­ Arch Hopkins reports that . x this was rejected by the union, tions set down at that time. istered their preference for the T,T ,-•v• i. the Convention. Ungar's Laundry of St. John. CTTT -xioo X , . Negotiations arc continuing, howSIU with a 68 *percent vote. They were there to discuss It was a shame that ,Googe N. B., picks up laundry Ipvpr Farnen .concluded, "The SIU is ways and means of combating could not give his talk on the aboard ships in that port, really on the march on the Great' union's- policy committee the anti-labor bill passed in Con­ radio. He made a fighting state­ with the promise that it will Lakes, and nothing can stop us ^ meeting gress, and the various measures ment, and should have been returned by the weekend. until all unorganized Lakes seaW,ednesday, July 9, at Manpassed in the State which also heard by - every workingman i.n The promise is never lived men have a-chance-to enjoy the <^^"ter in New York City, up to. limit the rights of organized la­ the United States. benefits of SIU membership and ® Several new officers were in­ "They don't say in which bor. contracts. Lakes seamen want no details were released. year it will be returned," says Sewell Meyers, who is an AFL stalled during the Convention. the SIU, as proven by the Huron The locals represented at the Attorney, made quite a lengthy Brother O. S. Howe, of the Car­ Velasco, warning Seafarers and Wyandotte elections, and meeting were all in the region speech, and gave the Delegates penters Union in Galveston, was to keep their laundry out of v/e're going to see that they get extending from Perth Amboy, N. good information to take back to elected 10th District Vice-Presi­ Ungar's hands. v/hat they want!" j.J., to Stamford, Connecticut. their local unions. A recording dent. Wyandotte Goes To Seafarers By 68 Percent if Here's Another Hungry Isthmian Ship: This Time It Is The Thomas Sim Lee CIO Ship TIe-Up Still Effective Texas AFL Convention Maps Fight Against Taft-Hartley Act Keep Your Shirt On �THE Friday. Jaly 11. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven Philly Hotel Bills Go Sky High; Anti^abor Bills Flood State By E. S. HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — I see by hang the hook on these birds the papers that all hotels in this and send them back to mow city, or practically all of 'em, their lawns or pick their pota­ have boosted their rents sky toes or whatever they ' have to high overnight so the five per­ do because it is quite evident cent raise won't go very far for that they have failed to. do the the seamen who hit the beach job for which we sent them to here. Of course milk has taken Wa.shington. 1 see by the last issue of the a one cent jump but this won't affect many seamen, will it?"'* LOG that drunks and perform­ Silence this week from the By KEITH ALSOP Construction of 1561 rental ers are going to be checkmated. Branch Agents of the follow­ Well, this is a damn good idea units at a cost of around $11,000,GALVESTON — .Since the re-| smoother payoff.s now that the ing ports: 000 will bo undertaken by Phil­ and it is about time the mem­ organization program was put trouble makers have headed else­ adelphia builders under the Fed­ bership took some kind of action JACKSONVILLE into effect here in Te.xas a short where. eral Housing Administration. against these performers. BALTIMORE Once again I'd like to issue a I notice by the financial re­ time ago, drunks and perform­ Mayor Samuel moved to insure MARCUS HOOK warning to all .Seafarers who the city's revenue from Federal ports of ' other branches, the ers have been almost as hard hit Galve.ston or Port Arthur to NORFOLK Housing projects now in opera­ Agents have fallen right in line to find as icebergs. Those few avoid lepresentatives of the with the economy program as SAVANNAH tion here. .still circulating around these Merchant Mariners of America Four new state labor bills, in­ laid down by tfe Agents Con­ NEW ORLEANS paids are keping a lot of space and not allow these phonies cluding a ban on strikes by pub­ ference and approved by the SAN FRANCISCO hetween them and the Galves­ aboard their ship.s. lic employes, were signed by membership. This in itself is DULUTH Governor Duff. The new law commendable. ton Hall, whidt i.-:. ol;ay with us. NO AUTHORITY BUFFALO We are still looking for a new provides for secret balloting on The membership jrer''' is stiactRecently a formoi' SIU member CLEVELAND wage offers and sets up still more Hall here. We had our eye on a '•[' in accord with the motion got on board an SIU ship here building at 617 Chestnut Street, penalties for violations. It in­ MONTDEAL passed m ali ports to get r id of and tried to sell memberships cludes stoppage of unemploy­ but that "fell through." The deadline for port re­ th"se charac'ei's who are trying in tins ph.'-iy outfit. These men ment compensation benefits to ports, monies due, etc., is to phony things up for the union do not havi' the endorsement of strikers. Picketing of a struck the Monday proceeding pub­ and make ''te unhappy for the the SIU as they sometimes claim; plant by non-employes is an un­ lication. While every effort membership. in fact, they have been condemn­ fair labor practice according to will be made to use in the ed by us at meeting after meet­ the ndw law. With the absence of gashounds. current issue material re­ ing. I wonder how many seamen everything is moving along more ceived after that date, space have over stopped to analyze the Don't let these phonies up the smoothly. The Patrolmen hitting commitments generally do political situation. 1 know 1 gangway of your ship. If they the ships hei'e report excellent not permit us to do so. never have until just recently. cooperation from the crews and attempt to come aboard; run By HERBERT JANSEN For instance, we have a two them off. party system, so according to the CHICAGO — Shipping is still With never an idle moment American way of thinking, you slow in this Port with quite a here in this busy port we got are either a Democratic or a few Brothers around the Hall on a little diversion the other day Republican. Ynii register as the waiting list. In Port during v.'hen ve had an injunction such, go to the polls once every the week were the Carmi Thomp­ thrown against us. The AFU year or so to choose who you son, Sultana, and the regular marhinists at the Brown ShipBy MAURICE DOLE want to vote for. Chicago ships. yaid are on strike, so we, as But the funny thing about the ASHTABULA — Now that the bankrupt from the points of we always do in cases of legiti­ still on The SS Michigan is whole thing is that the one for mate unions having a legitimate fitout, with no definite date as SIU has won the forty hour week program and leadership. Lakes seamen also realize that 'oeef. refused to cross their lines. yet set when she will go into with higher wages and higher operation. She still has only a overtime rates for the Midland the NMU is torn wide open with Out came an injunction against seamen, unorganized Lakes sea­ (Jissension among theii' leaders, part of her crew on board. us because we were good enou'gh Not a day passes but what you men can see for themselves once the avowed commies and the unionists to respect a picket.see some unorganized Lakes sea­ again that the SIU is the only former comies who have since line. We went round and round men in either this Hall or the Union on the Lakes which maps gotten religion. for awhile with the local author­ As for the LSU. this outfit one in South Chicago. They make out a program for the seamen, ities and in the end- the injuncinquiries about the SIU, and and then goes out and wins that has only one contract on the tio.n was set aside. nine out of ten want to join. program along with its many Lakes, covering the ClevelandThis injunction business gives Clifl's Companj', and certainly There is no doubt that the popul­ gains. the membership a first hand must be regarded as a weakThe SIU has never made a arity of the SIU on the Lakes is view of what will happen under policy of promising the seamen sister outfit with extremely close growing by leaps and bounds the Taft-Hartley Act, with its that they will get "pie in the company ties. every day. pow'er of injunction for almost sky" just as the old wobbly Huron seamen voted SIU be­ These SIU newcomers are off any reason whatsoever. cause they realized the SIU was whom you vote is someone you unorganized ships, and in a few song goes. The membership here is great­ However, we do set a goal — the only union with a program scarcely know anything about, instances were formerly in the ly aroused and all are of the and a fighting membership to like the forty hour week for what he stands for, or what NMU. They've found out the opinion that we are in for a win tliat program. the sandboats, bulk carriers and type of individual he is. score, some the hard way and rough road; but. likewise, they And Wyandotte seamen voted tankers — and then go out and some by comparing notes. Now HAND-PICKED JERKS all feel confident that we have SIU for the same reasons, and achieve that goal. That's our they want the SIU to bring them the united strength to beat off so will the other Lakes com­ record. If you're at all skeptical, SIU wages and conditions, job In fact all you do knckv is panies' seamen who won't take all attempts to weaken our str­ that he is a hand-picked jerk security and union representa­ check it and see for yourself what Union leads in maritime! less than the best — the SIU! ucture. when the time comes. selected by his particular party tion. Remember, the Lake Carriers and avowed to go down the line FAVOR TO SIU Association and 'their stooge with their principles, be they "union"—the Lake Sailors Union During the past couple of years light or wrong. While I am on —don't give a damn about you. 'the subject, I don't ever recall when the NMU has used every One is a ship operators union (Exclusive to the LOG) ever hearing of a seaman being trick in the book in their efforts and the other its tool. Together to forestall the SIU from winning elected to Congress or the Senate The mystery of the flying discs which has thrown the or holding a responsible politi­ any new fleets, they have done!^h^y represent a menace to all country into bewildered speculation, has finally been exploded us and the unorganized seamen'Lakes seamen, and should be cal position. with the receipts of eye witness accounts of seeing the discs Possibly that accounts for the a service by exposing themselves regarded like anyone else who the bread out of at close range. tries to take fact that a seaman is in the for the phonies that they really your mouth. One of the first reports, now discounted, had it that four status of where he is today. are. discs were seen flying over Detroit. Upon closer examination Lakes seamen, as well as salt­ I see where a couple of guys SIU SECURITY it was found that they were merely the four NMU pledge that I voted to send to Washing­ water seamen, realize that the It's only when the seamen cards that the NMU managed to get from seamen of the ton to represent me gave me the SIU is the only maritime Union have a union of their own, run Wyandotte fleet. dirty doublecross via the Taft- that really represents the unli­ Hartley bill, now law. But at censed personnel and constantly by and for the seamen, that they Another report stated that hundreds of discs were seen the polls on next election day, I battles to achieve gains for them. can be sure someone is going flying in scattered procession over New York. A chartered We have no political ties to to look out for their interests. as an individual, am going to plane pursued them and found them to be NMU overtime any foreign countries, and fight ^ provide job security and comvote against these double crosssheets—thrown away in disgust. ers and I hope that by that time for the seamen, first, last and al- petent. union representation. Undaunted, a third report was tracked down by Seafarer Tfiat's wfiy oll seameii should the labor folk will be politically Ed Larkin, and found to be the real McCoy. The mystery has To US' in the SIU, our tasks is join the SIU! minded enougli to pick a man been solved. All those flying discs you've seen or heard of Whenever the NMU is men­ simple. We don't believe in any they think will honestly repre­ are really the white Seafarers' caps that were thrown in the save-the-world philosophy. Our tioned in an open group of Lakes sent labor. air when the results of the Isthmian election were announced. As the present setup is, labor job is to win the best possible seamen, they laugh just like Discount anything to the contrary that you may see or cannot expect to 'get a square wages, hours, working and living they do when you mention the LSU. These men know the score, conditions for the seamen. That's hear. deal from the majority who are and realize that the NMU is now in Washington. So let's our job! 77 Galveston Is Running Smoothly Now That Gashounds Are Scarce SlU Popularity On Lakes Gram WithUnorganiied Seafarers' Gains On Great Lakes Proof Enough For Working Seamen Flying Disk Mystery Soived �THE SEAFARERS Page Elgiix t JOHN MOGAN BOSTON — Shipping and busi­ ness slacked o.T a bit during the past week, so that for the first time in many weeks we felt that we could crew up a ship com­ pletely if the occasion demanded. Many of the local boys who left this section a couple or three months ago are now find­ ing their way back to their old haunts, and the Dispatcher is commencing to feel a bit easier. Unfortunately, the records will show that it was necessary here to issue altogether too many permits; but shipping really hit a high spot and remained there "for seven or eight weeks and the issuing of permits could not be avoided. Some of the tankers which, have been out from 5 to 9 months are beginning to show up now. Most of these tankers crow­ ed up in this area, and the reg­ ular seamen around the port have been out on them for quite a spell. ONE MORE TRIP From time to time we receive, letters from the boys stating that after just one more trip into the Persian Gulf they will be head­ ed homewai-d, but always it seems that just one more trip will do it. The first tanker to show up around hei-e was the SS Pipe TT'LI TAKE rmf Govs To CARUT YOUR , I ^ Springs which paid off and crewed up Ih Portland right after the General Strike. The boys sweat­ ed out the full count on the art­ icles, and in nine months could only count four good liberty ports. Somebody — and it wasn't a member of the imlicensed per­ sonnel — gave the phony infor­ mation to the Portland gazettes that the crew of the SS Pipe Springs was going on strike in order to get their retroactive wage increases at the payoff. This caused no little excite­ ment, both in Portland and in the Boston Branch, for the crew members had not been contacted by the Patrolman before this news was in print. Despite some persistent sleuthing, it could not be learned where the Portland papers got the false report. Anyway, the gang paid off at t!i^ scale of wages on the articles Inst October with the provision thai both of their retroactive in­ creases would be mailed to them within 10 daj's. And being rea­ sonable men, when they found out that it would take the two paymasters present at the pay­ off a minimum of five days to make up the payroll with the increases, they readily consented to wait 10 days for their retro­ active money. REALLY OKAY Brothers Sweeney and Goggin headed for Portland the night before the 4th fully expecting a hectic holiday, what with a gang out nine months on a really tough run and arriving in a U.S. port just in time for the 4th of July celebration. On the contrary, the boys were 100% okay for the payoff and all legitimate beefs settled satisfactorily on board. The old familiar "open road­ stead" beef, usually encountered on tankers coming in fimm a for-i oign run, was the big issue here also, chiefly because the Pipe Springs couldn't tie up to the mooring buoys on schedule. It developed that the buoys had been blown out to sea with another tanker, which got caught in a sudden blow while loading. Where t'ne agreement clearly states that port time in an open roadstead does not begin until the vessel is moored to the buoys and the hose lifted out of the sea, the time spent waiting to get moored could not be classi­ fied as "waiting for berth" in' the usual sense. This was the only real beef, and otherwise everything was lovely. A nice bunch of men. half SIU and half SUP. Everything else around the port proceeding as smoothly as usual; plenty of in transit stuff to hit and the excursion fleet to cover. Above is a meeting ot Riggers, employed at the Gull Shipbuilding Corporation, Mo­ bile, Alabam- They all hold cards in the Marine Allied Workers,' SIU, and they are pressing hard for a bargaining election. They're confident of winning, and why shouldn't they be? All of the Riggers in the yard have joined the union, and that means more than 50 men waiting for SIU repre­ sentation. The meetings axe held regularly in the Mobile Hall of the siu. The lower picture is of the men who sparked the drive to organize the Riggers. Left to right, F. H, Sanders, O. Blackwell, Crl Tanner, SIU Mobile Agent; and Vernon Hayes. Blackwell and Hayes; are former SIU members, and they have done e. bang-up job organizing in the yards. Quite a few of the Riggers carried books in the SIU at one time or another. Brother Tanner was instrumental in organizing the Riggers. AFL Broadcast WASHINGTON, D. C. — Beginning July 5th, the Am­ erican Federation of I,abor inaugurated a brand new se­ ries of radio broadcasts over the nationwide network of the American Broadcasting Company. The first nine programs, devoted to completely ex­ temporaneous and unrehearsed round table discus­ sions of major topics in the news, will originate each Saturday at 6:45 P.M., EDT, from Washington, D. C. Since some local stations, because of earlier commit­ ments. may be forced to rebroadcast the programs at some later time, be sure to consult your local newspa­ per for the exact time of the broadcasts. Taft Hartley Act Boomerangs With Unorganized By JOE SHIMA Friday, July II. 1947 THEY'RE IN THE SIU, TOO Boston Manpower Shortage Eases, Tankers Out Since Strike Back By LOG are going to have a diTicult this ship he has to paint, chip time to keep thoir heads above or St v-;-" o-i -f- • •V Thm action TOLEDO — P.ocently, things around here have been quite tile Bood-wnters of this vicious annareoPv fo"o'v- *'-.0 UGA line laid dov,fn si-^"'"- ca.ssate of the stagnant. A lot of it, I'm sure, anti-labor legifJation. We in the SIU have never de­ Taft-Hartlev Bill. _is due to the Taft-Hartley Rill pended upon any politicians for ! Back in the 'ean vears of having the unorganized seamen any handouts. The SIU has al­ shipping on the Lakes, these in a dither. Now that organized ways relief! upon the strength of sa.me Hutch boats were the ones labor has been giving this "Slave the membership for militant di­ I which laid o'f most of their Labor" Act a sound shellacking, rect action at the point of pro­ I crewmembers' if tiie ship was the unorganized seamen are sit­ duction. docked for more than 24 hours ting up and taking notice. j If this new law, even though at one port. Then, with a bigA number of them have drop­ I not tested legally, means that hearted gesture, they re-hired ped into the Hall in the past I we have to fight that much hardtheir men when ready to sail. couple of days. They're really , er, tlien that's what we'll do. My message to unorganized interested in the effect that this I The SIU never shirks a fight, seamen sailing on the Hutch Act might have on them. At and this is one time that John ships and others is to hold tight the present time, this can't be ,Q. Politician will find out how and not let it get you dov/n. The answered until certain sections I strong the united strength of the SIU is on the Lakes now, and of it are tried in court or through Seafarers actually is. we're here to stay. It's our economic action. HUTCH ACTIVITY fight, and your fight too. To­ Certainly, strong unions like Recently, I received a letter gether we can win through. the SIU will be able to keep on from a member of the deck crew Then we can all have SIU going forward. However, weak- on the John Stanton, a Hutch contracts with SIU wages, hours, "er unions like the strife-torn sh^. He stated that in order to overtime, working and living NMU and the one-company LSU collect overtime for Sunday on conditions on all ships! Congressmen Pull 'Big Pay' Gag To Pave Way For Ship Transfers By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK — I haven't re­ Things have como to a pretty ceived my check yet, but accord­ l^ass when the government starts ing to k congressional sub-com­ ' looking around for cheap labor, mittee, you and I are now receiv­ ^ so they won't have to hire their ing a government subsidy. We're ^ own citizens. all in on it to the tune of $500 i Conveniently enough, no menmillion a year, they tell us, so j '.ion is made of halting the "sub­ I'm watching my mailbox for the sidy" paid to American operat­ ors to handle these shipments. lettuce to start pouring in. With that off my chest, 1 can I got the straight dope from a newspaper item which stated that report more cheerful events on maritime unions are being en­ the waterfront. Here in New and riched by a $500 million a year York the weather is fine subsidy for carrying relief cargo shipping is excellent, especially for rated men. to Europe. We've had some good payoffs Thejf figure that the cost of transporting relief shipments in the big city this week. The costs the government about $1 Simmons Victory, Waterman billion a year with the maritime Steamship Company, and the Jef­ ferson City Victory of South At­ unions geting half. What the hell are they crying lantic showed up here in fine about? A guy can't be expected shape. Both ships deserve credit to take this stuff across for noth­ for being a real credit to the ing. He has a right to earn a de­ Union and to the crew aboard. cent wage for doing his job just BEEF HANDLED as much as the men who milled the flour and the people who The Enos Mills, Bull Line, manufactured the garments that came in after a trip to Europe. are part of the relief shipments. The payoff came off in good style except for a beef in the DOUBLE TALK What the writer might have Stewards Department which was meant is that the seamen are get­ handled by Patrolman Gonzales. Eastern's pride and joy, the ting decent wages in their jobs Evangeline, paid off here this and this hurts. The boys in Congress won't do week and the old business of re­ much about the guys who make instatements reared its head. the stuff to be sent abroad, but Several men in the crew had they come up with this double • been reinstated in the Union af­ talk as a smoke screen for cut­ ter being as much as five years in arrears in their dues and as­ ting the throats of seamen. Their real purpose behind all" sessments. These men were re­ this howling is to get across a funded the money they had paid proposal to turn our idle ships in back dues and were replaced over to foreign governments to by men from the Hall. operate with lower paid crews. The SIU has gone on recoid Our fair haired boys want to as being against reinstatements give away the ships that you and after men have fallen 12 months I paid for with our taxes, so for­ in arrears, and any men who eign countries can operate them manage to get reinstated in spite at a big saving to our govern­ of this rule will be replaced, and ment. their money refunded. �Friday, July 11. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Lakes Seafarers On Luxury Cruise The SS South American, Georgian Bay luxury cruiser, docked at Duluth, at the head of the Great Lakes. This ship is under SIU contract, and the crewmembers enjoy the outstanding conditions and wages which axe standard in all SIU agreements. As you can note if you look closely. Seafarers crewmembers are completing boat drill. Here's a real SIU veteran in action. Firemen Tony Peandol has been a member of the SS South American crew for more thn tv/enty years, and is shown here at his duties in the boiler room. Like ell other hands, his pay is higher and his conditions better since the company signed with the Seafarers International Union. These are the SIU Brothers who keep the passengers and crew well satisfied with the type of chow they dish up. No complaints here. The galley is spic-and-span, and the food is well prepared and of the finest quality. The LOG photographer saw some of the meals served to the crew and wanted to sign on. but fast. Here's luck to him. A couple of belly-robbers on the South American pictured in their castle. Although neglecting to mention the names of the Brothers, the LOG photographer did give their ratings. Reading left to right, the Baker and the Assistant Baker. lets Leak At The Record' A couple of Seafarers all togged out in their best high-pres­ sure outfits. On the left. Watchman George Schultz, end next. Wheelsman Ellis Lamb, Deck Delegate and crewmexnbez of the South American for several years. IT WAS SAID, and real loud too, thut <he seamen along the Great Lakes couldn't be organized. "The season's too short," was one reason. "The NMU made such a bad name that those men won't go for any un­ ion," was the way another guy put it. Well, the Seafarers went in there, ajid in a pt.-iad cf a few months have rolled up some major victories. This is what the picture looks like to date: After a long tussle, the Midland St amship Company h.is signed an agree­ ment providing the first 40-hour week for bulk carriers. The ships of the Huron Transpor ation Company have voted for SIU rep­ resentation, and negotiations for a con ract are now in progress. Now, voting of the ships of the Wy andotte Ste.amship Company has been completed, and with the overwhelming SiU victory this company will soon come under the SIU banner. Petitions have been filed for bargaining elections in the ships of the M. A. Hanna Steamship Company, the Wils m Transportation Company, the Red Ar­ row Steamship Company, the Snyder Transportation Company, and the Steinbrenner Steamship Company. And besides all this, the SIU has been able to gain for its members the best passenger ship contract ever seen on the Lakes, and a sandboats agreement better than the seamen themselvs thought possible. The record speaks for itself—^^that's why the Great Lakes will be SIU, too! A •ji �THE I-cige Ten SEAFARERS Friday. July II, 1947 LOG SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS A STITCH IN TIME SAVES SHIP Seafarers Rescue French Craft Adrift 2 Days In Mediterranean iiiiiliiiilliiiii Edilor's nofe: The following account of a rescue at sea —a fairly frequent occurrance with Seafarers — is by the Stewai'd of the SS Mayo Brothers, which responded to the call of a French vessel in distress. By THOMAS DE FAZIO As is its custom both at sea and ashore, the Seafarers went to the rescue again recently. \\ While plowing through the Mediterreanean seas about a day and a half from Gibralter one dark morning, our ship, the SS Mayo Brothers, received an SOS message for help. The distress call was from a small French cutter, which was adrift off the Spanish coast near the Baltic Islands. ^ ' Sail rigged on No. 1 hatch of SS Frederick Geiuraiih when she lost her propeller recently narrowly averted disaster for her Seafarers crew. The sail enabled ship to clear mountainous isle off coast of Italy. Our Skipper, Captain Hallman, a former -member of the SIU, immediately altered the ship's course and proceeded toward the helpless craft. Lifeboei cerrying crswmembers from the SS Mayo Brothers makes its way toward French cutter, whose engines conked out leaving craft slrandod off Spanish coast. FIRST TO ARRIVE Although the message for aid was picked up by two other American ships in the vicinity, we were the first to arrive at the location of the helpless vessel. The French cutter was bound for Oran when her engine broke down, and she had been adrift for two days without fresh water. There were precious little sup­ plies aboard by the time we arrived. The tiny vessel had gone through some heavy weath­ er and had taken on much water. She was partially floundering when we reached the scene. The disabled French craft as she was being towed to Cart­ agena by the SS Mayo Broth­ ers, whose quick response to call for aid drew considerable praise from the French crew. At right. Captain Kallam, skipper of the Mayo Brothers, who is a former member of the SIU. ^ After maneuvering into posi­ tion, we ?hot a line over to her with the Lyle gun. Captain Hallman sent a party over to her to ascertain lier condition. I went along with the group to serve as an interpreter. *1 Getting all the details of the vessel's plight, we returned to our ship. A tow line was then shot over to the French craft and we proceeded to tow her to the port of Cartagena. We had already sent a message for the The Skipper, not content to Navy base there to pick up the confine his remarks and orders disabled cutter. to the overtime sheets, has threatened to log the Chief Mate, The operation was successfully Second Assistant and the whole completed and we continued our crew for talking while on watch. voyage to Genoa, Italy. The as­ To the crew, this was the last sistance rendered by the Sea­ straw. farers and officers aboard the Mayo Brothers was greatly ap­ PROTEST ACTION preciated by all hands of the At their shipboard meeting stranded vessel. They thanked they immediately drew up a let­ us very heartily for having ter of protest to be presented to been so helpful and considerate the American Consul in Bombay, in effecting a quick rescue. India. If nothing is done there to stop the abusive tactics of the Skipper, the crew intends to give him a hot time when- the ship reaches the states. Isthmian Crew 'Red-Pencils' Skippers Sense Of Humor (?) The Skipper aboard Ihe James I). Trask evidently thinks the "remarks" column on overtime sheete is there for him to ex*"press his sardonic sense of humor, at least that's how the ,crew feels. The crewmembers have found that when they submit legiti­ mate overtime to him for his ap­ proval he delights in penciling in little sarcastic remarks, such as: "Why weren't you sober?" or "You owe the company mon­ ey," and "Wipers can be work­ ed all day Saturday without paymeat of overtime." J: - Although the Trask is an Istiimian ship, overtime payment for Saturday work was included in the sign-on agreement, but that to the Skipper means noth­ ing; he must get in his digs against the crew. TOW JOB Fed up with the Captain's little game, the crew hopes to see that his vocal cords and little red pencil get a long rest when the ship hits port they don't want the poor boy to get laryingitis or^ writer's cramp. Smiling faces on some Galbraith crew belie hectic series of incidents experienced after screw went swooshing to bottom off African coast. Photos forwarded from Norfolk by Ray White. IffmUTES OF SIU SHIP MEETINGS DIGESTED FDR EASIER READING closely the procedure at shoreside meetings so they will know union procedure and will not get fouled up on their standings and rights. New Business: Crewmembers re­ ported on needed equipment for next trip. Good and Wel­ fare: Discussion on USS clubs and warning to members to stay away from them as they are being converted to fink halls. Vote of thanks to Stew­ ards Department for the good chow with a special bouquet to the cooks. Members urged to procure and study copies of the Union Constitution. S, t 4 The 10,000-ton freighter SS NAMPA VICTORY, May 9— Marymar, which ran aground in Chairman J. LeBrasse; Secre­ Bridgeport Harbor (Conn.), was pulled free by an LST vessel per- tary C. Tobias. Reports of de­ manantly stationed in Bridge­ partmental delegates accepted. New Business: Motion carried port. that no one pay off until Pa­ The Marymar went aground at trolman straightens out the 6;15 a.m. on a recent morning Mate. Decision to refer to Pa­ and was released shortly before trolmen problem of who takes 4 p.m. as the tide came in. Own­ care of master gyro. Chief ed and operated by the Calmar Electrician has been told to do Steamship Company, the Mary­ it, but he holds no gyro ticket. mar had just arrived from Van­ Suggestion that all of ^he re­ couver, Wash., with' a cargo of pair list for the next voyage be 5,000,000 feet of lumber for a carefully scrutinized as showBriddeport firm, when she went (Continued on Page 11) aground. DESOTO, May 3—Chairman Kirbach; Secretary H o u c k . Ship's Delegate reported that bonus for penalty cargo would be settled in Mobile. He also discussed the double overtime for international "date line crossing which has been okay­ ed for the "Engine Department but not for the Deck and Stew­ ards Departments. Delegate al­ so urged members new to the union to attend r.nd observe SS Manmar Runs Aground �Friday. July II, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Digested Minutes Of Sill Ship Meetings ^(Continued from Paf^c 10) ers are in bad shape and ihey have noi been handled on for­ mer repair lisls. Good and Wel­ fare: Requesl Ihsl crew leave a clean ship for the next crew. Steward asked thei all dirty linen be turned in before leav­ ing the ship. One minute of silence for lost Brothers. 5. A' PORT CLATSOP. May 11— Chairman D. Casey Jones; Sec­ retary Dale Lamberson. New Business: Deck Delegate in­ structed to contact shore pa­ trolman concerning retroactive pay from Pacific Tankers. Mo­ tion carried to order six new electric fans for replacement aboard ship. Motion carried to make a complete check on locks and keys for all foc'sles. Motion carried to have telemotor and complete steering gear examined for the safety of the vessel. Good and Welfare: List of fines drawn up for dirtying of messhall—not concurred in. % % QUEENS VICTORY. June 23 —Chairman Daniel Hanshew; Secretary James K. Sleesser. Chairman urged Stewards De­ partment to elect a delegate and hold a private meeting as soon as possible. Motion car­ ried to have the three dele­ gates talk to the Chief Mate and see if thejy can get a schedule for the time of using and cleaning the laundry by the three departments. Motion carried to not allow crewmembers to soak their clothing in the laundry tubs. Motion car­ ried to have delegates see Cap­ tain and procure a notice to be placed in saloon informing the licensed personnel to stay out of crew and PC pantries. J- about handling cigarettes and clothing at tho same time. Mo­ tion carried to permit animals aboard ship, but that person bringing animal aboard will be entirely responsible for its care. XAVIER VICTORY. May 3 —Chairman Alex J. Janowski; Secretary William J. Wilburn. Motion carried that on arrival in first U.S. port sufficient sup­ ply of cots, mattresses and other needs be ordered by Chief Steward. Motion carried that the departmental dele­ gates accompany the Chief Steward if he is requested to take inventory of the ice box­ es. Motion carried that dele­ gates see the radio' operator concerning the repair of the crew's messroom speaker. Mo­ tion carried that crewmembers be fined 25c for leaving dirty cups or spoons in the messroom. Fine to go to SEAFAR­ ERS LOG. 4. i. JAMES D. TRASK. May 15 —Chairman William Lindelof: Secretary Eugpne Ladriere. Discussion on Captain's con­ tinually disputing legitimate overtime. Motion carried that upon receiving ^raw in Bom­ bay. crew to donate money for union purposes. Motion carried to have minutes sent to SEA­ FARERS LOG. 4. 4. 4, RAPHAEL SEMMES. May 4 — Chairman Bradley; Secre­ tary Williams. Motion carried to have delegates take repair list to Captain.. Mate and Chief Engineer. Motion carried that menu be written on board in understandable English end not in burlesque procedure. Motion carried that anyone tampering with machines on repair list be fined at the fol­ lowing meeting. S. S. J. GATEWAY CITY. April IC —Chairman Don Rood; Secre­ tary A1 DeForest. Deck and Stewards Delegates reported all okay. Engine reports short­ age of cleaning gear. New Business: Motion carried that Steward contact Captain to liave wooden dish rack in crew pentry end menu blackboard placed in crewmessroom. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that sample of drinking water be given to health authorities in New York. 4» 4* 4 SIMMONS VICTORY. May 17 — Chairman John Bilkoa; Secretary C. W. Hallengan. Departments reported no beefs. Suggestion made that the Deck Department heads be checked and proper repairs made be­ fore next trip. Motion carried that crew messman be warned of his conduct toward rest of crew. Motion carried that the radiators and fans be checked before the next trip and prop­ er repairs be made. 4. 4> 4> SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY. May 26—Chairman Bill Wil­ liams; Secretary George Swift. Old Business: Question of milk raised again. Contract calls for not more than 80 or less than 40 gallons. Crew complains of aJways getting the minimum and the milk iS^ of poor quality. Repair list made up and ap­ proved by crew. New Business: Request that each man rinse out any cups. etc.. he has used to keep messhall shipshape be­ tween meals. Matter of small fines to enforce this discussed. Crew decided to first try the honor system. Good and Wel­ fare: Crewmember volunteer­ ed to notify Merchant Marine Library Association that a re­ placement library is desired. Crewmembers also requested to turn to to help box old books and take them off. JEAN LAFITTE^ April 27— Chairman R. S. Young: Secre­ tary Eric Moe. Department Delegates reported all in order except disputed overtime which will be referred to shore Patrolmen. It was agreed to have delegates make out repair lists and requisitions to be giv­ en to department heads and Patrolmen, and to inform crewmembers about such lists so as Honors are due the crew of the SS Colabee, American to insure action being taken. Particular attention was called Hawaiian Steamship for being the first to submit its minutes to the booms and the fumigat­ to the LOG on the new official minutes form now available ing of the ship. It was also * agreed to replace all books in on SIU ships. The Colabee is first under the Right on the ball, the Colathe library and to clean up all wire, but as more ships hit port rooms to be sure of leaving a bee's crew reported the ship­ and take aboard the new form. board meeting which took place clean ship for the next> crew. on June 29 at sea, and mailed SULLYS HILLS^ March 3— the minutes to the LOG .from a Chairman Sullivan; Secretary Canadian port, via airmail. O.K.!STI^6mBNi;P The new form, which was J. L. Parsons. New Business: AWDFIY RIGHT-TO I Request that American money drawn up for the convenience of Si BFAVgRSr., meetings, be supplied in draw in next. reporting shipboard port. Motion carried to get has been available to SIU crews fresh vegetables and fruits in for the past ten days. The Col­ first port contacted. Motion abee, in port at that time, took that a complaint be made to a batch of the new forms aboard American Consul in Aruba and put them into immediate concerning' beatings administ­ use. The June 29 meeting was ered to seamen by police. Also chaired by Brother William A. decided to send same complaint Vabis and recorded by E. Cinto Dutch Consul in Washing­ tron. Keeping things smooth in ton. Motion carried to have the number of minutes mailed to their departments are E. Larsen, slopchest investigated upon ar­ the SEAFARERS LOG should rival in U.S. Motion carried Deck Delegate; T. E. McHenan, that slopchest be opened at 2 Engine Delegate; and E.'Cintron, take on avalanche proportions. How about it fellows? P.M. and to speak to Captain Stewards Delegate. Colabee Is 1st Under Wire With New SIU Minutes Form i^WTlCRS WHO BfAT fOR ^AlONTHS LiKf MOTHlfJB BeTTERTHAN/ A COPyOFinE SEAFARERS LOG TO KEEP THEM UP WITH WHAT IS HAPPEM" 1M0 IN THE UNIOM AND ASHORE. SAVE YOUR COPIES OF THE LOG TOR THE WEWSHUNSRY SEAFARERS YOU MEET IN FOREK3N PORTS. CUT and RUN By HANK Every Brother should take an anxious and serious interest into becoming a better union man as well as a better shipmate and sailor. While in port he should read everything which is" printed in his weekly union paper, the LOG. There are other important things to do, too: Writing letters to the LOG: Studying your shipping rules until you know you understand them. Lots of Brothers get the wrong understanding of the rules by reading them too fast or just some of the rules—and this gets them fouled up occasionally. Study" your Constitution—it's for you—not for'the guy on the corner fying to pick horses for a living. Those shipboard meetings are one of the most important things in your sea life. They shouldn't be just mechanically routine habits. From them you get those kinks, beefs and minor misunderstandings explained and ironed out or clearly written down for the port Patrolmen to settle—instead of dragged out for the whole trip or just forgotten about, which is not the SIU way. 4. 4, 4 Here's a letter from "Big Frank" Radzvila. the Chief Cook aboard the SS Victory Loan: "Well, here I am dropping a line letting you know I'm feeling fine on one of the Pacific Tankers which I joined up at Port Arthur after I got off the SS Maiden Creek in Beaumont. Of all the people I had to run into when I climbed aboard the Maiden Creek was Brother Mike Davis. He happened to be walking in the passageway and he stopped and kept looking at me. Then he says. Tor heaven's sake, is that you pollak?' He really couldn't believe it after not seeing me for five years. Well, Hank, my cooking is really hitting the hot spot down here in the Gulf. They sure love my garlic. I'll bet it makes your mouth water just remembering how the food tasted with it. And this isn't like the cooking I had on the SS Delaires, either. "Well, it sure was hard leaving some of the boys on the Maiden Creek after three trips. Even Brother "Rough Neck" Morgan Hiles came around showing me what a big pot belly he got when I was on there. He sure hated to see me leave him. He said he starved until I climbed aboard. Well, I'm sending my best regards to every­ body and I'll be coming up to New York after this trip to Italy or according to where we wind up in the States. It might be the West Coast." We have another swell lelfer from "Red" H. Braunslein aboard fhe SS Fairporf in Gatun Lake. Panama Canal: "We lefl Charleston after taking on 1750 bales of cotton for China and we're on our way through the Canal to San Pedro to take on bunkers before sailing for Shanghai. Manila and Cebu. We have a swell gang on here. The Old Man is an ex-SIU man and a swell guy. It is a pleasure to sail with him. Some skippers should sail with him and learn how to be master of a vessel and a swell guy instead of a Captain Bligh. Our ship sure is a swell feeder. The Steward gives dictionaries with his menu so we can figure out what we're eating. It's like eating in a high class hotel. No beefs to report on the food—we're all gaining weight. We have a good crew with some oldtimers and some new men but all militant SIU. We got four shots a few days ago. Boy, was I sick. The Chief Mate is giving the shots. We hB.ve two more to go." . . . Say. Red. if you see 'any "flying saucers" over the Pacific Ocean, then we'll believe what the people say they saw in the States! I �T H E S E A F^A RBR S X^ge'Twielve Fate Of All Trade Unions Rests In Hands Of Workers LOG Seafarer make the early struggles of unions and companies look like I've been talking to my brother Sunday school picnics. unionists lately about the new Budd Tobias labor law, born in the twisted bi-ains of Taft and Hartley after a transfusion from the bosses, and so many of us have express­ ed ourselves by merely saying, "I'm sorry it happened." Just being sorry, however, doesn't stop it or help the situation. Instead of crying in our beer, To the Editor: let's start looking for* ways to Here are a few lines of help­ To the Editor: decapitate this monster. After I am the wife of a merchant all, weren't the men who voted ful hints for the membership seamen and I enjoy the LOG should they be bound for for the law put into office by us? vei-y much. Enclosed you will Georgetown, British Guiana, on Didn't we trust them with our find a snapshot of my husband, the Alcoa run. Here in B. G. • future security both at home and James D. Malicoat, Oiler, taken things have • changed a lot, es­ abroad? pecially for the fellows who like when he was aboard • the SS $64 QUESTION to make a little spending money Council Crest from July 2, 1946 unitl Nov. 28, 1946. on the side. How can they believe that by He has been a member of the First of all, . when you go taking away our rights they can SIU for four years, and he ashore, keep an eye out for the "rejurn the worker his freedom" customs. They'll clip you quick thinks it is a great union. as Senator Taft put it? These as a wink. Cigarettes in court Mrs. J. D. Malicoat things we fought for during the cost $10.00 a carton; ashore you Rogers, Texas past decades and were so vigor­ only get $2.00—if you get by. ously opposed by the bosses have Whatever you have that is not suddenly emerged as curses and you- property will land you in REST CAMP Congress is being very good to "Atlanta, Ga.," if you are nailed. HELPED HIM us by removing all of these "re­ The operators of bumboats and a PICK UP QUICKLY strictions on the freedom to certain Mr. Jones, who is follow­ •work." ing the occupation of laundry To the Editor: MUST MEET TEST man, will also give you the busi­ The care and treatment of sea­ Many men sweated and bled to ness. men in the various Marine HosI've been in and out of this pitatls has been blasted by the build unionism in America. We are the ones who are going to port many times and I can tell Seafarers International Union on have to show that they did npt that it has changed a lot, so take many occasions. All of the com­ labor in vain. We are being heed and keep your doors locked plaints that we have made have given the real test and we must when discharging cargo. been justified, as far as my own On the whole we've had a good personal experience goes, but not fail them nor the men who will become union men after us. trip. We loaded in Montreal and there is something further that If this law can be fought in were the first to come in contact should be said about convalescent the courts, then fight it in the with Robert Matthews and Gene care for seamen who have been Montreal discharged from the hospital. courts; if it takes money, then Markey, who is rtow we'll spend it. The union treas­ Agent. The crew is well con­ On June 13 I was discharged ury isn't the only source of funds tented with plenty of overtime from the Brighton Hospital after to fight this vicious thing. As from the eleven ports we visited. being there for a full month. I Now our nice .argo is gone, wasn't ready to ship out since long as there is a union man in and the payloa:! of bauxite we I was still weak, and still wonder­ , this country,.he must take it up­ on himself to throw everything all dream of is coming true. ing what to do next, the hospital A good word must be said foi' social service worker told me he has, including a good slice of the Skipper, J. M. Castro, with about the rest camp operated by his cabbage into this battle. I know that a worker doesn't whom I've been sailing a long the United Seamen's Service at have much money when he is time and find as square as any Gladstone, New Jersey. compared to a big industrialist, man can be. When she saw that; I was dnJ. O'Sullivan but all of us together can give ferested, she made arrangements SS Benjaniin Fisher for me to enter there, and- I got him one hell of a fight that will there on June 14. To the Editor: Steer Straight When In B.G„ He Advises VESSELS OF SIU'S NEW AFFILIATE ^ Some of the craft belonging to members of the Mobile Bay Seafood Union as they tied up at Bayou: Le Batre, Alabama, home of the newest affiliate of the SIU's Marine Allied Workers. Before sun-up boats are chugging out to the Gulf for start of day's fishing operations. GOOD CARE During the next" two weeks I enjoyed the best of care. The food was'good and plentiful, and those of us who were patients in the camp were able to get com­ plete rest. There was entertain­ ment every night, and the staff went out of its way to make our stay very comfortable. It's not common knowledge, but merchant, seamen are eligible for admission to the camp if they still need rest after being dis­ charged from Marine Hospitals in this area. That -means- hospit­ als in Boston, New York, and Baltimore. For those fellows who are in the hospital now,? or go in the future, here's a tip. Have - the Social Worker get in touch with the USS, 92 . Liberty Street, Ne-w York City, and all arrangements can be made. You'll come away from the camp ready to ship out, and with a good rest behina you. George Mee.ney Friday. July 11. 1947 SIU Branch In Puerto Rico Stamped 'Okay' By Seafarer j I have been informed that a I big wave of strikes is hitting the I'm back in the Island of En- I Island right where it- hurts. The chammcnt enjoying the rum and I strike wave will probably conbeautiful scnoritas while grab­ I tin-jo once it begins for the cost bing a s'vvim at the Escambion of living here is about the same Beach Club. Here is whe-re all as Now York City yet the em­ the queens of beauty meet and ployers insist upon keeping sal­ manage 1o make you forget the aries and wages much lower than heat, whicli at the moment is tho.se paid in the States. terrific. During my stay here I paid a visit to our Hall and its new Agent, Salvador Colls. I found him busy on the telephone and up to his ears in work so I didn't bother him. The general impres­ sion here is that he is doing very well. The port itself is very busy with the sugar crop now at its To the Ediior: highest point of production. The American fascists who use CHOW TOPS their front organization, the Republican party, along with The SS Elizabeth, aboard their fellow travellers, the Dem­ which I'm FWT, is a good feed­ ocrats cannot attain rc.spectabiling ship with Julio Ray as Stew­ ity simply because Abe Lincoln ard and .Alphonso Riviera as was a Republican. They have Chief Cook. Even on a week day, at last shown their hand. menus like the one I've attached With the passage of the Taft- were offered and served to the Hartley Slave Labor Bill, they crew. For a short run like this have proven beyond a shadow of I've never had better chow. a doubt that their aim is the We had a meeting at sea on regimentation and enslavement Friday the 13th of June. I chair­ of the American workingman. ed the mooting and found the We who are organized must crew, in all departments, was in stand together and fight this complete harmony. We only have plague which is engulfing this one small beef concerning the land. We mu.st stand united, not splitting of overtime which we'll only to pi-otect our rights, but settle soon. also the rights of millions of un­ Luis A. Ramirez organized workers who are going San Juan, P. R. to suffer needlessly at the hands (Ed. Nole: A week day menu of those wielding the power. Remember Brothers, although submitted by Brother Ramirez the going will be rough, we must beers out his boast of fine chow stick- together. For "divided we aboard < the Elizabeth. Here's fall, united we conquer." We an example: Supper—Radish­ must conquer this attack on our es, Celery, Cheese Canapes, freedom. Yes, we have lost our Chilled Tomato Juice. Mexican guaranteed security and many Cole Slaw. Fried Filet of Cod of our hard-won gains, but if —Tartar Sauce, Chicken Asopo we are united, tho:c who attack —Puerto Rican style. Breaded us cannot win. They must not Veal Cutlets — Tomato Sauce. win! Fresh String Beans, Sweet Remember, "don't give up the Corn, O'Brien Potatoes. Chill­ ship!" ed Peaches, Danish Pastry. -John rW. iSnaden Coffee, Tea. Milk.) Sir. Greater- Detroit To lha Editor: Lakes Brother Urges Fight On Labor's Enemies • In this bit of camera artistry by Seafarer Gene Dauber. Bosun aboard the SS Arizpa. crewmemberi-Paul Belous, AB. is pictured, looking out over the broad-expanse of quiet water. Though scene is peaceful, crew had rugged lime as a result of foul conditions rampant on ship. �Friday. July r11. 1947 TUB SEAFARERS LOG MEN OF TEE SEAFARERS Ship's Minutes Forms Will Be Big Aid To the Editor: The new minutes form now being distributed aboard our ships is something we have long needed. Since I aided in set­ ting the form up, I guess I am somewhat prejudiced in favor of it, but 'from the way it has been laid out it should correct a lot of mistakes and lead to better meetings and more of them. On too many ships the crews do not hold enough meetings. If they now follow the suggestions and notes listed on the forms there is no reason why every ship should not hold regular meetings and send the minutes to the LOG. The suggestions on the back of the form mention certain things v/hich should be covered carefully in shipboard meetings. Education is very important and there is no better place for union education than aboard ship. Push education and your meetings will be more interesting and will pay off in the blue chip.s. When Rry ETurbin, Deck Maintenance, sailed aboard the SS James Duncan recently, he "shot" more pictures than a Hollywood press agent's cameraman. Above is his print of the vessel's Chief Cook (left) and "Woody," the Deck Engineer. 'Blown Top' Only Casualty Sustained On O'Gara's Trip To the Editor: We've made it again. The Francis J. O'Gara, Waterman scow, has bumped into port once again after a trip to Antwerp with everthing okay, except me —I blew my top. Cause of my woe is the Chief Engineer, a queer sort of a char­ acter who walks around with a Wiper's cap on and appears to be very friendly, even goes ashore with the boys for a few beers, but underneath it all he's a company stiff at heart. He claims to be a former SIU mem­ ber, although he never showed us a book. Overtime during the past trip was at a minimum. None was worked that the Chief could, .squirm out of. As Delegate I asked him about the Wipers painting the foc'sles, but nothing doing. He claimed the same old crap, that we were going to the To the Editor: STUCK VALVE The Chief has kept the ma­ chine .shop closed since we left the States. While we were in Antwerp, ji came aboard one evening about five oclock and found the deck steam line blow­ ing off. No wrenches were left below to close off a stuck valve so I went into the machine shop under my own power. The Chief heard about it and told me that I had screwed myself up, and he was going to bring me up on charges before the Coast Guard. He then took me topside and demanded that the Second Mate, a good Joe, write the charges in the Log. This the Second Mate refused to do. While the Chief was bellowing at the Mate to write up the charges, he turned to me and said, "You're not sup- posed to associate with the ofncers." Some liow wc squared that away. The First Assistant had the Wipers painting the boilers, and one morning the Chief-spotted a Wiper painting on top of the super-heater. He told him \o get off and asked him who told him to paint. When he was told, he turned and bawled out the First Assistant. He then posted this notice in the Engine Room: Overtime will be worked only in an emergency, unless okayed by the Chief Engineer. There is an old saying about union papers, which I think is very true: The Union paper is the window through which the public sees the union. Lets make our paper one that really shows everyone that reads it just how fine a union we have. Colucci Says Seamen Should Qualify For Ratings shipyard when we hit port. OASOALtieS- Personally, I think that the part of the LOG carrying the ships' minutes is very important and shows what is happening on our ships. If every ship would send in its minutes regularly, every member will know what is going on aboard SIU ships throughout the world. Blackie Page Thirteen Brother Durbin rightly believes that Seafarers make good subjects. To bear this out he photographed one of the men at work patching up the deck (photo left). Later, using the rough sea as a background, he got Jack Hartl3y, (photo right), OS, wearing a broad grin and rubber boots. Can't we, as a union body, do something about our inexper­ ienced seamen? As a Bosun have had a few inexperienced men during the war, the same as To the Editor: many others. At that time, it I recently paid off the South was to be expected, but now Atlantic ship, Cornelius Gilliam, that the war is over, there still in Philadelphia with Agent Eddie seem to be as many. Higdon handling the affair. A short time ago, a man going Wo had quite a time on this out as Bosun had to pass a com­ ship. First there was the old mittee and show three years of man, an ex-Navy man who is discharges as AB in certain ports. no slouch. He checked all over­ This, I believe, was the result of time for the Deck Department a motion passed at meetings up personally. The Chief Mate had and down the coast. Now that no say in the matter. He didn't was all right for the seamen be­ believe in the six per cent cost cause it protected them from of living increase we won, nor being directed by a man who practically the whole agreement. didn't know what he was doing. He refused to maintain gang­ But how about the serang? way watches in port and de­ There's nothing to protect him manded that the Mate work on from men who ship from the hall deck, which he did. All the under false pretenses and do not Mates turned to on deck on his know the duties of their ratings. orders. The Chief really took the On this ship, the SS Franklin Skipj^er at his word and boy K. Lane, I have a crew shipped did he work. Painting, chipping, from the hall and half of the soogeeing, splicing, sewing and ABs are first trip nien, formerly all the work that sailors are sup­ with the navy. They are afraid posed to do. The Mate rigged a to go up to the top of the tele­ scope mast to paint their ex­ flag staff and stenciled all over cuse being that it is "their first the ship. crip." CUT SHORT Now in my humble opinion this Then there was "Stumpy," the does not help the Union at all. Chief Engineer. He put his H. Mitchell hand into a moving < part of an d Guys On SS Gilliam Take Stock Of Beefs air pump and halved his right index finger. His own words, when this happened were: "I served in two wars with the Navy and never got a scratch. I come aboard a Liberty and lose a finger." I, and a few other guys dis­ agreed and felt sorry it wasn't his head. After his accident. WHEW!! SO MAMYBEEfSI! his pay was split so the first and second Assistants must have had a Wells Fargo truck down for the payoff as their overtime was more than the Master's wages and bonus. The Skipper had the Second Assistant out sewing canvas. What a phony the Second was. NO FRATERNIZATION One crack he made was to the effect that one thing wrong with the ship is that the Engineer of­ ficers are too friendly with the Black Gang. Remember, this from a former SIU member. So you see why I'm minus a top. This guy has got me talking to myself. He needs straighten­ ing up and perhaps if some of the SIU members read this and happen to sail with him they'll know how to get along with him —I never will. C. B. Bregg Engine Delegate He had a nice smile for every­ one but would screw you as soon as you turned around. "Stumpy," infected with the crap from topside told one of the Black Gang men not to use too much water brushing his teeth. "Stumpy" also started conserving fuel oil. He'd sneak gang, collected $100 for the down below at night to see if hours the Mate worked on deck his boys were being careful on and for the gangway watches. the oil., WORD OF ADVICE I want to tell every union NOT HERE membci that if they see a Mate The two Assistants are ex- or Engineer doing work that sail­ NMU men and everything they ors or firemen and oilers should did they said "That's what we be doing, they should put it do on an NMU ship." But they down as overtime. It's good time, learned rather quickly that this and we got it. Don't let these wasn't an NMU scow. stiffs, who are company con­ Overtime on the ship aver­ scious, destroy our hard earned aged 150 hours in all depart­ conditions. ments for a six weelc trip. The We've got to be on the ball Black Gang had only week end every minute. The company watches as everything else was goes over every thing with a disrupted. fine tooth eomb, and we've got The deck gang worked until to do the same. This agreement 8:30 P.M. every night and tuim- of ours is our bible. We must ed to at 6 A. M. while at sea. live up to our end of it and so The Skipper wanted his battle long as we do we're keeping up wagon painted; he got that done our reputation as a democratic and straight-forward union. too. John Tobin At the payoff, we, the deck • �THE Page Fourteen 'Local' Line Just Hogwash, Held Back Union, He Says I real international union, the SIU started jnaking headway. In the Remember the old cries we la.st two or three years the SIU used to hear — "New York for has got to be one of the greatest New Yorker.s" — "Boston • for trade unions in the country. We Bostonians" — Mobile for Mo- wouldn't have that reputation if bilians" — "Savaryiah men for we let some of the former pieSavannah ships." etc'.' cards in the Union keep on tryWell, I was thinking about! jj^g J-Q up their own jobs by inem the other day when I read telling the membership in their .Paul Hall's article where he says j ports that he (the piecard) was any official or member who',making a "one man fight" to tries to pull this kind of stuff ^ keep the rest of the union from is really giving the membership "pushing the local boys around." a boot in the pants. .• T u No, Brothers, everytime I hear I think he put it mildly. What anybody even trying to go Hall should have said was that ^ baloney, before the Union really got inakes me plenty sore. We strong it had to knock down that g^uff go on again, phony attitude of local paits j^gcause if we do, we're goingfor local men'. And another being a little two-bit thing, if it hadn't been knocked to -^e down, there would be no SIU ^ught as well not fool ourselves today. about that. HOT AIR STUFF ALL PORTS FOR ALL SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS HONOR WAR DEAD To the Editor: Quite a few of the guys will have no trouble remembering what used to be one of the big­ gest reasons why the SIU was held back from being a big union. That was the phony hot air put out by former officials ?" •}•• • that the membership from their particular port were getting the •short end of the stick, so "to hell with everybody else." What the hell, we're the Seafarer^' hit^rnationar Union"'of North America, aren't we? It's not the SIU of such and such a port. It's one big international union and every port is a mighty important part of the whole set­ up. Why these guys couldn't understand this beats me. Any­ way, ideas like that kept us in a hole. When we first started being a I usually ship out of whatever port I payoff in, and I like to feel at home in any port. But just because a guy likes to ship from one port all the time it doesn't mean that he isn't as ^ Union guy as some one else. It does mean that when­ ever a guy has an SIU. book he is entitled to everything the SIU has to offer in every port. Lucky enough for us, we liaven't had to much of that late ly and that's why I kinda blink­ ed when I road what Hall said in the LOG a couple of weeks ago. Last time I heard of any­ one pulling crap like that was when the former Agent in Phil­ adelphia tried that same old gag last year. The result? The membership didn't fall for it and ^^ppp^^ p^ We're not a union of "locals," but 'we are an International Union. This is the only way we can have a union — by having it so all the members in all the ports can act and vote on the problems we all have. So, Brothers, once again I say whenever you run into this stuff stop it, and stop it quick! It's for your own and the Union's good. William (Red) Morris Notice To All SIU Members The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ farers International Union is available to all members who wish to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every SIU branch for this purpose. However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU hall, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the LOG, which you can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS LOG, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION To the Editor: I would like the SEAFARERS LOG mailed to the address below : Name Street Address Xity State. Signed Book No. Crewmembers of the SS Edwin D. Howard with the wreath they placed in the military cemetery in Bari, Italy, during Mem­ orial Day services honoring merchant seamen and army and navy men who died as a result of enemy action in World War IL In the Howard's 12-man delegation above are, kneeling (left to right): Joe Klepacki, OS: Frank Beck, AB; Felix 'Vaschstti. Bosun, and C. S. Scott, AB. Standing (left to right): R. Foster, AB; Ed Krombel, OS; Leon Curry, AB; Heimo Riuttal, FWT; Oscar Payne. Messman; Rolf Mumy, John Petriger, AB, and Steve Kaolac, OS. Isthmian Crew Awaits Pact To the Editor: This is ju.st a few lines from the gang on the Steel Recorder, one of the usually phony Isth­ mian scows. Even though every­ thing is strictly Isthmian, we still ifiave a pretty good gang aboard. We have quite a few ex-Navy men aboard and contrary to most Navy men they are a swell bunch of guys, all of them mili­ tant believers jn unionism. As always we are only wait­ ing for the day when we can climb on board an Isthmian scow with an SIU agreement in our pockets and say, "Listen here, Mr. Mate, The agreement doesn't Call for that." What a day that will be, and what a joy it will be to meet up with some of the Mates and so- ladies who so tactfully and pleasantly entertained us at the dance which was thrown for us, and also for the enjoyable Sunday on Stanley Beach of Alexandria. J. Wunderlich and 12 others Reminds TC Men Of .Future Role In Union To the Editor: I would like to talk about Trip Cards. The TC men are just as much a part of the Union as a book man. The main differ­ ence is that they are not al­ lowed to vote, and have no choice of staying on ships as long as they like. However, in years to come these same men will have books and will run this great Union of ours. The TC men have helped a lot in ' organizing the Isthmian and Cities Service Lines. These are just a few of the things they have done. I don't mean to say they should have the same priv­ ileges as a book man, for we all have to work for that. However, I do believe that the book men should encourage and preach the SIU laws to them, so they will called Officers I have had the know what a great Union we misfortune to sail with during have; then they won't get dis­ my days aboard Isthmian. couraged and stop shipping just because they don't understand. HAS SOME GOOD GUYS This action would be wrong, and But don't get me wrong, Isth­ I hope NO one will resort to mian, like all other companies ' measure. has its good men and their "Po MUST PROVE WORTHY Haus." I have sailed v.dth many real seamen who are Mates and The SIU doesn't sell you a Skippers on Isthmian. Men who book right off the bat, because did their utmost to make it a you must first prove that you are pleasant voyage for the crew worthy of it. When you do re­ and all concerned. I take my ceive .your book, you will know hat off to them and I can only what it means and how to use it. say it's too bad that a companj^'s You have to work for every­ officers are judged by the act­ thing you get in this world, and ions of a few rotten ones. that applies to the SIU book This trip has been pretty good and the Union itself. No dne so far except that it is hot can stop and play and expect as hell and we are hitting most the Union to run by itself. of the out-of-the-way places. You MAKE the Union your­ "Even though I never consider­ self each and every one of you ed the USS to be worth anything is a part of the Union. A great I must recommend them for their man once said, together we stand wonderful set-up on Alexandria. and divided we fall. Don't ever Never has a crew enjoyed them­ forget that, because it is the selves so much as we did there. damn truth. Frank J. Schulz I wish to. thank all the young Friday. July 11. 1947 Port Meetings Must Spotlight Organizing Work To Ihe Editor: Why don't the membership meetings in most of the ports devote more time to discussions about the Union's organizing work? Only by discussing this important matter at shoreside meetings can we be sure of get-' ting enough SIU men to ride un­ organized ships as volunteer or­ ganizers. I have sailed on Isthmian ships Cities Service scows and other unorganized companies' ships for the Union since it started its or­ ganizing drive. I can say from personal experience that if all the membership could see what's going on on those unorganized vessels, they'd really understand pronto why we need more SIU men aboard to speed up the drives which mean so much to every Seafarer, as well as the unorganized men themselves. NO TALK ON DRIVES I have attended meetings in different ports and it seems that the meetings are over so quick that we never get around to talking about conditions on un­ organized ships. And that's v.Tong, because we're missing out on a one big chance to acquaint all hands with the real score on these scows. I would like to suggest, there­ fore, to both the officials and the membership that it be made a point on the agendas of each port meeting to deal with noth­ ing but the organizing question. TALKS WILL HELP If we can't get all of our men aboard unorganized ships to see just how conditions sfte, maybe by talking about it at our meet-. ings they will really understand just what the score is. We won the Isthmian fleet the hard way but it would have been easier if we would have had more book men in that fleet, men to pitch in on the next orLet's hope we get more book ganizing job the Union starts so that the job will be easier. Bill Brown SUGGEST BROTHEJIS TAKE THEIR ULCERS TO C. Z. HOSPITAL To the Editor: We have noticed in recent ed­ itions of the LOG beefs about conditions in the various hospi­ tals where our members have been confined. There has been enough of a turnover of SUP and SIU mem­ bers here at the Margarita Hos­ pital in the past month to com­ prise a full crew, and not one of these men has given anything but praise for the very able and courteous staff of the hospital. The food is tops here, so if any of the boys plan on turning in with ulcers or Athlete's Foot, this is the place to come. Even the penicillin needles are cushioned. At present there are but five of us here, but with the ships moving again, we're dusting off the empty sacks in our ward. The people in charge have even stretched the rules a little to give us coffee time at ten and three, so let's put Margarita Hos­ pital on the list as tops. Pop Kaiser Ken Bailey Red Conroy Jim Finelli Margarita, Canal Zone �Friday, July - THE 11. 19d7 SIL.fFAK�RS Page Fifteen. LOG Real ·union Man Calls On Nation's Labor To RaUy Forces i ht To Finish' On Taft-Hartley .Act ·For 'Fg J. A really effective fight, which have got to look squarely W this new law and recognize it would guarantee a clear-cut vie.. Everyone remembers the At- for \Vhat it is and what it is tory would include the fotlowin.g lantic Charter,. t�at · illustri�us meant to be-'-a union-busting, i:)0ints; statement of prmc1pals for wh 1ch wage _smashing p r 0 p 0 s i t i 0 n . I. Immediate calling of a were supposed to b e fight mg w hich if applied unchecked to ference of Labor with representhe last "war for .democra_cy," our �aritime industry', would I tatives from the AFL, the CIO . h was lia11ed as the, 2nd wh1c of st:: n d us back to the days . sea and all indepen de nt unions to . . 1 e d o:ume�t m the 1 slavery and the fink hall, in short g eatest smg : map out wiited action against history of Mankmd smce the· order. the Slave Law. I Magna Charta of 1215 A.D. rrectl recogThe S e farers y � � · . u ! 2. An orga'niz.ed, pla nned ge nh Incl ded in t e list of aims of h se de.n"' ers when we ' mzed L1:: · . eral strike of all labor which the Charter ' right alon�side of . . . . .� . \vent on record m favor of a would have as its obJect1ve , the such noble promises as freedom· ,, 1 st r1.ke of a11 1ab or to , , 1 1 repea of the Taft:..Ha rt1ey Law. f rom want, , "freed om from f ear, , pro test the Slave B'll 1 severa .. . . . . . is one calling for "improved etc . 3. The designation of a weeks before it became law, and 1 • • • 1 • • d a economic or stand ard s ab' ,, ·sent a telegram to AFL President candidate to run m this coming . . vancer-._:1 t, and ' socia1 securi. ty. . G reen requesting h'1m to organ- pres1·dent'ial e1ect"ion for Pres 1· . · T o f thousand s of American . · aent of th e United States on a . 1 ize such a general str1ke. work €l'S to.::, 1,;: th . ese pr o�I.Se � at \Ve were United Labor ticket. E!' Party ly u not th · nion on . f ace value and gave th e1r l ives saw that coming. what g was 1. The foundin of a United l·n w·hat they thought was a fight r en says he received hundreds Labor Party with a slate of Lato dest�·oy fascism and preserve G e of . suel1 reque�ts for a general bor candidates directly from the ciemocracy. btnke from umons all over the unions to run against these ConThe Taft-Hc.rtly Slave Labor I country. gressmen who voted for the Bill is the reward labor gets for To !he Editor: PERSONALS a e I, at 1 l en3 labpr 1' I l I Unfortunately, President Green Taft-Hartley Slave Law. t h es pleas for a ge ner al political representatives of Big Benny Goodman k but pledged a laI'ge scale 1 e stri labor The "improved Business. I · • • standards" turned out to be the campaign to rep�al the putting its faith and trust in the e rej�cted Slave · , Kearney, N. J. I j , Fo11owmg · · · month trips a.ragua two on Victory five !ong I:>thm.ian's Nica nd effort-a to aboard l}is new ! organi.Ht'on.al fields. he unionism that no\ib Watts, Califcmia. t i � Pictures ·you crewplembers ordered on the SS while Arthur you by are being held for Jim Golder, care of the Golder Minnesota. Madelia, Hatchery, ·He requests that you write for Now i cffeciive�y 50 � WELLS Yot<.r family wishes to you that they have moved fro� 9925 South Olive Street, Los Angeles, to .2405 E&st 112 Place, Pamp�r.,. Cities Sex,1ice 'ves:cl is passing the word of SIU a to C. L. WEATHERBEE J. A. GERRITY aue:r,;:t·:r.n Remau d• Jr. En91noer. · has tu;ned ;t. :M:. CJ\.RL ' Dobos them· before August 1. 71,.Ji------Finking Role Of ,... Communists ..if.I.likes 'Unity'· . I n,,AJj,.,..,.il>. �. ' e di-, With NMU JmAAssible Broth er .L.lf:...., ff,I, ' '.I:'.....,. - biggest kick in the face in Am-:Law and to defeat every member of Congress who voted for it. erican Labor History. -.----- . This is the first step in th rection of national politics that PUPPETS OF BUSINESS � news of Brother Hicki can get in touch with his mother. Mrs. LeCain at 31 Grove Street having broughi Isthmian into th� SIU. I � ROBERT HICICS Important you contact you1 mother immediately. Brothen � genera l· ,.. Con.. we SANC�Z Your book has been mailed ·,•c Ute Mobile Hall. You c n get i· from Patrolman J. Morrison. � ; F •. � the A L as a whole has made. I To lhe Editor: commie Palazzi to ask us to sit bility just as long as they allow In my opinion.' th� step is okay, acknawlfinks like Palazzi, in on so-called "unity" read the telegram a short with them. What kind of dopes edged member of the greatest . I ut the direction is wrong. They sure have a lot of brass. b · N.Y. the AFL d�es organ- wh le back from the do they think we are? The SIU's scab outfit in the world - the faces 1. straight perfectly With I 1 Poi t Agent Paul Palazzi to the, a on scale politically ize I national position is very clear. We refuse Communist Party-to hQld down they twist the promises of the . I to defeat t�ese c ongressmen, and 1 SIU wherein he reques�ed SI� to sit in on any so-called "unity" key positions in the NMU and Atlantic Charter into the Taft. . I to have this vicwus law repeal-. suppo � for the NMU . m their meetings when there are mem- make strategy for their Uni<>ns. H artle y Sla� Bill, and then add � . m the same manner th�t bers of the Communist Party i d Who are �hey o�ng to �am-. beef Joe Curran hi�elf, in his arinsult to injury by putting a ! e ? � ? Otner ..friends ot la-, the SIU supported the NMU m pr . for· paign ticles in the NMU paper the esent cl{luse in the Bill which makes • · ' · · ?'' Repu.bricans ?. 1946" De�ocrats · · I bor· We refuse to do so because we Pilot. take s the position that the . it a crime for any labor orgam· . . later on a ji . The passage of Palazz This same union:-bust, l i 1 know they are the all time finks Communist Party is a ttempting zation to spend any money in a for, ter the NMU beef was o�er, sent of the labor movement. We do to destroy tl!e NMU. He further Fc<l�ral election, and for any mg law dem-0nstrateS' he Repubhe;an apd another message thanking the Union newspaper to comment all that both so because they were the great points out that around. 1�5 of­ the parties Democratic ow�- f3IU greatly for the support an d betrayers of the seamen during flcials out of a total of 150 irr . favorably or unfavorably upon 1 a ed t · . 1 �d body and soul hat through the SIU I.the last War when t ey sold the NMU, are active members o"f tbe · es i n t'onal E! 1 g Busi- st t . elections. · ,�:"tM'ri_.W<' �mmunm Party. . . . 1 The �nswer 1s tbe Gov.ernment, all in the name 1 · How in hell can any Q�ite a proposition. Why don't · • of · hese t�o of "patriotism." The own· pQlltlcal party. with such bastar .they just pass a law making it needs it� e�egrams com aris n · Th ese same Communist Party; ille�al fur any member of a Just as simple as th t. Lest any member gets any· . his co�mie 8 p evious activitie� ong ideas about this letter, it' WANTS LABOR SLATE Un�o:i (or anyone who w o ks finks w er th e same scabs who wr . This same Palazzi is amazmg. should be stated that the SIU a hvmg) to at all? during the war stated that the . . . . If the AFL is going to mobilize. (who, mctd _ entally • 15 an active Of c�urse, we must not forget p Coast Guard should be made a does not dislike the Communist olitically, why can't we get' to-! emb r f e w at rfr t sec that friend of labor, Harry Tr11tpermanent set-up· of the Mari- Party because they are so-called � ; rest of organized � gether with . tion o mm�is t t arty 0 time Industry because they the "radicals." man, who in his veto message to lab or and put up a 'whole slate wlw woWd America) m the middle of the Coasil1ttard "were just and l ib-I The actual. matrer of fact is: Congress called the bill unwork- of labor . 1946 Stnkes actually put out ?l . a e veto ough:t to bring be pledged to. the that they wouldn,t mak� a g()bd immedia� �e- press releases to' all ne wspapers era!.' ' him quite a few votes m the next I Let them tell the average sea-' si·ze pimple on a radical's neck. ; peal of this law?· to the effect that the "SIU was m , w h · Presidential elect'ions from those I - Aa ether he be SIU or an COMMIE t.INE · . d while we a!'e about it why trymg . . . t0 cripp · 1e the . NMU t.0 NMU, hat politically nearsighted dupes w ho th t C oast Guard, es� .. e . not put up a c andidate for Presi- keep them from wmnmg . . Those finks are su.per mil.it.ant therr still think in terms of Democrats I peciallY in their persecut.ion of . dent of the United in 1948 strike." . oday and 100% scabs tomorrow •. t . and ReP'ublicans. • seamen during the war, ".were . . for intJtanee ? ' hn L · bewis -sa y Jo It Just depends on which way · The recent te�egram to the SIU Mr. Truman however says 1 would. a lot rather vote for, · just and libttra1,, . . . the. Communist Party Line readS. from the NMU that the SIU supthat n the 'B'll ha s This same Union, when refus. � . 1 i.n:come sa y Harry Lundeberg as . senator . pass1ble for the · We know these same commies. . . port had made it Law he will make every effort I from that noble State of ee s or . e mem..... .1 h i'ng to se tle b f f th . Call - NM . to 1ook . tvua y w are trying to wm their beefs shows . ' to carry out its ("unworkable") . the NMU f or "Patriotic . bers of u· · . . forma ' or Paul Hall as Senator w-bat a hypocrite and a 1Ulr this comnue itant are the same , � m · provisions faithfully· Seems to . Reasons , branded the S IU a ;) from the State of �w Yo k ' or member of the Commumst seabs who screamed for a noParty • me Labor ought to prove that our 1 . anti-war and "not patriotic" I John L. for the President of the really is· . strik e pledge not :only durinct "' . · 11 f nend Harry was right when he u · n'ed to settle the SIU t mted States a running on a . the w ar• bu.t after the war· The y Obviously then' this commie u... · ca11e d the B 111 unwork able. ·ng the embersh1" p beefs dur1 m 1abor partY t'icket • than t° have that line only after MOs-' changed . fink's story during the 1946 . strike . War, throu.gb the use of econom4-.J..J / ·, to cast my vote for �<::Orne Repub- was an outri�� . ....1.. t 1ie. SOME.FACTS cow 1.-.'111. them to. . . ic str. ength · lican or democratic friend of laAll SlU members should read' r . Here are just a few facts in On the question of umty itself, CP SMEARS ,. . t-or," who doesn't belong to a of the SIU 0 connection with the law: and a Why was it necessary that this the �IU's record . is very clear union and who probably bC:s read Employers are now permitted n never done a lick of work in his guy, supposedly a responsible and is a lot healthier record the 1 finkY tact.i. cs th ese peop1e h ave, to sue labor unions in the cour ts. NMU official in a key position, the NMU pos sesses. entire life · gone through. (Strikes could be effectively blasted the name of the SIU with WHERE WAS NMU? Every SIU man should consider, I suppose that under this new crippled by court suits which statements that he and the NMU fa i cist his duty to talk to the NMU O law C expression of this t the I with s We hit the bricks funds.) lip tie would strike knew to be outright lies? The ers and tell them just what political opinion in a Union memb h;lped and workers shipyard Suits brought against unions answer is very simple-because them win their strike in New kind of reputation the commie would be long, drawn-out affairs newspaper constitutes a crime. the �ommunist Party Line Wf!S . York City when· the NMU by finks have given their Union. Well, if the LOG editors are which would result in draining and is to smear the SIU at every V[e should tell these NMU. · their actions didn't even know willing to risk :"'printing this I am the treasuries of the unions. · chance it gets! the scor e so that they can't guys exist� workers the CIO shipyard Most union welfare funds are more than willing to take the Al Lannon, the Chief Commis- ed. Why did the NMU, a CIO say we are "red baiting. " Don't rap. made illegal, and the dues checksar in the Waterfront· section of Union, not support these people 1 let anybody kid you on this is-, off system used by some big My opinion is that 16 million the Communist Party; lays down when the SIU, an AFL Union, sue. Celling a scab what he is-­ unions to ensure union control is organized workers can't be wrong the line as given him by Moscow did support them? A SCAB. is not red bdting. that, outlawed. In a few weeks from nnd that what is completely to smear not only the SIU, but It is very simple-because the Brothers is truth telling-in a now the most vicious provisions wrong is this vicious attempt to every AFL M a r i t i m e Union CIO shipyard workers, although big way. . of the bill will go into effect. smash the organized labor movewhenever it is possible. This, in a CIO Union, is strictly anti�he t�me is nea: w�en ,an That is the section outlawing the ment. spite of the fact that t�� policy Communist. They are anti. -Com- umons m the marme industry closed shop and clamping 're- _ It is absolutely right for labor i . of some of the NMU officials and munist for the same reason we are gom g to have a battle-so to fight this Slave Law to a finstrictions on the Union sh op. · r ctically all f its members are. Because they,• too, reco.gnize' the quicker the NMU kick s out � You can see now, in these few ish, using every means at its dis- � � isn t the same thmg. them as the sell-out artists of the shipowners stooges, the CP� abstracts from the Slave Law, posal-mass economic action at then the quicker we can see eye the the working class. Yet these people have that all of tne gains made by la- the point of production, in the to eye on cot\),mon problems� blasti so�called of of question e fa th ·NO-the auda it ng c e c y in bo r in the last decade are wiped law courts and on the political 1 Frenchy BUI • impossi.e u l o s ke is ab an "unity" li by people made statements front. of! the books. You can say one thing for these Big B usiness puppets in Congress.: j Supp.o�e �r �. / vote r for � I · �Y. �nee SUJ?� hyp�racy ! 1? � � gi � � � � o ;° h have unity . ��th f ' ;_,.. . I j jI I I Stat� , t.he e j , an meetings I I the Cl!ndidatvts l : a�e a /I N�U 1 0,b�i�ushLabor I : �hat I I r U t o whe.....,. ver . . j I I I � i � �°f:ook soX::!a:�z��=. �S-, .r-"} Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG v?-''^'">!'= Friday. July 11. 1947 AFL Adopts Six Point Program To Wage Fight On 'Slave-Labor' Act strength so that they may sub­ a woeful lack of cooperation "%e- their fixed bitter determination procedure to the Supreme Court stitute collective action for indi­ tween management and labor. te destroy them if possible. of the United States. We shall vidual action. The material, edu­ President Truman emphasized exhaust every legal resource at The National Association of cational and cultural well-being this fact in his , veto message Manufacturers and other employ­ our command in the efforts we of all'Classes of people depends when he stated: er organizations may function put forth to test the validity of upon an adequate financial in­ i "I find that the National Labor and serve their respective mem­ this Act. come. To workers that means Relations Act would be converted bership without an/ substantial 2. The repeal of this notorious wages, high enough to enable from an instrument with the ma­ interference on the part of gov­ legislation shall be our fixed ob­ them to maintain themselves in jor purpose of protecting the ernment. They are practically jective. We shall never be rec­ decency and comfort and to es­ lights of workers to organize and free from legislative restraints onciled to the acceptance of this tablish a standard of living com­ bargain collectively into a maze and limitations. The attorneys legislation. We shall oppose it— mensurate with the requirements of pitfalls and complex proced­ who serve the National Associa­ fight it at every step and every of American citizenship. ures. As a result of these com­ tion of Manufacturers and who opportunity — until we succeed plexities employers and workers prepared and wrote the Taft- in our efforts to bring about its NOBLE OBJECTIVE would find new barriers to mu­ Hartley Bill saw to it that their repeal. Our action in this respect This is a noble objective. It tual understanding. clients were exempt from many will be based upon the fact that The all day discussion approv­ squares with the American way "The bill time and again of the provisions of the Act to we regard the Taft-Hartley Bill ed unanimously the resolution of life. Workers everywhere would remove the settlement of which unions and their members as a slave measure, Un-American, brought in by a committee com­ should be encouraged, not hamp­ diffez'ences from the bargaining are subjected. vicious and destructive of labor's posed of five Vice-Presidents and ered or hindered in their efforts table to courts of law. Instead of constitutional rights. The Taft-Hartley Act is a to realize such a high and lofty learning to Hive together, em­ Secretary-T r e a s u r e r George 3. We will organize, units and purpose. Such an economic and ployers and unions are invited strike and strife-provoking Act. Meany. social order would serve to per­ to engage in costly, time-con­ It should be properly classified concentrate our efforts toward While the i-esolution refrained petuate our free democratic form suming litigation, inevitably em- as such. It will serve to prevent bringing about the defeat of every the workers from agreeing to member of Congress for re-elec­ from urging all unions to boycott of government, to prevent th--) bittering both parties, incorporate a no-strike pledge tion who voted in favor of final spread of Communism, or the ac­ the National Labor Relations EVILS DESCRIBED in written contracts. It means enactment of the Taft-Hartley ceptance of any totalitarian phil­ Board, as many have indicated osophy and to serve as a guaran­ the end of sound labor manage­ Bill. Here the President set forth they would do, Joseph Padway, tee of the preservation of our ment relations and the substitu­ in simple language the evils of 4. To protect our organizations tion therefor of distrust, suspic­ AFL general counsel, declared free cnterffi-ise system. against possible suits for dafnthe new National Labor Rela­ that "if unions can by-pass the Apparently the authors and tions Board and the great dis- ion, and class hatred. ages and other vexacious and law and do without it, 1 am here suppoi lers of the Taft-Hartley service to human relations in destructive litigation under this LABOR'S PLEDGE to state that they would be bet­ anti-labor law ignored all these industry which is bound to follow law, it is recommended that noter off." And now, we, the representa­ strike provisions be omitted from facts. Their actions must be in­ the enforcement of said amended terpreted as meaning that strong National Labor Relations Act, as tives of seven million five hun­ all future agreements, written or NLRB NO FACTOR serviceable labor unions must not Because the amendments to the dred thousand members of the oral. Most of the repre.sentatives be permitted to exist within our Notional Labor Relatioils Act, as American Federation of Labor, 5. In order that the workers of stated privately that it would be economic and social life, that set forth in the Taft-Hartley Bill, after giving solemn considera­ the Nation may be accorded a their policy to ignore the NLRB, only weak and impotent labor are susceptible of varied inter­ tion to all the facts herein stat­ full and complete opportunity to unions shall be allowed to sur­ and to depend entirely on collec­ pretations and are confusing to ed, the provisions of the Tafttive bargaining, with the alter­ vive and that labor may have a the highest degree, we would Hartley Act and its legal ana­ vote in National elections, we native of striking if direct nego­ shadow of a labor movement but prefer no National Labor Re­ lysis prepared by the Legal De­ recommend that our organizations set aside this day as-a holiday to not the substance. tiations failed. lations Board than the National partment of the American Fed­ be devoted solely to election This fact is refiected in every Labor Relations Board with its eration of Labor herewith de­ On their return from the purposes. meeting. Seafarers International word, line, sentence and para­ administrative authority as set clare that the following shall be our pledge and uncompromising 6. We recommend that the Ex­ delegates, Paul Hall and Morris graph of the notorious Taft-Hart­ forth in the Taft-Hartley Law. ley Law. It seeks to weaken, The Taft-Plartlcy Law is fill­ purpose. ecutive Council of the Ameri­ Weisberger, warned that the SlU 1. Because we believe many can Federation of Labor give must now be ready for an all-out render impotent and destroy la­ ed with "Thou Shall Not's and bor unions. It does so by strik­ "Thou must's" to the officers and of the provisions of the Taft- full and complete, consideration fight against the new law. ing -a vital blow at free collective members of labor unions. The Hartley Bill are unconstitutional to the declarations of this con­ "Now is the time for all SlUbai-gaining and substitute a pro­ supporters of the Taft-Hartley we will challenge the validity of ference and in addition, prepare SUP members to prepare for the cess of government domination future," they said. "We must over employer - employee rela­ Law virtually declare "Labor said sections in the courts. In for the consideration of the next Unions in the United States must doing so, we shall avail our­ convention of the American Fed­ keep our apparatus in good shape tionships. The negotiation of be made weak and ineffective. selves of the opportunity to ap­ eration of Labor a program giv­ so that we can spring into action closed shop agreements are for­ at a moment's notice. Our Union bidden and the regulations, limr Their ability to serve working peal in accordance with court ing full effect to these purposes. people, to preserve economic is built on a solid foundation, itations and prescribed methods freedom and to establish higher and it will take more than a which must be followed regardstandards of living for the wage phony la-w to force ,. .us to go , back ing union membership are all de- earners of the nation must be to the poor conditions that we impossible for successfully fought for so many labor unions to live and function limited and defined." years." NO FREE SPEECH effectively. The full text of the policy The provision of the TaftINJUNCTION LAW statement, adopted by the dele­ All along the line this past ^ His clothing added still angates, follows: In addition to the classification Hartley Bill which provides that year the American worker was other 20 per cent to the price it shall be unlawful for any Your committe submits the of Unfair Labor Practices in this labor organization to make a an unwitting participant in the last year; beverages were fnllov/ing declaration for the con­ Act, some stated and other vague, contribution or expenditure in . , up 50 per cent; sugar and sweets which employers charge against modern industry version of the , , sideration of this conference: , . . labor unions, the Act provides connection with the election of old shell game with big business 32 per cent, and on and on. A strong moving desire on the may be insti- Members of Congress, strikes a No ceiling was in sight as the part of working men and women violation of vital blow at freedom of speech — as usual — slickly manipulat­ abused money-boys continued to for the realization of higher, and freedom of press. This sec­ ing the shells. bloat themselves with unprece­ standards of living has served to I ji^j^ed the abhorrant principle tion must be interpreted as "Now you see it, now you dented profits. Sample of the .estabish and stimulate the!^^^ government by meaning that the supporters of don't," was the theme as capital sad situation endured by big growth and expansion of labor injunction. The purpose of those the Taft-Hartley Bill sought to business last year is pointed out unions., The , , , progress . and , devel- I who supported the Taft-Hartley make it a crime for labor to ex­ thoroughly sucked back every by the financial report released opment of labor unions have run effectively destroy labor ercise the right of freedom of nickel of wage increases — and by the Great Atlantic and Pac­ parallel to the steady ever in- unions, is made crystal clear in the press and freedom of speech in most cases more. ific Tea Company, which is sup­ ceasing demand of the workers provision of it. in order to prevent them from While big business screamed posed to operate at a "small for higher wages, improved con­ The revision and reconstruc­ being reelected to Congress. profit." ditions of employment, security tion of the National Labor Rela­ The vicious feature of this and hollered "murder" every and social justice. The company's earnings for thei tions Board has created confu­ section is reflected in the fact time a union demanded a reason­ Time and experience have sion and uncertainty. Its real that it provides any officer of able cost-of-living increase, prices past year went up a clean 150 per cent, from 12 millions to shown that the labor union is meaning will neve' be clearly a labor organization or any labor — rigged by big business — better than 30 millions of dollars. the instrumentality which served understood until it has been de- organization who exercises the to^promote the economic, social ^ fined by the courts. Employers %ight of freedom of speech or zoomed to all time highs in the Sales, however, only increased and industrial welfare of the and employees will vehemently freedom of the press in opposing nation's history. Even the rec­ about 27 per cent, indicating a workers everywhere. Even non- differ as to the real meaning of a Member of Congress who voted ord prices, of the 1919-20 post­ widely disproportionate zoom in union workers have been the ^ the provisions of the revised and for the Taft-Hartley Bill for re­ war period were cheap by com­ their profit margin. beneficiaries of the gains made newly created National Labor election, shall be guilty of a The downward trend in liquor parison. by the organized labor move- J Relations Board. All of this will criminal offense punishable by For the worker, pork cost 78 consumption might have a tie-in ment. .serve to promote strife between a fine or imprisonment, or. both. here. Big business apparently is The organization of working employers and employees — the Here in this section is reflected per cent more than it did a year men and women means the mo-1 expenditure of large sums of the hatred of members of Con­ ago; beef 62 per cent more, and finding very little to. make it, r bilization of their economicimoney in court proceedings and gress toward labor dhions and still going up. resort to drink. . WASHINGTON, July 9—Stat­ ing that the Taft-Hartley Act igr-ored the true worth of labor unions, and was designed so that only "weak and impotent labor unions shall be allowed to sur­ vive," the meeting of 200 top of­ ficials of AFL unions today adopted a fighting program to • combat the new law. One liundred and five unions, consisting __ of more than 7,500,000 members, were represented. . i' Worker Loses In Sheii Game, Capital Snatches His Gains � 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 July 11, 1947 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. IX, No. 28 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SEAFARERS WINS ANOTHER; WYANDOTTE FLEET GOES SIU BY 68 PERCENT MAJORITY AFL ACTS ON TAFT-HARTLEY LAW NEW MARITIME BILL IS DEFINITE THREAT TO U.S. MERCHANT MARINE NEW CONTRACT BIG VICTORY FOR MINERS ILA CONVENTION BEGINS ON JULY 14 MM&P WINS WAGE INCREASE IT'S NO GAG MEN WITH THE REQUIRED TIME URGED TO GET HIGHER RATING AVC PROGRESSIVES BEAT COMMIE ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE OUTFIT SEAMEN GET TOO MUCH, EAT TOO WELL, LIVE TOO WELL, SAYS COLUMNIST BUCKO MATES ARE LESS OF A THREAT THAN THE DISRUPTORS FROM WITHIN RUSSIAN FORCES FOSTER BLACK MARKET IN AUSTRIA IN AND AROUND THE NEW ORLEANS HALL UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS COVER MEN ON WSA SHIPS IN 1946 HERE'S ANOTHER HUNGRY ISTHMIAN SHIP: THIS TIME IT IS THE THOMAS SIM LEE CIO SHIP TIE-UP STILL EFFECTIVE TEXAS AFL CONVENTION MAPS FIGHT AGAINST TAFT-HARTLEY ACT PHILLY HOTEL BILLS GO SKY HIGH; ANTI-LABOR BILLS FLOOD STATE GALVESTON IS RUNNING SMOOTHLY NOW THAT GASHOUNDS ARE SCARCE SEAFARERS' GAINS ON GREAT LAKES PROOF ENOUGH FOR WORKING SEAMEN BOSTON MANPOWER SHORTAGE EASES, TANKERS OUT SINCE STRIKE BACK CONGRESSMEN PULL 'BIG PAY' GAG TO PAVE WAY FOR SHIP TRANSFERS TAFT HARTLEY ACT BOOMERANGS WITH UNORGANIZED LAKES SEAFARERS ON LUXURY CRUISE SEAFARERS RESCUE FRENCH CRAFT ADRIFT 2 DAYS IN MEDITERRANEAN ISTHMIAN CREW 'RED-PENCILS' SKIPPERS SENSE OF HUMOR SS MARYMAR RUNS AGROUND COLABEE IS 1ST UNDER WIRE WITH NEW SIU MINUTES FORM AFL ADOPTS SIX POINT PROGRAM TO WAGE FIGHT ON 'SLAVE-LABOR' ACT WORKER LOSES IN SHELL GAME, CAPITAL SNATCHES HIS GAINS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/11/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/04ab439d89c9bc78b9e729a785e08651.PDF 89e45d5517342a0243032cd121e99365 PDF Text Text -v;-r >• • »' V. Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY, JULY 4. 1947 VOL. IX. THE OLD AND THE NEW No. 27 Hall, Weisberger Attend AFL Washington Meeting On 'Slave-Law' Strategy The American Federation of Labor drive to combat the vicious provisions of the Taft-Hartley "Kill Labor" Act gets under full steam on Wednesday, July 9, when he heads of all AFL Unions will meet in Washington, D. C., to discuss ways and means of successfully defending the hard - won rights of a free labor movement. Rep­ resenting the Seafarers International Union will be Paul Hall, Acting President in the absence of Harry Lundeberg, and Morris Weisberger, Second Vice-President of the International. In addition to being New York Port Agent and Director of Organiza­ tion, Brother Hall was elect-'® Above are Ihe old and new presidents of the Mobile Bay Seafood Workers Union. SIU. which recently affiliated to the SIU. Left to right, Walter Bosarge, outgoing head of the union, and G. J. Landry. President-Elect, who takes office in August. Both are prominent in the affairs of Gulf fishermen, and both are oldtimers in the fishing business. SIU Gulf Fishermen Plan Further Grewth Bayou La Batre, Alabama, is a small fishing village of approx­ imately 3000 people. Of these, some 1400 are fishermen, and each and every one belongs to the Mobile Bay Seafood Union, which recently became part of the Marine Allied Workers, Sea­ farers International Union. they had found the organiza­ tion they were looking for. A short time afterward, by an overwhelming vote, the fish­ ermen of Bayou La Batre de­ cided to come into the SIU. "That was the smartest move we ever made," said Walter Bos- The fishermen in that area long ago saw the need for orgrnization. Prices for the fish they caught were set by the shoreside markets, and when competition became keen, it was the businessmen who cleaned up while the fishermen were forc­ ed to sell their catch at meager prices. And so, twelve years ago the men in Bayou La Batre formed an independent organization to combat the evils outlined above. AFL Broadcast (A full page of pictures of the Mobile Bay Seafood Union. SIU. appears on page 5.) Although many international unions made overtures to the Mobile group, they stood apart and waited for what they term­ ed, "an honest outfit." About eight months ago a del­ egation from the Mobile Bay Seafood Union came into see Cal Tanner, Mobile Agent, at the Hall. They came seeking informa­ tion regarding affiliation, and they went away convinced that {Continiud on Page 5) WASHINGTON. D. C. — Beginning July 5th. the Am­ erican Federation of Labor will inaugurate a new se­ ries of radio broadcasts over the nationwide network of tlje American Broadcasting Company. The first nine programs, devoted to completely ex­ temporaneous and unrehearsed round table discus­ sions of major topics in the news, will originate each Saturday at 6:45 P.M.. EDT. from Washington. D. C. Since some local stations, because of earlier commit­ ments. may be forced to rebroadcast the programs at some later time, be sure to consult your local newspa­ per for the exact time of the broadcasts. The first forum will dis­ cuss, "What are the effects of the Taft-Hartley Act thus far?" 1 a^the vention in Chicago. Brother Lundeberg will not be present at the meeting due to pressing business in Europe. ASKS COURT CASES Attorneys for the AFL have aleady stated the opinion that the new law _will be proven to be unconstitutional, and have uncfficially advised the various in­ ternationals to make test court cases whenever the act is ap­ plied. The strategy for so doing will no dffubt be discussed at the forthcoming conference. In his call for the meeting, President Green pledged a threefront offensive against the unust and oppressive law. The AFL chief said: "We will carry on the fight against this terrible legislation just as vigorously as when it was pending before Congress. "We are going to fight it in the courts. "We are going to fight to protect the rights of our mem­ bers in contract negotiations with employers. "And we are going to organ­ ize politically to defeat every member of Congress who voted for this law." NO PAC Mr. Green amplified this last statement by declaring that the AFL does not intend to form a political action committee, such as the ClO's. "The main purpose of the meeting," declared Green, "is to present full and accurate infor­ mation concerning the new law, and to provide answers to all questions which may occur to our union officials. "But there is' a second and equally important objective. We must form a clear-cut policy on how to deal with this legislation and how to combat it. Through this meeting, we hope to obtain uniform action, instead of indi­ vidual and contradict5ry action." Ncw Af/i//<»i</ CotitFact Gives 40 Hour Week, Wage Raise DETROIT, July 1—Climaxing 140-h6ur week on the entire Lakes negotiations which had been go­ covering the sandboats. So even ing on fot* several weeks. Great I though the Midland agreement Lakes Secretary-Treasurer Fred ' is the first covering any bulk Farncn today announced the j carriers, it actually is the second reaching of an agreement with ' on the Lakes for the Seafarers. the Midland Steamship Line, Inc. NEW WAGE SCALE providing for a 40-hour week and Under the new Midland wage substantial wage increases for scale, which goes into effect to­ the unlicensed personnel. day, the wages are broken down The Midland agreement calls on an hourly basis with straight for the first 40-hour week with j time for eight hours in one day any bulk carrier operator on the and forty hours in one week, Lakes, and covers seven ships— time-and-one-half for all time SS John W. Davin, Michael Gal- over that, time-and-one-half for laghei-, J. H. Macoubrey, W. G. eight hours on Saturday, eight Pollock, E. N. Saunders Jr., hours on Sunday and all penalty Carmi A. Thompson and the J. overtime. C. Williams. A complete breakdown of all On May 15, prior to the Mid­ wages according to department land agreement, the SIU Great and classification appears on Lakes District signed the first page 4. NMU Blocks SlU-lsthmian Pact Despite Threat Of 'Slave Law' As 'usual, the National Mari­ the NMU has resorted to un­ time Union, CIO, doesn't know derhanded tactics to deprive what its left hand is doing, or these men of representation. First they challenged votes on at least it says it doesn't. ships which were believed to While Joe Curran, Pi-esident have gone heavily SIU. of the NMU, was sending out When this failed, the NMU invitations to all the maritime threw wild charges of collusion unions requesting a conference which were disproved before a to discuss ways and means of Hearing Officer appointed by combating the Taft-Hartley the National Labor Relations "slave labor" law, the NMU Board. Next, the NMU filed a brief lawyers were using another stall to prevent the Isthmian Steam­ in Washington, which, while ship Company from having to adding nothing to their previous negotiate with the Seafarers, statements, further delayed ac­ duly certified as the bargaining tion. And now that the SIU has agent for unlicensed Isthmian been certified, the NMU is charg­ ing the Isthmian Steamship seamen. Ever since the Seafarers In­ Company with unfair labor ternational Union garnered the practices, something whjch was majority of the votes cast by not brought up during the hearthe unlicensed Isthmian seamen, (Coit/tmud on Page 9) �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG rsz Friday, July 4. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street^ New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK ----Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. }?-' Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 A Fighting Program The Congressmen, those agents of Big Business, who passed the Taft-Hartley Act, are probably getting the sur­ prise of their lives at the way organized labor has reacted to their "Break the Unions" legislation. American labor is fighting back! The ink was not yet cold on the vote to over-ride the President's veto when the United Mine Workers, AFL, shouted, "Let the Senators mine the coal," and walked off their jobs in defense of labor's basic rights. CIO Shipbuilders, another mighty and militant union, hit the picketlines, and dared the labor-hating Congress­ men to do their worst. And other sections of labor have also stated flatly that they will not take this fascist law without a knock-down and drag-out fight. We in the Seafarers International Union have had this same type of fight before. Government interference in the affairs of seamen is an old story. The 1921 strike, the Copeland "Fink Books," the Coast Guard Hearing Units, and finally, the Wage Stabilization Board, have taught SIU seamen that their power lies solely in their own •strength. Regular membership meetings of the Seafarers on Wednesday, July 2, adopted a fighting program to combat the Taft-Hartley Act wherever and whenever it interferes with our Hiring Halls, the keystone of our continued ex­ istence. Here is our program, and we are prepared to fight for every word contained in it: 1—The SIU-SUP go on record as not tolerating in any way, shape, or form, any interference with our Union Halls by shipowners or Government bureaus. -The SIU-SUP to consider as a lockout any at­ tempts by any person or persons to use the TaftHartley Act to the detriment of our Unions. 3 -We make known immediately to the AFL, as well as to the AFL Maritime Trades Department, our position on this matter. 4—That we call for a meeting as soon as possible with the Maritime Trades Department on this matter. 5- -That we make known our position on the TaftHartley Act through the medium of the Seafar­ ers Log and the West Coast Sailors. When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals You can contact your "Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) as reported by the Port Agents, These Brothers find time hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. ing to them. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL F. HAMON (on 1st and 2nd floors.) J. O'NEILL N. NEILSEN W. BROSE J. A. DYKES C. MASON E. J. SIDNEY A. WALTERS C. LARSEN E. E. CASEY L. L. LEWIS J. HOSTEN 4" 4 4* J. R. LEWIS C. B. O'NEAL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL L. TORRES M. J. DELANEY M. PLYLER C. SCHULTZ T. J. KURKI F. O'BRIEN J. HAMILTON C. IBRAIN J. WYMOND R. A. BLAKE A. DUDDE E. CAIN JR. H. BELCHER M. PISKUN J. TARQUELLOS J. T. EDWARDS W. E. STORVIS F. MILLER A. FELICIANO 4 4 4 D. COPPAK H. SELBY BRIGHTON HOSPITAL P. PODOLSKY 4. S. SR. GORDON E. WHELAN NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL M. FINDELHURST J- CALHOUN (SUP) A. BUCHENHORNER H. GREEN R. BAASNER C. PEDERSEN W. PARIS 4 4 4 J. HARRISON R. LORD ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL G. CARUSO E. JOHNSTON W. MORRIS P. STOFFEL A. BONTE W. B. MUIR A. SANDY E. MOFIENE D. MCDONALD R. CHRISTIAN E. DELLAMANO C. RASMUSSEN A. R. GUIDRY E. HAMATY J. KOSLUSKY J. AMAYA R. GRALICKI 4 4 4 H. DAUGHERTY H. WALSH NEPONSET HOSPITAL P. La Cicero J. WHEATON (SUP) R. WRIGHT L. CLARK R. HUNT G. GREY J. MCDONOUGH J. S. CAMPBELL H. HAMOND E. FERRER G. BLACK C. CASE J. R. HANCHEY H. SMITH -v-;, �Friday, July 4, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG PageThree Many States Are Passing Laws To Strangle American Unionism WASHINGTON — While the tures passed and the governors shops, secondary boycotts, strike big publicity during the past few signed laws forbidding strikes by activity and picketing. months focussed on what Con­ public employes. Strikes or lock­ A Minnesota law provides that gress was doing to Labor, the outs by charitable hospitals and where an employer has entered Legislatures of various States their employes were banned in into a valid contract that he were also carrying the ball for Minnesota. cannot be compelled to negoti­ big business. LABOR RELATIONS — Omni­ ate with any other union. By PAUL HALL ' The Taft-Hartley Bill was the A N. Dakota law undermines one most talked about, and bus bills were passed in Ohio union security by permitting "a On June 15th, the ship operators contracted to the SIU offered rightly so since it practically re­ and Delaware. The Ohio legis­ worker to refuse to join a union. your Negotiating Committee a 5 per cent increase in wages. They peals all the provisions of the lation makes union treasuries li­ further made the offer to the Union of a two weeks' vacation clause UNION REGISTRATION — National Labor Relations Act, able to harassing suits by cor­ in the contract with the provision that, in exchange for this two poration lawyers, restricts polit­ Delaware and N. Dakota now but what the States have done week's vacation clause, the SIU agree to extend the contract to ical action contributions, makes require detailed registration is not one bit more moderate. September 30, 1948. doubtful strikes for call-in pay, statements and financial reports Enactment of literally scores of Your Negotiating Committee, as reported before, has not ac­ severance and vacation pay, at­ to the Secretary of State. cepted these offers. They are still studying them. For the sake of anti-labor bills by State Legis­ tacks the right of assemblage by SUITS AGAINST UNIONS — those members who are not familiar with the situation, let us discuss latures so far this year has limitations on picketing, and at­ Six states: Arizona, Delaware, handed major victories to big this issue. tempts to protect company Nebraska, N. Dakota, S. Dakota, In regards to the offer of the vacation clause, no SIU con­ business and industry groups, stooges within a union. and Texas, enacted new legisla­ tract at this point carries such a clause. The payment of vacation backed by affiliates of the Na­ The Delaware 1 a w specifies in most SIU companies was discontinued around 1940 and at the tional Association of Manufac­ certain unfair labor practices by tion providing that unions may same time they were dropped from the contract. ABs in the larger turers and the United States both employer and employes and be sued and in some cases speci­ fying that unions are responsible SIU contracted ships secured a $10 raise over and above some of Chamber of Commerce. contains provisions on closed for acts of their officers. With all but seven legislatures the other operators in the business. The fact ncannot be overlooked in considering this proposal of now adjourned here is a brief vacations from the shipowners that, although there are many Sea­ summary of legislation passed so farers who would never make enough sea-time in one company far: to get any benefit from this particular vacation clause, on the ANTI-CLOSED SHOP LAWS other hand if we were to accept, there would be lots of our members —Thirteen states enacted laws who would, and the money for such two weeks' vacation would then prohibiting the closed shop or actually represent additional dough earned. other forms of union security Thirty years of sailing ships The question of extending the 'working rules of our contracts contracts: Arizona, Arkansas, under foreign flags did not gel until September, 1948, is a serious question, and, therefore, the Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Charlie W. Palmer,. OS, down, reason that the Negotiating Committee has not yet made a final Nebraska, N. Carolina, N. Da­ and so two trips on Isthmian decision in this matter. kota, Tennessee, Texas and Vir­ scows could not be expected to Let us look at this particular question and discf^s it. Oup ginia. The N. Dakota law will do the trick. But as Charlie membership is aware of the fact that the SIU contracts, as they are not become effective until after says, "It was plenty rugged." now, represent the finest working conditions of any Union in the the 1948 election when it will be Brother Palmer's Isthmian Maritime Industry. submitted to referendum. ships were the SS Zane Grey, The New Mexico legislature four months in the beginning of Confusion In Interpretation passed a constitutional amend­ 1946, and the SS Sea Fiddler, The Seafarers has managed, after plenty of heavy action ment banning the closed shop one month from May 1 to May over a period of years, to reduce the number of separate contracts which will be submitted for 30, 1947. with various operators in the field from approximately nine to popular vote. On both ships he went aboard the present two. While at the same time greatly increasing the num­ New Hampshire now prohibits as a volunteer organizer, and he ber of companies under contract to the SIU. an employer with more than is ready and able to continue During this period of time, we had lots of confusion in the five employes granting a closed organizing wherever the SIU interpretations of so many separate and different contracts—for shop unless two-thirds of the tells him to go. instance on one SIU ship an AB would get overtime for doing employes vote for it. Closed The trip on the Grey started a certain type of work, while on another SIU contracted ship of shops are outlawed in establish­ out uneventfully. Once the Skip­ another company, he wouldn't get overtime for the same type of ments with five or fewer em­ per and Mate had been straight­ work. ployes. ened out by the solid action of It is this writer's opinion, as well as that of your Negotiating CHARLES W. PALMER RESTRICTIONS ON STRIKES the crew, the officers turned out Committee, that, providing we can eliminate the differences between to be pretty much all right. But and at the payoff. Palmer only the two existing contracts without losing any of the conditions —Laws restricting or regulating just when everything was workthat we have previously negotiated, we then can afford to con­ picketing were enacted in Del­ rng smootmy, trouble struck. | sider favorably the extending of our working rules until Septem­ aware, Georgia, N. and S. Da­ After takrng on a load of coal. kota, Texas and Utah. Strikes in ber, 1948 on the basis as outlined above. This doesn't mean that the contract would be perfect by any Delaware and Utah are unlaw the Grey headed for Italy where Company doesn't like to pay the vessel rested for ten days. moans. We still would have the problem of making clarifications ful unless approved by a ma overtime, and won't until we While there an acting AB was get" ^n' SIU"7ontra7t.' of different clau.ses and beefs as they were to come up". Thi.s could jority vote of employes. shot in the arm, and four or be handled, however, in our regular stride of business work. REAL OLD SALT BAN ON SECONDARY BOY five days later accused Palmer In the event of the acceptance of this extension of the working COTTS — Eight states outlawed Brother Palmer can look back rules with the noted changes, it wouldn't mean that we would sign secondary boycotts: Delaware of having done the shooting. on many years of sailing time. But the Chief Alate knew a collective contract with all of our operators and deal with them Georgia, Iowa, Minnesota, N He started to sea thirty years well that it was impossible collectively. It means that our present manner of doing business Dakota, Oregon, Texas and Utah very „ -D , 1, J , , , when he was a mere boy . with them would still be handled in the old way on an individual PUBLIC UTILITY STRIKES— the sh.p when the shooting took „ j^ips until December, 1945, company basis. Seven states enacted laws regu­ Sr" hh ih"" , ">y°",when he returned from 100^ Would Save Trouble lating disputes in public utilities ChTrlJ t Army and joined Seafarers. In the event the Negotiating Committee makes recommenda­ and restricting union activities: Charlie was cleared. tions for acceptance of this proposal and the membership concurs Florida, Indiana, Missouri, Ne­ Charlie was in Normandie on FALSE ACCUSATIONS in the recommendations and findings, it should save the Organiza­ braska, New Jersey, Texas and D-Day, and went through all "We found out later that the the vicious fighting in that sec­ tion considerable energy in the handling *of disputes by eliminating Virginia. guy who accused me had a tor. so many diffei-ently worded contracts; and secondly, it should also PUBLIC EMPLOYE STRIKES save the Union a considerable amount of money in such matters as —New York and Texas legisla­ medical discharge from the "It was all rough going," says Navy," said Charlie. "He was Charlie, looking back on those printing costs of contracts, the filing and handling of such disputes let out as psychoneurotic. He's war-torn days, "and when it was being reduced from several files of several different type contracts the kind of guy we shouldn't let all over I was glad to get back to one set of files, as well as being much easier on personnel that into our Union because, besides to the life of a seaman. Joining handles such work. It would also benefit the individual member to being a trouble-maker, he was the SIU was the best move I Each man who makes a the extent he would then have the same working conditions on personally filthy — he wouldn't ever made. The SIU is a Union donation to the LOG should all contracted SIU vessels, regardless of the individual operator. change his underwear or take a run by the members and strict­ receive a receipt in return. The Seafarers has been lucky in obtaining and maintaining shower." If the Union official to whom a clause in its contract which is the only one like it in the Marily for the members. That's the Next Isthmian vessel for Bro­ way it should be, and that's a contribution is given does timg Industry. This clause makes the provision that we can open ther Palmer was the Sea Fid­ why I told Lindsey WiUiams not make out a receipt for discussions any time we see fit on our wages. This means then dler, where he was made acting (Gulf Area Organizer) that any the money, call this to the that regardless of whether the extension of the working rules is Bosun as soon as he went time the Union wanted me to attention of the Secretaryrecommended by the Negotiating Committee or not, we still have Treasurer. J. P. Shuler. im­ the right to discuss the matter of dough with the shipowners any aboard. Trouble was not long in go aboard a ship as a volunteer starting, mainly because the organizer, I would be glad to mediately. time we feel that we are big enough to do so, and the increase cost Chief Mate thought he was still do so." Send the name of the of­ of living calls for it. in the Navy and wanted the ficial and the name of the Each individual member of the Seafarers should express" his Good Union spirit like that Deck Gang to stand at attention can't lose, and the proof of the port in which the occurence opinion on the matter and make known his particular ideas, if pos­ while he spoke to them. took place to the New York sible in person, to the Negotiating Committee on the 6th floor in pudding is in the eating. Com­ The thirty-day trip to Le pany after company, including Hall. 51 Beaver Street. New Headquarters Offices, 51 Beaver Street, New York City. In the Havre and return couldn't end, Isthmian, are going SIU, and York 4. N. Y. event he cannot make his recommendations in person, he should mail them in to the same address. ; •C4 fast enough to suit the crew. there are plenty more to come. /f Takes More Than Isthmian To Best An SIU Organizer Attention Members �THE Page Four Latest Move Of Government Peril To Merchant Marine SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 4, 1947 30EPO8P7"/ AieMBgggHIP By "CUT AND RUN" HANK In a recent article in the LOG (June 6) I pointed out two very serious threats to the American Merchant Marine — 1. Goods purchased in this country through the Export-Import Bank for shipBlent abroad are required to be shipped solely in American ships. Only 50 percent use of American bottoms is necessary. 2. The government's practice of selling our laid-up ships to foreign countries which are im­ mediately put into use and are threatening to drive our ships from the sea. Just how much these threats to American shipping are becom­ ing realities is shown by a news­ paper article of June 4th which reports: '"Sale of old American freight­ ers to foreign buyers is continu­ ing without noticable slack in pace — about twenty such trans­ fers having been reported within the past two months. . . most of which were transferred to Pan­ ama registry. « "Although several of the old vessels were sold by the Mari­ time Commission or the Navy, most of them were sold by pri­ vate operators. The turnover of privately owned tonnage is con­ tinuing at the pace set last year, when over 50 aging ships were sold foreign by American own­ ers." DANGER SIGNAL The phrase, "most of which were transferred to Panama reg­ istry" is the danger signal. The ever growing Panamanian fleet is a serious threat to our Mer­ chant Marine and the threat is increasing almost daily. Seemingly unaware of this are Congress and the Maritime Com­ mission, for little or no action is being undertaken to put a halt to the practice. The SIU is the only organiza­ tion which has undertaken any •-fir No Whitewash Add one more soap sud swindle to the lengthening list of laundries working the popular racket of taking seamen's laundry but failing to return it. The latest is Style Cleaners of 110 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama, which has been picking up crews' laun­ dry and dry cleaning but fail­ ing to return the clothing be­ fore the ships sail. The latest to experience this racket is the crew of the Hawaiian Citizen who found that the Style Cleaners did not return the laundry on time and even reneged on its promise to forward their clothing to the next port. Although their advertise­ ments specify "We specialize in fast seamen's service," their only speed seems to be in quickly getting away from the ships and staying away. sort of a pi'Ogram to halt the destruction of our merchant ma­ rine. To many groups, our program of boycotting Panamanian ships, .should the decision be made, is a bold step and would be a job action against Government policy. However, it would be far from this for two reasons. One it would provide a job safeguard for all seamen; and, two, it would strengthen the status of our merchant marine, so that our country will be able to maintain a strong merchant fleet to undertake its world trade. Our program is really a patri­ otic one devoted to maintaining our country's strong position in commerce. What the government's answer to our plan will be, I can't say, but surely some action is called for to stop this practice which gains for our shipowners huge profits, but which will in a short time leave American seamen high and dry on the beach. By J. P. SHULER, Secretary-Treasurer July 2, 1947 ing Committee recommends ac­ the Port of New, York June 18, cepting these working rules to 1947, for the purpose of ex­ Negotiations 1948, it doesn't by any means im­ amining the finances of the A Negotiating Committee, con­ ply tha* we cannot open our con­ Union and making recommen­ sisting of Robert . Matthews, tracts f,t any time for increases dations on a raise for the Un­ ion Officials, have met and ex­ Headquarters Engine Department in wages. The membership should be amined the Headquarters Fi­ Representative; E. S. Higdon nancial Reports. The General aware of the fact that the Sea­ Philadelphia Agent, for the Deck Income has shown a steady in­ farers is .he only Union in the Department; and Harry Collins, crease since March, 1947. The Maritime Industry that has a Philadelphia Patrolman, for the Annual Organizational Assess­ clause in its contract that pro­ Stewards Department, has been ment is being channelled into meeting with the Mathiasen the General Fund, but the or­ Tankers, Inc., and are negotiat­ ganizing expenses are also paid ing an agreement which will be from the General Fund. There­ one of the best tanker agree­ fore, we find that the General ments in existence. This agree­ Fund is in such a position to ment should be ready for mem­ grant a raise equal to the of­ bership action in the very near ficials of the Sailors Union of future. the Pacific. Robert Matthews, Headquar­ ters Engine Department RepreRAISE RECOMMENDED •sentative, along with John Mo"Bearing in mind that the gan, Boston Agent, have reached men sailing the ships have re­ an agreement with the Nantasket ceived two increases in the Lines operating in the Boston past eight months and willr re­ Harbor. This agreement will ceive another this month since FOREIGN CHARTERS be signed and presented to the vides for opening the wage ques­ the officials of the Atlantic and membership for ratification in tion at any time the Union wish­ Gulf District have received a Another item, which bodes ill es to. the near future. raise, we therefore recommend for the American seamen, is the A full report on this matter will that the officials of this Organi­ The Union Negotiating Com­ War Department proposal to mittee had arranged for a meet­ be made direct to the member­ zation be given a flat $20.00 save from $30,000,000 to $50,ing with the Atwacoal Lines for ship once your Negotiating Com­ raise per week. 000,000 in ocean transportation June 23, but complications have mittee has come to a conclusion "s/Robert H. High, 24236 costs by letting Germans and Jap­ come up which have postponed of the meetings. Such recom­ "s/Theodore Babkowski, 7391 anese operate United States Lib­ this meeting for a short period mendations as will be made by "s/Joseph Di Georgio, 7524." erty ships carrying food to the >he Negotiating Committe will of time. This has been brought up sev­ two occupied countries. The De­ A Union Negotiating Commit­ be subject to a 60-day voting per­ eral times but was never carried partment plans to ask Congress tee has been meeting with the iod for action by the entire mem­ because of the fact that the Gen­ for authority to charter the ships operators of the Atlantic and bership. eral Fund was not financially to former enemies. Under the Gulf Shipowners Association able to stand such an increase in proposal, seventy-five ships Finances and after several meetings, the the payroll. However, there has would be chartered on the run operators have expressed their The last week's financial re­ been a large increase in the Gen­ to Germany and an undetermined willingness to go for a 5 per cent port shows a small drop in the eral Fund and expenses are be­ number for Japan." wage increase, plus a two week General Fund inasmuch as the ing curtailed, therefore, it is be­ By this deliberate and shame­ vacation clause which we do not New Orleans loss was reim­ ing put before the membership less action the War Department have, providing we extend our bursed by the General Fund. A tonight for action. disregards the present and future working rules to September 30, check was received by the Union Up until a couple of months welfare of our merchant marine. 1948. from the Insurance Company for ago, most Branches at one time Bureaucratic action of this sort PROPOSALS STUDIED $5,000 which is all the Branch or another, especially in the Gulf should be strongly opposed by Waterman Steamship Com­ •was insured for. This leaves a Area, had money remitted to maritime unions. If ships are to pany, Mississippi Steamship oss of $5,985.58 which had to be them by Headquarters to defray be chartered, they should be Company, Bernstein Lines, Cola- made up from the General Fund. expenses. This has been discon­ chartered to our operators and bee Steamship Company, Kearney However, you will note this tinued and very seldom does in this manner provide full em­ Steamship Company and Ameri­ week's financial report shows an­ Headquarters have a requisition ployment for our merchant sea­ can-Eastern Steamship Company, other increase in all funds. for money to defray Branch ex­ men. have agreed to go along with the The Committee elected at the penses. When it does, it is al­ But then the Washington bur­ same proposals as the companies ast regular meeting of the New ways in small amounts to some eaucrats aren't looking to the belonging to the Atlantic and York Branch made recommen­ port which doesn't have big ship­ future of our industry, and no Gulf Shipowners Association. ping. dations as follows: thought will be given us until Your Committee is still study­ "June 19, 1947 Expenses in the Gulf Area it is too late or another world ing these proposals and it is to be "We,, the undersigned book have been greatly reduced and conflict makes us "heroes in dun­ pointed out to the membership members, duly elected at the there have been no complaints garees" again. that, in the event your Negotiat­ regular business meeting in about representation. The Port ' of Galveston is now operating with a four man staff with Keith Alsop as Agent. The Port of New Orleans has greatly reduced expenses. Dolor Deck Department Stone is now in the Gulf Area .setting up the records and book­ HOURLY OVERTIME WEEKLY MONTHLY keeping systems for the tugboats. RATING ^ RATE RATE WAGE WAGE To date, the tugboats' finances Wheelsman |l.03 $1.54«/2 $85.92 $285.85 are now coming out of the hole Watchman 1.02 1.53 85.28 282.88 and they should be no further AB Deckwalch 98 1.47 82.72 272.12 expense to the Atlantic and Gulf OS Deckwatch 88 1.29 55.04 238.51 District. Deckhand 80 1.20 51.20 221.87 }Noge Rates Under New Midland Contrast Membership Admission Engine Department Oiler Fireman Coalpasser & Wiper $1.03 1.02 80 $1.54'/z 1.53 1.20 $85.92 85.28 51.20 $285.85 282.88 221.87 $88.32 82.72 51.20 $392.72 272.12 221.87 Stewards Department steward 2nd Cook Porter & Passenger Waiter $1.38 98 80 $2.07 1.47 1.20 The above vreekly wages are estimated by figuring forty hours at the straight hourly rate plus sixteen weekend hours at the overtime rate, and do not include any other overtime or penalty overtime. The monthly wage is figured by multiplying the weekly wage by 4 and 1/3. There is an acute shortage of rated book men in all ports to lake contracted jobs. This i^because of the fact that books were temporarily closed to new mem­ bers. Inasmuch as we have, in addition to winning the Isthmian fleet, signed 8 or 9 off-shore con­ tracts, it is necessary that we open books for a while to re­ plenish the membership rolls. Previously, the Union has been on record to allow membership (C<mHnuei on Page 9) �Friday, July 4, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Mobile Bay Fishermen Are Now SlU, Too ^Smartest Move We Ever Made/ Says Outgoing Union President Big doings are in store for the fishermen along the Gulf. A full organizing campaign is now under way, sparked by the Mobile Seafood Workers Union, SIU, in Bayou La Batre, Ala­ bama. Above are shown Cal Tanner, Mobile Port Agent (behind the desk), and Urban Bosarge, who is organizing the fishermen in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana. (Continued from Page 1) arge, President of the union. "Being in the SIU gives us more power than we could have stand­ ing alone. V/hen we realize that we are part of such a large or­ ganization, evca the Taft-Hartley Bill doesn't scare us. We know we can all work together and beat it." A full scale organizing cam­ paign, to bring into the SIU other fishermen along the Gulf is now in full swing. Urban Bosarge, brother of Walter, and well-known oldtimer in the area, has been appointed as organizer, working directly under Cal Tan­ ner. His first activities have been very fruitful, and there is good reason to believe that the or­ ganization will grow by leaps and bounds. An outside view of the Mobile Bay Seafood Workers Hall in Bayou La. Batre shows that these men take their union seriously. The Hall is the center of activity in the communitv, and plans are underway to enlarge the building so as to provide recreational fa.cilities for all members and their families. The treasury of the union is quite healthy, thank you, and all the money is used for the betterment of fishermen's conditions. Heading for home with a wide open throttle, the Wanda passes before the camera eye on the way to lie-up for the day. She's a- shipshape craft, and the. crewmembers take pride in keeping her that way. Most of the boats are painted at least once each year. Very recently, a four state meeting of fishermen, represent­ ing Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, met in Morgan City, Alabama. Although repre­ sentatives were also invited from Texas, none showed up. The meeting was called to dis­ cuss legislation affecting the fish­ ing industry, and for the better­ ment of fishermen's conditions. Two organizers from the CIO showed up and made speeches about liie advantages of affilia­ tion with that outfit, but they met with a cold leception. Rank-and-fiie sentiment was veiy cioimiteiy pro-SIU, and at the recommendation of Chairman Harvey Lewis, President of the Fisherman's Association, the membership will take up the matter of joining a national or­ ganization. There is no doubt that the AFL and the SIU are far more popular with the fishermen than: is the CIO. Should the Fisher­ men's Association vote affiliation with the Seafarers, it will mean close to 15,000 more members in the Marine Allied Workers. The Mobile Bay Seafood Union has its own Hall in Bayou La Batre, and elects its own officers and administers its own affairs without outside interference. The SIU Port Agent is avail­ able for any assistance request­ ed by the fishermen, but the internal affairs of the union are left strictly up to the membei'ship. That's the way they like it, and that's one more reason that they like the Seafarers way of doing business. It's a large fleet of fishing boats that has its base at Bayou La Batre. All the ships are neat and clean, and most are owned by the men who sail them, either individually or in partnership. Pictured above is part of the fleet, tied up at the end of the day. Further down the river, out of camera range are more vessels, and quite a few are out to the fishing grounds, where they may stay for days at a time. The Marlin crew, with Captain Harry Jones in the center, poses aboard their vessel. All of the hands live in Bayou La Batre. as their fathers did before them, and all are members of the union, now afr filiated to the Seafarers International Union, The pleasure fishing boats, which are hired by the day by sportsmen, are also organized. Here is the Silver King II. second in a line of such vessels. aU operated by the same family. These fishermen know all the best spots to hook a mess of good eating fish. �THE Page Six SEAFARERS LOG BEFORE Friday. July 4. 1947 AND AFTER By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Represenialive The mass of laws affecting the people of this nation are of mountainous proportions. Every possible human act that might Kbe committed in a manner con­ sidered against the interests of ' the genera] welfare is covered by som^ law. And. of course, the long arm of these laws reaches into the lives of merchant seamen, and touches virtually every circumstance in which they might be involved. Among these more important laws are those having to do with advances, allotments and the selling of jobs. On the subject of advances the law says, "Every seaman on a vessel of the United States shall be entitled to receive on demand .from the master of the vessel to which he belongs one-half part of the balance of his wages earn­ ed and remaining unpaid at the time when such demand is made at every port" where the ship loads or delivers cargo before the end of the trip. the persons or the bank account to whom payments are to be made. Unless made out in conform­ ance with the above regulations no allotment is legal. Further­ more, any person falsely claim­ ing to be a relation or a savings bank for the purpose of becom­ ing an allottee of a seaman stands to be fined up to $500 and im­ prisoned for six months. SliiWfiiill ONE IN 5 DAYS This section of the law adds "that such a demand shall not be made before the expiration of, nor oftener than five days, nor more than once in the same har­ bor on the same entry." But, the law says further, "it shall be unlawful in any case to pay any seaman wages in ad-1 vance of the time when he has actually earned the same, or to make any order, or note, or other evidence of indebtedness there­ for to any other person . . . for the shipment of seamen when payment is deducted or to be de­ ducted from a seamen's wages." Violation of the foregoing pro­ visions is considered a misde­ meanor and is punishable by a Seafarers Arne Larsen and fine (from $25 to $100) and im­ William O'Dea have never met, prisonment for not more than but . there's reason why they six months. should. They've got a lot in This particular law also covers common. Besides belonging to the selling of jobs. the same Union and fighting in "If any person shall demand the same battles to boost the or receive," it states, "either di­ position of all Seafarers, both rectly or indirectly, from any men have sailed ships under seamen or other person seeking virtually every flag in the world. employment as seaman . . . any remuneration whatever for pro­ Both have sweated out voyages viding him with employment, he on several Isthmian ships as vol­ shall ... be deemed guilty of untary organizers. The similarity in their careers misdemeanor and shall be im­ as sailing men doesn't end there, prisoned not more than six however. In fact, both started months or fined not more than out to sea from the "old world." $500." O'Dea, a native of Dublin, Eire, ALLOTMENTS first shipped out as a coal trim­ iOn the matter of allotments mer on a ship flying the British the law is quite emphatic in flag, one of the most rugged jobs stating exactly who is entitled he has had to date. to receive them. For seven years he sailed out He can make his allotment pay­ !of Liverpool, and then followed able to his grandparents, parentSj a period wherein he visited wife, sister or children. Or he practically every one of the can direct that deposits be made world's ports as a crew man on in an account bearing his name either at a savings bank or a Norwegian, Swedish, Greek, United States postals savings de­ Dutch and other vessels. pository. NAVY STINT "But no allotment shall be Larsen's first taste of sea life vahd," the law stresses, "unless in writing and signed by and ap­ came in 1936 as a sailor in the proved by the shipping commis­ Navy of his native Denmark, a sioner;" whose duty it is to see compulsory, although abbrevi­ that the allotment is legal and ated stint. The seven months he proper. put in were just enough to con­ Allotments must stipulate the vince him that going to sea for amounts and times of payments ' a livelihood was -right up his to be made, and the names ofj alley. s Above is the SS Kathryn, Bull Lines, when she was be­ ing converted from the Navy's KA 87. The job was done at the Alabama Dry Dock Com­ pany, in Mobile. Following the transformation job. another picture was taken, and that shot at the right shows the Kathryn as she appears today, trim and sleek. Many ships used by the Navy during the war are be­ ing converted for peacetime operation, and a number of SlU-contracted companies are buying those ships. The tugs which warp the ships in and out of drydock at the yards, and the tugs which work the ships in the harbor are all under contract to the SIU. Another example of how popular fhe Seafarers is with the men who go to sea for a living, whether deep sea, towboatmen, or fishermen. Seafarers Never Met, But Have Math In Common ARNE LARSEN In rapid succession—not rapid enough, he says—^Larsen shipped on Belgian, Greek, Yugoslav. British, Norwegian, Danish ai d even Panamanian and Honduran tubs, to name some of the 11 flags he's toiled under. And if you count all flags not having SIU standards. Isthmian makes 12 for the stocky lad from Copenhagen. Larsen, a Carpen­ ter, says-the Isthmian trips were among - the toughest he's made. On the SS Jeremiah S. Black and the SS St. Augustine Vic­ tory, conditions were sometimes so sad he'd recall sailing SIUcontracted ships with the tears almost ready to roll from his eyes. Now he happily anticipates the clear with this remark: "This is SIU contract that will put the strictly a non-union ship." Isthmian scows in a respectable That was several months ago. light with seamen. Todaj', O'Dea recalls that with­ ering crack with a twinkle in MIGHTY IMPORTANT "The SIU - Isthmian contract his eye. "That statement will call for will be a mighty important thing. It will mean a new high some adjustment pretty soon," standard in wages and working he remarked. conditions for some 3,000 men So, what these two militant sailing on Isthmian ships, and it Seafarers have in common .will will be the Seafarers who will be even more pronounced when be accomplishing this job," they can go aboard Isthmian Brother Larsen pointed out. ships with an SIU contract as a "Isthmian conditions definitely fitting climax to their sacrificing belong to the past," he added. efforts. And he means it, for he takes his Union darned seriously. He's been in every bit of strike ac­ tion in which the Union has been involved since he joined. Reports have been coming in citing dirty deals given Brother O'Dea, who like Bro­ seamen by several laundries, ther Larsen, joined the SIU in which profess to "cater to 1943, just drips with scorn at the men of the sea." mention of Isthmian. Roland Velasco of the SS He spent a year as a volun­ Arch Hopkins reports that teer organizer on the company's Ungar's Laundry of St. John. SS Sea Shark, SS Archer and N. B., picks up laundry SS George Chamberlain, the last aboard ships in that port, named being the worst, in the with the promise that it will Dublin .Oiler's book. returned by the weekend. Having just paid off the The promise is- never lived Chamberlain, O'Dea knows well up to. that the fight is not over until "They don't say in which the contract with Isthmian is year it will be returned." says signed, sealed and delivered. Velasco. warning Seafarers TOUGH TALK to keep their laundry out of On that ship, the First Assist­ Ungar's htmds. ant Engineer made matters quite Keep Your Shirt On �THE SEAFARERS Friday. July 4. 1947 LOG Page Seven All AFL Uiiiims In Philadelphia Meet To Study Taft-Hartley Act By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA—The pace in shipping activity in this Port of Brotherly Love has been stepped down a bit this week, but the slowing down hasn't been con­ fined to shipping alone. All industry here seems to be tapering off as workers make preparations for their summer vacations. Despite the trend here this week, quite a number of ships have come into port, most of them in transit. Rated men are still in demand, with ABs getting the biggest call. The vicious Taft-Hartley Bill, which the labor-smashing Con­ gress steam-rollered into law last week, has created quite a furor here in Philly. As it should he, everyone seems to be against this big-business inspired blow at organized labor. AFL DISCUSSIONS Next week we'll be represent­ ing the SlU in a conference of the Central Labor Union, com­ posed of Philadelphia unions af­ filiated with the AFL. Joseph Padway, AFL general cotmsel, and other labor lawyers will lead discussions on the far reaching effects of the Taft-Hartley bill. Brother Ray Brown, the Hot Dog King, was with us for the past two weeks and we appre­ starts through the canal at 5:30 p. m. In this case, your over­ time commences at 5 p. m. Now, let us assume that you get through the canal and anchor on the other side in Baltimore. Overtime stops whenever the an­ chor is dropped. Some members are of the opin­ ion that overtime vstarts when you leave the dock in Philly and stops when you are tied up in Baltimore. I repeat, overtime stops with the dropping of the anchor. 1 hope this clears up the confu­ sion surrounding this situation. Getting back to news of a local nature, 1 see where the Governor of Pennsylvania has signed a bill granting a raise in pay to all city officials. For the most part these officials are all Republicans, as is the Governor. Apparently the reason for this raise is clear. But nowhere in this bill is there anything authorizing a raise for the poorly underpaid city workers. I wonder why? I believe most of these workers are Republicans, too. GOOD OLD DAYS? Seafarers' Objective In Canada; NO NEWS?? To Get Full American Conditions Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: JACKSONVILLE BALTIMORE MARCUS HOOK BOSTOl# NORFOLK SAVANNAH NEW ORLEANS GALVESTON SAN FRANCISCO CHICAGO TOLEDO DULUTH ASHTABULA BUFFALO CLEVELAND The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due. ^tCw is the Monday proceeding pub­ lication. While every effort Will be made to use in the current issue material re­ ceived after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. By GENE MARKET MONTREAL—Opening of the' The India Steamship ComSlU Branch in Montreal has cer- j pany, having at present six victainly been well received by the tory ships and possibly 20 more seamen of Canada. Since our ar-! ships at a later date, is under rival in this port many members SlU contract and the men sailing of the Canadian Seamen's Union, these ships are now working unincluding some of their ships' dor the best contract in Maritime, delegates, have come in to talk It is the same contract in force to us and learn of the SlU's poli- en American SlU ships. cies and aims in Canada. Our recently negotiated con­ Many of the men have dropped tract with Seaway Lines, Ltd., in to offer congratulations and covering the SS Northland, gain­ appreciation of our recent suc­ ed wage increases of from 90 to cesses against both American 135 per cent. This company, too, and Canadian shipowners. expects to acquire additional They all expressed surprise as ships which will be crewed by to the speed whereby Canadian Canadian seamen. seamen on some ships are al­ The SIU agreement now in ef­ ready enjoying the high wages fect with th: American Cable and conditions that come with an Company is the only one of its SlU contract. kind on the West Coast of Can­ These discussions have all been ada, and gives American wages very interesting inasmuch as we and conditions to the Canadian gain an opportunity to give these crewmembers. men the straight story as to what Our agreement on the Great the Seafarers International Union Lakes with the Canadian Na­ hopes and intends to accomplish. tional Car Ferries is one of the SIU GAINS best on the Lakes. Although this Primarily the men wanted to company is small, the seamen on know what conditions the SlU these ships were the first Can­ has won for Canadian seamen. adians to sail the Lakes under the To this 1 pointed out our con­ three-watch system. tracts with Canadian operators. RECORD SPEAKS From the SIU record it was easy for the seamen to see that we are out to procure nothing short of American conditions and thing shipshape in all depart­ v.-agcs on all Canadian vessels. ments. We aren't devoting our time in The majority of ships hitting Canada to get nickels and dimes port recently have been in this class, and they offered no prob­ out of the Canadian operators; we are an international union lem to the Patrolmen either in and we intend to have the same, the cleanliness of the ship or in wages and conditions on all of beefs. our ships whether they be Amer­ The crews aboard these ships ican or Cai-iadian. had adopted rules coveidng the The field up here is a vast one cleanliness of the messrooms and and one that will require much quarters and, through the abide- work. It is like starting from ment of all to these rules, the scratch—almost even worse than ships were able to come in spark­ that with the CSU playing the ling clean. shipowners' game. Penalties imposed for viola­ Reports coming in here have it tions of the rules were set down, that the CSU is disintergrating for example: Leaving a dirty cup rapidly. 1 have heard that they in the messroom—25c; dropping are having a very difficult time cigarette ashes or butts on the placing their men aboard their deck—35c; putting greasy hands own contracted ships and worse cn chairs, tables, etc.—50c; for than that, stories of back door using profanity at the dinner shipping are circulating. table—25c; and for rushing the The CSU is whistling in the messman unnecessarily—10c. dark by promising a 40-hour week At the termination of the voy­ to their men. This is sheer nonsense as it is age this money is turned over to the boarding Patrolman, receipt­ general knowledge up here that ed, and the money distributed to the officials of the CSU have had the membei's in the Marine Hos­ to go into arbitration to force the shipowners to honor contracts alpitals. This practice served more than leady in existence. one very good purpose. One, particularly, the crew tried their All Departments best to be upright, clean and gentlemanly; they also aided the When your ship docks, it disabled SIU members now con­ is a good idea to have a list fined to the hospitals. Last, the of necessary repairs to give crew worked together in com­ to the Patrolman. This will plete harmony. help in letting the company We are getting a few oldtimers back in the Philadelphia Hall, and their conversations are al­ ways hinged around the good old days. While this oldtimer doesn't date too far back, 1 can still re­ member some of those "good old days," to wit: Eggs twice a week; fresh fruit on Sunday; hash and hot cakes for breakfast; one meat, one vegetable; two pots for the sa­ loon; agate dishes, tin utensils; no water glasses; blue, coarse bed linen; cake twice a week; 12 lemons for two trips on a Havana Haven tanker, and no overtime. NE'W YORK —Now that the Also, field days every Wednes­ day, when a man who wanted to Seatrain ships are back on the make another trip was re­ Havana run, hitting the Belle of ciated having his wit and pleas­ quired to put in an extra four Cuban ports where rum and ant dispositioi- around the hall. hours every Wednesday for no other pleasurable pursuits are in­ expensive, there should be a He shipped recently but we're smaller turnover of crews aboard looking forward to his return to these ships. this port. TOR ^ We have a bit of advice we'd As is well known, these ships THE WEEK like to pass on to permit-and are in port one day and out the tripcard men; When you are as­ next, thus some of the men miss signed to a ship, it is your duty their ships causing the Dispatch­ to sail it. That is the reason that ers in both New Orleans and you have been given a trip-or New York quite a headache try­ permit-card—to take up the ing to keep men on these ships. slack. This could be avoided if the However, when you become a men who are quitting gave the full book member, you will have usual 24-hour notice at arrival a little more privilege in this re­ time so replacements cah be ob­ spect. You will then be allowed tained with a minimum of effort. to pass up three ships before you pay; cleaning ice boxes and If it looks like you may miss have to re-register. Meanwhile, painting for no overtime. the sailing, try to reach a tele­ with a permit or tripcard you Last, but not least, instead of phone and notify the Dispatcher must sail the first ship you are the Skipper logging a man two In that way we can prevent the assigned to. days for one for taking a day off, ships from sailing shorthanded. Another thing, it is becoming it was- a rule that a man work Remember, fellows, these ships a practice for trip and permit- back 16 hours for eight he took make Havana every week. For men to sail a ship to another port off. one big day each week you can and quit the ship there. Brothers Generally, this was worked off relax for a few hours in the para­ doing this are definitely in the at the end of the trip. This being dise of the "West Indies and en­ wrong, as they are required to the case, the 8-12 watch, if he joy life at its best. make one complete round trip had 16» hours to work back, There shouldn't be any aver­ before quitting the ship. would be working 16 hours daily sion to signing on and sticking to square himself away. CANAL CONFUSION to a deal like this. The ships Ah, yes, "the good old days." themselves are covered by an ex­ Since there seems to be some cellent contract and have the confusion among the member­ best conditions possible. ship in regard to the Chesapeake Come and get them — they're and Delaware Canal from Balti­ among the best wagons in the more to Philly, a word to clarify The system seems to be work­ Jf you don't find linen SIU. matters is in order. ing out on the ships we hit so we when you go aboard your Louis Goffin , When a ship enters the C&D ship, notify the Hall at once. suggest that it be given a try* on Canal after five o'clock while in 4" A telegram from Le Havre or transit, and you are working, all SIU ships. System Works Singapore won't do you any you are entitled to overtime. For Freddie Stewart good. It's your bed and you NEW YORK—It is always a example,'a ship leaves the dock Jimmy Drawdy have to lie in it. pleasure to pay off ships that are in Philly at 2:30 p. m. It anchors immaculately clean with everyBob Matthews in stream for an hour or so, then The Patrolmen Say... AHENTION! know exactly what has to be done to get the ship in tip­ top condition. Seafarers don't have to sail beat-up ships. Do your part to make every ship a clear, well kept vessel. �THE Page Eigftir SEAFARERS LOG Take Warning, Brothers, Hard Times Are Returning: Ships' Officers Now Practicing Prohihitionists telling him that on the same card it states by law how much food NEW YORK Maybe I m ^ man shall receive, but the prowrong about out this, but I m begin- yjsjons laid down are so out of ning to think that the descend­ date that no attempt is ever made ants of bar-smashing Cai>rie Na-1 'foiiow them, tion are out to do a job on our NEW ARRANGEMENT ships. By JOE ALGINA As a result of these two inci­ dents arrangements have now been made whereby a man can buy liquor or alcoholic beverages of any kind and have them locktd up for safekeeping until the ship returns to a United States port. This should put an end Two ships came into port this to the whole business of ar­ week and the story was the same bitrarily depriving men of their on both of them. The officers property. were trying to reform the men The SIU is doing all in its the hard way by not allowing power to eliminate drunks and them to bring liquor aboard. performers aboard ship, but with On the Gateway CRy, one^ of skippers and Mates like these, Waterman's best, the Chief Mate the situation is not being aided undertook a one man crusade any. against the liquor on board. There was no liquor trouble He didn't stop at cautioning aboard the William Riddle, anthe men against "the evils ofj^^^j^gj. Waterman ship, when she hit port this week. Instead, the Patrolman who covered the pay­ off could have used a drink. Don't picture company stiffs or goons giving us a hard time, it's not as bad as that. Instead it looks like the Women's Christian Temperence Union has its organizers out whispering into the ears of ships' officers. Jimmy Drawdy, who covered the ship, reported that he had never seen a more disreputable looking ship. According to him, there wasn't a clean spot on the ship. When he asked the crew they had allowed an SIU to be brought into port in shape, they got together gave him the score. why ship such and drink," he went through the whole ship into each foc'sle and The ship had loaded coal here locker removing all liquor. and carried it to Europe. After discharging the cargo the men . He then went on detk and, approached the Skipper for per­ with all the ceremony of dump­ mission to soogie it down, but the ing poison gas, he threw the bot­ Skipper refused knowing that it tles over the side. called for the payment of over­ time. HOPPING MAD When the ship was about a Naturally the boys who had week from New York he got a been fleeced were hopping mad. They had purchased the stuff intending to take it home with them after the payoff so when Jimmy Purcell came aboard to payoff the ship he was faced with a real beef. NOTHING GAINED The Skipper didn't gain any­ thing by his action, for the ship is now being cleaned up here in port and will not be allowed to sail until she is once more a top example of a clean SIU ship. With these major beefs keeping the Patrolmen busy, they got respites when they went aboard he SS Cox' of tfce Bernstein Steamship Corporation and the Alexander^Bell of South Atlan tic. .Both of these ships paid off in good style and were real ex­ amples of fine ships. On the six per cent increase of last January, Waterman Steam­ ship Company is now mailing out all of its checks. This should finish up the six percent raise with Waterman, but the other companies are still making up their payrolls. Jimmy Sheehan, Patrolman here in New York, is now receiv­ ing congratulations on the birth of a son. We're fixing the boy up with a tripcard to* be issued about 1965. We want to be sure that he is an SIU man right from the start. Coffin Looks Shoreside, Finds Some Characters Are Not Funny By LOUIS GOFFIN Brother Purcell immediately cornered the culprit and lectured We've had various articles bills were passed to rectify this him loud and long on the subject written about seagoing charact­ injustice; bills that were violently of personal propertly. ers, but we have yet to have any opposed by this collection of em­ Looking a little limp after the written concerning finky shore ploying charactei-s. dressing down, the Mate has de-{side characters, of whom there However, we were fortunate cided that foc'sles and lockers! are quite a number, in uniting into strong unions, By this time most of us are and through such unity we were are none of his business. acquainted with the phony labor able to defeat these would-be The other similar occurrance law pushed through Congress by dictators. took place aboard the Alcoa Ca­ the National Association of Man­ Now we are engaged in a sim­ valier. This time it was the Skip­ ufacturers and its stooges.' ilar struggle, a struggle by unions per who echoed the sentiments We know that it is doing strong enough to combat these of the WCTU. He stood at the everything in its power to break gangway with his binoculars unions. The phony propa- new labor laws. We, as free American workers, glued to his eyes ever watching that anti-labor groups are refuse to be greeted in the man­ the formen bringing liquor feeding the public should be ner which the NAM has outlined. aboard. taken with a grain of salt. These characters, who would en­ Experience from the past has When he spotted a victim he slave the American workers, can quickly relieved the man of his taught us that the NAM, which be defeated through the united bm-den. One crewmember board­ is a collection of employers, tried efforts of every worker. ed the ship with five bottles of a similar experiment in 1921, We do not want, nor are we when, aided by Congressional cordials. trained seals and the weakness going to stand for, another era He asked the Skipper to lock of unions at the time, they were of apple-selling, WPA, and in­ it up for him until the ship re- successful in reducing labor to dustrial chaos just because a bunch of greedy employers, their turned to the States, but instead practically slave conditions, reactionary press and their con­ the Skipper took the bottles and ERA OF "PROSPERITY heaved them over the side. Wages, working conditions, and gressional stooges would like to have it so. I covered the Cavalier when We have fought these people in She hit New Voch and^ooh tte the past and wbn, and through beef to the Cap i an era of prosperity, which it was our united efforts we are going that on the ships focsle ^ to continue to go ahead regard­ 1 u u? Z but actually it was an era of less of the NAM, Chambers of shall be brought aboard ship. jp^^g^y for the worker. Commerce and the trained-seal I hnmediately countered by From 1934 to the present time, Congress. Florida Plans Still More Laws To Tie Unions Unclaimed Gear change of heart. He then wanted the whole crew to turn to and put the ship in shape. Naturally, the crew was un­ able to do the job on such short notice, and thus the filthy con­ dition when it hit port. , > IVHAT ? ; Friday. July 4. 1947 Members whose gear has been held for more than three months in the fourth floor baggage room of the New York Hall are advised to call for it immediately, or notify the Hall where they wish it sent. Crowded conditions make it impossible to hold gear longer than three months. All effects remaining unclaimed after three months will be sent to the owner's home via express collect. Gear without addresses will be disposed of otherwise. By C. SIMMONS TAMPA — Now that Congress, by passing the Taft-Hartly bill, has put its stamp of approval on laws killing labor, the phony officials in this state are planning action that will even out-do Con­ gress. Root Commies From Public Life, Says The ILGWU CLEVELAND (LPA) — More .ban 900 delegates^ to the 26th convention of the Int'l Ladies Garment Workers Union—AFL ended the union's most success­ ful and eventful convention here last week with the unanimous re­ flection of President David DuJinsky for the fifth time. Tweny-three vice-presidents were also reelected. The convention's second week heard a strong^call for united AFL political action to unseat the present reactionary Congress; de­ clared war to the finish on Com­ munism; criticized Russia's "im­ perialist" and "expansioni.st" policies; and altered its constilution to conform with new re­ quirements of the Taft-Hartley law. Florida already has the openshop, but that doesn't seem to be enough for the big business .stooges, and they intend to go even further. The newspapers are having a field day, filling their columns with all sorts of stories about how generous the new bill is to labor. If they can call a slave labor bill generous, then anything is possible. Maybe we working people de­ serve what happened. Maybe be­ ing thrown to the wolves will wake us up so we can really fight for our rights. The rank-and-file union people here are up in arms over the bill, and there is plenty of talk about possible political action in the future. Well, we'll see what hap­ pens. I hope we don't turn out to have short memories. ABs WANTED Shipping remains good in this Port; in fact, loo damn good. ABs are as hard to find as the proverb­ ial needle in a haystack. We have 12 AB jobs on the board at this writing, and not one single taker. Unanimously the convention resolved to wage an unrelenting battle against Communists "until American public life and the American labor movement are completely rid of their influence." Communist purposes and activi­ ties were declared to be "dia­ metrically opposed and bitterly hostile to the aims and ideals of American labor. "The one fundamental, unvary­ ing objective of the Communist Party," said the convention, "has been the effort to achieve power in order to establish a totalitar­ ian dictatorship in the U. S. on the Russian Soviet model." All forms of democratic freedom and minority expression would be surpressqd by such a dictatorship and workers would be forced into "glorified company unions" un­ der the terror of a police state. Dubinsky was praised for his an­ ti-Communist leadership and the Communist press abuse was termed a "badge of honor" for the ILGWU chief. Late Deliveries Agents and Seafarers have been inquiring as to the rea­ son for late deliveries of the SEAFARERS LOG -to their homes and the outports. The delay is due to the ter­ rific shortage of newsprint that has hit most newspapers, which sometimes makes it necessary for the printer to halt printing the LOG until he gets additional paper. Once the LOGS come off the press they are immediate­ ly mailed out. The only bot­ tleneck it the difficulty in securing sufficient newsprint for the thousands of LOGS printed each week. Oilers have no trouble ship­ ping out of here, but we have enough Ordinaries, Messmen, and Wipers to sink a Victory ship. Jjhese men are getting papers from some source, and they flock here by the hundreds. So far, we havn't had to use but a few of them. All fines, back dues, and as­ sessments have been paid up on the SS Florida, so now we are in need of a few payoffs. We haven't had to call on Head­ quarters for any money, but un­ less we get some ships in here paying off, the story will change. Our only income will be what comes in over the counter and the monthly dues on the Florida. There was a man on the SS Mandan Victory who shipped off the dock in Miami. The Skipper gave orders that no man was to be hired in that Port, but the Mate decided to take on a Day Man, and as a result, the Mate caught hell from three angles. First- from the Old Man, then from the Company, and fihally from the Patrolman. The Day Man lost his Permit application, so no one gained from the business. Any man ship­ ping from the dock is a danger to the Union, and we propose to put a stop to pier head jumps wherever we hear of them. �":-• >;^---7f:?35qi^F'y • Friday, July 4. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG WHAT ttWilK Page Nine NMU Depriving isthmian Seamen Of SIU Contract (Continued from Page 1) ings or in the brief filed by that union. Of course, the NMU lawyers, QUESTION:—The Union has put into ef­ is your idea of this program, and in your opinion, who are supposed to be able to fect a program reorganizing the Gulf Area, aim­ what particular steps can be taken to guarantee read, know very well that after ed at reducing expenses, increasing membership its success? (This question was asked in the August 22, 1947, no company will be allowed to sign a closed New Orleans Hall,) representation, and expanding the Union. What shop agreement with any union. And knowing this, they are de­ G. A. BEAUDRY, AB: TONY PISANO, Cook: liberately trying trick after trick The best guarantee is to make to stall proceedings past that If Ihe Union can handle lis sure thai the officials of the SIU date. business wilh fewer men, if owes carry out all instructions of the it to the membership to do so. As soon as the SIU was cer­ membership. When they refuse tified on June 11, the NMU filed Wherever the SIU can economize, to do so, or if they can't do so, an application for reconsidera­ without affecting the services to' then they should be replaced wilh the membership. the Union tion. On June 30, the National men who can and will do the should go ahead and take the Labor Relations Board denied job. That goes for every offi­ the application. necessary action. Take Texas, for cial, from the top to the bottom. The Board s decision follows; inst<-Tice. There the Union has The Union should also take steps closed up a couple of Ports, and The Board, having on June 11, to educate the new members so the business will alT be handled 1947, i.ssued a Decision and Cer­ that they will know what their cut of the Galveston Hall. If the tification of Representatives in duties and responsibilities are. membership cooperates with the the a b o V e-entitled proceeding, New guys who don't know the officials in that Port, everything and thereafter, on June 14, 1947, score can be made suckers of, will be okay, if not, the Union counsel for the National Mari­ just like down in the Texas ports. could put 50 officials down there, time Union of America, Inter­ That's got to stop, and when fel­ and the place will still go to the vener herein, having filed an lows throw their weight around, dogs. Everything depends on the application for reconsideration of the Union has got to move fast membership. tile .said Decision and Certifica­ to clean out the disrupters. tion. and motion to set aside the AL GORDON, AB: JIMMY DeVITO, Oiler:, certification; on June 17, 1947, counsel fo- the Seafarers' Inter­ I'm in favor of all that has been Putting in Bull Sheppard as national Union having filed op­ done, but I hope that the changes Port Agent in New Orleans is position thereto, and the Board won't interfere with the swell assurance that there will be having duly considered the mat­ service that SIU members get plenty of action for the mem­ ter, from Port officials. By that I bership, and from now on we are IT IS HEREBY ORDERED mean the way our beefs are going to stay on our toes. An­ that the .said application for re­ handled at the point of produc­ other way to guarantee the suc­ consideration be. and it hereby tion, and the way our officials cess of the program would be is, denied: and fight for our rights. Only real to let the members who are now v/ay to guarantee the success of IT IS FURTHER ORDERED on ships know exactly what took that the said motion to set aside ^ the program here in the Gulf place down in the Gulf so that the certification be. and it hereArea is for the membership to they will be prepared to take b\is. denied. make sure that all parts of the part in what's going on now. Dated. Washington, D. C. program, starting with the recom­ Educational work is necessary, June 30. 1947 mendations of the Agents' Con­ *and an informed membership is ference, are carried out. The By direction of the Board: a fighting, vigilant membership. membership runs this Union. It CLARA M. MARTIN, From now on, it's strictly up to is a rank-and-file Union, and if Acting Chief, Order Section us. things go v/rong, we know what That should be enough, and in to do. fact is more than enough since the NMU never had a leg to stand on in any of its phony charges of collusion between the Union and the company. But the NMU is not content to stop throwirxg monkey wrenches yet. ments will be paid for same by resenting the SIU. Sterling has as not tolerating in any way, (Continued from Page 4) DELAYING ACTION applicant. delivered a report which is now shape, or form, any interference In reply to a letter sent by admission providing the men had 6. All applicants for member­ being studied. Further confer­ with our Union Halls by ship­ the SIU on June 24, 1947, ask­ Isthmian discharges, or dis­ ship, unless having done special ences of AFL Attorneys will be owners or Government bureaus. ing that bargaining sessions be charges from other companies organizational job for Union, held on this matter. We will be being worked on by the Union, as 2. The SIU-SUP to consider as scheduled, A. V. Cherbonnier, at­ must be qualified members in represented at those meetings a lockout any attempts by any torney for the Isthmian Steam­ well as being strike clear. either Engine, Deck or Stewards and reports will be made to person or persons to use the ship Company, wrote on June It is therefore recommended Department. cover each one. Taft-Hartley Act to the detri 30 as follows: that the membership books be 7. Only exceptions outside of There will be a conference in "I wish to inform you that temporarily opened under the the rules above will apply to Washington, D.C., July 9, 1947, ment of our Unions. the National Maritime Union has following provisions: 3. We make known immediate­ those men who may be sailing in composed of the heads of all 1. Any applicant for member­ the selected organizational objec­ AFL Unions to map country wide ly to the AFL, as well as the filed several unfair labor charges ship must have an SIU permit tives in the near future, such as sti'ategy and action to meet the AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ against the company, in which with not less than 12 months Cities Service. The final excep­ Taft-Hartley Act. ^ ment, our position on this mat­ it is alleged that the company committed acts and conduct com­ paid up in good standing and tion will be any tripcard man ter. The SIU will be represented by mencing on or about Januai-y 1, strike clearance. who does special work for the First Vice-President Paul Hall, 5. That we make known our 1947, and continuing up to the 2. Every applicant must have Union under Union assignment. acting in the absence of SIU position on the Taft-Hartley Ac present time which interfered made at least one voyage, either This type of applicant in making President Lundeberg, and Morris through the medium of the SEA­ with, restrained and coerced its on Isthmian Steamship Company application shall have written Weisberger, Second Vice - Presi­ FARERS LOG and the WEST employes in the exercise of the vessels or other selected organi­ statement either from Port Agent COAST SAILORS. dent of the Union. rights guaranteed by law. zational objectives. or Organizer recommending same By the next meeting, your It is to be noted in this pro­ "I believe that you will a.gree 3. Any application for mem­ for submission to Headquarters representatives will have a re­ gram that there are several with me that matters now pend­ bership must be made direct to Office for findings. port prepared for the member­ meetings with our AFL affili­ ing before the National Labor the Organizers in that particu­ The membership is well aware ship on this meeting. ates scheduled. It is necessary Relations Board shojuld be clear­ lar area. of the passing of the Taft-Hart­ It is imperative that we, as that we, to a certain extent, ed up so that it cannot be held 4. When the applicant has ne­ ley Bill. It may well be the big­ Union men, not be stampeded work in conjunction with the that bargaining with your Union cessary time on a tripcard, as gest fight we have ever been in. into any kind of action on this national set-up of the AFL on would of itself constitute an un­ well as sufficient amount of time There are several types of action matter that may be detrimental this matter. There will be fur­ fair labor practice." on unorganized now in motion and it is well to our Union or hurt us in any ther proposals as time goes bj' By the very nature of the teer SIU ^ that all hands become familiar manner. We have fought all on this matter. While we will of time on the permit will be| charges made by the NMU, it is comers since our very birth and participate in the scheduled obvious that the only object is counted as that or probationary i w"" time and man is to be issued full There was a meeting last we can sure as hell fight this meetings with the AFL, we will to stall long enough for pro­ book upon recommendation of Saturday in Washington of AFL one as well. With this thought wait for no one to start our visions of the Taft-Hartley Act organizer. Attorneys. Headquarters Offices in mind, your Headquarters pro­ fight—at the point of production to go into effect. By the time 5 No "organizational" books to designated, as per the constitu- poses the following program on —in the event any shipowner ox- January 1, 1947, rolled around, be issued whatsoever. All books tion. Attorney Ben Sterling, who the matter of the Taft-Hartley Government bureaucrat gets any voting on Isthmian ships had ideas about attacking our Hiring long been over, and the vote issued .will be regular SIU books represented us in Isthmian, to Act: 1. The SIU-SUP go on record Halls. and full initiation and assess-'attend this conference as rep­ had already been tabulated. Seiretary-Treasurers Report To The Membership v.- �Pag« Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday> July 4. 1947 SHIPS' M1N1ITES AMD MEWS -f • *-V 800 lb. Shark Opens Big Mouth, SS Allegheny Victory Is Loser Is Hooked By Griffin Crewmen The Society for the Advancement of-Snagglcd-toothed Sharks has probably put Seafarer Juan Soto and his shipmates of th: SS Samuel Griffin on its social register. For contrary to the purposes of the organization of man-eating sea monsters, Juan and the boys were out to sink their hooks into as many of the gilled bullies as possible on ito." ii backs, the Griffin lads met with success when one whopping member of the society — an 800 pound, 12-foot shark—opened his big mouth once too often, while snooping around the ship in Re­ union, Madagascar. As a result, the sea-going heavyweight's upper jaw and backbone are now souvenirs in Brother Soto's personal museum devoted to his fishing conquests NO LUCK On the trip over, Juan, who is an able fisherman, as well as an Able Seamen, kept making passes at the underwater inhabi­ tants, but he was about as suc­ cessful as an NMU organizer— his line just couldn't hold any­ one. On five occasions,i;kingfish and marlin came along side the Griffin and made off with Juan's bait—hook and all. By the time the Griffin ar­ rived in the Madagascan port, Juan's temper, as well as his supply of hooks, was running out. ih fact, he had left just one Stepping onto shark's head after descending ladder. Soto rigs line around his victim for the hoisting job. hook—which he fashioned out of the steel wire used for plimps. All Juan's hopes hung by that hook. When the Griffin tied up, Soto got some ham skin, wrapped it around the hook, attached to a halyard line, the other end of which was secured on deck and tossed-the fatty morsel overboard. |l.«i»«-'Meanwhile, he went about his business. An uproar on deck .about an hour later broke the suspense for Captain Colman A ^Square Shooter^ fc- To the Editor: This is a salute to Captain Fred Cblman from the boys of the SS Simmons Victory. Captain Col­ man was with us for five months and was a square shooter and a good joe at all times, if we ever sailed with one. We want to wish him smooth sailing and good luck wherever he goes, and to congratulate__his crew for their gain. Crew SS Simmons Victory VICTOR AND VANQUISHED Needing some firsi-class surgery to cover up the damage wrought on the way into Galveston when she was rammed by the tanker Greenville, the SS Allegheny Victory rests quietly at dock. No one was hurt in accident, which occurred on June 19. Extent of damage is emphasized by figure of Seafarer James McAbee, a crewmember aboard the Allegheny. Norfolk Hall Staff Wins Crew's Praise i.-i. Able fisherman Juan Soto looks over 12-foot shark which mistakenly nibbled at ham skin bait, then lost out to 10 crew­ men of the SS Griffin after a tough 25-minute tussle. Brother Soto. Someone had sighted one of the coveted sharks nibbling at the ham skin. In a few moments the incautious vic­ tim was battling to get free of the relentless hook. FIERCE STRUGGLE Ten men of the Griffin's crew seized the line, while the shark lashed about furiously. But the cdds were against him. Soto's carefully rigged hook and the combined strength of the Griffin men were too much, and 25 min­ utes later, the fight was out of him. At this point, Soto went down the ladder and stepped onto the subdued shark's massive head. He smiled as he noticed that his quarry looked a little green around the, gills. Then, with one hand on the ladder, he knot­ ted a line around the shark's tail, and went back up the ladder. The once proud, 12-foot, 800pound underwater terrorist was hoisted up on deck by a winch, then removed to No. 5 hatch, where Soto demonstrated his sur­ gical skill by removing the head and backbone with a few deft strokes. Meanwhile, cameras in the hands of Seafarers clicked away at the scene. TOUGH DAME ;-Sga;g;:;i: "She's a lady," Soto announced to the spectators as he removed 32 eggs from his subject. McAbee squats in front of The operation over, "Doc" So­ one of the portside punctures to, began slicing up the meat for He distribution to the local popula­ sustained by his ship. tion, many of whom were wait­ turned pictures over to Patrol­ ing patiently in line for bits of man Bob Pohle of Marcus the choice morseL Each praised Hook Branch, from where they the lads of the Griffin for sup­ plying food for his dinner table. were forwarded to the LOG. Juan's mementos are not the first ones he's acquired from sharks. He has a 15-footer to his credit, too. And there's more a-coming, Juan says. He's on Hie shark's social reg­ ister to stay. Roger Glynn Mayo, 19-year-old full book member of the Seafar­ ers International Union, was kill­ ed instantly when he was struck firemen on shore and in two fire- by an automobile as he was boats. Heavy acrid smoke blank­ crossing a street in his home town eted the waterfront as they pour­ of Needmore, Ind., according to ed water into the conflagration. word received by the LOG. The fatal accident occurred on June 16. Brother Mayo had planned on returning to sea very soon, it was said. An . OS, the young Seafarer Loading facilities in the port of Cheribon were in such terrible joined the Union in Galveston, shape the SS James McCosh, an Texas, on Feb. 9, 1946. He held Isthmian ship, returned almost Book No. 47630. Surviving, including his par­ empty to Batavia early last ents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mayo, month. The McCosh was to have loaded are three brothers, and three sis­ 1,000 tons of kapok in Cheribon, ters. but conditions caused abandon­ Mayo, who was the town's first ment of the job after 146 tons victim of an auto accident, was had been stored aboard. buried three days later. Car Kills SIU Man Frietchie Aflame 5 Hours A stubborn fire, encouraged by a cargo of tar paper, automobile tires and paper products, raged for five hours aboard the A. H. Bull Company's SS Barbara Frietchie at a Delaware river pier in Philadelphia recently be­ fore firemen were able to con­ trol the situation. There were no casualties among the SIU crew aboard the 7,176-ton ship. Damages were sufficient to delay the vessel's scheduled departure for the Carribbean area. The blaze which shot from the No. 5 after hold, was battled by Loading Troubles Above and beyond the call of duty is the usual way of describ­ ing a job done outside of the rou­ tine prescribed. For a job well done favoring the men aboard the SS Grover C. Hutcherson, the crew voices their praise for Ben Rees, Norfolk Pati'olman, by stating he "went aU out far be­ yond the call of his Union du­ ties" to aid them. And they really did "appreciate his ef­ forts," they said. The men of the Newtex ves­ sel, represented by John Asmont, FWT and Engine Delegate, did not confine their praise to Broth­ er Rees, for they voiced their thanks to the entire staff of the Norfolk Hall. SWELL SUPPORT The praise heaped upon the Norfolk staff stems from the excellent cooperation given the crew in settling all beefs and bringing about satisfactory settle­ ment to many difficulties which arose during the course of their late voyage. When the ship hit port the large number of beefs and prob­ lems were enough to discourage the most ambitious of men, but with a will the Norfolk officials put themselves solidly behind every beef and settled for noth­ ing short of fuU redress on all grievances. The Hutcherson with its load of troubles hit Norfolk after a two month trip to Trieste. / �Friday, July 4. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY. June 8—Chairman Bill Wil­ liams: Secretary Bill Gray. New Business: Chief Steward stated that Deck Delegate is interfer­ ing with steward department's work. Requested that dele­ gate stay out of ice box and let food alone. Statement that deck delegate took minutes of meeting and repair list to Caplain and Chief Mate. Dele­ gate's fitness voted upon. Delegate voted out. IE, i; a, ETHIOPIA VICTORY, May 12—Chairman H. W. Lundquist; Secretary E. W. Auer. Motion carried that informa­ tion concerning draws be put out and posted on bulletin board so that all hands will know when money is being put out. Motion carried that each watch is to clean up messhall after use. Motion carried that that all hands replace night lunch in ice box after having used it instead of leaving it out in the messhall or scullery. J* i- S" CHARLES HULL. May 15— Chairman William Taylor; Sec­ retary Peter Villimeon. Dele­ gates reported no beefs in their departments. New Business: Chief Mate asked to get wind scoops and repair all fans. Mo­ tion carried to make up new tool list and give it to Chief Engineer. Motion carried that Bosun and Deck Delegate ap­ proach the Chief Mate to see about a little more overtime. Good and Welfare: All hands agreed to cooperate with Stew­ ard in keeping messhall clean. Motion carried to have meet­ ing the night before ship leaves port. 4. t EASTPOINT VICTORY. May 10—Chairman Blair; Secretary Hernandez. Disputed overtime for Wipers discussed. Time was for working in firesides and hand cleaning of lubes. Letter was sent to New York office of company and was returned as no good as company has no provisions for payment of such overtime. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that at payoff time '^1 rooms be left clean, trash cans be emptied, dirty linen be taken off bunks and placed in pillow cases. Suggestion that all lockers be checked for need­ ed repairs. GEORGE M. BIBB. May 4— Chairman P. V. Millican; Secre­ tary B. H. Amsberry. Reports of delegates was accepted. New Business: Motion was made to discuss with patrolman why the passageway on the main deck wasn't painted. Motiori carried that minutes be sent to LOG for publication. .4otion carried that repair list be made out and posted for the oncom­ ing crew. 4> 4 HOOD RIVER. May 4 — Chairman L. R. Young; Secre­ tary E. Wiley. New Business: Motion carried to have Patrol­ man check slopchest prices on arrival in United States port. Request that delegate write for a new agreement. Motion car­ ried to impose a fine upon any member caught dirtying messroom. Fines to go to the hos­ pital fund. Good and Welfare: Requested that all enamel drinking pitchers be cleaned properly. Copy of minutes to go to SIU and SUP. 4 4 4 FRANZ SIGEL. May 11 — Chairman W. F. Simmons; Sec­ retary H. F. Webber. Deck and Steward Delegates reported everything smooth. Engine Delegate reported disputed overtime for Wipers. Good and Welfare: Steward wanted to know what action could be taken against Chief Engineer for playing with water supply unnecessarily. Steward an­ nounced thai Chief Engineer has been very unreasonable about shutting off the refrig­ erator plant so that chill boxes could be cleaned. He has given •he Steward a very hard time over the matter. Motion car­ ried that a formal protest be written up by Patrolman to be ^ent to the MEBA on the con­ duct of the Engineer. 4 4 4 JOHN GALLUP. May 11— (Chairman and Secretary not given) Delegates reported all in order except for Engine De­ partment which has some dis­ puted overtime. New Business: Motion was carried to inves­ tigate why the price of cigar­ ettes was raised the last week of the voyage. Motion carried that all crew members leaving the ship should leave the focsles and lockers cleaif. Mo­ tion carried that delegates recheck all members' books, per­ mits and trip cards to see that they are paid up and in good, order. Motion carried thai communication b6 made to the Philadelphia Hall pertaining to charges made by several crew members of this ship the last time the ship made port there. DESOTO. May 1—Chairman M. R. Villarreal; Secretary Carl S. Cooper. List of men drawn up for recommendations for pro-books. Motion carried thai no member of the crew pay off until all beefs had been settled to the satisfaction of the ship's delegate'and the departmental delegates. Minute of silence ob­ served for brothers lost at sea. 4 4 4 CHARLES GOODYEAR. March 23—Chairman Earl T. Pradsl; Secretary Robert J. Schulze. New Business: Mo­ tion carried that each man us­ ing ship's laundry be held re­ sponsible for leaving it clean. List of repairs and additions necessary made up and ap­ proved. Good and Welfare: Suggestion made that men make no unnecessary noise in the passageways anytime of the day or night. 4 4 4 4 4 4 BIENVILLE, May 4—Chair­ man P. Drozak; Secretary Chuck Welch. New Business: Motion carried that delegates get together and make up a. re­ pair list. Motion that delegates check stores and slopchest with Patrolman before signing on. Slopchest list of necessary items to be submitted to Captain and Patrolman. Suggestion made to have radio turned on for the crew's convenience. Delegaies reported no beefs. Good and Welfare: Suggestion to have cold drinks for dinner and sup­ per. Vote of appreciation for the food and service rendered the crew by the Stewards De­ partment. New library to be brought aboard. •m 1 A vJdB TcJMV THE I'RfcSgAJT Gis/B iou 0/OB A/^KT OF RATED M6/\/ I5 MOJ Due So MUCH TO AA; ACTUAL SHomASE AS To MtMeeRS MOT TAKIN'G- JOBS. TH€ MORE MEA/ TAKBM IMTO THE SIU -fULflLL OUR OoA/TRACTS ; THE MORE co/AptnTiOfJ WR UOBS tuHEAJ SMlPP/A/e SMGKEAJS Off. CUT and RUN By HANK In view of the fact that shipping is real good down there in Tampa there should be plenty of Brothers taking advantage of it— especially from the ports nearest Tampa, where there may be extra men on the beach waiting to ship out ... If any of you Brothers can't afford the high landlubbing cost of living and all that sweat­ ing out of this hot weather then it's better to grab any ship and start getting the cabbage in your pockets. It's better to grab the first ship, coastwise -or foreign, than it is to sweat out the hot weather and the last few bucks . . . Larry Moore and Leo Siarkowski just came into town a few weeks ago from their trip to Genoa, ' Italy. What, didn't you guys bring back any souvenir gondolas or something from Genoa? . . . Our pinochle champ of a shipmate, Martin O'Connor, is all set for shipping, after a few months ol vacationing with his family . . . "Curly" Mickey Healey, just blew into town from a coastwise trip . . . We received a briefly-worded post card from "Red" Braunstein; "We are in Charleston, South Carolina, topping off. Sailing for Panama tomorrow." Okay, Red, and a long smooth journey to you! 4 4 4 COASTAL STEVEDORE. Brother Thomas Murphy just sailed into town with a smile May 4—Chairman John J. and a short story about how he spent a week on the French Flynn; Secretary Roy White. island of Martinique. The people couldn't understand his New New Business: Motion carried York language or his "pigeon French" and he couldn't under­ to draw charges against Broth­ stand their French—even though they finally ended their ne­ er who attacked Chief Cook gotiations with the sign language. So they mutually got no­ and Third Cook with a knife where. However, we have received a conflicting story. One and wounded both. Incident Brother »ays that Brother Murphy spent 17 days on the ship and all details to be reported going around the island from one point to another point. But to Patrolman. One minute of that s not getting to the point either, so we'll just have to let silence for brothers lost at sea. it go at thai and say "here's one more yarn scuttled by too many happily confused experts of proxy navigation, etc!" 4 4 4 ALCOA TRADER. May 11— 4 4 4 Chairman and Secretary not If you hear any short jokes suddenly atomizing the Beaver given) Meeting called for pur­ Street atmosphere or some unheard of vaudeville-styled singing, or pose of learning repairs neces­ just the words, "You Can't Fight City Hall" then you'll know'it's sary. Each delegate was called nobody else than the might atom, little "Jimmy" Eugene Crescitelli, upon to give report on his de­ partment. Delegates reported the mustached king of jokes and predictions, who just sailed in from all smooth in their departments a trip to South Africa. Jimmy says that his shipmate. Lucky Louis, except for a few performers. just came in with a smiling poker-face after a trip on the Virginia Question was raised as to why City! We were surprised to see Mike Rossi, the Smiling Bosun, Steward Department overtime back so fast from his hospitalization down in Montevideo, Uraguay, where he had suffered a leg injury. Mike and his little pal said was not equally divided. that they found Baltimore real good when they stopped there <sy the way up and found lots of pals glad to see them while they'iE? waiting to ship out. 4-4 4 This slcry about whal happened lo volunteer Isthmian Or­ ganizer. George Meaney could be called Operation Successful. Well. George was all set to sail about two weeks ago when all of a sudden he collapsed while walking in Boston. He im­ mediately asked and was allowed to sign off and went straight to Boston's Brighton Marine Hospital (which he calls one of the best) where he received three undisputed operations—hernia removed, an ulcer removed and appendix removed. After this triple beef, George asked for Social Service and asked to be sent to the USS Rest Center in Gladstone. New Jersey, which he says is the best rest center he's ever been in. By the way. George recommends that any Seafarer who are in ports close to New Jersey and are scheduled for operations that they should ask for Social Service immediately after and request to be sent to the USS rest center in Gladstone. New Jersey. .-^1 - -^I •u �THE Paga Twrir# SEAFARERS Friday. July 4. 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS DEL MAR COFFEE TIME Brother's Suggestions Adopted By Union In Devising New Form For Ship's Minutes on part of the membership in au­ thority to call a meeting, etc.; Several months ago I was on the list is long and all the ex­ a committee for the inspection cuses vague. of minutes of meetings held OFFERS IMPROVEMENTS aboard ships. Regretfully, I say never before have I read a more As to the means of correcting confused and inconsistent file of the above conditions, I submit reports. to the membership the following The order in which the ma­ solution, subject to whatever the jority of the reports were made changes the membei'ship may in­ could very well have been avert­ troduce: ed had the membership followed That a standard form be print­ the proper procedure in conduct­ ed, upon which the minutes of ing its meetings. I had also the ship's meetings can be re­ noticed that, chronologically, the corded. This form (a sample of meetings were held rather irregu­ which I enclose) to be about the size of the standard overtime larly. This condition should also be sheet and made up of tablets of corrected. It must be corrected. 25, with carbon copy duplicates. Too many ship's meetings have the original to be filed with failed to accomplish the purposes Headquarters and duplicates kept for which they were intended, by ship's delegate. due to unwarranted postpone­ I suggest that the system of ments, lack of Union spirit, a using these forms be as follows: mad desire for shoreside stimu­ Each ship be supplied with a suf­ lations when in port, ignorance ficient amount of forms to last the trip. That the port patrol­ man instruct the ship's delegate how the form may properly be filled out. These forms should not be used while the meeting is in order. Only when the meet­ ing is adjourned should the sec­ retary, together with the departTo the Editor: To the Editor: Wants To See More Articles By Membership tr '-''Why don't you carry more let­ ters to the membership? I have read several letters in the LOG about it being a good paper, and while I am in accord with them, I don't think it is as good as it should be until it carries more news from, and about, the mem­ bership and less articles by of­ ficials. Not that some of the articles aren't good, as for instance, the special services series by Volpian, but for it to be a really good paper, the members must speak more often and louder in its columns. While on the subject — there has been one proposal I do not agree with. That is the carrying of a Spanish page in the LOG. If we did that then the next thing would be a page in Norwegian, Swedish, French or what have you. It may be a good idea to print foreign languages some of our booklets like "Order" and others, but let's not start an example by doing something which in my opinion may mess up what may become the best labor paper of any union. Harvey Jamerson - (Ed. note: The LOG fully agrees ( with Brother Jamer"son. We are anxious for news 'and letters of and about every Seafarer. Send in those letters —we'll publish them.) De Soto Skipper iWas Cooperative To Ihe Editor: 71^ " We, the crewmembers of the SS DeSoto, Waterman Steamship Corporation, Voyage No. 4, wish at this time, through the me­ dium of the LOG, to express our appreciation for the cooperation given us by our skipper. Captain R. F. Goodman. May he continue to sail for many more years. Ship's crew S/MPlf, ion has just drawn up. The forms have been added to the "Ship's Delegate Kit." which contains Union literature de­ signed to aid in the conduct of good Union meetings and in furthering the Union educa­ tion. One of the booklets is the highly important, "How To Conduct A Ship's Meeting." with which every member should become familiar. While all criticisms are en­ couraged by the Union, it is the concrete constructive type, such as presented by Brother Ran­ allo, that can be translated in­ to benefits for the member­ ship and the organization. It is hoped that other Seafarers will follow suit. Meanwhile, to Brother Ranallo a well-deserved thanks.) piiiiiiiii Around the table aboard Mississippi's newest passenger ship are, from left to right: Eric Ekland, Mike Derkits, Harris, William Worthington and Donald Hingle. Necessity Of Permanent Organizing Work Shown By Results Of Isthmian Campaign To the Editor: I wonder just how many mem­ bers gave thought to what win­ ning the Isthmian election meant to us? I think it could best be summed up in a statement that an NMU organizer made a while back during the course of the Isthmian election when he said "If we let the SIU win the Isthmian fleet, then the NMU will have lost the balance of power on the east coast as far as the Maritime Industry is con­ cerned." Yes, Brothers, that's just ex­ actly what it meant. Winning the Isthmian fleet gave us a de­ finite edge over the NMU. Toss this in along with some of the other outfits we have won over the past few months, such as Bloomfield SS Co., St. Lawrence Navigation Co., Inc., American Eastern Corp., Kearney SS Com­ pany, not to mention some of the tugs, such as the Mobile Tow­ ing and Wrecking Go., and the G. & H. Towing Co. on the Texas Coast we have quite a few jobs. ing of our tremendous organizing them and keep the ships moving drive back in 1945. This has as per the contract. been of particular interest to mc ALL-IMPORTANT because it has been my good fortune to participate in this or­ Considering the amount of ganizing drive, shipside as well money that has been spent and as shoreside, having hung up 16 the results obtained by the Un­ months sea time on Isthmian ves­ ion, there is no question but what sels since 1945, as well as wdrk- our Organizing drive over the ing in between Isthmian trips as past two years has proven one thing for a fact—that is the ne­ Shore-side Organizer. cessity for the Union to make as The membership should pro­ a permanent part of its set-up tect the investment made by vol­ an Organizing Staff with the full unteer SJU Organizers and the large amount of money the Un­ time work of enlarging the Un­ ion spent in organizing this fleet ion. The reason for this can be.st by continuing to ship Isthmian be illustrated when you consider until we have a contract. We the fact that in 1942 the SIU have hammered this thing along had only nine off-shore steam­ for nearly two years now and ship companies under contract, as well as several small tug out­ we cannot afford to slack up. fits under contract. Today, we I am a bit optimistic on the , . , , subject of Isthmian and believe approximately 30 off-shore steamship companies under con­ once we sit down and negotiate a contract with these people tract, 14 tug and inland boat con, tracts, two off-shore tanker conthey will be a fairly good outfit k to deal with. It is a funny thing signed and five excursion boats in this industry, it seems that companies under contract, not to lots of big outfits, once they are mention other outfits which we under contract, are easy to do are working into now and expect notices of election pretty soon, business with. This means, of such as Cities Service and Sun course, providing that we, once oil. upon signing the contracts, honor Charles "Whiley" Tannehill mental delegates, digest the minutes for ent;y upon the offi­ cial form. This should be typed if possible. SHOULD REMAIN 6N SHIP When the record of the min­ uted have been completed, one copy shall immediately be for­ warded to headquarters; the other kept in possession of the ship's SOURCE OF STRENGTH delegate, and should be his re­ sponsibility while he is a mem­ Add all these up and you see ber of the crew. In event of his where the Union has gained tre­ leaving the records shall be mendous strength since the start­ turned over to the next elected delegate, etc., as long as the ship remains under an SIU agreement. Retaining these recprds aboard ship will result in a great reduc­ tion of unfounded accusations charged against the "last crew." The record will tell. He will come in Ihe dawn I further suggest that in the With his old sea bag. back of the form, a short lecture And sing out, "I'm home to stay," be printed as to the correct pro­ He will stow his gear and open root beer cedure to be followed in conduct­ And declare, "I've lived for this day, ing a meeting aboard ship, also "I'll drive a truck like my father— stressing the importance of hold­ "The Union won't bo new: ing regular meetings. "I'll just change my card, then I'll Guy R. Ranallo "Bid farewell to good old SIU." (Ed. note: Brother Ranallo's constructive letter was wellHis Pa has driven a highway truck received at Union' Head­ For 18 worry-filled years. quarters and is of the type Like father, like son they are the SIU is earnestly soliciting Two of a kind—^for both I have fears. from all members. Many of 'Twould be like clipping the wings the suggestions he outlined Of a bird to keep the old man home. have been incorporated in the Just so, it would be caging a gull new official form for recording For Bud to give up the foam. ship's minutes which the Un­ Log-A-Rhythms What Price Feathers? DEDICATED TO Seafarer Harry McDoiiiiough BY HIS MOTHER This mother's heart knows that in Maybe a month, perhaps a bit more He will feel the spray, two Thousand miles away, and see only The salt sea shore. So I soogie his clothes and send Him back to the SIU and the sea. For what use are the feathers. When the soul of the bird flies free. �Friday. July 4. 1947 THE SEAFARERS Sees Return Of Gulf As Union Stronghold LOG Page Thirteen EYERrBODY OUTSIDE FOR A PICTURE! Member Hails Committee Ruling On Gashounds To the Editor: To the Editor: I see the Union is finally doing something, which I believe was slightly overdue. And that is the straightening out of the Gulf. All Oldtimers remember when the Gulf was the backbone of the Union. But we can't afford to kid ourselves, so we must say that for awhile the Gulf slipped badly. I noticed it and I know that others did, too. This was particularly true in the Texas ports. It seemed that the piecards there (who are now out) were interested more in the gin mills then in our Union busi­ ness. Let their being "relieved" be a lesson for any other piecard who might think the membership will allow them to have the same idea. PROSPECTS GOOD I was at the meeting in New Orleans when Bull Sheppard was put in as Gulf Representative. I have seen the old Bull in action and I believe that now, with him That story in last week's issue of the LOG about those guys who were fined by a trial committee for being drunk and refusing to turn to aboard ship was mighty interesting. Guys like these are about the worst of all when it comes to fouling things up for their shipmates. I've been on ships that carried some of these characters, and beheve me, they are one big pain where you sit down. 1 agree with Joe Algina when he said that the Seafarers was too good to put up with the kind of stuff these guys were tossing around at their Brothers. 1 hope the next trial committee that sits on a case of this type is just as serious about their job. These crewmembers of the SS Samuel Livermore piled outside of a Copenhagen, Denmark, bistro to oblige one of their shipmates whose finger was itching to click the camera shutter From left to right the lads are: Roger Whitley; Stanley; Ray; Dennis Cahoon; Muncie; Charles Newman; F. W. Jackson; Paul J. Cook; Lynn and Truman, 'Steamboat' Answers Cadet Corps Defender To the Editor: •WANT SMOOTH SAILING The big majority of our mem­ bers are fellows who like to see a ship sail smooth. Not only that, but most of them feel that we have the best conditions in the business and they want to protect our contracts. Did you ever notice that when the Union is in a beef or on strike, that it is usually the gashounds who raise hell on a ship who do nearly less than anybody else? Well 1 have. And if you don't believe me just check the book of the next gashound you see on your ship and you'll probably see where he was fined during our last strike for missing picket duty. 1 like to have my fun as much as tfie next guy; but 1 realize Maritime Service, in order to con- ernment is because they put tinue in their soft jobs. themselves out on a limb and 1 see one of our brothers of the then let somebody saw it off." THANKS HIM MEBA has taken me over the Is that how you describe the rocks for calling Kings Point a Mr. Swadell also says the SIU "Coney Island Annapolis," and has the cream of the crop and is '21 strike, when the Shipping making impolite remarks about the coming union. Well, that's Board broke the Unions for 13 "crumbhouse cadets." very kind of you Mr. Swadell, years because they struck in pro­ Well, Mr. Swadell, 1 did not but don't you know the President test of a 15 per cent pay cut? Is that how you describe Tru­ mean to hurt your feelings as a of the SIU, Harry Lundeberg, has man's action last year when he graduate of Kings Point, es­ denounced the cadet corps as said he would use the Navy to pecially since you are obviously being full of military chicken and break the strike if seamen went a fine Union man. In fact, 1 a waste of the taxpayers' money? out? in the Gulf working with Buck have only admiration for anyone However, there is no need to Stephens, the SIU will get back who can keep his union convic­ go into this. Mr. Swadell an­ THREAT TO SEAMEN into the same shape they were tions after being exposed to the swers this himself. He says, "If That is what 1 mean by "or­ years ago. With Bull's hard-hit­ cadet corps. a man wants to get a license so ganized government finking," ting policy for organization (ask You say we need Kings Point he can hit the floor plates the Mr. Swadell. That is why 1 say The I] the commies what this means) to give us a steady flow of of­ 1-est of his life, let him stay out a government-controlled organi­ and Buck's ability and knowkdge ficers, evidently thinking there is of the Cadet Corps. The best zation of non-union seamen is a of the Gulf, we can now get danger of running out of gold way for him to get a license is to standing threat to every real sea­ ready to see the Union do some braid. During the war, there ship out until he has the sea time men in the country. progressing down there. wei-e enough licensed men to and then go to school for a couple There has been an all-out cam­ Incidentally, Editor, what hap­ man over 5,000 cargo ships. To­ of weeks." paign to militarize seamen go­ pened to our Educational pro­ day, we don't even operate half Mr. Swadell, how can you ad­ ing on for the last ten years. Why gram? I have heard a lot of that number. How do you get mit that and then say we should were the seamen handed over talk about it, but have seen no shortage of officers out of spend millions of dollars to op­ to the military despots of the action as yet. Why not ask the that? erate the salt water kindergar­ Coast Guard, the worst piece of members, through the LOG, This so-called "shortage" is a ten at Kings Point? bureaucratic debauchery since what they think of our lack of lie manufactured by the bellYou also say, "the only reason the sloppy gestation of the Mari­ such a program. John Lena bottomed bureaucrats of the unions are broken by the govtime Service in the womb of po­ that while working aboard ship is not the place for cutting up, litical finkery. Why did the Maritime Service NOW'S THE TIME put civilian seamen into military The new bill that was just uniforms for the first time in passed to smack labor down American history? Why did it means that we had better start invent the phony and ridicu­ getting into good shape, for it lous titles of lieutenant, com­ looks like before the year is out • mander, commodore for poor we'll be in a battle for our lives mates and engineers, if not to in­ \vith the shipowners. troduce the class conscious and We'll have plenty of trouble "socially superior" attitudes of if besides the shipowners we the Navy? have a bunch of characters inside BIG STUFF the Union making it tough for Why did it establish military the rest of us. That alone is good academies imitating West Point reason for dropping all our and Annapolis, if not to introduce 'characters" as soon as possible, a naval-like system on merchant so we'll be in good fighting trim ships? It even has a guy calling when the time comes. Duke (Red) Hall himself a "rear-admiral," a man who has never gone to sea for a living, who commands no one but stenographers and whose closest contact with the salt wa­ To the Editor: ter is the Potomac River. In 1944 Admiral Land told a I was shipped from New York bunch of shipowners at a big to Philadelphia on the B. Wil­ banquet, "The U. S. Maritime liams when 1 got here I found Service is the foundation on which that I had no job. After getting the future of the merchant ma­ kicked around for two days I rine is built." went to the Hall and told the I don't know what he meant officials about it—they sure got by this if he didn't mean substi­ on the ball fast. tuting this disciplined, uniform­ I for one want to thank the V .if ® I® Morris from New ed "service" for independent un­ officials of the Philadelphia ion seamen. Branch for their good work. "Steamboat" O'Doyle Thanks again. M. J. Field* DOWN THE EAST RIVER Philly Officials On The Ball mmed^"ur?,rLoS �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS LOG Taft-Hartley Fink Bill Blasted Stab At Union Hiring Arouses Members I.. (Editor's note: Passage of the Taft-Hartley fink bill has placed a knife in the hands of those who are intent upon the destruction of all the costly gains made by labor. That knife is poised directly over one of the most vital organs of the Seafarers—the Union hiring hall. In defense of this threat to their security, members of the SIU are expressing themselves militantly. "Below are some of the first letters on the fink bill received by the LOG. How about the rest of you? How do you feel about this fink bill?) $ since the passage of the Taft- NEW LABOR LAW Hartley Bill. The companies will start to use them if we let them, IS CHALLENGE TO so there is only one thing for us LABOR'S RIGHTS to do and that is fight Jhe finks To the Editor: wherever we meet them and pro­ To the Editor: Well, the boys on Capitol Hill tect our hard won gains. Check I am not sure whether this and their buddies of the NAM j-our ship. Brothers, and keep the should be addressed to the "Beef have received their wish — the finks off. Box" or to Joe Volpian of Special "Freedom to Fink" Bill is now Jimmy Crescitelli Service, but anyway here goes. law and that means the end of the closed shop. The question which I am par­ Since all of the SIU contracts URGES REPEAL ticularly concerned with is, how call for the closed shop, it means OF BILL THAT or in what way will the Taftonly one thing—we're next. WIPES OUT GAINS Hartley Law effect the seagoing Unfortunate for them, however, To the Editor: men of this country? we are not going to give up the Hiring Hall and rotary shipping I hope that the seamen will The Taft-Hartley Law, the way without a fight. In fact, we aren't I see it, is one of the worst foul wake up to the fact that the capi­ going to give up the Hiring HaU blows ever struck Organized La­ talists are still trying to exploit at all. bor. All the gains that labor has The other day I was on Broad achieved over the last 30 years them, and the seamen will be­ Street here in New York, and are to be wiped out by the pas­ come politically minded enough to fight whenever something I passed three fink halls. You sage of one law. should see the shipping masters Now, regarding strike action on comes up to defeat the gains we that they have in those joints, this' bill: It is my opinion, as in have made in the last few years. —shades of Richard Dana. the past, that the AFL leaders Many of us go to sea because If we let these places start up will know when and where to it is a means of livelihood, but again we should have our heads bring about the action necessary examined. If you see any sea­ to put this law where it belongs how many of us know that the men peeking into one of those —with the old 18th Amendment. Taft-Hartley Law may be setting foul dens, tell them to steer clear In other words, a straight repeal. of a precedent whereby the Re­ for their own good. Let's let our Congressmen publican majority in Congress • These fink halls are all new know our feelings on this mat­ will try to restrict and abolish businesses, having opened up ter. all of our gains. E. J. Kelly LONG FIGHT KEEP HIRING HALL, FIGHT FINKS, HE WARNS Isthmian Win Leaves Union Slackers On Limb To the Editor: Well, it finally happened—the winning of the Isthmian com­ pany and the final certification. Now, there are several Brothers I want to look up. I refer to those, who in the middle of the drive, used to hol­ ler "it can't be done." Another favorite of this type of char­ acter was to scream "it's costing too much money." I was at a meeting in New York when one donkey actually griped so much about the possi­ bilities of losing Isthmian, Ustill believe he was either a stooge for the Company or the commies— or both. m .. lljp KEPT HECKLING This same man refused to make a trip on the Isthmian scows but devoted all his time to laying on the beach and giv­ ing the organizers a bad time. Meanwhile, he kept telling all the kids going into the ships that they were suckers. Fortunately for the Union you could number" those Union wreckers on one hand, and belter still the union recognized these guys for what they were. If they are still in New York when­ ever I get back up there they had better get into a hole. This should be a lesson to all of us. If we can get Isthmian, then there is no reason why we can't take over the whole busi­ ness. Look out NMU! Victor L. Bonura SEES POSSIBLE RETURN OF THE SHIPPING MASTERS To the Editor: With the Taft-Hartley Law now in effect, the first anti-un­ ion blows will be aimed at the Union Hiring Hall. We can't however, let this law take away our Hiring Hall and return us to the old days of sliipping masters. Today, a man has a chance to ship out, but if we go back to the old days we will not have a fair chance to ship out. If you are not one of the shipping master's fair haired boys you will sit your fanny on some hard bench till hell freezes over. New York, Boston and all the ether ports had the phony ship­ ping masters. After every trip you made, they were' looking for a piece-off, and if they didn't get it—you didn't work. Personally, I think that this law should have been put up to a vote by the people of the United States. They should be the ones to decide whether we go back to the old days or not. Why should we have to go back to that hellish life that we had to fight so hard to get out of? We are labor, and we are the ones who will suffer—not the crumbs on Capitol Hill who have never done a day's work in their life. Here's hoping that the unions will get together and fight this new law to the death. Any time the Union wants to call a "Going Fishing" week or a month, I have my pole and boat on hand. James Russell The best the President could do in our favor was to veto the bill, but with a Republican ma­ jority in both chambers, who don't give a hoot for labor, we are due for a set back unless we recruit labor for a long drawn out fight. Regardless of union affiliation, this fight concerns us all. It seems that wc have not got enough labor minded representa­ tives in Congress, and I hope that enough of "us will wake up to this fact and send men to Washington to represent us whenever some so-called friends of labor try to present something which they deem in favor of labor and is in reality a restrictive tie. Wake up seamen, also you friends of labor. Do something about the Taft-Hartley Law! Dennis Saunders Friday, July 4, 1947 SIU Contract Don't Bite A Dog! Would Inspire What happens to Seafarers while taking the ships to the Isthmian Crews far flung ports of the world makes interesting reading to the rest of the membership. There is an old saying that if a dog bites a man, that's not news but if a man bites a dog, that's news. Were not suggesting that you go out and bite a dog; however, if you've had an interesting ex­ perience on your trip that was a little out of the or­ dinary, share it with your fellow Seafarers through the pages of the SEAFARERS LOG. You don't have to be a Jack London to knock out the details of the experience. Just give us the facts and we'll do the rest. Pictures, too make a story more interesting. If you, or a fellow crewmember, are lucky enough to have a camera along — send your snapshots to the LOG. We'll take care of the developing and printing and the return­ ing of the negatives and prints to you. Send your bits of news and snaps to: SEAFARERS LOG, 51 Beaver Street, New York, N. Y. PLENTY To the Editor: I have sailed Isthmian ships and after a short time on these scows I came to the conclusion that if the Isthmian Line were under the SIU banner it would be a lot better for the men who sail these ships, and, believe it or not, I think it would be better for the company, also. If the men of the Isthmian ships have a beef they could take it to the Union and let the Union handle the business part of the beef. Therefore, there would be no hard feelings between the men and the company. The com­ pany, also, could get their men through the Union Hall much faster and- they could get bet­ ter men. If this were the case, the sea­ men would be highly pleased to work under a union agreement having the same wages and work­ ing conditions as our other ships; and would make for more effi­ cient operation of the Isthmian ships. Jess N. Helms OF STEAM i> X SS Arizpa Deckmen handle ship lines due to juice short­ age. In the group, left to right: John Elliot, AB; Phil Guimond, DM; 5am McFarlane. AB; Russ (last name not given) OS; Karl Uri, AB, and Carl Senarighi, OS. Below is Ray Ditoto, DM. PoOped out. Brother Carl Senarighi (photo right) relaxes on fantail of the Arizpa, which was snafued on recent trip as a result of superficial investiga­ tion of ship by - Coast Guard. Bosun Gene Dauber took these photos. » » » �Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 4, 1947 NMU Withdraws From Wyandotter After Usual Stalling Tartics Fail r As this issue of the LOG goes presed considerable interest in the outcome of negotiations with to press, one thing is certain. DETROIT — Well, the first the Midland Steamship Line, Inc. That is that the Lakes seamen half of the Wyandotte fleet has We are pleased at this time to have repudiated the NMU, once i.xci-.i'i voted, and with two ships out state that Midland wages, ef­ and for all, for playing the ship­ of the way it's only a matter of fective as of July 1 have al­ owners game time and again. SS A. G. BELL a few days more before a ready been agreed to. An item BOSTON The Huron election proved G. Vidal, $2.00; M. M. Eschenko, Wyandotte seamen will have had concerning these ships appears INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $1.00; R. O'Neill, $1.00; C. Baggs & this, and the Wyandotte election, a chance to register their choice elsewhere in this is.sue of the I. Pearce, $1.00: L, Bugajcwskl. Crew, $7.00, even though the NMU sneaked $5.00; P. Lobbregt, $2.00. of the SIU as the Union to rep SEAFARERS LOG. SS CARLSBAD off the ballot, will further prove resent them. T. McCann, $1.00. TAMPA The new Midland scale, based this repudiation of the NMU. SS J. GROUT Our "pals" from the NMU did on a forty hour week, is com­ SS FLORIDA E. C. Hill, $1.00; A. A. Ahmed, For too long, the Lakes sea­ Mario Reyes, $1.00; J. Seara, $1.00; $1.00; D. E. Edwards, $1.00; J. J. Con­ a last minute about-face, and parable to the new high scale men have been misrepresented J. C. Fernandez, $1.00; D. Bazo, $1.00; nors, $3.00; W. P. Nolan, $2.00; L. requested that their name be being paid on the SIU contract­ M. - Goto, $1.00; O. Timm, $1.00; E. by such phony outfits as the Johnson, $1.00; M. R. Keane, $2.00; withdrawn from the ballot. ed sandboats, and establishes a NMU, the LSU and the old cor­ Roig, 51.00; G. Briguera, $1.00; S. R. G. Bromiley, $2.00; A. KrapanaWe expected as much because pattern which will probably be rupt ISU. They can't expect any Rodri : $1.00. giditis, $2.00; E. I. Cozier, $2.00; M. M. Lorez. $1,00; J. Lopez, $1.00; M. the NMU has never had guts followed by the Lake Carriers gifts on a tray from the Lake H. Hansen, $2.00; W. J. McLaughlin, Carmona. $1.00; P. R. Penelas, $1.00; $1.00; D. j. McKinnis, $2.00; G. Dailey, enough to stand up and take Association. The LCA usually Carriers, so they look to the J. C. Keys, $1.00; J. Fl. Hofman, $1.00; $1.00; D. M. Moller, $1.00. their medicine in typical sea follows after the SIU sets the only bonafide seamen's union on A. Someillan, $t.bO; J. W. McCranie, SS VIRGINIA CITY VICTORY man style. These phonies have pace! $1.00; II. Reyes, 50c; J. M. Rodriguez, the Lakes for security — the J. Pawluk, $1.00; R. Visceglia, $1.00; 50c; .M. T. Costello, $1.00. again demonstrated that they At this time, nothing new has SIU! C. Hendrick, $2.00; C. F. DePole, $1.00; A. Gonzalez, $1.00; H. Nelson, $1.00; L. M. Oty, $2.00; W. C. Patterson, always fold up when the going developed on the- Wilson fleet. Today, as always, the SIU G. C. Albury, 50c; D. Knight, $i.00; J. $2.00; M. P. Martucci, $1.00; G. Ca- gets tough. This company has requested per­ leads on the Lakes when it R Roberts, $1.00; G. C. Barrios, $i.OO; iTiacho, $1.00; J. Saiad, $1.00; E. V. In one way, the entire matter mission of the NLRB in Wa.shG. Lima, $1.00; R. G. Rivero, $1.00: comes to wages, hours, overtime, Bulik, $2.00; M. E. Spence, $1.00; T. is quite amusing. Here we have G. C. Roberts, $1.00; E. Garcia, $1.00; j ington to file a supplemental working and living conditions, Smigielski. $2.00; G. G. Malby. $2.00; J. Epperson, $1.00; J. DiGiocomo, 50c; G. Bane, $2.00; W. Blanton, $1.00; J. a bunch of political connivers brief, and to appear before the and union security. B. Candanio, 50c; S. Bautista, 50c; J. K. Bowen, $1.00; P. E. Standi, $1.00; masquerading as legitimate union Board for oral argument. S. Atwell, 50c; P. .Santos, $1.00; A. men, and using every trick in P. Versage, $1.00. If the Board grants this re­ S.inchoz, $1.00; B. Alvarez, $1.00: J. SS A. COX the book to hamstring the SIU M. Nelson, $1.00; E. Chaves, $1.00; N. quest, it means that the Wilson J. E. Havens, $2.00; S. V. Lindsay, Villarerde, $1.00; W. E. Koski, $1.00: $2.00; L. P. Doleal, $1.00; J. H. Mat- from representing the Wyandotte lawyers will appear before the seamen, and securing an SIU $1.00; R. Costello, 50c; V. Jiminez, 50c: ton, $2.00; S. Vaughn, $1.00; D. C. Bell, NLRB in Washington to argue J. Mium, 50c. contract to cover Wyandotte. $3.00; C. Cahill, $5.00; A. A. K. Leiro, their reasons for wishing to ex­ $2.00; R. M. Smith, $3.00; W, H. NEW YORK These shipowners stooges, for clude certain classifications from Fiilingim, $3.00. that's what you can. really label SS L. MOTT the unlicensed personnel bar­ SS W. RIDDLE .A. II. Quinn, $4.00; A. E. Johanson, the NMU misleaders as, tossed L. C. Owens, $1.00; D. Gillikin, $1.00; gaining unit. On the basis of $2.00; J. F. Kelley, $10.00; B. Fruge, in a set of phony unfair labor this, the NLRB will have to de­ $4.00; I. A. Chauncey, $3.01^ L, K. $1.00; H. L. Moore, $1.00; Wm. M. By SAL COLLS charges against Wyandotte, hop­ W. 11. Mason, $1.00; N. H. Pratt, Wynne, $2.00; R. Silva, $10.OO. cide who shall be included in Kuhl. $1.00; L. H. Smith, $1.00. ing to tie up the holding of an the unit for election purposes. SS J. DUNCAN SAN JUAN—After a hectic SS TOPA TOPA C. Ilughart, $2.00; B. O. Wilson, election for months. three-week stretch a return to V. E. D'lndia, $4.00; G. A. Burke. $3.00; S. Buzalewski. $2".00; A. Smith, EAKES REPUDIATES NMU When the NLRB threw out normalcy was on the way this jr., $2.00; E. L. Pierce, $2.00; E. E, $1.00; H. G. llalloway, $1.00; A. Korthese charges as being unfound­ week on this Island. sak, $2.00; L. C. Lee, jr., $1.00. As for the Hanna fleet, noth­ Scott, $3.00., INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS ed, the NMU screamed to high ing new has developed since the SS COYOTE HILLS The longshoremen's strike j. Romano, $1.00; j. L. Tucker, P. F. Thipodeaux, $2.00; L. Mcheaven that the NLRB examin­ NLRB held up the pre-election which tied up things down here Arthur. $2.00; j. Blount, $2.00; P. M. $2.00; E. E. Ames, $3.00; j. McDon­ er, Miss Greenberg, was prejud­ hearing in order to dispose of the had caused most of the scows Cunningham, $3.00; C. D. Graham, ald, $1.00; L. C. Calinte, $1.00; j. iced. and sought to have the NMU's phony charges that the on the regular run to pile up, Farrell, $1.00. $3.00; A. L. Catlin, $1.00; T. Spencer, O. Preussler, $5.00; j. Rosciszew- Washington NLRB set aside the Hanna mates preferred the SIU | and thei-e were beefs galore on $5.00; E. P. Cox, $3.00; H. F. Stephens, $3.00;. R. Dampson, $3.00; j. Manuel, ski, $1.00; E. L. Marti^. $1.00; W. j. Regional Director's ruling against over the NMU. them all. Bason, $1.00. $3.00; D. E. Erase, $1.00. them. There are relatively few ships This was another effort to de­ here now, however, and an ab­ lay the holding of an election sence of beefs as everyone is among the Wyandotte seamen. turning to regularly on the WaWhen the NMU finally saw ASHTABULA 1027 West Filth St .tgrjinan ship and the two Bull line RUDOLPH C. HARYASZ Phone 5523 I ^ - ALEXANDER WHEATON that they had come to the end BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. | ^^ssels now m port. The officers Your mother writes that she| of' t^e'road "as 'far as "further Get in touch with Alton F. Calvert 4539 on all three of these ships are the Wyandotte elect- BOSTON Cooper, 124 S. Aropoho Street, has some very important busi276 State St. j Very anxious to cooperate with ness that requires your immed-^jon, they quietly tucked their Geary, Oklahoma, Boudoin 4455 tpig CreWS 10 Exchange St. late attention. Get m touch with tails between their legs.and scur- BUFFALO S. S. S. Cleveland 7391 The membership here is up in ried OiT to their respective holes CHICAGO G. GIDDEN 34 w. Superior Ave. arms over the actions of the men in typical rodent style. Brother Googe has your clothes Superior 5175! who do their performing during JOHN MURPHY Their delaying tactics hurt CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. regular Working hours. Rank at,790 Third Ave., Bklyn., N. Y. Mam 0147 i i j. , . . , Get in touch with Donald^the Wyandotte seamen through 35 4. 4. 1038 Third St. Committees have Moore at 9 Haddon Avenue, Cam- holding up the election. This DETROIT JACK O'MALLEY Cadillac 6857 been dealing out fines to ofden. New Jersey. phase of the NMU activity was DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. fcnders. Contact Jack and George at not amusing. Melrose 4110 The committees are also inthe South American Bar, New GALVESTON 308'/2—23rd St. , • er- • , HURON MEETING Phone 2-S44S local union officials York City. 16 Merchant St. ''o performers off the ships A meeting was held on July HONOLULU 4 it 4. The following named men who 1 between representatives of the Phone 58777 wlierever they crop up. FRANK BLUES. Wiper JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. left their clothes on the SS Minor This housecleaning is a healthy Formerly of the Montabello C. Keith can get same by con­ SIU and the Huron Transporta­ tion Company in order to set a MARCUS HOOK Hills, Pacific Tankers, which paid tacting Waterman SS Co.: Chester 5-3110 i certified as the collective bardate for the beginning of con­ off in Baltimore recently. Get 1 South Lawrence St. gaining agent for the Isthmian Niles Hanner, Murry, Tasseluff tract negotiations to cover the MOBILE in touch with Capt. Coles, Pa­ Phone 2-1751 line there is no question but that Kcruff, and Hill. two Huron ships — the SS cific Tankers, 115 Broadway, MONTREAL 1440 Bieury St. J we have more at stake than any Brother Christenson, FWT Crapo and the SS Boardman. NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. ' ,v ^ . ,, ^7 Room 211, New York City. - Magnolia 6112-6113 "^her union m the field. For this who missed the ship in Ham­ As a result of the meeting, 4 4 4. 51 Beaver St. 1-ason as wcll as many others, burg, Germany, your papers have 'tontract negotiation; will be NEW YORK AMADO AGBUYA HAnover 2-2784 it is particularly gratifying to been turned in to the J^ew Or­ opened sometime during the A letter from your brother, leans Hall. NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. gee the membership so seriously week of July 14, with a more Henry, requests that you get in , L'uT TtrsL responsibilities as 4 4 4 specific date to be set in the PHILADELPHIA touch with him. His address is LO„.b., d 3.7651 V"'™ ns™Holders of receipts numbered next few- days. 1258 Eddy Street, San Francisco, 97516 to 97550 please report to Ill VJ. Burnside St. I With this in mind, if you're In the meantime, crewmem- PORTLAND California. Beacon 4333 looking for a good run with the 6th Floor, 51 Beaver Street, bers of the two Huron ships will RICHMOND, Calif 257 sth^^SL' anipig opportunity to spend sev4 4 4 New York, N. Y. be contacted, meetings held, and D. K. (BLACKIE) TIGHE. Jr. SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. pleasant evonings with very 4 4 4 terms of the contract demands Milton (Red) Faircloth has left Douglas 5475 8363 senoritas, then by all means W. H. MASON worked out to the satisfaction SAN JUAN, p. R. ..252 Ponce de Leon grab a SCOW that is Ishind-bound. your personal belongings at the James Purcell, Patrolman who of all Huron seamen. San Juan 2-5996 But if you'i'e 3 gashound or a SIU Hall in Baltimore, care of paid off on the SS W. J. Riddle Next Tuesday, July 9, meet­ Curly Rentz. They may be pick­ June 25 in New York, advises '"^h\l''8"72;\'P^^5°^™cr just give this place a ings will be held in the Cleve­ ed up at your convenience. Fair- that your overtime has been SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. berth. land NLRB offices to discuss There's no place for you here cloth wishes you to forward his okayed. Collect at the Waterman Main 0290 election stipulations for the TAMPA .1809-1811 N^ Franklin St. if you're In that category. souvenirs and personal effects to office, 19 Rector St., N. Y. C. three-ship Shenango Furnace Phone M-1323 The membership down here, the care of Curly Rentz, SIU 615 Summit St. „ n • „ A. Company and the five-ship Stein- TOLEDO Hall, 14 North Gay Street, .Bal­ Garfield 2II2|Other ports, JAMES F. -rUREK brenner (Kinsman Transit) fleet. WILMINGTON 440 Avaion Blvd. i havc repeatedly shown that they timore, Md. Your claim for transportation MIDLAND WAGES Terminal 4-3131 havc DO intention of permitting 4 4 4 from Galveston to New York VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. anyone to jeopardize the best BLAIR WRINGER A number of Lakes seamen City has been approved by PaGarden 8331 conditions and highest wages in E. Kesler is anxious to get in cific Tankers, and a check i& be- with whom our SIU organizers VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. the industry. have come in contact have exPacific 7824 touch with you immediately. | ing forwarded to your home. By PAUL WARREN m<. Gashounds Find Tough Sledding In Puerto Rico PERSONALS NOTICE! " .''Vb SIU HALLS �/>- - f!-' • Page Sixteen . THE 1 SEAFARERS LOG Friday, July 4, 1947 mwA 1:?. _ '• iii-' S^.'v i'-' ¥• ii-: ' 1^': . li' •? i. <fl^T /V 1: ' op AioerH AMERIOA • X. :•>• , • 'pi-' � 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 July 4, 1947 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. IX, No. 29 Description An account of the resource Headlines: HALL, WEISBERGER ATTEND AFL WASHINGTON MEETING ON 'SLAVE-LAW' STRATEGY NEW MIDLAND CONTRACT GIVES 40 HOUR WEEK, WAGE RAISE SIU GULF FISHERMEN PLAN FURTHER GROWTH NMU BLOCKS SIU-ISTHMIAN PACT DESPITE THREAT OF 'SLAVE LAW' A FIGHTING PROGRAM MANY STATES ARE PASSING LAWS TO STRANGLE AMERICAN UNIONISM IT TAKES MORE THAN ISTHMIAN TO BEST AN SIU ORGANIZER LATEST MOVE OF GOVERNMENT PERIL TO MERCHANT MARINE MOBILE BAY FISHERMEN ARE NOW SIU, TOO SEAFARERS NEVER MET, BUT HAVE MUCH IN COMMON ALL AFL UNIONS IN PHILADELPHIA MEET TO STUDY TAFT-HARTLEY ACT SEAFARERS' OBJECTIVE IN CANADA; TO GET FULL AMERICAN CONDITIONS TAKE WARNING, BROTHERS, HARD TIMES ARE RETURNING: SHIPS' OFFICERS NOW PRACTICING PROHIBITIONS ROOT COMMIES FROM PUBLIC LIFE, SAYS THE ILGWU FLORIDA PLANS STILL MORE LAWS TO TIE UNIONS GOFFIN LOOKS SHORESIDE, FINDS SOME CHARACTERS ARE NOT FUNNY 800 LB. SHARK OPENS BIG MOUTH, IS HOOKED BY GRIFFIN CREWMEN NORFOLK HALL STAFF WINS CREW'S PRAISE CAR KILLS SIU MAN FRIETCHIE AFLAME 5 HOURS LOADING TROUBLES NMU WITHDRAWS FROM WYANDOTTE, AFTER USUAL STALLING TACTICS FAIL GASHOUNDS FIND TOUGH SLEDDING IN PUERTO RICO Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/4/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5b41ace732b2ed851351d4c15ca4ad4e.PDF 1f2557d5275751c2add98667f8f34b97 PDF Text Text •J3 • > i «r- Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. N.Y. Meeting Pledges Aid To CIO Union NEW YORK, June 26—In line with the traditional SIU policy of supporting other unions in legiti­ mate economic beefs, a special joint meeting of SIU-SUP mem­ bership voted all-out backing to the CIO Shipyard Workers in their nationwide strike which started midnight June 25. It will be remembered by all Seafarers that the SIU went to the aid of the Shipyard Workers this spring when Local 13, at the Bushey Shipyards in Brooklyn, was faced by stubborn refusal of the company to bargain. SIU strength, massed on the picketline," helped bring quick results. NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. JUNE 27. 1947 - Labor Fights Back The Taft-Hartley "Kill Labor" Bill is now law, and the United States has tahen the first step down the road that leads to fascism. When Mussolini wanted to institute his reign of ter­ ror, he first started by throttling the labor movement. When Hitler came to power, his first objective was the complete breakdown of labor unions in Germany. And when Stalin became supreme dictator of Russia, he made sure that the Russian labor unions were stripped of their strength and power. The same pattern is being followed here in the United States. The bill, which has been described by stooge Con­ gressmen as "mild and reasonable," will bring to a halt all normal bargaining between employer and employee. The closed shop will be outlawed; industry-wide bargain­ ing restricted; company unions will flourish with en­ couragement from the Government; and only attornies well-skilled in labor laws will be able to unravel the many intricacies of the new legislation. If this is "mild and reasonable," then so were the to­ talitarian regimes of Mussolini and Hitler, and so are the The full text of tne resolution dictatorships of Stalin, Franco, and Peron. i.s as follows: WHEREAS, the membership of the CIO Shipyard Workers voted nationally to strike un­ less their demands were met by the bosses, and Brain Trust WHEREAS, the Shipyard Work­ ers gave 30 days strike notice as required by law, and the time expired on midnight June 25, therefore There is little reason to doubt that the legislators who voted for the Bill have done so because they believe that they can best serve their masters. Big Business, by dealing labor a hard blow. It is common knowledge that the Bill which bears the names of Senator Taft and Representative Hartley was really written by the combined brains of the National WHEREAS, the demands were Association of Manufacturers and the Chamber of Com­ not met and the shipyard-own­ merce, two organizations admittedly opposed to the just ers arrogantly refused to bar­ aims of the American labor movement. gain in good faith, and BE IT RESOLVED that the mem­ bership of the New York Branch of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union goes on record to support the CIO Shipyard Workers both morally and physically, and financially if necessary, and EE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the Senate and the House of Representatives, The President of the American Federation of Labor, and the President of the Congress of Industrial Organizations, and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that it be recommended to other SIU Branches that this resolution to read in special meetings held for the purpose and that this resolution of sup­ port be adopted. In view of the Seafarers' known record throughout the country for its immediate rally­ ing behind any legitimate union having a legitimate beef, no mat­ ter what its affiliation, there is little doubt but that the resolu­ tion will receive quick appraval from the membership in all brantjhes up and down the coast. But the Bill written by the NAM and the CC, and (Contimud on ?agg 4) New York Branch Cracks Down On Gashounds AndPerformers NEW YORK, June 26—A rank and file trial committee of Sea­ farers, guided by the growing dis­ satisfaction within the SIU toward gashounds and performers, crack­ ed down yesterday on six crewmembers who admitted to being drunk and refusing to turn to, thereby throwing the burden of ship's work on their shipmates. Two of the confessed perform­ ers, who are tripcarders, were fined $50 and warned that their privileges would be revoked in the event the offense is repeated. Fines of $25 were imposed on the other four—all full book members. The committee upbraided the full book men for failing in their responsibility to set an example to the newer members of the or­ ganization, and admonished that a re^^urrence would result in more severe penalties. . In addition to imposing the fines, the trial committee made it mandatory that the men re­ port immediately to the Dis­ patcher and accept the first jobs assigzied to them. NAMES WITHHELD The committee, which was elected at a special membership meeting, withheld the names of the guilty men from the LOG and the ship in order not to cause them any additional embai-rassment. The situation first came to light when indignant Seafarers, crew members aboard the ves­ sel, reported the actions of the six performers to a boarding Pa­ trolman. Efforts of the union rep­ resentative to get the men to turn to and to observe their ob­ ligations were at first of no avail. \ (Contimud from Page 4) No. 26 Wyandotte Crews Begin NLRB Vote is to be the payroll period end­ ing June 15, 1947. 5. Ballot Position — The SIU is to be on the right side of the ballot. No Union in the center, and the NMU on the left side. This should be good news for the Wyandotte seamen who have been anxiously awaiting the set­ ting of the election date. Inci­ dentally, no idle boast to say Overruling the phony, time- that the overwhelming majority stalling objections of the NMU of Wyandotte seamen prefer the representatives, NLRB Hearing SIU. Examiner Miss Ruth Greenberg set the election date and other stipulations of the consent elect­ ion which were agreed to by the SIU and company repre­ sentatives. Based on contentions that the election should not proceed until the NLRB in Washington de­ NEW YORK —In a telegram cided the NMU's appeal of the Local Board's decision to throw sent to all Ports this week, J. P. out the NMU's unfair labor Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer of charges as being without found­ the SIU Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ ation, Acting Detroit NMU Agent trict, notified the membership Mike Kearns requested a post­ that the operators have offered a 5 percent wage increase plus ponement of the election. overtime for all holidays at sea. This, Miss Greenberg refused The Negotiating Committee— to do, stating that it was up to the Regional Director and the consisting of Lindsey Williams Board to decide on the merits and Joe Algina, Deck Depart­ ment; Paul Hall and Robert Mat­ of the NMU's appeal. After a company representa­ thews, Engine Departrrient; and tive had voiced a query asking J. P. Shuler and Ray Gonzales, Stewards Department—is now on what basis the NMU was studying the shipowners' pro­ intervening, SIU Asst. Organ­ posals, and a full report on izational Director Paul Warren recommendations will be mailed voiced the SIU position by stat­ out as soon as possible. ing that "The SIU doesn't care Members of the Union were re­ whether the NMU appears on the quested by the Committee to pro­ ballot or not. In fact, we wel­ ceed with their regular duties as come them on the ballot. Then, per contract. the Wyandotte seamen will have The Committee forsees no a good chance to show which union they want — the SIU or danger of a strike or job action at the present time, and stated that the NMU." no money will be lost on raises ELECTION STIPULATIONS while the negotiations continue, since all salary increases will be Complete stipulations regard­ retroactive. ing the Wyandotte election are DETROIT — As a result of the SIU's last meeting with the National Labor Relations Board regarding the Wyandotte Trans­ portation Company election, the seamen of this company's four ships — SS Alpena, Conneaut, Huron and Wyandotte — will be able to Vote for the union of their choice after June 30 and prior to July 12. SiU Committee Making Headway In Negotiations as follows: 1. Election Date — This is set for after June 30 and prior to July 12, but excluding July 4 and 5 (holiday weekend). 2. Bargaining Unit — All un­ licensed personnel including the Stewai'd, but excluding Radio Operators, Pursers, Conveyor Engineers and all licensed per­ sonnel. 3. Voting Place — Voting is to take place in the Card Rooms of the company's ships, docked at either the North or South Plants of the Company in Wyan­ dotte, Michigan. 4. Eligibility Period — This PORT MEETINGS A further recommendation of the Negotiating Committee was for each Port to set-up an infor­ mational bulletin and to hold special meetings to report the latest developments. The Seafarers International Union has for a long time led the maritime industry in regards to wages and conditions. With the full support of the membership behind the Negotiating Commit­ tee, there is every reason to be­ lieve that the gains made in the present bargaining scs«ions will also set standards for other seamens' unions to shoot at. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 27. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG • Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAno^er 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG - - - ,5 President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL - -- -- -- -- First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. P. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Bo.x 25, Bowling Green Station^ New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 10.38 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St.. Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York. N. Y.. under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Pity The Poor Executive! At a recent meeting of the stockholders of the United States Lines Inccn-purated, an irate stockholder got to his feet to protest against the low salaries being paid to the officers of his company. He complained that, according to the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, the executives of all twelve of the lines which hold operating subsidy contracts from the Government are prevented from drawing more than $2 5,000 per year in salary. And not only that, but with taxes the way they are, these men have a take-home pay of approximately $15,000. This sort of pity for the salaried employes of a big compan}' is all to the good, but the compassionate stock­ holder should have used his good words for the shipowners' employes who need it the most—the men who actually sail the ships. One point in the argument advanced by the stock­ holder is that if the S2 5,000 limit is not raised, many of the ambitious joung executives will seek greener fields where they can make more money, and thereby discourage the high class of man.agement which the shipping lines have always enjoyed. Any seamen reading this is probably already bent over with laughter. The ' high class of management" which this mistaken capitalist referred to is the type of management that returns huge profits to investors, at the cost of sea­ men's lives, their broken bodies, and their wasted years. Perhaps the executives do deserve more money, but ceitainly not until the seamen who create the shipowners' wealth have a chance to share in it. What justice is there to high salaries for a few, whose jobs would not exist if it were not for the seamen, while those same seamen by the thousands are forced to live on the crumbs thrown to them by the exploiting. shipowners? We are in favor of higher salaries in the maritime in­ dustry. We are even in favor of higher wages being paid the "starving" $2 5,000 a year executives. But we firmly believe that increased wages should start where they arc needed most, and should be given to the men who are responsible for the vast profits which shipping lines roll up year after year. Perhaps that stockholder really thought that $2 5,000 a year is poor pay. Let him then talk to any working sea­ man, compare the two levels, and then go home to have a long talk with his conscience. It will do him a world of good! 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 In The Marine Hospitals These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find lime hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. ST-ATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL A. RIOS W. JOY N. NEILSEN J. A. DYKES E. J. SIDNEY V. PLACEY C. CARLSON E. E. CASEY W. F. STEWART R. G. MO.SSELLER J. HOSTEN C. R. O'NEAL M. J. DELANEY T. J. KURKI C. IBRAIN A. DUDDE E. CHATARD A. KELLER M. PISKUN W. E. STORVI.S A. FELICIANO » » NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL A. BUCHENHORNER C. PEDERSEN J. HARRISON G. CARUSO P. STOFFEL A. SANDY R. CHRISTIAN A. R. GUIDRY J. AMAYA H. DAUGHERTY P. La Cicero R. WRIGHT G. GREY H. HAMOND C. CASE F. HAMON J. O'NEILL W. BROSE C. MASON A. WALTERS \ 4" i* 4* BALTIMORE HOSPITAL E. L. CAIN JR. J. A. TARDELLEO M. PLYER A. HAYER T. O'MALLEY M. SAVEAED J. OFFSIMIK R. MYERS H. GREEN W. McKAY i X ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL W. MORRIS W. B, MUIR D. McDONALD C. RASMUSSEN • J. KOSLUSKY You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing liems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 8th 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.) NEPONSET HOSPITAL L. CLARK J. S. CAMPBELL E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY C. LARSEN L. L. LEWIS J. R. LEWIS L. TORRES C. SCHULTZ J. HAMILTON R. A. BLAKE H. BELCHER J. T. EDWARDS XXX BRIGHTON • HOSPITAL R. BAASNER W. PARIS R. LORD R. MODIGAN (SUP) E. MOFIENE E. DELLAMANO P. KOGOY J. ROY R. GRALICKI H. WALSH J. WHEATON (SUP) A. ROUSED •1 - 'i -J �THE Friday, June 27. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Both NMU And LSU Try To Freeload On Seafarers' Accomplishments By PAUL WARREN By PAUL HALL There has been considerable discussion in the various port meetings recently in regard to the Union's program for economizing. These discussions—in the main—have been healthy, and they have provided the many members and officials with an opportunity to express their opinions on the subject of economy. It might be well, at this point, to stress to the membership that when they participate in such meetings, they should see to it that personalities play no part in discussions or actions. Let no official of any port tell members that any port, is "trying to run the Union." Some of this smear-attack technique was used recently in one or two of the ports. When any official has to stoop to this kind of face-saving instead of dealing squarely with the facts, it can lead to an unhealthy situation, if allowed to continue. Members Can Serve Union Seafarers who are interested in seeing the Union continue its advance on a sound, economical basis will be serving their own interests and those of the entire membership by setting straight any member, or official, who smugly states that a particular individual or port is "trying to run the Union." Remarks like these, which are injurious to the Union, are easy to make but have no basis in fact, and if they are set Upon right away can be knocked into the cocked hat from which they came. Members hearing these statements can nail them right away by pointing out to those who make them that our Union Constitution is clear. It emphatically states that our membership must vote on a coastwise basis on all issues affecting the Union, with a majority ruling the policy which is to be follov/ed. It is the membership, then, which makes the final decision on what SIU policy and program is to be on any issue. Ordinarily, when any official takes the particular line in ques­ tion to "explain" why he is not living up to Union policy, he is doing it for one of two reasons. Fjrst, it is because he actually doesn't possess the ability to handle the Union's affairs in the man­ ner which the membership wants. Second reason is that he is de­ liberately trying to hamstring the Union by creating doubts and casting reflections, insinuations and blasting members and officials who are living up to policy laid down by all hands. Watch for this at any meeting you attend in the future. While it is true that such an occurrence is a rarity, nevertheless if it ever should happen, it is the membership who can stop it. ^ Union Financial Condition Sound While on the subject of the economizing program, it is good to know that in spite of some differences of opinion on the matter, the Union is now running on a sounder economical basis than it has in a number of years. Our new Secretary-Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, has done an effi­ cient job putting into effect the program adopted at this year's Agent's Conference. A glance at the Headquarter's financial re­ ports shows in black and white that through his efforts the General Fund has been increased by approximately $60,000 since he assumed office. Further, the normal operating expenses of the Union have been slashed by $2,000 per week. This is really cutting the mustard. In view of these remarkable strides, let us all continue to give the Secretary-Treasurer our support in living up to this program. The result will be that we'll have a lot more dollars in our fund, and consequently we'll have more bang if we have to go to bat with the shipowners again. Gulf Ports Now In Good Shape The Gulf ports are now operating in Seafarers style. Quite a few members have been asking questions regarding the changes in that area. The record shows that former SIU officials in some of the Gulf ports were not adhering to Union policy, not only in fail­ ing to operate an efficient and economical port, but also by allow­ ing phony outfits, such as the Merchant Mariners of America, to solicit membership around SIU halls. When corrected on these issues and shown by the membership that they were dead wrong in their actions, these officials asked for, and received, leaves of absence. Two of these former officials in the Port of Galveston have not yet accounted to the Union for all of its monies, and approximately $400 is still oiyed to the SIU by these former officials. The Union will, of course, be reimbursed by the bonding company by whom all officials are bonded for the security of the Union, and will not lose this dough. It is just as well that this matter receive an airing. The mem^ bership has every right to know what is going on so that it can act accordingly. Furthermore, the rumors and doubts fomented by the rumor mongers cannot survive in clean, open air. They can only thrive in the dark corners where they are conceived. ... It will serye notice, too, to any would-be disrupter that he will not be allowed to interpret the Union's actions in any manner other than what it is—the protection and welfare of the Union membership. (Continued on Fage DETROIT — Recently, we've had numerous queries concern­ ing what is being done on the Lakes by either the Lake Sailors Union (Independent) or the Na­ tional Maritime Union (CIO). So, here goes for the umpteenth time with the answer—and it's a loud and emphatic "Nothing!" Yes, Brothers, absolutely noth­ ing is being done on the Lakes by either of these outfits in the way of organizing or getting con­ structive gains for the Lakes seamen. However, every single time that the SIU starts organizing an unorganized company, either or both of these so-called unions jumps in to intervene. Neither the LSU nor the NMU has had the guts or the program to do any organizing on their own. They mouth a lot of empty promises about what they're go­ ing to do some indefinite time in the future, and are trying to ride in on the Seafarers' efforts for free. LOOK AT,RECORD Let's look at the record, and add up the score. The SIU has already petitioned and won an election on the two Huron ships. In this instance, the NMU inter­ vened and seeured the insignifi­ cant sum of 2 votes to the 28 amassed by the Seafarers. On Wyandotte, what happen- Canadian CCF Raps Phony Ship Transfers OTTAWA — An often sus­ pected practice of American shipowners was brought out into the open this week in the Ca­ nadian House of Commons when a charge of operating a "boot­ legging" system in ships was leveled at American shipping i.nierests. The "bootlegging" system, really the underhanded method whereby American ships are being put under the Panamanian Flag, was described as being carried out by bringing Ameri­ can vessels into Canadian ports, their registries transferring to the Flag of Panama, and the American crews aboard being discharged to be replaced by Chinese crews at much lower wages. Exposing the shipowners' racket were two. Cooperative Commonwealth Federation mem­ bers of Parliament — H. G. Archibald and Clarie Gillis. They immediately asked the Canadian Reconstruction Min­ ister whether the proposed Ca­ nadian Maritime Commission, would have the power to pro­ hibit such practices. The Reconstruction Minister, when faced with the question, stated that if there ai'e any in­ fractions it will be the duty of the Mai'itime Commission to bring them to the attention of the appropriate Minister to see that they do not continue. The Cooperative Common­ wealth Federation, which Mr. Archibald! .and Gillis represent, is a nOn-communist organization composed of labor, cooperative and socialist; groups. ed? Not only did the SIU or­ ganize the Wyandotte seamen and petition for an election but practically all of the men lined up for the Seafarers. As usual, the NMU intervened and was given a week in which to prove that they had proof of representation. The NMU failed to prove any basis for intervention and these phony charges were tossed out by the NLRB and a hearing on a consent election held. Over the NMU's protests, the NLRB set the Wyandotte elec­ tion dates. Voting on the four ships begins after June 30 and continues until July 12, or until the ships have finshed, if sooner. MORE INTERVENTION On both Hanna and Wilson, the SIU filed for elections. In both of these fleets, the LSU and the NMU intervened. Since then, the NMU has tossed in more un­ fair labor practices charges, al­ leging that the Mates on the Hanna ships were favoring the SIU. Hearings on the NMU's phony charges will consume mure lime before we can have an election on Hanna ships. This is just an­ other stall to hold up an election for the Hanna seamen. As for the Wilson fleet, this is going to the NLRB in Wash­ ington for a decision on the bar­ gaining unit, and an ordered elec­ tion will be necessary. The SIU has also filed for elec­ tions on the Steinbrenner and Shenango ships, and in both of these companies the NMU inter­ vened. So it's easy to see how these fellows have been riding on the Seafarers coat-tails. And, that's the reason for all of the questions concerning the LSU and NMU. It's a big laugh for the major­ ity of the Lakes seamen how these two outfits—the bankrupt NMU and the company-dominated LSU—are letting the SIU do all the work, and trying to cash in our efforts. However, their plans are not succeeding because the unorgan­ ized Lakes seamen know who is setting the pace for wages, hours and conditions. SIU PROGRAM The Seafarers program on the Lakes is well known to most of the seamen sailing the Lakes. They know that the SIU has a record of setting the pace on the Lakes. We lead and others fol­ low. Even the powerful shipowners group, the Lake Carriers Associa­ tion, follows our lead in estab­ lishing wages and conditions. However, where the unorgan­ ized seamen lose out is in the working and living conditions aboard their ships. They have no SIU contract to provide SIU Union security, protection and representation for them. So if they don't like the conditions aboard the open shop LCA ships, they are forced to pile off. Contrast the conditions aboard SIU contracted ships to those pre­ vailing on unorganized Lakes ships. Do you get paid overtime for work performed outside the hours of 5 p. m. to 8 a. m. which is not necessary to the navigation or safety of your ship? Are you secure on your job, and free from being fired to make room for one of the bosses' friends or relatives? Can yow talk to your Skip­ per or Departmental Head about a legitimate beef with­ out fear of being fired? Does your ship feed well, or do you have the two pot sys­ tem on it? These are just a few of the abuses which the SIU will clean up after we succeed in organiz­ ing the unorganized companies into the SIU. All of these con­ ditions are covered in SIU con­ tracts. As well as providing for the best working and living condi­ tions on the Lakes, competent SIU representation means that you can win your legitmate beefs without fear of intimidation. An SIU contract is your pro­ tection and guarantee that you, too, will enjoy the best wages, hours, working and living condi­ tions on the Lakes. We don't promise you the moon or any "pie in the sky" program. We just say, "Don't take less than the best, and that's the SIU!" No News, Really; NMULoses Again BOSTON—Still smarting from their setback in the Isthmian fleet, the NMU took another rap. across the knuckles last week when the seamen of the Boston Fuel Transportation Company re­ jected it in an NLRB election held in Boston. Voting 19 to 7 for no union, the men of the company's three ves­ sels, the Harold Reinauar, Lucy Reinauar and the Seaboard Rei­ nauar, completely swamped the NMU's efforts to organize the company. Speaking to SIU men after the election the men of the Boston Fuel fleet made it known that they were not anti-union but anti-NMU and were anxious for the SIU to step in and petition for an election. The Boston Fuel Transporta­ tion Company operates its ships out of Boston covering the New England area with runs to St. Johns and Halifax as well. The ships carry an unlicensed crew of 14 men. Button Gwinnett Ripped Open With approximately twenty feet of her port side Sitove in by heavy seas, the SS Button Gwinnett, South Atlantic Steam­ ship Company, steamed into Hampton Roads where she is now undergoing repairs. The Gwinnett left Norfolk on March 30, bound for Copen­ hagen with a cargo of coal. After unloading, she headed for home on April 25, and van into a series of severe storms. Without cargo, she was an easy prey to the high seas and strong winds. After fighting the storm for several days, open seams were noticed in her port side, and the ship sent out a call for assistance. Without aid, however, she managed to reach Leith, Scot­ land. �THE Page Four SEAFARERS LOG Suggests Joint SlU-MM&P Panel Te Handle Crew-Officer Disputes By FREDDIE STEWART Friday, June 27, 1947 Labor Fights Back (Contivued from Page 1) supported by the lackeys of Big Business, has not achieved its goal. The labor movement in the United States is not broken and bowed; in fact, it is-gaining new strength from ments by making a grab for it is among our objects: To use our influence, individually and the struggle. leadership. Since the seamen's and 1 icons collectively for the purpose of AFFECTS UNION In the days to come, the "Kill Labor" Bill supporters ed officer's strike last year, there maintaining ajid dm.'oioping skill have been a number of disputes In ail of • 10 cases mentioned, in seamanship and effecting a will find that they have created a Frankenstein monster. between the crews and the of­ it is disgi-aceful to sec these un­ change in the Maritime law of They will come to realize that the law they thought would ficers aboard ships. necessary signs of friction in­ tlie United Stales so as to render crush labor has really made it into a fighting, militant Looking at the thing honestly, volve th' conduct of our Union it more equitable and to make weapon. inanx' of these disputes can be business. it an aid instead of a hindrance traced to the fact that a few to the development of a mer­ Looking Ahead Today vVe seamen, and the of­ .seamen have waved in the of­ chant marine and . a body of ficers of our profession, who ficer's faces the theory that they American seamen." The working people of the United States have long are memhtrs of a bonafido trade were greatly instrumental in been satisfied with pork chops and decent conditions, and union, arm affiliates of the same MARITIME COUNCIL getting the security, wages and parent body — the American have not taken a serious interest in the'men who make conditions won m the strike. To aid in the accomplishment Federation of Labor. laws of this lan,d. But with the passage of the Taft-Tartley This t ttitude on the part of Wo Seafarers have for many of the aims set forth in our Con­ Bill, they have learned a lesson. a few iTicn serves to create a years practiced a principle set stitution's preamble stated above, feeling of resentment, rather down in our Con.stitution. It we have found a need to bring Not only have strikes followed the passage of the all AFL maritime than the appreciation it is in­ might be well to reproduce it together bill, with a threat of more to come, but labor is looking unions. tended to inspire. here; piercingly at both political parties, and responsible labor As a result we have formed Of course, we have cases "We will, therefore, try by all where officers are deliberately just means to promote harmon­ the Maritime Trades Department leaders are talking seriously of a "New Party," controlled resentful of seamen because they ious relations with those in com­ comprised of all maritime work­ by labor and sj^ppox'ting only tried and true friends of cannot execute the flagrant and mand by exercising due care and ers. teamsters, etc.. and equipped the labor movement. unju.st powers cherished in the diligence in the performance of to deal with problems of any It is certainly about time that labor got a better break. past. the duties of our profesion. and nature affecting all. It might be fitting in dealing by giving all possible assist­ The men who produce the wealtli of this country have too There are other cases where with the subject of officers and ance to our employers in caring frustrations create dissension long been forced to exist on crumbs. Politicians have con­ crew to organize what might be among some seamen wh.o like for their gear and property. spired to steal away the freedom of the working man, but "Based upon these principles, known as a grievance pane to give vent to their disappoint­ made up of members of the there is a wind rising—a wind that threatens to blow the SIU and the MMP. The panel traitors out of office and out of public life. could have six members — two officials from each union and a rank and file member of each. Four Watch System Will Insure Jobs For All lb The Tough Times By ED LARKIN At the moment shipping is hit­ ting a postwar high and jobs are plentiful for seamen, but there are signs of a drop in cargo ship­ ping to come in th^ near future, and that means that jobs will start to slacken off. When this comes there will be a lot of men on the beach waiting for jobs, while the men who have berths will be making extra money through overtime and pay­ ing off with plenty of cash. To prepare for this day. which isn't too far off. the one sure way of spreading put the jobs is to go all out for the four watch system. I know a lot of guys will throw up their hands and yell that this is barking at the moon, and that it will only put the shipowners out of business, but I don't think that is the case. If we had the four watch sys­ tem, insuring jobs for more Un­ ion men, we would be sure of one thing: job security. Instead of asking for a lot of cabbage when we go into nego­ tiations this fall, let's make the four watch system our big gun. Lets plumb for security. lion dollars, and that ain't hay. No. Brothers, the four watc.'i system won't drive the American merchant marine from the seas. It will, however, make life a hell of a lot easier for the seaman and it will set the pace for the workers of the country to strive for the six hour day. PANEL'S FUNCTIONS This panel would function when expedient, to determine the ties and relationship between the parties involved, violations of contracts, and the reason for any ill-feeling that may exist. The SIU-MMP panel would have the power to render to each union- a report and -the de­ cision of the panel to be passed upon by the membership of each in accordance with the respect­ ive constitutions. • Thus the problems which might hinder fullfillment of the harmony and peace of the or­ ganizations can be weeded out. It is quite likely that the Isth­ mian ships might keep this panel busy for awhile. Or would you settle for a Patrolman on officers? New York Bramh Cracks Down On Gashounds AndPerformers (Continued from Page 1) The men were then removed from the ship and charges insti­ tuted immediately with the trial committee hearing the case di­ rectly after being elected. In ruling on the charges, the trial committee pointed out to the six men that the SIU is the only organization whose policy calls for job action, when neces­ sary. Nevertheless, the commit­ tee stressed, the serious mem­ bership will not allow drunks to work hardships on the rest of the crew, as well as jeopardize the hard-won gains of the Union. conditions, every individual mem­ ber would suffer as a result, the committee added. Committee members ruling on the important case were George R. Kosch, Bill Thompson. DeLorant Troy, 'Victor J. Pelutis and Salvatore 'Volpe. UNION INSURANCE The four watch system will be In the guilty group were two real life insurance for the Union, SIU and two SUP full book mem­ also, several hundred men on bers and one tripcarder ft-om the beach looking for jobs is not each of the sections of the SIU. a healthy situation. After awhile, even the best When informed by the trial Union men will start looking for committee of its action in this a Panamanian ship just to get a case, Joe Algina, Acting Agent bunk and food. for the Port of New York, stated HURT ALL MEMBERS Who knows, if things get bad that "the committee did a good enough, a guy might start play­ The committee further recalled job. They upheld the policy al­ ing the shipowners' game of for the men the fact that the top ways followed by this port in strike-breaking — a hungry man All Departments flight conditions enjoyed by the cases of this kind. Our Union does foolish things. Seafarers membership are the is too good to tolerate gashounds When your ship docks, it I think four watches should be best in the industry. and the sooner the membership is a good idea to have a list the spearhead of our drive to in­ If performers are allowed to puts a stop to thi^ stuff, the betof necessary repairs to give sure jobs for all. indiscriminately violate these | ter off we'll all be." to the Patrolman. This will Fifty years ago the shipowners help in letting the company wailed that the drive for the know exactly what has to be three watch system would ruin done to get the ship in tip­ them, but none of them jumped top condition. off buildings. Seafarers don't have to sail They will wail again but, if we beat-up ships. Do your part show them we are solidly behind INCREASES JOBS to make every ship a clean, the drive for the four watch sys­ WASHINGTON — The ground­ cow asking for the return of the well kept vessel. When a slump in business tem, we can do what others have work for a full-scale investiga- vessels, or for payment. To date, comes, it would not hit us too called the impossible. I tion of oil shipments to Russia, Russian officials have neglected - hard if we now create jobs for a being carried in American ships to reply to the various mes­ fourth of our membership. More flying the Soviet flag, was laid sages. jobs will mean greater security this week by the House Mer­ for both the members and the SIX SO FAR chant Marine Committee. Union when the going gets a lit­ tle tough. Records of'the House Merchant The Committee chairman. Rep­ (Contimred from Page }) I don't think the shipowner resentative Weichel, charged that Marine Committee disclose that The Seafarers is a young and fast growing outfit. It is under­ petroleum pipducts are being six such tankers sailed from will go out of business nor will the American merchant marine standable that we will have occasional growing pains. We must transported to Russia in lend- West Coast ports bound for disappear from the sea. Accord­ .at times expect problems of this nature, and as Union men we must lease tankers that the Russian Russia, while as far as the ing to the newspapers they are meet them, call them what they are, and answer them. Government had failed to pay Committee could ascertain no doing alright for themselves right It is this policy that has made the SIU as strong as it is today. for and refused to return. United States tankers are em­ now, in spite of all their cries That is what made the large string of tremendous victories possible ployed conveying petroleum to As reported in tlie LOG a few the Soviet Union. of high Union wages. —in the Isthmian drive, the 1946 General Strike, and the gaining The financial pages give the of many off-shore steamship companies. It has helped us double our weeks ago, ninety-four American Mr. Weichel declared that the vessels were turned over to the Committee would seek further lie to their tale of woe. In the. aize in the past 12 months. Soviet Government during the information, and if necessary first six months of this year they We cannot afford to take the position of not recognizing a made more than they made in problem when we see one coming up. Nor ean we fail to answer war as part of lend-lease. would reopen its investigation of the last couple of years. U. S. that problem. We v/ill not take the "ostrich-in-the-sand" attitude. After the end of bostiiities, the failure of Russia to return Lines alone made over two mil­ By-calling a spade a spade, we will continue, to grow and expand. several notes were sent to Mos- any of the lend-lease ships. American Tankers Russia Refuses To Return Used To Carry U.S. Oil Clearing The Deck a— ---Wk �Friday. June 27. 1947 Page Fiv& THE SEAFARERS LOG Aboard Mississippi's Newest-The Dei Mar pICrURED on this page are some crewmembers of the SS Del Mar, Mississippi's newest passenger vessel. This luxury liner crewed up in New Orleans and will be on the run from N. O. to the Islands. The Del Mar joins a v%^ellknown fleet of other cruise ships operated by the Missis­ sippi Steamship Company; the SS Del Norte, the SS Del Sud, and the SS Del Mundo. All are crewed by Seafarers, and all are famous for the type of service and comfort provided for the passengers. That's the v/ay an SIU crew operates, sailing the ship and carrying out the other duties efficiently. Jusl before sailing time, members of the crew of the Del Mar pose against a picturesque background. L. to R.: Pop Schaeffer. Mike Derkits. William Witchen, Eld Gonzales. Red WesseL Larry Michel. Butsy Marshall, Jerry Pontiff. John Epton, Sam Marinello, and Tommy Scoper. Second row, Steve Colecchi and Pete Garza. Rear row. H. C. Frierson. Leslie Blanchard, Fred Bowden, and S. Randolph. Not all members of the crew are present, sin :e even when the ship is not on the open waters some men are necessary on board to attend to their duties. Like all other SIU ships, the Del Mar is crewed by an etticient band of men who have made the sea their caceef. In all De* partments there are experienced Seafarers, some of whom have been sailing for a quarter of a century, and these men help to train newcomers so thai the v American Merchant Marine always has a flow of good seamen coming up. No need for Trciining Schools under these circum­ stances. That's why the SIU has always been in favor'of men being trained on the ships rather than in schools where they get no real practical experience. Members of the Deck Department line up on the gang­ plank for a picture. In the usual order. Felix Curls, William Worthington, Don Howard, Sam Marinello. Edward Avard, Butsy Marshall, George Levine, and Sam Lemoine. A once over lightly is being given given to Red Jameson by Ernest Guillot, Ship's Barber. There's good food on board, and here ere the men who pre­ pare it. Around the circle, starting on the left, are R. B. Cerriilo, S. Navarro, Henry St. Ann, Tony Santiago, T. R. Rob­ inson, J. C. Randolph, and D. Marte. These men are responsible for the excellent service in the Dining Salon of the Del Mar. Starting on the left are Charles Fusilier, Aristides Soriano. Carlos Perez. A1 Spaulding, Tad Wrona, Frank Rivero. G. K. Moore, Kjeld Lyngstad. and Louis Gourdon. all Dining Room Waiters. In the white uniform, on the far right, is Claus Anderson. Second Steward. Part of the Black Gang takes time out from its many duties to pose for a picture for the LOG. Above, left to right, Eddie Quiller, Third Engineer; Tommy Scoper, Second Freezer; Charles Kath, Fireman; and Bob Carter, Oiler. -s. J. Far left. Bob Carter keeps an eye peeled for trouble as the Del Mar heads down into the open stream from New Orleans on her maiden run. Left, two experienced Seafarers track down some elec­ trical troubles. George Montesano holds the flashlight while George Ryninger peers over his shoulder. Up to his arm pits in dishes is W. H. Cook, right. Bet he's wishing the company would use paper dishes on the Del Mar. �THE Page Six SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 27. 1947 New Orleans Is Reorganized In Line With Recommendations By EARL SHEPPARD NEW ORLEANS- -The Port of boat Patrolman, Blackie Trussel; New Orleans is in very good and Organizer, Warren Wyman. shape. Shipping is at its peak, This lineup represents quite a and there are job here for every •reduction in the staff, in line rating. with the recommendations of the All beefs have been squared Agents Conference, to cut out all away, with the exception of one unnecessary expenditures and cut on the SS Brazil Victory. This the overall expenses of the A&G scow is tied up because of the District. Silence this week from the Working with less men than finky Mate, and the crew re­ By EINAR NORDAAS Branch Agents of the follow­ fuses to sign on, until the com­ formerly requires the fullest co­ ing ports: operation of the membership, but pany removes him. DULUTH — We've been hit seeds of discontent sown by LCA there isn't any worry about that MOBILE The Mate thought he was Cap­ by a tidal wave up here at the skippers and company stiffs are tain Blood and threatened some around here, as the Brothers .m head of the Lakes, and it's not bearing fruit. JACKSONVILLE of the crewmembers with a pis­ this Port are the kind wh'^ give the kind that Mother Nature lets BALTIMORE Men by the score are turning tol. This is not the first time that out with everything for the Sea­ loose at times. Instead its a to the one organization which MARCUS HOOK character ran afoul of the SIU, farers. rush of Lake Carrier seamen they know will give them a The deadline for port re­ but we intend it to be the last ON NEGOTIATIONS storming into the Hall to join change from the poor conditions ports. monies due. etc.. is the time. the SIU. The boys here miss Lindsey and treatment accorded them on Monday proceeding publica­ The crew has i-efused to sail Willams who went North with Up until a week or so ago, the LCA vessels. tion. While every effort will the ship wth this" gun-man on Paul Hall, to help out with the turnover on the Lakes ships The stories told us by the men board, and the ship is still hung negotiations with our contracted be made to use in the current was rather small. Then the fresh off these ships are all of up. Seems as though some of operators to get another wage issue material received after Lake Carriers Association ship­ the same theme: poor conditions those operators would get wise to increase. ped a lot of men aboard their and long hours without over­ that date, space commitments themselves and unload this type This week we were able to ships. time. generally do not permit us to of troublemaker before more show one of the LOG staff what It didn't take the men long do so. scows get hung up. the Gulf is like—Burt Beck, who AN OLD STORY to learn the score, and now the came down to set up the pub­ On the SS Mandan Victory, Stories of scrubbing and paint­ Waterman Steamship Company, licity apparatus for our organiz­ ing on Sunday and holidays are the Cooks were going to pile off ing drives. Last night he was old stuff to men who have sail­ due to the antics of a drunken seen eating corn bread and gravy ed the Lakes for the LCA, but permit Steward. We squared —quite an experience for a with the SIU on the Lakes to this one by pulling the Steward yankee. put an end to these cundiliuiis, What, no grits! off the ship. Gas hounds like the men are quick to hit the There are quite a number of this will not be tolerated, and we By SALVADOR COLLS SIU Hall in the first port they will pull the next one off as well. oldtimers in the Hall at this touch. SAN JUAN—A short strike by The crews of the SIU ships in time, and they want to be re­ NEW SET-UP Unfortunately, these stories membered to their shipmates in the ILA, which ended with their poi't, the Jean, Coastal Mariner, For those of you who haven't the other ports. being granted a 15c across the J. Hewes .and the James Barbour, will continue to be told and men got the new set-up in this port Among them are Jake Woods, board increase, was the big news were well taken care of as the will continue to be forced to yet, this is the way the Branch A1 Gatewood, Eddie Parr (not the in this port last week. ILA made arrangements for 40 work under slave labor condi­ shapes up now: same one working in Headquar­ When the ILA hit the bricks beds in a San Juan hotel so the tions as long as there is an un­ Agent, Earl Sheppard; Door­ ters), Douglas Craddock, C. W. for a raise, the SIU immediately men would not have to go aboard organized Lakes ship afloat. man, Moon Koons; Dispatcher, Crawford, T. Noto, G. Stevens, T. honored their picketlines around the ships to sleep. Elimination of these conditions The strange thing about it all will come, and come fast. Its Joe Martello; Patrolmen, Gray- Loterch, C. Gray, Charlie Weber, our ships. All the crews piled off don "Tex" Suit, Johnny John­ and Danny Burns. in short order giving them real is that, although the men did not a big job to do and no one can go to their ships to sleep, the do it overnight, but just as the ston, and Buck Stephens; Tug­ And that's all till next week. AFL solidarity in their fight. hotel reported that only six men deap sea is solidly union in the showed up to use the sacks pro­ dry cargo field, so will the vided. Lakes be solidly union and the Union will be the SIU. TAKEN CARE OF By W. H. SIMMONS | weekend for the Shipping Com­ and the doctor thinks that h.e There is a rumor to the effect The men on the Huron Trans­ missioner, I had to wait until the fractured his back. that the local populace, predom­ portation Company ships went SAN FRANCISCO — Another, following Monday to lodge my inately the feminine part, took overwhelmingly for the SIU in INCOME FALLS company tried to pull a fast one complaint. on us out here, and like all the Although we have plenty of the boys to heart and sheltered the first election on the Lakes rest, it found out mighty quickly ELIGIBLE TO PAYOFF activity out here, and while ship­ them during the strike, but no this year, demonstrating that one would believe a story like the SIU is the choice of the that we are alwaj's ready for On Monday morning I took ping remains good in all ratings, that. great majority of men in that slick tricks. This time it, was the the matter up with Mr. Waring, we have had very few payoffs Following the successful con­ fleet. Waterman Steamship Company, during the last week or so. the Chief Commissioner, and he and the ship was the SS Leland We understand, however, that clusion of the strike, there was Their feelings are the feel­ agreed that the men eligible to a big reception .held at which all ings of most Lakes .seamen. The Stanford. Smith and Johnson is going to payoff under mutual consent, the ILA men and the SIU broth­ desire to join the SIU and have This scow loaded in Baltimore since they had made one voyage run in here regular and payoff ers turned out. It was what the an SIU contract is the biggest long about March of this year. as stamped on the articles. They here, and that is all to the good society columnists would report had therefore fulfilled their part since we can use a little income as "a highlight of the social sea­ talking point on the Lakes this in this Branch. year. of the contract. son." At times we have to sweat due One beef arose out of the strike However, this had to be ap­ GET THE SCORE to the fact that income drops that was quickly dispo.sed of, proved by the Chief Commission­ If you haven't contacted one of off, but we don't like to wire namely, the threat by the skip­ er in Washington, and we had to the SIU Halls on the Lakes, Headquarters for money, which pers that they were going to log wait for confirmation from that take a few minutes off the next we haye only had to do once, the men who were ashore during end. quite a while back. time you're in Duluth or any the strike. Later that afternoon we re­ of the major ports and pay a That's about all, except to in­ I made it clear to the ships' ceived a call from Washington, vite you men with ratings to visit to the SIU Hall. It's there officers that no men were going telling us that the Chief had come out to the Gold Coast for a to be penalized for respecting a to serve you and give you the concurred. We paid off the ship choice of jobs and ships. score. picketline in front of their ships, the next day, with full transpor­ Congratulations are in order and with that the logs were for­ tation for all hands, and with all for the men of the SS S. T. gotten. members of the crew happy. Crapo and the John W. BoardBACK TO NORMAL bound for Germany. There she man who stuck to their ships and I am still having a little trou­ Now that things have come registered an eye opening vote reloaded for Yokohama, Japan. ble about that transportation Each man who makes a back to normal all is serene and in favor of the SIU. Enroute, she came into Frisco. rule. Some of the members can't donation to the LOG should business is fine. I covered the Her stop in this port was sup­ seem to understand that it is a Their vote is the first hole in receive a receipt in return. MV Ponce this week and handled the LCA dike which will soon posedly for emergency repairs, West Coast rule that when a If the Union official to whom the paying of the crew up to the but when she came under the man receives transportation, he break into a flood, drowning the a contribution is given does current month. Golden Gate Bridge, instead of must get off the ship. last citadel of anti-labor em­ not make out a receipt for As for our difficulty with going to some repair dock, which ployers. That is a hard and fast regula­ the money, call this to the Augusto the Janitor, which I would have been okay according tion out here, and I was elected Brother John Burke, fireman attention of the Secretaryreported to the LOG, it has been to our contract, the Stanford by the membership to carry #ut on the Davin, fell off a ladder Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, im­ rectified to the satisfaction of all. headed for the Oakland Army the rules of the organization. mediately. The suggestion of the LOG Edi­ boarding her in Superior last Base. One of the lads on the Leland Send the name of the of­ tor to paint his feetTalack, since Friday injuring his back. Bro­ When I got over there, they Stanford was hurt pretty bad ficial and the name of the he has a dislike for shoes, was ther Burke is at present re­ were ready to load airplanes on while the ship was at the Army port in which the oCcurance carefully considered, but Aug­ cuperating in Saintr Mary's Hos- . the deck, and motors into the Base waiting to load. He was took place to the New Yorie usto, when he saw us walking pital at Superior. number three hold. clearing the lines, standing on Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New If any of-his shipmates are around with a can of black paint, York 4, N. Y. That was all I had to see, but the mast table, when he slipped quickly capitulated and has worn up this way I'm sure he would as this was a three-day Memorial and fell. He landed on the winch be glad to see you. shops since. Poor Treatment Of LCA Seamen NO NEWS?? Brings Lakes Men To Seafarers Seafarers Supports PIcketlines As ILA Wins Puerto Rico Strike Seafarers ffalts Slick Deal On West Coast Attention Members n •'ii �Friday. June 27, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Wants To Know Where LSU Gets All Its Dough Page Seven Ships And Gas Hounds Are Hitting Port Tampa On Regular Schedule By C. SIMMONS TAMPA — With from two to Skipper that the ship would not M four ships hitting this port every sail until he had rehired the j day, and most of them calling Purser. ASHTABULA—That LOG ar­ for replacements, seamen are The Purser, who was the cause < ticle of May 30 regarding Sena­ becoming as rare as California of all the ruckus, was not a tor Aiken's charges that enemies By JOSEPH VOLPIAN oranges around this busy Florida member of any union. It was of labor spent over $100,000,000 Special Services Representative port. damned silly for a bunch of men for propaganda against labor has There is no sign of the sit­ to jeopardize their papers for With very few exceptions, the join his vessel or to proceed many Lakes seamen wondering. uation letting up, as Bull Line such a character. Their question is, "How much Union membership today is com­ to sea in his vessel, or ^or ab­ will start her regular coastwise After things were straightened of this dough found it's way into posed of Seafarers who are alert sence without leave at any runs again on June 27th and out, the real reason for the the hands of the Lake Carriers intelligent and extremely con­ time within 24 hours of the that will mean more men than militancy was found: The Purser vessel's sailing from any port, ever. Association and their stooge out­ scious of their responsibilities. was a drinking companion of It is becoming increasing evi­ either at the commencement or fits like the LSU?" What makes the sitiuation so the super-militant gashound. dent that the men are taking during the progress of the voy­ Incidentally, this one company their jobs seriously, and that they tough in this port is that ships The super-militant, being the age, or for absence at any time are never here long enough outfit, the so-called Lake Sea­ intend to guard vigilantly the CThief Electrician, never thought without 1 .'ave and without suf­ for me to call outports for re­ man's Union, is getting plenty of prestige of the Union which has ficient reason from his vessel placements. dough from someone. The only become the waterfront's leading Bori CAAJ't/l I and from his duty, not amount­ company they have under con­ organization. When a ship comes in here ing to de.sertion, by forfeiture tract, such as it is, is the Cleve­ One major reason for this} from his wages of not more shorthanded, w-e usually have to let her continue that way un­ land-Cliffs Iron Company, and acute Union consciousness is the than two days' pay or suffi­ less we have the men in the they hire their men through the fact that the men sailing the ships cient to defray any expenses Hall at the moment. company's offices and the LCA today are, for the most part, the which shall have been prop­ A real boom to shipping will halls. e^cperienced oldtimers who will erly incurred in hiring a substi­ be the new P&O pasenger ship Yet the LSU has enough cab­ continue to go to sea and the tute. that is supposed to begin opera­ bage to mail organizational prop­ youngsters — comparatively 3. For quitting the vessel tions this season. Our only aganda all over the Lakes, and speaking—who have decided that without leave, after her arrival chance for her is to get one send their attorney and former shipping will be their careers. at the port of delivery and be­ full crew aboard and hope they president, Meyer Cook, into all Rapidly dwindling in numbers fore she is placed in security, homestead her like the crew NLRB hearings trying to ride in are those who sailed solely for by forfeiture from his wages on the Florida has done. the period of the war. And while of not more than one month's on the SIU's coat-tails. of doing a ining for the Union BOTTLED MILITANCY most of these temporary seamen or his fellow Union brothers un­ pay. They didn't secure their dough Another one of those super til his non-union drinking buddywei-e sensible, well-intentioned fi'om dues as practically no one 4. For willful disobedience to militants — 80 proof variety — is paying any. Where did they Brothers who took their jobs and any lawful command at sea, by gave us our w-eekly gashound was canned. their Unionism seriously, a num­ BROTHERS LET DOWN secure their money from? being at the option of the mas­ headache. They're becoming as ber of them felt that since going Proof of that was that he had ter, placed in irons until such regular as clockwork now. Tliis to sea was only a stop-gap and disobedience shall cease, and time it occurred on the Alcoa been stewed for over thirty days temporary lark, there was no upon arrival in port by for­ Partner which was loading here and the fans in the messroom reason to go out of their way to were out of order and the blow­ feiture from his wages of not for Canada. accept their share of Union reer in the galley likewise. more than four days' pay, or, at The Purser of the ship had sponsiblity and contribute to the When this was pointed out the discretion of the court, by been fired for being gassed up general welfare of all hands. imprisonment for not more several days running and for to him he informed all hands The return of this caliber to BALTIMORE' — Election of than one month. general incompetencj'. So the that he was going to get them officials and an application for shore-sided pursuits posed no 5. For continued willful diso­ super militant aboard immedi­ fixed as soon as he got around a charter from the national or­ loss to the Seafarers. bedience to lawful command or ately called the Hall asking for to it. PERFORMER'S UNWANTED ganization highlighted the first Before the Patrolman left the continued willful neglect of a Patrolman to hit the ship at For the men within our ranks official meeting of the AFL Mari­ ship, he had gotten around to duty at sea, by being, at the once. time Trades Department's local today want no truck with foul- option of the master, placed in it, but fast. The Electrician is Well, out went a Pati'olman port council here last week. ups, performers and parasites irons, on bread and water, with and he finally found the ship nov» strictly on his good be­ William (Curly) Rcntz, SIU who suck from the Union the full rations every fifth day, un­ over in Port Tampa. havior and if he continues perPort Agent, was elected council benefits won only by hard strug­ til such disobedience shall The gashound informed the 'forming he is to be bought up gle, and who care not a tinker's chairman. Patrolman that he had told the on charges. {Contimud on Page 14) dam that they impose addition­ To top off the whole affair, the Also elected were August al burden on the rest of the mem­ performer has an old book in Idzik, international vice presi­ bership by flaunting their in­ the Union and the men who dent of the International Long­ dividuality. had to straighten .him out were shoremen's Association, secre­ Seafarers today know that ship­ for the most part tripcarders tary-treasurer; R. F. Lowe, ping is a job—a serious job. More and new bookmen. Agent for Local 14' of the than that, it is a way of life. At Guys like this are definitely Masters, Mates and Pilots, vice sea, the ship becomes a world By HERB JANSEN not a good advertisement for chairman; Pete De Catte, SUP within itself. And, consequently, Around here, the main topic the Union and should be slapped CHICAGO — Shipping has Port Agent, assistant secretary- there are rules and regulations to down when they pull the cork treasurer, and Andrew MacDon- govern conduct aboard a vessel been a little slow in this Port of conversation is the Taft-Hart­ on their "militancy." during the past couple of weeks ley anti-labor law. ald. General Chairman of the just as there are ashore. Brother Tony Sosa was by Under the guise of being the Radio Officers Union, recording As has been pointed out, most with very few turnovers. Most the Hall this morning. He is will of the people, an unholy secretary. Seafarers act in a manner be­ of the boys are holding on to just back from Italy where he coalition of Republicans and their jobs, and enjoying the con­ Applicaticn fOr the Port Coun­ coming Union men and show con­ was in the hospital several cil charter was directed to John sideration for the welfare of their ditions which have been won by Democrats, who have had their months following his being hearts and souls bought and wounded by a drunken perform­ the SIU on the Lakes. R. Owens, Executive Secretary shipmates. paid for, have crammed this er. of the MTD. As in every instance, however, Di ring the past week, the SS rotten legislation down the Brother Sosa is able to get The Council went on record where there are a large body of Sultana and the SS Wescoat throats of the workers. around a little now, and willto "recognize and respect all men, tJiere are the inevitable few were in Port. The Sultana came We seamen are proud of being be ready to take a ship in a fewlegitimate and bonafide picket for whom the rules and regula­ in with a load of newsprint for Americans, and that's no idle months. the daily tabloids and loaded up lines around ships under CIO tions were made. flag waving. We intend to see In this respect, therefore, it with giain for a Canadian port. contract," and to follow the that a rightful share of the same policy adopted during the might be wise to quote the var­ As for the Wescoat, she loaded profits from our labor comes 1946 strikes. At the time of ious types of conduct which are crude oil at Indiana Harbor. f-'i back to us in the form of wages, the meeting the CIO Maritime considered offenses and the penThis week, the SS City of and all the phony politicians and Agents and Seafarers have alites for their committment. Grand Rapids makes her first work stoppage was in effect. been inquiring as to the rea­ The following sections are sta­ trip on June 20 on her regular Taft-Hartley Laws in 4116 world It was recommended at the are not going to take away our son for late deliveries of the tutory United States law; run. Part of the crew for the SS rights to organize and join meeting that steps be taken to SEAFARERS LOG to their THE LAW SAYS Michigan, sandboat, scheduled to unions to protect our gains. set up the Council on a "reg­ homes and the outports. Section 701. Various offenses; work on the airport fill in, has ular and permanent basis" as a We're willing to work and The delay- is due to the ter­ penalties. been hired. member of the MTD. take our share of the risks, but rific shortage of newsprint Whenever any seamen who After she comes out of the we want a fair wage and decent The importance of the Council has been lawfully engaged or that has hit most newspapers, adopting a clear cut and definite any apprentice to the sea serv­ shipyard, where a new deckhouse conditions in return. We fought which sometimes makes it policy that would be clear to ice commits any of the follow­ is being added to furnish quart­ hard for these conditions and necessary for the printer to all member unions, and a means ing offenses, he shall be pun­ ers for the crew demanded by we won't stand idly by and see halt printing the LOG until the SIU, she'll start on her job any money-hungry politicians whereby they could be kept in­ ished as follows: „ he gets additional paper. around July 15. and operators take them away. formed was urged on the meet­ Once the LOGS come off 1. For desertion, by for­ ing by Jeff Davis, delegate from feiture of all or any part of the This is fair warning that ^he Last Monday, Millwaukee sent the press they are immediate­ and fight like ly mailed out. The only bot­ the ILA. clothes or effects he leaves on for their AFL Maritime Trades SIU will fight, hell, to preserve our contracts tleneck is the difficulty in Department charter for the Port General discussion was held board and of all or any part securing sufficient newsprint and conditions. All of our Council which has already been on by-laws, membership, repre­ of the wages or emoluments for the thousands of LOGS strength and resources is dedi­ set up. This will add to the sentation and ways and means which he has earned. printed each week. cated to the battle fro freedom solidarity and strength of the of setting up and operating the 2. For neglecting or refusing and security. without reasonable cause to AFL in Lakes ports. council. By MAURICE DOLE * Baltimore MIC Elects Officers Fight Against Taft-Hartley Bill Is Big Topic With Chicago SIU Late Deliveries �THE Page Eight Weather Nice, Shipping Smooth: New York is Enjoying Happy Days By JOE ALGINA 1 , ] 1 , 1 SEAFARERS LOG No Whitewash Add one more soap sud swindle lo the lengthening list of laundries working the popular racket of taking seamen's laundry but failing to return it. Friday, June 27. 1347 SIU In Montreal Goes To Aid Of AFL Laundry Workers' Beef By GENE MAHKEY MONTREAL—Shipping in this that is nece.ssary is to get the NEW YORK — Every once pers have to learn the hard way. the newest of SIU branches is as­ word to the CSU men and they in awhile, in this hectic business We've been cautioning the suming boom proportions. The will swarm into our ranks. of shipping, there comes a quiet companies and the Skippers to men are going out of here in None of them, it seems, is hap­ spell when everything is going. droves to take the ships and in py under the CSU set-up of poor along smoothly with no great The latest is Style Cleaners the last month we figure we've conditions and low wages, and ..s amount of beefs, the performers of 110 Government Street, sent over 200 men out on jobs. constantly casting an eye about stay on their good behavior Mobile, Alabama, which has The next month promises to for a real democratic Union that and there are jobs enough for be even better so we are not com­ is going places. been picking up crews' laun­ all. Such is the situation at the plaining of a ship shortage here. The SIU is the Union for them, moment in the Port of New dry end dry cleaning but fail­ Our hope is that the men will but they have to be shown that York. ing to return the clothing be­ continue to flow in here to take we are here and here to stay. Ships are hitting this port in fore the ships sail. the large number of jobs avail­ When we first hung out the a steady stream and they are able. shingle here and set-up for biisiall fine examples of the ideal The latest to experience Of the men coming into the ne.ss we had our hands full with SIU ship. The Patrolmen have this racket is the crew of the Hall, a large number of them are a bumper crop of performers. gone quite a few days now Hawaiian Citizen who found former CSU men who realize It seems that all the performers without any big beefs to worry that the Style Cleaners did that the SIU is here to stay and in the Union had converged on them, and the members have they want to get out of the CSU Montreal, but the situation is dif­ not return the laundry on been very cooperative at the have a sailing board posted which has nothing to offer them. ferent now. time and even reneged on its payoffs and sign ons. aboard the ships announcing the These men are not coming in They've cleared out of this Maybe its the weather or time of departure. promise to forward their to freeload, but are putting them­ port, and all performers coming something, but we're glad to see clothing to the next port. So far we've had good re­ selves squarely behind our drive in here on the ships are being it and hope it continues for sults, with most companies anx­ to gain SIU conditions on all pulled off and sent on their mer­ Although their advertise­ some time. The Patrolmen are ious to cooperate and see that ry way. Canadian ships. * naturally glad to see the great ments specify "We specialize all men are aboard at sailing Most of the men of the CSU The commies up here are hav­ deal of cooperation and lack of in fast seamen's service," time, but it is still a good idea have offered themselves as vol­ ing a hard time of it since thencompanies giving out with their to check the sailing board when their only speed seems to be unteer organizers to go out and boy Pat Sullivan turned on them hard timing. in quickly getting away from spread the word of the SIU to and gave them a blasting. With the tremendous number eo aboard ship so there the ships and staying away. the rank and file of the CSU. Now the AFL Montreal Trades of ships in port at the moment,I being left on the beach. The feeling here is that all and Labour Council has follow­ the Patrolmen have been more ed up with another body blow to than busy hitting the many paytheir grip on the unions here by offs and sign ons. Sometimes it expelling 14 communists from is humanly impossible for the that body. Among those expelled Patrolmen to contact all the By L. N. "BLONDY" JOHNSON See what time they get to work were delegates from the CSU. This carrying out of union ships in port. I at the Hall. policy does not apply only to the Recent actions in the Gulf CLOSE COOPERATION NO CAN DO See how . many ships they economy program, but to all of ports show the absolute necessity The laundry situation in this the Union's business. When this happens we usually for all officials to follow Union make. The results and findings port has been one real headache may be surprising. For instance, although the Un­ get a quick phone call asking policy. to the crews that hit this port. ion has gone on record not to al­ for a Patrolman to come down A quick study of the recent TALK IS CHEAP Not only to the crews, but also low former members, over 12 ^ happenings in the Gulf area will to the ship. it has been a headache to the It must be remembered by months in arrears to be rein­ In these cases, we usually tell show that the Union, in closing AFL Laundry Workers Union, the caller that we can't get one several branches in Texas, has the members that it .is easy for stated, some of these fellows Have which is having a tough time of down at the moment but there taken a step that will save the some official to tell them that to been reinstated against Union it, as only a half dozen laundries continue good representation it policy. will be a Patrolman aboard early Union thousands of dollars. are organized. is necessary, to maintain a heavy the next morning. _ convinced that,^ The writer is This, too, must be stopped and The Laundry Workers Union staff. There is no sense blowirig although we have closed these the Secretary-Treasurer must decided to put an end to the prac­ Invariably, however, when an your top in this situatiop. It g^d have only the one Hall official takes this attitude he is recommend some plan of action tice of the non-union laundries is very seldom that we miss aGalveston, it should not in not only abusing the privilege of so that the officials guilty of this grabbing the laundry off the ship and as a rule most ships are j jngnner interfere with the are reprimanded. ships as they came in, and asked being an SIU offical, but is misin here for four or five days, | union handling the membership's All members should remember us for our cooperation in hand­ lepresenting facts as well. and we can hit the ship the pj-Q^jems and shipping along the There are tough times ahead that, when the membership in all ling the matter. next day if we don't get to it -pexas Coast. As brother AFL members, we for all unions. Now is the time our meetings goes on record to the first day. True, once Isthmian is under to prepare the Union for those put into practice various pro­ immediately promised them our If there is.a big sweat to get Bloomfield SS struggles which we know will grams and policies, it is the duty aid in seeing to it that the ships' things straightened out the expanded to it's full time come. of all members and officials laundry was done in a union thing to do IS to get aJi tne we may have to then We must reduce expenses alike to see to it that those poli­ plant. beefs together and send at least consider the re-opening of the The test came when the Alcoa whenever and however possible. cies and programs are carried two of the delegates to the Hall. Hall once more in Houston. Pennant and the SUP Thomas out. The Secretary, fortunately, by At times we can do more for Stone came into port. The non­ Until that time, however, we action of the last Agents Confer­ Unless we do this we are sure­ the crew right here in the Hall can get along well with the Hall union boys were there ready to ence, has the power to enforce ly not going to get to be a hell than we can do aboard the ship. in Galveston. grab the laundry, but the crews Union policy on this matter. of a lot bigger then we are—as We're still working on the We as good Union "men must a matter of fact, unless we do, we had been notified and refused to VALUE OF PROGRAM fourth floor baggage room and support him, when he is carrying may not even have a Union for let it go until they were shown a at last some of the old baggage clearance card from the Union. The value of the Union's econ­ cut this policy. too much longer. is beginning to be claimed. The omy program is easily shown in WASH LINE baggage that has been here for a casual study of headquarter's a long time — some for over The vultures immediately tried financial report. two years — has been donated to to come aboard and take the This report shows that, since charitable organizations. laundry off, but the crew threw the Secretary-Treasurer, J. P. If you see your fancy pre-war a picketline around the linen and sport jacket on the back of a Shuler, started rigidly enforcing stopped them cold. native in some foreign port the program, the General Fund I" the meantime one laundry GALVESTON, June 19 At was also Charleston Agent go, clearance with the Union and you'll know that the boys on 1 of the Union has increased over the recommendation of Secretarythe fourth floor finally got sixty thousand dollars. This in itself should be a les­ Treasurer J. P. Shuler, former "Saydon "Tea" Suit, has been around to your gear. Don't feel •The approved laundry agreed to New Orleans to do a first rate job and we are son to the Union. bad — it went to a good cause. New Orleans Patrolman Keith transferred Some of the officials, and quite Alsop took office today as Gal­ where he will act as Patrolman, now waiting to see what the reNOSING AROUND a few of the members, do not veston Agent. He succeeds Char­ and from N. O Brother Johnson; suits will be both for cleaner these reports closely les Haymond who was tem _ has been sent to assist the new jinen and the Laundry Workers Of course, it would be too watch enough, else they would squawk porarily appointed to the office • organizational efforts. At the much to expect everyone to be Activities in this Port continue , moment the only recognized like hell, when heavy expendi­ a few weeks ago. Haymond rein a happy frame of mind these at a high level. Jobs on the board laundry here is Rene Laundry. nice days. I've been getting re­ tures are shown. quested that he be relieved so itutrtcrous than the _ , . , credit goes to the crewUnless they do start to taking that he could ship out. ports that the Coast Guard boys ' .T...T 01 these ships for the are snooping around again. Busi­ more of an interest, then some Assisting him will be Leon ness must be slowing up for the aay they may wake up with no 'Blondy" Johnson, former Agent prevails throughout the Gulf'fine Job they did. In addition to fnnn^; T Ti the SIU men aboard, members of boys as they are digging for dough. in Port Arthur, and Ray soon to be calling for crews, shipthe MCS, MFOWW and NMU business. Whejiever members are attend­ Sweeney, as Patrolmen; Mickey ping promises to remain good for aided in the disposing of these Once ig awhile a Skipper will ing meetings at various ports and Wiburn as Dispatcher, and John some time fo come. Rated men phony characters who were have a lapse of memory and call hear any official hit the deck and Ward as organizer. m particular are at a premium. taught a real lesson in union down the Coast Guard to make beef because Headquarters is try­ Brother Alsop is a veteran Sea­ The bad conditions created in solidarity.. life miserable for the crew, but ing to have them reduce ex­ farer, who started his seagoing the Texas area by the "wobblies" Our pledge to support all clean in short order we refresh his penses, and say it can't be done career in Norfolk. He has held and other racketeers have been memory concerning our position —then look around and see if many elective offices in the SIU, halted, and the Galveston Hall, AFL (that's no pun) unions has and the boys are back chasing the officials in that port who are serving as Patrolman in New which services all the area, is been shown again and it would be well for anti-union outfits in icebergs. It is too bad some Skip- squaking really do hit the ball. York, Norfolk, and New Orleans.^functioning at a speedy clip. this area to take note. Importance Of Following Union Policy Is Proved Keith Alsop New Galveston Agent; Tex Suit Goes To New Orleans �Friday. June 27, 1947 THE TAKING THE SEAFARERS OATH LOG Page Nine NMU Puts Disguises On Its Men And Tries To Raid SIU Company By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON — Things have been The decision of the memberhumming around the port for the ship vas quick and unanimous— past couple of weeks, to such an v/arn ihem to break it up, and if extent that the usual weekly they refu.sed, to pile right article for the LOG was over­ through. looked last ^'eek. But, then, on Their Agent was notified of the day the article is usually this decision and told to take off written, a more important matter the picketline. He refused to do engaged our time and efforts. so; therefore, on Friday June 6, We had NMU trouble for a a full SIU crew marched through couple of days; then very sud­ the line and aboard the vessel. denly it ceased. Here's the story: Later that night, an SIU fire­ The Mass. Steamship Line (an man was attacked by about 10 excursion outfit which used to NMU goons and thrown into the run the SS Steel Pier fi'om Bos­ harbor, and early Saturday the ton to Provincetown daily) re­ threat was made that 500 NMU organized with new capital and pickets woul^ be on the line became officially known as the over the weekend. Boston-Provincetown Steamship FADED AWAY Line, Inc. On Jearning of the formation With the incident regarding of a new company early this the fireman in mind, plus the spring. I requested a contract threat of mass picketing, made with the Seafarers and received our plans to conduct a fight-tosame. the finish reminiscent of the old New members of the SIU being obligaied at the last New York Branch meeting, It's a While the ship was being fit­ days on the Avenue here. serious matter, and these Brothers seem to realize it. ted out, however, and painters The NMU Agent was duly noti­ were required to work at the fied that we intend to disperse scab wages of a dollar an hour, his 500-man picket line the mo­ it turned out that the smart or­ ment he put it out. At 11:00 ganizers for the NMU had quite a. m. Saturday morning all pick­ By E. S. HIGDON matter, we will appreciate it very June 10, and the Coast Guard a few of their men working as ets \vere withdrawn mysterious­ no longer has the authority to $I-00-an-hour painters, much. ly, and the SS Steel Pier makes PHILADELPHIA — Two bills By the way, while we are on pick up or revoke seamen's her daily run in peaceful SIU NMU JOKERS affecting improvements to the I this subject, any full bookmempapers. fashion. Port of Philadelphia were acted ber who is a year or so in arThen, with the ship ready fo Shippng has been excellent I advised all members of this on favorably in the Pennsylvania rears, can't be helped by a comurged them not to talk go into operation, the painters around the port, wuth nearly all State Legislature last Wednes­ mittee either, since, according to | to, or give information to, this I threw off their disguises and rep­ kinds of rated jobs on the board day. One of the measures, set­ the rules, he is out. Business hasn't outfitwhich is fighting to stay resented themselves as NMU sea­ at all times. ting up the Delaware River Joint Those six months or so in ar­ in control of the merchant ma­ men who should have something matched the shipping, but has Commission as the agency to de­ rears are required to come be­ to say about which union was to been prettj' fair nevertheless. velop this port and the upper fore a regular body at the Branch rine. represent them. Presently, Pat McHugh's fish­ Although they have no power Delaware River, was passed meeting and apply for reinstate­ Of course, when the ship was ermen have been getting a bad over merchant seamen, they will finally by the Senate. ment. ready to sail, we were asked to time from the Attorney-General . It has already passed the House The John Burgess, South At­ take information given them and provide a ^full crew, as per con­ (author of the Barnes Bill, which and now goes to Governor Duff, lantic scow, hit port this week keep it until such time as a Civil tract. In the meantime, the forces unions to submit to his who has indicated that he will for a payoff. Brother Tilley, who Service Board is appointed and phony painters had set up a line office itemized statements of un­ then turn all testimony over to sign it. Provisions in the bill covered the ship, stated that for around the ship. ion income and expenditures.) were accepted as an alternative a ship that had been out for two them for trial. Well, we were faced with the The SIU Fishermen's Union is to the creation of a Port of Phil­ months she was the cleanest pay­ The wisest thing is to complete­ old story: whether an illegiti­ being tried for creating a mon­ adelphia Authority. off he had handled in many a ly disregard the Coast. Guard mate NMU picketline around one opoly. Needless to say, the fish­ The other measure, reported month. when it comes aboard and there of our ships would suffice to ermen have our complete support out by the Senate Committee on Not so pleasant was the SS will be no possibility of them "bull" us away from our own in the fight against the anti-labor Highways, rips out the Delaware Burnet of the Pacific Atlantic SS pulling a fast one at a later date. vessel. Attorney-General. County Tunnel Authority and Company. At her payoff she was creates a Delaware Tunnel Board strictly from hunger and the to enter into negotiations with crew found that the company a commission created by New didn't intend to do anything Jersey for the construction of one about it for her next voyage. By RAY WHITE after 24 hours the crew was put- aboard to fine the ship $22,000. or more tunnels under the Dela­ ting in for ten bucks a day be­ A nice hunk of lettuce and, of When it came time to take her , ^ , NORFOLK—SIU officials m ware River. Yep, we, here, are out, the crew refused cause .... their overtime had not course, they wanted the crew to to sign o» catching up to New York with unfl she was properly stored.I,^ as per agreement. help pay the freight. ^ investigator P"" or their Holland and Lincoln tun­ For some reason it always has to ^ eo , . Both sides wheeled in their This put things in a different . r. • , district attorney to pay off ships nels. We may be slow but it looks be this way. The company thinks guns and cleared the deck for light, and the Company had to and settle beefs, but the crew of like it will be sure. that the men are bluffing and action, and the battle was on, move fast or paj' off. f see by the papers that the City will take the ship out anyway. the SS Grover Hutchinson of the first part of which took GETS THE STORY is going to spend $2,000,000 to Even after all these years some Newtex Steamship Company is place at the Coast Guard Hear­ fix the old broken down Pier 3 companies haven't learned that of the opinion that sometimes it ing Unit under Lt. J. C. Saussy, All of this time Rees was gath­ South, so this should wake up the we mean business when we ask helps a hell of a lot. as E.xamining Officer. Although at times the Patrol­ ering facts and piecing the whole waterfront a little and maybe for sufficient stores. As the trial got under way, it men are expected to do the im­ story together. Here are some of it might bring us a new shipping did not take Lt. Saussy long to the facts. The Customs in Italy possible, Ben Rees, Norfolk Pa­ NO BLUFF company. trolman, had to open up his bag had found enough cigarettes see that the crew was small fry, being used to cover up tracks As soon as the men made and pull all nine cats out in or­ ON REINSTATEMENTS made by much bigger game. The known that it wasn't a bluff, they der to maneuver the crew out of We would like to enlighten a got busy placing orders for stores finger not only pointed at the this one. few brothers regarding tripcard within two hours the ship Captain and Chief Engineer, but It makes good news and it also men. When a tripcard man is ^ properly stored and ready should make some of our mem­ it might have included some Reports have been coming eight to twelve months in ar­ for her trip. shoreside company officials. bers much the wiser. in citing dirty deals given rears he can be reinstated by After a thorough hearing Lt. Another similar case was Here is the situation; The crew seamen by several laundries, calling a committee of ffve men aboard the SS Frelinghuysen, Saussy gave the unlicensed per­ was in when the Hutchinson which profess to "cater to to square him away. sonnel their papers back, but the American liberty Line. She had pulled in for voj'age payoff. The men of the sea." In most instances, the trip supplies for 45 days and was Captain did not get by so easy. pay of the entire crew was im­ card man in question is a friend leaving on a .seven month trip. His papers were revoked, Roland Velasco of the SS pounded and the charges were, of a bookmember, and the bookArch Hopkins reports that When we heard the story we violation of the Anti-Smuggling This did not clear the case ricmber is the one wh > in.?ists rattled down to the ship where Ungar's Laundry of St. John, Act. There was also Coast Guard though, because the Company that the trip card man be squar­ our troubles were immediately N. B., picks up laundry charges. still had the crew's pay. After ed away. aboard ships ' in that port, doubled when we found that the The Patrolman and delegates the company's lawyer had heard Well, for the benefit of these with the promise that it will Coast Guard had were informed by the Company the evidence produced in the Brothers, 'who find 'themselves oy returned by the weekend. that there would be no dough hearing, he came around to the backing up a ^npcaraer who The promise is never lived but to sign off articles. This was Hall for a peace talk with Rees in arrears, there had told them to report to promptly done, much to the sur­ up to. and the ship's delegates. stating that after the np i3hnQH#^inhia Coast guard prise of the Company officials. me'n Tre lh7ce'montl>7m akears the Philadelphia Coast They, being in very high spirits "They don't say in which The Company thought they had at this time, were in no hurry, they shall no longer he entitled t'"'t. year it will be returned." says plenty of time to make a I immediately called the crew but were finally persuaded to Velasco. warning Seafarers to hold said tripcard, and they thorough case against the unli­ let the Company officials come strictly out and not entitled together and told them to have to keep their laundry out of are around to the "Union Hall and Ungar's hands. to any consideration whatsoever. nothing whatsoever to do with censed personnel, but after the If you book members will give the Coast Guard as the Hearing last man had signed off, Rees im­ pay them off in full," which they did. us a little consideration on the Units were taken from them on mediately told the Company that Improvements Are Scheduled For Philadelphia Patrolman Turns Dick Tracy, Foils Phony Charge Keep Your Shirt On -•r �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Ten *-riday. June 27. 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS CG's Whitewash Job Fails To Make Arizpa Seaworthy; Crew Overhauls Her At Sea Don't Bite A Dog! What happens to Seafarers while taking the ships to the far flung ports of the world makes interesting reading to the rest of the membership. There is an old saying that if a dog bites a man. that's not news but if a man bites a dog. that's news. Were not suggesting that you go out and bite a dog; however, if you've had an interesting ex­ perience on your trip that was a little out of the or­ dinary. share it with your fellow Seafarers through the pages of the SEAFARERS LOG. Smiling, bui only for the cameraman, the Deck Departmenl men haul lines aboerd the snafued SS Arizpa. whose broken down condition was neatly ignored in farcical Coast Guard Inspection. Gene Dauber, Bosun, got this picture. Down the line., from front to rear, are: Karl Uri, AH; John Elliot. AB; Teddy Cipriano. AB; Russ (last name not given). OS: Sam McFpjlane, AB. and Carl Senarighi. OS. The siick coat of whitewash applied by the Coast Guard during inspection of the SS Arizpa may have brightened things for the Waterman Steamship Corpora­ tion but it didn't render the rickety tub seaworthy. You don't have to be a Jack London to knock out the details of the experience. Just give us the facts and well do the rest. Pictures, too make a story more interesting. If you. or a fellow crewmember. are lucky enough to have a camera along — send your snapshots to the LOG. We'll take care of the developing and printing and the return­ ing of the negatives and prints to you. Send your bits of news and snaps to: SEAFARERS LOG. 51 Beaver Street. New York. N. Y. According to crewmembers aboard the ship, which returned to New York this week after a trip to German ports, the run­ down bucket practically had to be rebuilt at sea. Gene Dauber, Bosun; and George Lass, Oiler and Engine Delegate, told of the Coast Guard's investigative farce in clearing the company, which the crew scathingly condemned at a shipboard meeting. DISREGARDS SAFETY The crew scored the company's money-grubbing and utter disre­ gard of the crew's welfare in per­ mitting the Arizpa to depart in such poor condition. The Coast Guard investigation, the crewmembers related, was hastily conducted, with the boiler safety valves and fire pump -re­ lief valves being overlooked. The CG inspectors also by passed the sanitary pumps, which were re­ ported out of commission, the Seafarers said. Bilges were full of fuel oil, but it was of no con­ sequence to the guardians of safe­ ty at sea. That the ship came back for the payoff in "pretty good con­ dition," despite its horrible shape at the outset of the voyage, was due to the hard work of her Sea­ farers crew. Dauber and Lass said. Conditions on deck were sim­ ilarly condemned. Only one boom could be raised at one time, owing to the lack of juice. Lines up forward and back aft were handled by the Norwegian steana method. If steam had been used on deck, Dauber explained, the plant would have closed down. Machinery was of a mongrel variety. The Arizpa had 14 George Lass. Oiler on the Arizpa. roughs it up with "Hum­ phrey Bogart." ship's mascot, whose snarls show he has definite acting abilty. winches representing six differ­ ent types. Deck hands practical­ ly had to be Chief Engineers. But the crew's indignation over the physical state of affairs on board was mild compared to their fury over squawks registered by the skipper in regard to the over­ time involved in making the scow seaworthy. The two Seafarers said that the skipper regarded the payment of overtime as a form of company bonus. Contributing in no small mea­ sure to the lack of order and constant difficulty aboard the Arizpa was the Chief Mate, who believed that supplies could be carried in his back pocket. Ma(Continued on Page 11) Manrope Knot Crew Finds Bauxite Trail Tough Going (Editor's note; The following contract caUs for gas, but again story was submitted to the LOG they used sulphur. This did no by the Delegates of the MV good so we went into a huddle Manrope Knot. Their exper­ with the Skipper, the Agent and iences with the Skipper and the American Consul. They the Company Agent should be agreed to go to work on the ship of special interest to Seafarers again and after two weeks of who regularly takirfhe Bauxite jockeying around the matter was settled. TraiL) During all this time we had The night we sailed from Tam­ been living on subsistence and the pa we ran in to hell and high few dollars the Skipper gave us water with the Skipper. He didn't make for an enlargement wanted us to take the ship out of the waistline. but we found her unseaworthy HAS NO FRIENDS with the deck cargo of lumber After this beef the Skipper improperly secured. He gave us started some phony business a hard time and ranted and raved, but we won a victory. The with his'log book by logging the Skipper finally had the deck car­ crew for Saturday and Sunday go and gear secured but he kept in port. This was the last straw. a chip on his shoulder for the We.went to the Agent again and told him the ship would not shift rest of the trip. until we had a new Skipper. The Our troubles were many on the Consul was called in again and way down. Slopchest prices out he asked us to make a list of of this world, no radio for the our grievances against the Skip­ crew and the Skipper muttering per. "yep, yep, yep," but doing noth­ We drew up the list and every ing. man on the ship, including the MONEY? WHAT'S THAT? officers, signed the complaint. We wanted to get rid of the In every port we hit the draw was small and put out only once. Skipper right there, but a tele­ We had begun to think that he gram from the New York Hall was giving it to us out of his stated: "Bring the ship to the Captain will be taken own pockets. Tf he was asked States. for a few dollars he would re­ care of here." We couldn't very well do that ply, "money? Why I have no money. I have only twelve Dutch as Alcoa wanted the ship to go coins that I'm going to send my on the shuttle run, or so we thought. wife." GOT THE DOPE After a few weeks on the ship A few days later we got an­ we found bugs, weevils, cock­ roaches and worms in our food other telegram stating, "Bring and all over the ship. We held the ship back to Mobile." We a meeting and notifed the Cap­ figured something had gone tain of our complaint. He said wrong somewhere so we called The he would refer the matter to the Mobile to get the score. Alcoa-agent in Trinidad. When story was that we were to pro­ we hit the port we went to the ceed to Paramaribo, load baux­ Agent and he professed ignor­ ite, return to Trinidad, top off ance of any request for fumi­ and return to Mobile. The Agent in Trinidad had not gation. We were getting the run-around given us these orders, however, until we told them we weren't so you can see how they tried to shifting the ship until all the hang us with our own ropes after vermin was removed. we refused to move the ship. The Agent's attitude was: "I For you, brothers, who take don't give a damn about the con­ the bauxite run, watch your step dition of the ship or the cr.ew. All when you hit this area or you I care about is the cargo." To might get in the same predica­ that we hung up the hook and ment as we were in. waited for days and days for We are on our way to Para­ them to delouse the ship. They maribo now on the first leg of finally came aboard and gave our return round. The Captain the ship a going over with sul­ is still aboard and up to his old phur, which only made the bugs tricks but his days are num­ fatter. bered. Mobile,—Open your arms We told the agent- that our to your poor sons of the sea. SIU Releases New Form For Ship's Minutes A new, official form, which is to be used in recording proceed­ ings of shipboard meetings has been set up and run off on the Union's multilith machine. Copies for the use of recording secre­ taries will be available shortly in all ports. Printed on SV2 by 14-inch sheets of paper, the new forms may be used on both sides, containing headings and spaces for all per­ tinent data which meeting secre­ taries have to supply. The new form was designed to provide uniformity in the re­ porting of shipboard proceedings, and -will considerable expedite matters for the men handling this copy to Headquarters in New York. Along with the Head­ detail. Patrolman in all ports will quarters copy, send any addi­ shortly have sufficient quantities tional stories about your trip, of this new form to distribute to and photographs for publication the ship's they visit.' Delegates in the LOG. are urged to see that their ships The importance of the ship­ are given an adequate supply to board meeting cannot be over­ last for tfie duration of their estimated. Success of the Un­ ion depends upon the whole­ trips. Printed on each form is the hearted participation of all hands. At sea, the ship's meet­ following: NOTE:—^This is the official ing is your means of participatng. form to be used in recording It is highly important that the all shipboard meetings. All im­ portant details should be re­ subject of Education be treated thoroughly at the meetings. corded. Send one copy to the nearest branch hall and one {^Continued on Page 13) •I �THE Friday. June 27. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG SlU Ship's Minutes In Brief BENJAMIN BOURN. April 12—Chairman C. B. Langley; Secretary L, A. Finger. Delegales reported minor beefs in their departments. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried to remove old wormy flour from ship Molion carried to check slopchest as to prices before signing off ship. Motion carried that the three delegates see N. O. Agent on the union activities of Henry C. King, night cook and baker. Motion carried that the three department delegates be paid off first. One minute of silence for departed brothers. J. i i" CAPE ROMAIN. June 8 — Chairman McNally: Secretary Horn. New Business: Motion carried that all cots, dirty linen, etc. be cleared off decks before arrival in port. Good and Wel­ fare: Suggestion that the ship be fumigated upon arrival in port. Motion carried that bet­ ter brand of face soap be put aboard. Motion carried to have ship's water tested by Depart­ ment of Health when ship hits port. it 4. HENRY M. RICE, May 21— Chairman Joseph Kaplan; Sec­ retary Dishman Mullins. New Business: Motion carried that each crewmember keep a copy of his overtime in accordance with Deck Delegate's request. Deck Delegate submitted resig­ nation due to lack of coopera­ tion regarding the handling of overtime. Resignation not ac­ cepted. Good and Welfare: Suggestion made that anyone washing clothes in heads or shelter deck remove same in less than 24 hours. Suggestion made that library be built in recreation room by deck main­ tenance at carpenter's rate of overtime upon approval of Skipper. Suggestion made that the laundry now used in Maracaibo by the SIU and SUP be checked for prices, promptness and competence. One minute of silence observed for lost brothers. J, MV ANACAPA, June 3 — Chairman Pete Kordakis; Sec­ retary J. McConeghey. Deck and Stewards Department's delegates reported all in order. Engine Delegate reported a need for flashlights. Motion carried that two crewmembers be reported to Patrolman in Mobile for paying off without givng 24 hours notice and thus making vessel sail shorthanded. Good and Welfare: List of recommendations for the con­ duct of the crew in the messroom and recreation room drawn up and approved. t & 4. HORACE GREELEY. June 14 —Chairman C. A. Hitchcock: Secretary V. A. Gillegan. New Business; Letter to N. O. Port Agent read to crew and ap­ proved. Repair list made up by the delegates and read to crew. Delegates reports ac­ cepted. Good and Welfare: Chief Cook reported that bad hams were brought aboard on .previous.\ trip and asked that , they he- exchanged for canned hami ( The delegates to see the Captain on the matter. Stew­ ard informed crew that supply of fresh vegetables is very low and asked delegates to see Captain about replenishing supply in Port-Of-Spain. 4 4 4 MANROPE KNOT, May 26— Chairman W. Tracy; Secretary R. J. Wells. Discussion of the Stewards Department. No dis­ puted overtime in any depart­ ments of any importance. Mo­ tion carried to have Ship's De­ legate speak to the Captain about having a draw waiting when ship gets to the docks in Mobile. Motion carried to have all cots on afterdeck put away by the men that use them so the crew that comes aboard will have cots. Motion carried for letter regarding our phony Skipper to be sent to the LOG for publication. One minute of silent prayer in memory of Brothers lost at sea. 4 4 4 BILLINGS VICTORY, May 11—Chairman Red McKenzie; Secretary H. Hankee. Delegates ^reported books and cards in good order and no beefs in their departments. Motion car­ ried that the ship won't sail until more face towels, bath towels and two percolators are supplied. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that one man in each foc'sle check to see what needs repairing and turn list into delegates. One minute of silence observed for brothers lost at sea. CHARLES^ A. ^ARFIELD. May 15—Chairman R. N. White; Secretary E. L. DeParlier. Old Business: Statement made by Steward that he w,as putting in for complete fumigation of ves­ sel upon arrival in port. Situa­ tion concerning Purser dis­ cussed lightly. No statements made due to suspicion of a stool in crew. New Business: Motion carried that all bauxite ships be stowed for a 90-da,y voyage instead of the 60-day stores at present, and it should be put in the new agreement when negotiated. Motion car­ ried that library be placed aboard ship. 4 4 4 THOMAS NUTTALL, May 25 —Chairman M. J. Danzey; Sec­ retary P. Deady. Good and Welfare: Motion carried to have all fans and ventilators inspected in preparation for trip to tropics. Soap shortage and shortage of bed spreads brought into plain view be­ cause ship was not properly supplied with these items. Mo­ tion carried to accept the con­ dition and work for some of laundry compensation when ship hits the States. 4 4 4 SEATRAIN TEXAS, June 10—Chairman D. J. Peurala; Secretary William Pepper. Mo­ tion carried that the crewmembers of the SS Seatrain Texas go on record calling for and supporting any 24-hour strike called by organized la­ bor to protest the Taft-Hartley Anti-Labor Bill. Good and Wel­ fare: Discussion concerning third cook's having to sleep in the same foc'sle with the 8-12 watch. Steward requested to order salt tablets and dispen­ sers for the jvater coolers. Page Eleven CUT and RUN By HANK Well, we're back again in our own little corner, punching out another bag of Logworthy news—-a week after VI Day (Victory Isthmian) was deservingly honored through all the LOGs' pages. This week our mysteriously popular column has a few retroactive news items as well as fresh stuff from the weekly turnover in this Seafaring life . . . Well, oldti/ner and Steward, Brother John Jellette, citizen of the countiy of Brooklyn, who came in with his dark mustache from a voyage on the SS Cavalier—had his doggone agonizing wish come true. John wanted to see who this Cut and Run Hank was and what he looked like—and darn it if he didn't see the enigma, right there and then, while he was asking a few other guys. We don't know if his reaction was sympathetic or pa­ thetic but Brother Jellette was sure glad his curiosity was quickly rewarded. Otherwise it might have lasted years, or longer, or something. Well, John said that his shipmate, Paddy McCann went down to Jacksonville to be near his son who is ill. Quick recovery to him Paddy. 4 4 Brother Mitchell Mileski, the cook with a personality, just came in fresh from the cactus country, namely Phoenix, Arizona, where he had a swell time, called it real nice country, went to a wedding, etc. Mitchell enjoyed meeting his old shipmate, Hugh Eatherton, and talking about other shipmates, too. Well. Brother "Heavy" Mitchell Mileski, happy birthday greetings and congratulations on your wedding anniversary which you no doubt celebrated last week on June 18, 1347. And enjoy yourself up there in your home town in Connecticut. In a week or so. another shipmate of ours, Clifton Wilson, should be due in New York from his trip to Europe. 4 4 Brother Eddie Kelley, a fisherman at heart, just came smilingly in from a trip to South Africa on the Robin ship, Moline Victory. Eddie spouted a proud opinion that the trip was good, there was a perfect crew aboard and a swell skipper bridged the voyage . . . Here's a message to Brother Nick Calzia: Scotty shipped to the Far East on the SS Warrior ... A few oldtimers who are in our town: Robert High, Paddy Nash, Theodore "The Terrible"' Babkowski, Joe Di George, S. Larsen, S. Sisti, D. Vasquez, V. Capitano, J. Germano, J. Sharp, L. Clarkson, A. Lorenzo, F. Palume, J. Russell, and M. Riechelson. 4 4 4 4 SS SUNSET. May 21—Chair­ man Neil Harrington; Secre­ tary Walter Hackett. Reason for meeting: A 12-point com­ plaint headed: "Officers com­ plaints against Stewards De­ partment." Much debate as to whether or not to concur on the complaints. Each complaint taken up end decisions made whether to ignore the charge or to work out an improve­ ment for the department. Com­ plaints of rusty water for drink­ ing purposes. Water has been bad for over a month and Chief Engineer has not taken any steps to have the tanks cleaned. 4 4 To Bosun Robert Hillman: Stop your conversation, drop your cigar and do the best you can to see us. We found your Merchant Marine medal. No cigar, please—but is there any reward? ... If it's better late than never than we'll say that about a month and a half ago. Brother William Hanold, the Steward, dropped into the hall in his business suit to say his occasional hullo. Brother Hanold launched himself last year into some landlubbing business and seems to be doing very well, thanks . . . Our News Item Dept. has two items dated June 13th: "A drastic slash in the Maritime Commissions' ad­ ministrative and ship subsidy funds was recommended to Con­ gress today by the House Committee on Appropriations." . . . Funds for maritime training at Kings Point and State Marine schools were increased from 55,470,000 to 58,320,000 .- . . Pointing to the "very satisfactory profits" of ship operators, the committee expressed the hope that it will be found unneces­ sary to pay any operating subsidies at all in 1948." Notice To All SIU Members The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ farers International Union is available to all members who wish to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at every SIU branch for this purpose. However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU Arlzpa, which was scheduled to hall, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the (Continned from Page ]0) lerials he requisitioned for the leave New York June 20, would LOG, which j-ou can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS entire voyage were as follows: not permit conditions prevailing LOG, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. one wrench, three turks heads to PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION sougee the whole ship, three cans of metal polish. CG Whitewashes SS Arlzpa; Crewmen Say She's A Wreck BUT. HOW? To the Editor: I would like the SEAFARERS LOG mailed to tl*: address below: Other than the wrench no tools were ordered. Nevertheless, the Name Mate wanted the work done and done fast. In Bremen all observances of Street Address security regulations were dis­ pensed with. No gangway watch­ City es were established by order of the Chief Mate. Nor was there any gangway. The ladder that was used had no line to secure it. on the recently concluded voy­ It was pointed out by Dauber age to get by again without ac­ and Lass that the crew of the tion on their part. State. Signed Book No �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS EMERGENCY RIGGING 'Beachcomber' Mobile-bound For Some Shoreside Combing To the Editor: Shall try to write a few lines to let you and my buddies know that I decided to visit some of my old beachcombing haunts. But sometimes I wonder if this is the life I used to know. Let's take a look at the ship, which is not bad. We left Mobile April 27, bound for New Orleans. After changing Stewards about three times, we left for Bremen. Then the skipper found out the sextant wasn't any good. By good luck and speed, we overtook the good ship SS Ben­ jamin Goodhue one week out. We asked them if they could spare a sextant and we put out the boat to get the sextant they said we could have. GYRO OUT Then the gyro went out, and the fathometer was off the beam, so when we neared the English coast, the radio direction finder would not work. This was final­ ly straightened out after we ar­ rived in Bremen. ^ On leaving that port we found three men of the Stewards De­ partment were missing. If you could have seen them work, you'd be ashamed to hear that they call themselves SIU men. I think topside is always in arms. Th old man gets cussed from all sides. The mates here are tops so far as I can see, and -the engines are as good as you can find. BOSUN IS LIKED The Bosun is the ex-doorman from the Union Hall in Mobile and he is okay in the books of •zno'sfof the men aboard. Some of the crew are performers, so .there will be some reckoning when we arrive in port. I was kidding the Mate when two of his men came aboard late. Off hand I asked him what their excuse was, and he replied; "We left word to be called, but no one called us." He added that this is happening too often. Well, Ed, I guess that will be all for this time, so off to Mobile to my old pastime—beachcomb­ ing. The Beachcomber LOG BIG FAVORITE IN ARMY CAMP ABROAD, HE SAYS To Ihe Editor: Just a few lines about a legiti­ mate beef. It is six weeks now and no SEAFARERS LOG. It was getting to be a regular part of the army camp here in Darm­ stadt, Germany, and then it stops. There are quite a few ex-sea­ men over here and they have a regular waiting list to read the LOG. Even the mailclerk is an ex-Seafarer and I have to beg him to give me my copy. I was wondering about the strike the Union conducted last year. I've been on the retire­ ment list for over a year now and was wondering what I'm supposed to do for a strike card Sgi. Charlie Bauer APO, 175 c/o Postmaster, N. Y. C. (Ed. Note: Are you sure that mail clerk is iiot waylaying your copy of the LOG? Seriously, though, we are checking into the matter and you should be again receiving the paper very SOO.-4. On the strike clearance, if you were in the army during the strike and your book was retired, you will be given clearance when you gel out. Simply bring your discharge papers to the Hall along with your book at that time.) r- Congress' Labor Smashers Seen Following Hitler Line To the Editor: Phoio taken aboard Pacific Tanker's SS McKittrick Hills by Bosun William Hope, shows sail rigged during emergency. According to information, which was forwarded from the Mobile Hall, the tanker was en route to Cherbourg, France, from Lake Charles, La., when a sail which had been rigged broke down and was pounded to pieces in heavy seas between Bermuda and Azores. "The sail was sewn," the account continues, "then rigged on the foremast, later changed to the stack. This held up her head imtil emergency repairs were made and the ship was able to proceed to Cherbourg." Performing the sewing and rigging operation were Tom McCormick, Chief Mate; Glen Row, Maintenance; Herman Borenberg, Quartermaster, and Nick Nickells. Frida7, June 27, 1947 Not long after Adolph Hitler's rise to power he legislated trade unions out of existence in Ger­ many, backed by the wealth and power of great industrialists. The fact that Adolph eventually turn­ ed on his backers, confiscated their properties, ran them out of the counti-y or reduced them to jittery caricatures of their former proud selves is of no consequence here. That he did reduce the work­ ers of Germany to robots slaving for a pittance and later to ruth­ less military automations, dealing torture and death to countless millions is to the point, to wit: Not long after the present Repub­ lican congress acquired power, they took immediate action to leg­ islate trade unions out of exis­ tence in America, backed by the wealth and power of great in­ dustrialists. SEES PARALLEL The parallel is not far-fetched. Tatf, Ball, Wherry and their short­ sighted cohorts are following Hitler's line of reasoning and his actions.too closely for anyone to ignore. That they, all born to wealth, should imitate a common laborer in their concentrated ef­ forts to down labor, would be Jaughable if it were not such a serious matter. Fortunately, the people of America are not suited to fit the role they hope to assign to us. Can anyone in his right mind con­ ceive of this free nation of men and women of diversified origins, free and equal, according to the glorious constitution we revere, being turned into slavish automa­ tons under a congressionally-devised system of regimentation. If so, than I must confess to being far more obtuse than the average citizen. The Republican congress ac­ quired power because of their promise to reduce excessive taxes. They changed their tune in short order, when the industrialist boss­ es' told them to give countless billions of public funds to an, and all foreign nations in order to provide more market and wealth for said industrialists. In short, the money we hand over for taxes is sent abroad so that a comparatively few favored individuals and corporations may wax wealthier. If we, the tax­ payers could hand over our money directly to said favored persons, it would save time, money and endless red tape. IFs No Use By DENNIS SAUNDERS They called him Mr. Shanghai Pete, He was SUP agent on the Balto beat. From early bright, till five at night, Shanghaing seamen was his one delight. Bosun, OS, AB, whatever your rate. Get in his way and he'd seal your fate. A kid came in from the Caroline, I knew him, he was a good friend of mine. LABOR SCAPEGOAT He got there for the one o'clock * Public discontent with the Re­ call. publican failure to carry out pre­ At two Pete shanghaied him election promises became so in­ out of the hall. sistent that the usual political trick of obscuring issues was re­ Don't try to pick a special ship. Or try to get a special trip. sorted to. A victim was needed For once he leys his eyes on you, in a hurry, and John L. Lewis I'm sure you'll be shanghaied was selected. The move was too. relished by the coal barons and their praise caused the present Congress to believe they were Wants To Hear leading the way in a popular From Ex-Shipmates movement. Overreaching them­ selves, they decided to include To the Editor: all trade unionism in their cru­ I retired my book about a year sade. ago, and made it my aim to live As a result they will go down a shoreside life for awhile, and I in history as the most destruc^ would be very happy to hear tive Congress, and of course, from any of my former ship­ down to defeat in the next elec­ mates. tion. I have secured a job in a local Meanwhile, the damage they power plant/ firing a couple of have done and are doing not only high pressure boilers. It's not to labor but to the nation as a such a bad job but we could whole, will have incalculably dis­ really stand some good union astrous results. No man can fore­ men here. tell the future with any degree of I have been receiving every is­ accuracy, yet it can be said with­ sue of the LOG, which I very out fear of contradiction that the much appreciate. I really can't present Congress has made a wait between issues, and I cer­ blunder that will have unhappy tainly would like to continue re­ repercussions for years to come. ceiving it. So long for now. Bill Gray Paul E. Jacks SS Seatrain New Jersey RR No. 3, Box 125 At Sea Marion, Indiana MateDoesOneForBooks - 'Logs'Patrolman To the Editor: Here's a few lines, that can be added to the tales that appear in the LOG concerning sea char­ acters and incidents that happen aboard these rustbuckets. During the past trip, our ship, the SS Billings Victory, came into Montreal. After a short stop for a few beers, we went to the Hall and asked for a patrolmam Well, who comes on board but none other than "Spud" Mur­ phy, Canadian District represen­ tative. Immediately the Chief Mate admits to Brother Murphy that he is a company "stiff and then proceeds to give Brother Mur­ phy a hard time. Well, as usual, matters go from bad to worse, and the Mate takes Murphy up to his room and has him sign the log book—two days pay for one. The charges were "boarding the ship without proper authority from the Mate." So now the $65 question Murphy is asking is: "Who in hell is the Mate going to collect from?" So much -for that. At this time I would like to thank Brothers Gene Markey, Mike Quiske and Murphy for their cooperation here in Mon­ treal. I advise all Brothers, when they hit this port, to stop into the Hall—it's at 1440 Bleury Street. Brother Quiske, by the way, is doing a fine job of or­ ganizing Canadian .seamen up there. Tell all the pie-cards at the New Yoi'k Hall, I said hello and also any of the rest of my ship­ mates around there. Ralph (Red) McKenzie TAKING THE MAIL AROUND THE WORLD m "Fine sailing up io now." is how the Deck Gang of the SS India Mail describe the first leg of their round-the-world trip. This photo was forwarded from Manila by E. Vallina, AB. �Friday. June 27. 1947 THE THROWING THE BULL—IN REVERSE SEAFARERS LOG T» rv J. A ix NT T TT 'x I TTT Bause, Out After Year In Hospital, Warns Brothers To Shun Shysters, Seek SIU Aid To the Editor: I I Greetings to the splendid staff of the LOG and all the Brothers that have been responsible for making the LOG the outstanding publication it is today. Many thanks for publishing some of my letters while I was confined in the Staten Island Marine Hospital. All of them broughr^the desired results. I Having been in the hospital for over a year, I would like to say a few words of thanks to that in­ stitution. I am deeply grateful to the leadership as well as to the medical staff, nurses, orderlies and maids. During my long con­ finement as a bed patient, I was treated well and many was the time staff members went out of their way to be helpful. This may be the time to say a word of thanks to Navy Mothers Like a bull seeing red.- bull in photo above charges violent­ ly on heels of horse bearing his tormentor, while enthusiastic crowds shout approvingly and consume Portuguese equivalent of hot dogs and pop. The horse, who is in the middle in the en­ counter mused that there must be an easier way to make hay. Scene is Lisbon, Portugal, bull ring on Easier Sunday, when Bay Durbin, Deck Maintenance formerly on SB James Duncan, took photo. of Staten Island and the DAR, who are doing fine work among our hospitalized Brothers. The DAR maintains a shop on the 5th floor. Mr. Hunnewell is in charge, forever trying to teach patients handicraft, keep them oc­ cupied arid give them new hope when all appeal's lost. This is my first contribution to the LOG and as you read on you will see that I am no Runyon or Pearson. Anyway Brothers, here it is from the City of Broth­ erly Love and pretty gals, where I have'Spent the last six weeks. Seafarer will agree with me it is in regard to drunken performers on sign-on and pay-off days. Now, I am sure no Brother really intends to give anyone a hard time at those times. I know that a good cold beer, especially in the good ole summertime, while you are waiting, a boilermaker and helper really helps to pass the time but by doing that we are doing ourselves a real in­ justice.By not doing it we are helping not only ourselves but the Pa­ trolman who comes aboard to take cai-e of our interest. The membership here is pretty weU pleased with the way the Phila­ delphia branch officers are tak­ ing care of and eliminating the practice in this port. Now, don't get me wrong. I am .not a habitual beachcomber but due to the housing situation and having to move, I have been forced to stick around. But you can bet your next draw that I'll be on my way soon. The Port of Philadelphia, fellas, is hum­ ming for rated men so if you have a rating, come on down and see Brother (Rose Bush) Collins, our very able Dispatcher, and I. am sure you'll get shipped or shanghaied fast. NOT PREAOilNG Brothers, I have something on my chest that I'd like to get off. No Brothers, I am not a teeand I believe that every good totaler and very far from it; I'm UNTIL THE cs VS NEXT TIME? jnys r/c^r ^ A Seafarer Sounds 'All's Weir As Newlands Departs Seafarers Must Be Geared To Continue Forward Drive To the Editor: THe Mesr MMH J? A Seafarer's pen and ink interpreiation of the deal meted out to alien seamen who served this nation in its wartime iiours of need. should be to contact your hos­ pital delegate, who in Staten Is­ land is Brother Joe Volpian, whose record needs no introduc­ tion. He is there to help you and advise you, and believe me. Brothers, he is well-versed and unusually capable in aiding you while you're in the hospital. You'll do well to follow his ad­ vice. The SIU is to be congratulated in placing such a capable man in a key spot. It surely speaks well for the Union. In a few days I expect to have my case settled and take my place once more as an active member of the SIU. In signing off, I wish to thank Brother Joe Volpian for the many fine services he rendered while I was confined. Thank you Joe, the LOG, and the able leadership of the SIU. Carry on and steady as she goes! Bill Bause WORD OF WARNING I would like to say a few v/ords of warning to Brothers who are in the hospital. When you are hurt, either aboard ship, or, as in my case ashore by a car or taxi, you will find that you'll be appi oached by certain gentlemen claiming to represent lawyers. In my case I came to the hospital with two badly broken legs and on my first day was approached by a "runner," who wished me to sign a paper giving him the sole right to represent me legally. Since I was in great pain, I just chased him away. I may mention the officials of the hospital are doing their best to keep these "ambulance chasers" away from you, but it is no preacher either but one who impossible. Some of these gen­ tlemen are not above using anti­ likes his lush too. I hear that June 7th was union propaganda to win their Brother Eddie Higdon's birthday point. I know of at least two and there's a rumor that he was cases where SIU Brothers were To the Editor: born so long ago that they could instructed by these "runners" not Just a few lines before we start not pass out cigars as it was be- to talk to their hospital delegate on our slow trip around the foi-e they were being made. Any­ until they had signed up with world. If you don't think it's way he's doing a bang up job their I'espective lawyers. going to be slow, come along. NOTIFY SIU here in Philly and good luck to This one of Waterman's good him. That is all wrong. When you old Libertys, the SS Francis G. Walt Gardner enter the hospital, your first move Newlands, bound for India, Cey­ lon and only God knows where else, but she is expected to go MEETllSIG IN MASINLOC right around straight east. We. have several cameraa* aboard, so you may be flooded with pictures from time to time, if and when we can get them de­ veloped. I saw old Sweeney down here and he's getting grayer by the day. I cap't figure whether it's the heat or the work he's doing. It could be the brand of snake juice they pass out down here. We have a damn swell skipper on this scow; wish Waterman had more like him. Everything is being cared for nicely here in Galveston. We came here from Mobile to load and both the Agent and a couple of Patrolmen have been aboard a couple of times to see if all was ship-shape. They are really on the ball down here. Well, I guess I had better close before I bore you all to death. So long for now. You'll hear from us again soon as we have Tony Kubiska (left) and Harry Grimes, Wipers aboard the anything to write about. SS Iberville, make friends with a tiny inhabitant of the Philip­ C. W. Field pine isle when their vessel called there recently. SS Francis G. Newlands Sign-ons, Payoffs Can Be Made Smoother By Absence Of Performers, Brother Says To the Editor: Page Thirteen I attended the meeting the other day, when Bull Sheppard was voted in as Agent in Galves­ ton, Texas. I believe that Shep­ pard—if he has the cooperation of the Union members—will go a long way in getting the Gulf in the same good shape as are the other sections of the Union. This does not mean any reflec­ tion on the rest of our officials but simply that from all appear­ ances the whole place needed a good overhauling. Sheppard's previous record as an SIU man and official has been proven by the parf he played in the Isthmian drive, as well as NewMinutes Form Issued For Ships what he did on the Lakes. The (Contimied from Page 10) time has come when the SIU This is essential in order that must be in good shape at all times the newer members can learn in all places. the score, become fully inform­ What progress the Union has ed as to the make-up and func­ made is due to its hard-hitting tac­ tions of the Seafarers, and thus tics with everything in gear. Un­ become good Union men, who fortunately, some of the Gulf are the backbone of the or­ ports in the recent past have not ganization. been up to that mark. Among the subjects to which The membership has noticed it is advisable to devote dis­ this and is not of the opinion cussion time are: 1—History of that we can keep this up. In the Seafarers, and its structure. this business you can never tell 2—Shipping Rules. 5—^How To who you may have to fight, and Conduct A Meeting. 4^Union it's a wise old proverb that says, Constitution, etc. "A stitch in times saves nine." The form contains a complete Your's fw a staxmger Seafarers. listing of all SIU Branch Halls Joe Faulkner and their addresses. �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 27, 1947 Savannah Seafarers Files Strike The Patrolmen Say... Notice On Atlantic Towing Co. Good As New satisfactory state of affairs aboard the Frederica was the reported excellence of the Stewards De­ partment. Special mention for whipping things into true Union shape must go to Bosun Brown, a Sea­ farer who takes his Union responsiblities seriously and who works hard at getting all hands to do likewise. partment with painting, sougeeing,.and other extra work mark­ ed up for holidays. When this is seen, it shows the Patrolman that the man is either an insatiable painter or an over­ time hound. Maybe in the future we should ask that Stewards Department men get a painters endorsement, otherwise we are liable to find red lead in the soup. Legitimate overtime beefs are always welcome — in this port and in all other SIU ports—but doing work that belongs to an­ other Department cannot be call­ ed "legitimate overtime." Freddie Stewart X X % NEW YORK—It is with appre­ hension that 1 usually go out to SAVANNAH — Things have vets are getting the extra dough sign on a ship that has just come picked up in the Port of Savan­ as the jobs they are doing should out of the shipyard or has been nah in the last three weeks, keep­ pay that much, it's just that the acquired from another company ing Brother Smith and myself on company is underpaying their and union, but the Frank Norris, the go between Savannah and regular employes, and the work recently added to the Waterman Charleston handling four pay­ done by the veterans costs them fleet, proved not to be the usual offs and sign-ons in Charleston even less out of their own pock­ type of ship. and five payoffs and seven sign- ets. The Norris, a former NMU ship Brother Brown set a commen­ ons here. Personally, I'm getting a little fresh out of the shipyard, really We are looking for this Port tired of having my taxes go to­ opened my eyes. She had just dable example aboard ship for - to stay like this for some time, ward the paj'roll of the Atlantic received a fresh paint job all the youngsters in the Union and so if any of you Brothers would Towing Company. the way through and she looked in keeping the men straight. His like an eight week trip to France, The following members do- as good as new. The quarters activities pay off in the form of England, or Holland come on rated money for the purpose of had been redecorated with each greater Union prestige. Howard Guinier down to Savannah, and that is sending the Morning News to bunk getting a new inner spring what j'ou will get. Brother T. J. Wickham who is in mattress. X i X We have been trying to get "Snug Harbbr"; Pat Towns, $3.00; Every possible repair had been Patrolman's Headaches men from ports south to Tampa Ray Kitchens, $2.00; H. C. Chan- made. She was well stored, and Skin You Love and up to New York, and yet we cey, $2.00; Charlie Lee, $1.25; from the slopchest list that I We have been successful in our still have to put out trip cards. NEW YORK—A situation has Shorty Atkins, $1.00; Nollie saw there won't be any com­ attempts to have the Stewards So, Brothers, don't forget that Towns, $1.00; Beam, $1.00; Neid- plaints on that score. Department manning scale in­ come up concerning the slopchest each new man we take in now linger, $1.00; Chiffin, $1.00; and creased along with other favor­ that would be rather humorous— BLANK CHECK will mean one less job later. Let's Harry Carey, $1.00. able contractual conditions. In that is if some of the members think it over and take these jobs She needed a few items such particular, a binding contract is weren't so serious about it. now, so we all will have them as wind scoops which the com­ now in effect covering wages, The slopchest, the oldtimers later. pany hadn't been able to get routine work, and so forth. will remember, was originally put here, but they gave the crew .r It was agreed that some work on the ship for the purpose of BEEFS SETTLED beyond the scheduled working obtaining working gear during letter calling for anything they {Continued front Page 7) We have had three beefs pend­ needed in Philly. hours could be eliminated by in­ the days when a seaman's wages cease, and upon arrival in port ing here, and at this time two of If the items can't be secured creasing the manning scale. were so low that a man had to them are settled. This means by forfeiture, for every 24 hours This was done in the Stewards buy his gear aboard ship, as he the FWT from the Jefferson City continuance of such disobe­ there, the ciew can payoff under Victory and the Oilers from the dience or neglect, of a sum of mutual consent. Nothing could Department, in order to prevent generally didn't have the money such extra work, over and above while he was ashore. Southland can now get their not more than 12 days pay, or be any better than that. The Skipper, Captain Clark, routine work, being forced on money by getting in touch with by imprisonment for not more Today the situation is much than three months, at the dis­ turned out to be a good egg and the few members who formerly different. We have a well sup­ the company here. his crew rates equally as well. comprised the Stewards Depart­ The deck time from the South­ cretion of the court. plied slopchest which includes With everything the way it ment. 6. For assaulting any master, land is still pending, as the com­ candy, gum, cigarettes, working pany says that old Mother Na­ mate, pilot, engineer, or staff shaped up at the sign on, there Routine work is outlined in gear, shaving equipment and all ture and the ocean can't flood the officer, by imprisonment for should be an easy payoff when our general agreement, and is the necessary items that a man she return from Europe. not more than two years. specified under .Stewards Depart­ is liable to need on a long trip. decks with fuel oil. She left New York for Philly ment Working Rules. 7. For willfully damaging (I v/onder what they think where she is loading coal for Eur­ Now 1 find that some of the flooded the decks of all the ships the vessel, or embezzling or If something develops that is ope. 1 hated to hear that she fellows want sun tan oil, cold willfully damaging any of the that went down duidng the war. foreign to the agreement, and was taking coal aboard, for there cream, sun glasses and such simi­ stores or i-,-"-'o, by forfeiture I"^now of one that was so flood­ which would throw the working goes that nice paint job. lar items that they sound like out of his wages of a sum equal ed, and I think a lot of you It's too bad they have to take a crew of Broadway chorus girls in amount to the loss thereby Brothers know of many more.) instead of seamen. I don't see how they can keep sustained, and also, at the dis­ the girl out and get her all dirty cretion of the court, by im­ just after she got a nice paint from paying on this beef. If a guy wants to take that job, but that's the way it goes. I have filed a strike notice prisonment for not more than kind of stuff to sea with him One ship that won't have to against the Atlantic Towing 12 months. that's his business. But he can worry about getting dirtied up if 8. For any act of smuggling Company for the 23rd of this get it at any drug store, so please, she keeps the present crew month. It looks like this is the for which he is convicted and boys, don't bother the Patrolman only way we will ever get a whereby loss or damage is oc­ aboard is the Walter E. Ranger, with beefs like that. Eastern Steamship Company. She contract and living wages out of casioned to the master or own­ Instead of fooling around with paid off here in New York this this outfit, as they are so used er, he shall be liable to pay such things, we could be squar­ to paying wages with our tax such master or owner a sum week with everything sparkling. ing away good beefs. We want No beefs, no performers, no money that they can't bear the as is sufficient to reimburse the every ship to sail with a wellthought of paying their own master or owner for such loss drunks—nothing but praise for a stocked slopchest—but enough is clean ship and a fine crew. or damage, and the whole or wages. Jim Drawdy schedule out of kilter and cause enough. At the moment this outfit has any account of such liability, more work to be done outside of Another beef at the sign-on has seven GI veteran trainees on and he shall be liable to im­ the prescribed hours^ overtime is been the cigarettes. The usual their payroll at $100 per month. prisonment for a period of not Ship-Shape Ship collectible. practice is to divide the full NEW YORK—Ship-shape was We, through the government, more than 12 months. For routine work at sea, when The guy who keeps his nose the word for the SS Fort Fred- the ship sails without full com­ amount of the ration among the pay them $90 giving them a total of $190 monthly. clean needn't bother to read the erica, a Los Angeles Tanker, that plement for any reason, the crew and officers, the minimum The men who have been work­ aforementioned laws twice. But paid off in New York last week. wages of the missing men are to being two cartons a week. ing for the Atlantic Towing Com­ the guy who finds that has an All departments contributed to be divided among the members If there is more than this all pany for up to 20 years are paid inclination occasionally to get in­ the first-rate payoff by coming of the crew who perform the well and good, but if the ration $135 to $145 per month. So it's to scrapes might do well to pay in without beefs, which had work. is only two cartons there is no been squared away by the three obvious that the company is some attention to them. reason to beef. SHORT HANDED milking us and the government The simplest way to keep clear delegates before the ship arrived By this 1 don't mean that the In port, when a shortage of to pay the veteran's wages. of any penalties obviously is to in port. crew should be limited to two Partially responsible for the personnel exists in the Stewards I'm not moaning because the avoid committing offenses. and the officers the rest, as any­ Department, .overtime . is only thing above two cartons should paid for work in excess of eight be divided equally. hours. In this respect, it is wise to The way to straighten out the life's iiistory or write any fancy was loaded on her last trip by note that subsistence is paid to slopchest is to put the matter in By JOE SHIMA articles. Just give the plain facts CIO ore punchers or dockmen. the entire crew when meals are the hands of the Delegates and TOLEDO—SlU Port Agents are or details, and include your Yet the NMU had the nerve to not provided. let them check the list and mark often hauled over the coals for name and book number, if you request the ILA dockmen at To­ Routine work in the Stewards down all the shortages for the not writing port news or news have one. If you're on an un­ ledo to not handle her, after their Department was a must 365 days Patrolman but, please, leave of interest regarding the mem­ organized ship, we won't print own affilates in the CIO loaded a year when the ship was feed­ Jergens Lotion to Walter Winbers and non-members sailing your name. That will be held in her up! ing. In view of the fact that holi­ chell. out of their ports. So I'm going confidence. That's one for the book! CIO days and Saturdays were as other Jack Parker to pass the buck right back to If you're in Toledo, drop in dockmen loaded the Jupiter in days for the Stewards Depart­ the fellows where it originated— and see me, and I'll bend a listen­ Ashland, and AFL docks were ment, this was unjust, since other right back to you. ing ear in your direction. Maybe, picketed in Toledo to stop her Departments worked less time How about all SIU members you won't have to do any writing unloading! for a set base pay. and those who are interested in at all. In that case, the Port This condition has been recti­ Certainly, no SIU members or If you don't,, find, linen becoming SIU members writing Agent- will act as your literary AFL affiliates will touch a hot fied, and today men in the Stew­ when you go aboard your an occasional letter or item for emissary. ship, whether she's AFL or CIO. ards Department collect the over­ ship, notify the Hall at once^ But this whole business on the time rate for work done on holi­ the LOG? GHOST SHIP A telegram from Le .Havre, br^ SS Jupiter was badly managed days and Saturdays in port..: . Get it to the Port Agent where Singapore . wpn!i ,.dp you ,any, ^ In reviewing the wanderings Today we consider this an ad­ from start to finish. She should you may drop anchor, or send it good. It's your bed and you ; vance. But there is nothing more of the NMU's modern ghost ship, have been tied up in the ship­ in to the SEAFARERS LOG, 51 have to lie in it. . disgusting than to see an over­ the SS Jupiter, it is rather in­ yard when she had a number of Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y, time sheet for the Stewards De­ teresting to note that this ship plates off, being repaired. -r..7 • It's not necessary to give your By CHARLES STARLING Look At The Law Evet7 Seafarer Should Be A Log Correspondent AHENTION! M �Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 27. 1947 BUUXTII^(W" Retroa.ctive Wages SS Colabee, Voyage 18 Bruce Scheiblauer 25 Roger Foster 26 Edgar F. Benson 27 Hermanns' J. Out 28 Euguen Swabech 44 Deck Department Amalio Martinez 45 Name Voucher No. Abraham Vegas 46 Kristian Korneliusen 7 Stewards Department H. C. Browning, $2.00; \V. V. Arledge, Harrj' Vendrwaardn 8 NEW YORK NORFOLK $2.00; j. Lee, $2.00; G. A. Arnim, Name Voucher No. Peter Blanco 9 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $10.00; J. Owen. Jr.. $2.00. 1 F. Polves. $1.00; Ernest Barlow. John Livanos 10 Andrew P. Smurda C. W. Pauls. $3.00; N, Drayur. $1.00; SEATRAIN N. Y. A. R. Arsenault. $3.00; W. G. Jarvis, 29 $i.00; j. c. Rizzo. $1.00; W. E. Jack­ Alfred Larsen 11 William E. Pepper C. Goldstein. $1.00; Marvin Dick­ S3.00. 30 son. $1.00; R. j. Hennekens. $1.00 son, $1.00. Hans Nettelbladt 12 Edward Kaznowsky S. H. Williams. $3.00-. J. L. Sanders, 31 j. Arras, $2.00; W. Bause. $10.00 Thomas J. Malone 13 Ignatius P. Gomes SS FORT FREDERICA Jr., $2.00; A. E. Underwood, $2.00; H. E. V. Phillips. $.50; C. R. Maun. $1.00 32 M. A. Doucette, $1.00; P. S. Har­ Hanes, $2.00; F. S. .Mitchell. $1.00; E. Augustine P. Lazzaro 14 Benjamin H. Balcer F. Vargas, $1.00; H. C. Duncan Thomas A. Byrne 33 $1.00; P. Bite, $1.00; C. S. Hamnen rington. $1.00; N. V. Reitti, $1.00; W. J. Kelly. $2.00. Henry A. Adamowicz 15 D. Jones. $1.00; E. *. .McConnell. $1.00; G. .Aban. $3.00; J. A. Dailey, $3.00; Robert E. Lansdell 16 Joseph E. Lavigne 34 $1.00; L. G. McNair, $5.00; J. A. Carrand. $1.00; F .Alexander. $1.00; L. G. Ange. $3.00; IL I.. Dukes. $2.00; Perera, $1.00. Felix Miranda 35 George R. Brown 17 R. K. Lee, $1.00; P. J. Cradozzi. $1.00; L. M. .VIelvin. $3 00; P. C. Powell, S. Mangold. $2.00; R. Morgan. $2.00 36 John C. Munden 43 & 53 Pedro J. Garcia G. W. Berlhold. $1.00; C. F. Brow,-.. $1.00; E. Duxbury. $1.00; H. E. L. Fedine, $2.00; A. D. Guida. $1.00. 37 Vittorio M. Caravello 52 Wendell R. Coats R. D. Vandervoost. $10.00; E. Schip $1.00; C. Kinsel, $1.00; M. Travagini. Dennis. $1.00; R. J. Barrus. $1.00; Christopher Birliaris 38 plan, $1.00; P. Cuccurullo, $1.00 $1.00; J. P. Dickoso. $1.00; P. De- R. L. Tillett. $1.00. Engine Department Pietro, $1.00; G. E. ORouke. $1.00; E. A. Crocker. $3.00; L. A. Greico, George W. Thyer 39 $1.00; Wm. Throop, $5.00; C. J. Fry j. .Pisa. $1.00; R. M. Koenig, $1.00; $3.00; H. Hayaski. $3.00; D. H. Ker-,^ Name Voucher No. Eugene M. Medford j. J. Tabarrini. $1.00; Norbert Rogan 40 F. C. .Altri. $1.00. win. " $2.00; J. K. Presnell, $2.00; Ernesto Rubio 2 Earl W. Ebbert 41 $1.00; J. Swolanski. $1.00; Mrs. Agnes SS MALLORY H. W. Lamm. Jr.. $3.00; R. T. Leiand. E. Humphries. $2.00; G. G. McNeice Joseph A. Saroctka 3 William Gonzales 42 $5.00; John I lorton. $2,50; E. R. .A. Singer. $1.00; .A. Plaza. $3.00; $3.00; L. J. Barker. $3.00; B. B. James W. Brake 4 Wilbur Hunt 47 Milanesi, $2.00; G. J. Bullock. $2.00 J. L. Tumbling. $1.00; C. Robinson. Powell. $3.00; F. J. Jordan. $3.00; J. Milokas. $2.00; A. Skrzypski. G. M. Patterson. $3.00; I. C. Williams, Luis Gonzales 5 Walter Marcus 48 F. Cario, $3.00; P. Lupo. $3.00 $2.00; $2 00; W. .M. Rozinski. $2.00; j. J. $3.00; D. T, Hurdle, $3.00; J. W. Henry C. Tresvant 6 Louie Caloca 49 W. Perednia. $1.00; F. .Muchclot, $5.00 Juscius. $2.00; H. Wm. Willett, $1.00; Whitfield. $3.00; N. L. Mark. $5.00. William A. Craven 18 Ricardo C. Canedo SS R. INGERSOLL 50 D. J. Stilley. $2.00; .M. F. Engelsen. C. W. Foltz. $3.00. W. Peterson. R. Savior. $1.00; Grady Halty. $1.00 $1.00; S. Rothschild. $1.00; J. Rolf. Donald J. Sconyers 19 Ramon R. Sierra 51 $2.00; W. T. Mathews. $2.00; A. P. J. T. Lassiter, $2.00; A. Henderson $4.00; J. Czaplak, 31.00. James Band 20 Alerante. $2.00. $1.00; L. Gilmore, $1.00; B. Wotursk SS EMILIA Mario Starace 21 $5.00; T. Radclif, $1.00; V. A. Tocco P. O. Cirelli, $2.00; M. L. Philp. Frank Kopersky 22 $1.00; B. Smoljan, $2.00. $2.00; T. W. Styron, $2.00; R. Vaz­ Alfonso Alaguibel 23 SS FRANK DALE quez. $2.00; P. Navitsky. $2.00; R. L. konstant M. Kain 24 A. R. Tonon. $1.00; J. E. Oliver Wingate, $2.00; E. Zaniewski, $2.00; Any men due money for un­ J. C. Laseter. $2.00; Otis Howell. claimed wages or overtime from $1.00. JUSTO R. VELOZQUEZ $2.00; J. Schoell, $2.00; A. D. Lehtola. SS J. MORTON Pacific Tankers should apply to Your wife is anxious to hear $2.00; D. G. Averill. $2.00; E. Good­ K. E. Begley. $5.00; J. Kirkland Mr. James Dwyer, Pacific Tank­ man. $5.00; J. R. McPhaul, $2.00; J. from you immediately. Tompol, $1.00; R. T. Land $1.00; A. ers, 423 Sampson Street, San $1.00; A. K. Miles, $1.00; D. R. Cor Wingate, $2.00; E. Gorum. $2.00; J. 4 4 4 ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. Georges. $2.00; Z. Williams, $2.00; J. nell, $1.00;' R. McKay, $1.00. Phone 552:S Francisco, Calif. PAUL R. SMITH Foust, $2.00. BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. SS HUNTER 4. i i. Your father is very ill in Mayo SS CURRIER Calvert 4539 E. Higgans, $1.00; R. E. Simmons ANDREW GEORGE P. Richter. $1.00; F. Weeks. $2.00; Clinic. Your family wishes you BOSTON 276 State St. $10.00; R. Layko. $58.00; H. BloodPlease communicate with at­ worth. $1.00; R. Dellepelle, $2.00; M. Ramin. $2.00; A. Hadad. $1.00; to return to LaSalle, 111. immed­ Boudoin 4455 J. F. Gamblich. $5.00; C. .Ayala. $1.00; BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. torney Benjamin B. Sterling, 42 S. Musco, $1.00; J. Soto. $2.00; iately. W. Lobel. $35.00. , Cleveland 7391 Broadway, New York City, re­ I. Perez. $1.00; J. Petrof, $1.00; CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. SS COASTAL STEVEDORE garding settlement of your case S. Vosdogames. $10.00; F. Sintich. JULIUS TAYLOR, Deck Del. Superior 5175 W. J. Wade, $2.00; W. Snoeik. $2.00; $1.00; M. J. Fields. $5.00; R. Wilhit SS JOHN JAY CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. involving injury aboard the SS J. Murphy. $2.00; L. W. Ritch. $2.00; $2.00; G. B. Gundersen. $2.00; H. Main 0147 Frederick W. Galbraith, in Sa­ V. Pitts, $2.00; F. Pawel. Jr.. $2.00. Halligan. $1.00. Your gear which you gave to DETROIT 1038 Third St. vannah, Georgia, on Scptcmbcr SS SPENCER Curt Starke can be had by call­ SS SEATRAIN TEXAS Cadillac 6857 J. D. Lowery. $2.00; W. Lowery. 27, 1946. P. E. Tassin, $2.00. ing at the 4th floor baggage room buLUTH 531 W. Michigan St. $2.00; C. L. Pottel. $3.00; D. B. Jordon. SS BILLINGS VICTORY 4. 4. 4. Melrose 4110 $2.00; M. H. Phillips. $2.00; A. J. of the New York Hall, 51 Beaver S. E. Jansson. $2.00; P. G. Nearhas. Langan, $2.00; GALVESTON 308'/j—23rd St. GEORGE FINN j. M. Ratey. $2.00; Street. Get in touch with the $1.00; G. Englehnrd, $2.00; R. H. C. Thompson, $2.00; M. Roberts. $2.00; Phone 2-8448 LOG office for Starke's address. Book Number 49342. See Fred­ Morris, $2.00; A. Dorgzio, $2.00; K. G. O'Briant, $1.00; O. P. Smith. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 4 4 4 Phone 58777 die Stewart, New York Patrol­ H. M. Methiev, $1.00; A. E. Rosado. $2.00; D. R. Leary. $2.00. ARTHUR E. GIBSON JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. man, the'next time you are in P. L. Shauger, $1.00; R. L. McKenzie. SS CAVALIER Phone 5-5919 the New York Hall. $2.00; A. Wasstrom, $1.00; A. R. DuBois, $1.00; John Rosato. $2.00; Get in touch with Ben Ster­ MARCUS HOOK 1'4 W. 8th St. Kavel, $1.00; F. E. Serra, $1.00. C. A. Fletcher. $2.00; P. Morrison. ling, 42 Broadway, New York, in 4* 4* 4* Chester 5-3110 $2.00: C. Burgio. $2.00; W. Dunham. SS T. JAY MICKEY HYNDS regards to the voyage of the Ro­ MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. 2.00; J. Heitz.enroeder & Crew. $13.00. J. W. .Szkodinski. $5.00; W. R. Phone 2-1754 bin Locksley which paid off in Your gear, which you left on Simpson, $2.00; C. Starke, $5.00. SS ARIZPA MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St. January, 1947. J. Nash. $1.00; J. D. Powell. $1.00; board the SS Pierre Laclede, is SS R. N. McNEELEY NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. A. W. Thompson and Crew, $20.00. W. W. Reid, $3.00; F. H. Mabe. $2.00; now being held for you in the 4 4 4 Magnolia 6112-6113 G. Bautista. $2.00; M. Ku.ssmaul. JACK CILLER SS POINT CARBRILLO NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. New Orleans Hall. Get in touch $2.00; George Lass. $1.00; P. P. J. R. Parsons. $5.00; N. Lyons. HAnover 2-2784 with the Baggage Room there. A communication from Mrs. Guimond. $1.00; Karl E. Uri. $1.00; $2.00; C. O'Connell. $2.00; R. CarNORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. H. H. Mcador requests that you F. E. Cizewski, $1.00; J, V. Russell. stens. $2.00. Phone 4-1083 $2.00; M. A. Kiker. $1.00; W. B. Smith, get in touch with her. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. SS MADAKET $1.00; .A. C. Fivek. $1.00; G. Kesprzyk. W. Przylomski, $2.00; A. Kubacki. Lombard 3-7651 4 4 4 $1.00; R. M. Mann. $1.00; A. Horvath. Sanlonzans, PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. $1.00; J. Viga $1.00; J. ROSBY T. SLUCKLAND $1.00; R. B. Branney. $1.00. Beacon 4336 $2.00; J. LaRocco, $2.00; S. P. GonGEORGE DANIELS JR. Your father is very anxious to SS LA FARGE RICHMOND, Calif ... 257 5th St. dzar, $1.00. Money due you for 25 hours Z. Wydrn. $2.00; H. W. Girard. hear from you. Phone 2599 SS BEAUREGARD $2.00; J. L. Probst. $2.00; Glatthorn. SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. work aboard the James Duncan H. W. Clemens, $1.00; H. J. Swart 4 4 4 Henry Childs, $3.00; Joseph Douglas 5475 - 8363 can be collected at the offices "of jes, $1.00; j. Toledo. $2.00; M. P. $1.00; STEVE A. WEISS Morelli. $2.00; W. P. Smith. $1.00; I SAN JUAN, P.R. ..252 Ponce de Leon Waterman Steamship Company, Perez, $1.00; E. W. Geter, $2.00; F. Your daughter, Theresa, wants R. Silvander, $2.00; R. P. Sasseville. I San Juan 2-5996 19 Rector Street, New York, Szwestka, $1.00; R. R. Carlson, $1.00. $1.00. to hear from you very soon. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. SS CELILO N. Y. SS D. HITCH Phone 8-1728 H. C. Smallwood, $6.00; M. R. 4 4 4 R. G. Roales, $2.00; J. Ally. $2.00; SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. 4. 4. 4. Norris, $2.00; L. Campbell, $2.00; WHELDON J. BILLINGTON E. Trotman. $2.00; E. Lord, $2.00; Main 0290 Crewmembers of the SS Coy­ R. W. Morrison & Crew, $6.00. C. DufF. $2.00; W. R. Carroll, $2.00; Contact Myrtle Billington im­ TAMPA ...•1809-1811 N. Franklin St. ote Hills, Pacific Tankers, can SS CALDWELL Phone M-1323 Wm. Raae, $10.00; H. H. Oldeide. j. H. Bethca. $2.00; C. Archer. $2.00; mediately. She is anxious to hear collect overtime money for- stand­ $10.00; N. A. Ohisson. $10.00; E. W. Hare. $2.00; C. Kubic, $2.00; TOLEDO 615 Summit St. from you. Garfield 2112 ing watch at Sabine Bar, Texas. Mikkelson, $10.00; A. Gentes, $2.00; W. Robinson, $2.00. 4 4 4 SS INGERSOLL WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. The money is being held at the A. , P. Stearns, $2,00; J. Blanchard. THOMAS F. HENDRICKS' J. Van Sant, $1.00. * Terminal 4-3131 Company office, 115 Broadway, R. Gomez. $2.00; C. Ryals, $5.00; H. VICTORIA, B.C. 602 Houghton St. H. Matson, $10.00; H. C. Boone, A letter from Mrs. Margaret M. New York. Other overtime has $10.00; BOSTON Garden 8331 B. W, Bynura, $10.00; F. Craig asks you to write to your' been referred to the West Coast INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Knight, $10.00; J. C. Moslo ,y$IO,00; VANCOUVER ....144 W. Hastings St. mother immediately. J. Adams, $1.00. for settlement. Ira Boone, $10.00; J. F. Smith, $2.2C; Pacific 7824 (Mcr.rc/ may be claimed at paym, "; ers' office. AmericanHawaiian SS Co.. 2nd floor. 90 Broad C.' . New York.) NOTICE! SlU HALLS MONEY DUE PERSOKALS �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Canadian Seamen Are New Ready For A Real International Union ] 3 i 1 i ( • • , , ' : • Friday. June 27. 1947 ATTENTION! I Ship Surgeons Will Vote On Pursers Union Wages paid the following list­ ed members', who were employed by^ Calmar Steamship Corpora­ tion during 1945, have not been credited to their Social Security existence at the taxpayers' ex­ that of the government bureau­ accounts due to the lack of So­ By WILLIAM McLAUGHLIN NEW YORK—An NLRB elec­ cial Security numbers. pense. crats and the shipowners. tion among surgeons aboard The endurance of the organThe men listed below should Grace Line vessels, the first such Last, but by no means least, Under the pseudonym of "na­ ized Canadian seaman" today is send their social security num­ in history, will take place within are the communists, who of ne­ tional unity," during the war fast reaching the explosion point, bers to: Federal Security Agency, two weeks to determine whether cessity must have some sort of years, the communists were able as is evidenced by the feverish Social Security Adminstration, they want to be represented by sensationalism to smokescreen to conceal their ineffectiveness as ^ activity of the commies in the American Merchant Marine the bankruptcy of their Moscow seamen were forced to accept ar­ Field Office, 42 Broadway, New past month or so. masters. York 4, N. Y. to insure credit fer gtaff Officers Association, AFL. bitrarily whatever conditions and the wages they earned. For years, seamen in Canada wages Ottawa decided on. Of what value are so-called The exact date for the election have fought to bring about leaders, whose principal obcesM. Wilson, J. Parham, Nicano will be determined this week COMMIE GOONS changes overdue in Canadian sion is to martyr themselves as Martinez, R. Rhea, Neal C. Mcwhen Tom Hill, East Coast Rep­ maritime. victims of a "police terror," as As this is being written, we Intyre, Dean T. Rollins, Joseph resentative for AMMSOA, will It has been a discouraging ex­ they have been doing in Canada? learn that one of our Patrolmen F. Potenski, Warren O'Brien. meet with the National Labor Fred Sweden, Edward Stavko, Relations Board. perience, but not a disheartenWhere does the issue of the in the Port of Monti-eal has been ing one. On every side we have shorter work week and increased given a going-over by the usual Pror Wigg, John Wanchek, R. The balloting will be between Cavanau, Robert Anderson, Jose been hemmed in by antogonisms pay fit into the picture? One of type of commie thugs. the AFL Pursers Union and No Dehesa, A1 Daines, A. Curtis. and fakery of every imaginable the necessary props to Commun­ We say to those misguided hue. Despite this we have pa­ ist existence is police terror. Fred Fernand, William Dysart, Union, since the NMU, for rea­ thugs—and the majority of the sons unknown, stated that it did tiently and persistently tried to And while the judiciary and membership of the CSU will Michael Jacobin, William Harristick together fighting the main the police have a happy time agree with us—that these tactics son, P. Golnik, B. W. Howard, in any election held for surissues that confronted us. fighting the communist menace, may be okay in Moscow, but that Ralph H. Hornech, Earnest Jones, Alexander J. Hutton, Pe8^°"^ ^ separate unit. Let no one have any doubts which can be traced to the lead­ here in the Dominion of Canada ter Kozulic, Alfred Labowit, Earl they are held in contempt. NLRB RULING that we will continue to give ership of the CSU, the shipowner As free Canadians we i-cfutc B. Marshbu. battle to any and all who choose obviously doesn't have to worry The decision for the election to defend the status quo of a great deal about demands for the mental depravity that spawns came in a ruling from the NLRB Canadian maritime enslave­ a better standard of living from such actions, regardless from which ruled that surgeons em­ which section of the CSU it ment, as we find it in this year the union membership. ployed by Grace Line constitute springs. of 1947. an appropriate bargaining unit. PROGRESS MADE The Canadian District of the For the first time now they will The Canada Shipping Act still In the short time since the SIU is in Canada to stay. Its have the opportunity to be rep­ remains as the choice example DETROIT — SIU Headquart­ resented by a bargaining agent of the impoverished intelligence new Canadian District of the policies and program has the sup­ SIU has been formed — four port of its entire international of the lawmakers at Ottawa. The ers recently received notice from if they so wish. "good intentions" of the law­ months to be exact—it has es­ membership. Coincidentally, this week AM­ tablished two closed shop con­ It is a genuine rank and filej the NLRB that the SIU had makers, demonstrated by «this MSOA is conducting an election tracts, embodying the highest program, shorn of all political been certified as the winner in legislative persecution are an among Grace Line Pursers, thus wages in Canadian maritime, plus trivia, ifs, ands and buts. the recently conducted election odious national disgrace. two elections are being held on the 40-hour week in port and 44aboard the Huron Transportation Grace Line ships by the AFL NO DIVISION hour week at sea for all three BELOW STANDARD Company ships. Pursers. departments, not the 48-40 as pro­ Already we have cracked the Wages, working and living posed by the clap-trap happy The^e two ships — the SS A regular bargaining election crust of decades and establi.shed conditions still lag far behind commies. I Crapo and SS Boardman^ — is now in progress on the ships the 40 and 44 hour weeks on voted overwhelmingly for the the various standards establish­ of American-Export Company, We might add for the record board Canadian ships. ed in other countries, notably , , , ... SIU on June 4 and 6, when the the results of which are expected that, long before our Canadian This has only been possible j^^RB conducted an election to be announced August 15. In by our Brothers of the Seafar­ District was formed, the CSU because the membership of this ers International Union of N. A., aboard them. addition AMMSOA has petition­ had been appealed to by the Union is not burdened with a in the United States. ed Alcoa Steamship Company for This victory climaxed an or­ men presently covered by these dual responsiblty, as in others, an election. We Canadians are citzens of contracts. where the shipowner or the com­ ganizational drive which had be­ one of the earth's richest coun­ gun some ten weeks earlier, and The latest company to be Furthermore, these conditions munist rules the roost. tries, the second largest producer marked the SIU's first election brought into the Pursers fold is There is no division of loyalties have been brought about by in the world of materials for victory of the 1947 sailing season the Ponchelet Marine Corpora­ genuine trade union methods, the to be contended with. We are World War II. We operated a on the Lakes. tion, which has just signed a full clean cut issue between the Un­ not shackled by any false senti­ merchant fleet which, prior to contract. As a direct result of the SIU ment to the policies of the po­ ion and the companies being im­ the war, was practically non­ win over the NMU — 28 to 2 The Pursers Union, victorious proved wages and working condi­ litical glamor boys. existent by comparison. We say again that it will only — with No Union receiving 18 in its last eleven elections, is tions. We learned very early during its organizational Increases of 100 per cent in be by a genuine form of rank votes and of this certification, contiiuiing the war years that the one mil­ contract negotiations will " be drive in companies that cannot and ,file international organiza­ wages, 40 and 44 hour work lion and a half dollars it cost to be named at the moment. Ac­ opened with the Huron manage­ tion that seamen in Canada will weeks, 90 cents and $1.05 an build one Victory type ship earn­ ment just as soon as a meeting cording to Tom Hill, a solid re­ be able to bring to a successful hour overtime for all work per­ ed double this amount in one turn for the AMMSOA is expect­ can be arranged. This should be conclusions their efforts to es­ formed over eight hours, all day voyage. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays tablish civilized wage and work­ within the next couple of weeks ed in all elections when petitions are filed. The lonely swells of the oceans in port; and all Saturday after­ ing conditions. or so. voice mute testimony to the noons, Sundays and holidays at memory of our Brothers who sea are results that speak for LOOKS LIKE IT'S UNANIMOUS went to their last watch below themselves as they courageously kept open SINKING THE SEAMEN the se.a lanes so vital to our con­ duct of the war. All Canadian seamen should Canada's seamen delivered the now be enjoying these same congoods, Canadian taxpayers paid^ ditions, and it isn't that the need for and built the ships, and many I for them hasn't existed for a of our members sealed the bar- jong time. gain with their lives. •. ^ , Who was it that went down What moie should the people, ff,0 jjne in support of the Dominof Canada expect of their mer- ion government program for chant marine? regimentation and the herding of In spite of this record as mem-' Canadian seaman into the pools bers of a large section of the ! during the war, making them Canadian working class, we find | chattels of the war program? ourselves having to struggle andj The communists of course, fight for the minimums that mi. , • • other sections of our people have ,. they disguised themselves been enjoying through Union ^he curtain of national unity for an all-out war effort, contiacts for a long time. as if the union hiring hall would DOLLAR HAPPY have been the biggest blow .to it. SIU Certffied On Huron Ships We are proud to state here that One thing we know for sure the membership of the SIU of is that the Canadian shipowner is as profit-hungry today as he N.A. has always fought for and was at anytime during the war'^^tained its rights to ship out of their own union hiring halls, and years and before. We know that the dignity of didn't suffer one •€anada's be-wigged, well-fed legal- hierarchy can only be mainOn the contrary, it benefited tained as long as Canadian tax- thereby because our members payers can see some sort of acti-^ shipped as free men, confident vity to be able to justify their j that their voice was equal to A crowded New York membership meeting heard Paul Hall, Director of Organizaiion, report on his trip to the Gulf Area. He told of the reorganization of the Gulf .Ports, all of which has . been reported in the LOG, and Brother Hall also gave the details on the great strides being made by the Marine Allied Workers, part of the SIU, with the fishermen and other allied trades along.: the Gulf. The membership voted unanimously to accept the report. � 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 June 27, 1947 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. IX, No. 26 Description An account of the resource Headlines: N.Y. MEETING PLEDGES AID TO CIO UNION LABOR FIGHTS BACK WYANDOTTE CREWS BEGIN NLRB VOTE SIU COMMITTEE MAKING HEADWAY IN NEGOTIATIONS NEW YORK BRANCH CRACKS DOWN ON GASHOUNDS AND PERFORMERS PITY THE POOR EXECUTIVE BOTH NMU AND LSU TRY TO FREELOAD ON SEAFARERS' ACCOMPLISHMENTS NO NEWS, REALLY; NMU LOSES AGAIN CANADIAN CCF RAPS PHONY SHIP TRANSFERS BUTTON GWINNETT RIPPED OPEN SUGGESTS JOINT SIU-MM&P PANEL TO HANDLE CREW-OFFICER DISPUTES FOUR WATCH SYSTEM WILL INSURE JOBS FOR ALL IN THE TOUGH TIMES AMERICAN TANKERS RUSSIA REFUSES TO RETURN USED TO CARRY U.S. OIL ABOARD MISSISSIPPI'S NEWEST--THE DEL MAR NEW ORLEANS IS REORGANIZED IN LINE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS POOR TREATMENT OF LCA SEAMEN BRINGS LAKES MEN TO SEAFARERS SEAFARERS SUPPORTS PICKETLINES AS ILA WINS PUERTO RICO STRIKE SEAFARERS HALTS SLICK DEAL ON WEST COAST WANTS TO KNOW WHERE LSU GETS ALL ITS DOUGH SHIPS AND GAS HOUNDS ARE HITTING PORT TAMPA ON REGULAR SCHEDULE BALTIMORE MTC ELECTS OFFICERS FIGHT AGAINST TAFT-HARTLEY BILL IS BIG TOPIC WITH CHICAGO SIU WEATHER NICE, SHIPPING SMOOTH: NEW YORK IS ENJOYING HAPPY DAYS SIU IN MONTREAL GOES TO AID OF AFL LAUNDRY WORKERS' BEEF IMPORTANCE OF FOLLOWING UNION POLICY IS PROVED KEITH ALSOP NEW GALVESTON AGENT; TEX SUIT GOES TO NEW ORLEANS NMU PUTS DISGUISES ON ITS MEN AND TRIES TO RAID SIU COMPANY PATROLMAN TURNS DICK TRACY, FOILS PHONY CHARGE CG'S WHITEWASH JOB FAILS TO MAKE ARIZPA SEAWORTHY; CREW OVERHAULS HER AT SEA MANROPE KNOT CREW FINDS BAUXITE TRAIL TOUGH GOING SIU RELEASES NEW FORM FOR SHIP'S MINUTES CANADIAN SEAMEN ARE NOW READY FOR A REAL INTERNATIONAL UNION SHIP SURGEONS WILL VOTE ON PURSERS UNION SIU CERTIFIED ON HURON SHIPS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 6/27/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9f01d34d4d83f27efe9255bda60a7cf7.PDF aeef4114552fd8e3893c96a888b48d44 PDF Text Text 1,1; Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL, IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY, JUNE 20. 1947 Keep Shipping Isthmian! Now that the NMU's staliing maneuvers to prevent yen from getting the benefits of Union represehtatitn and a Union contract have been stopped cold by the National Labor Relations Beard's certification of the Seafarers Interiraticn Union as your collective bargaining agent, contractual demands are being presented to the Isthmian Steamship Company. Therefore, it is extremely important that all Isthmian men remain aboard and keep sailing Isthmian vessels. The necessity for you to stay on the job until final victory cannot be stressed too vigorously. Until you can go aboard Isthmian vessels Avith an SIU contract in your pocket, don't weaken your chances for a first-rate agreement covering Avages and working conditions. Meanwhile, keep on the job. Keep sailing Isthmian! SiU Reopens Contracts To Negotiate Increases in Base Pay, Overtime NEW YORK, June 20—The Seafarers International Union is pressing for increases in the present Avage scale, rate for overtime pay and other mone­ tary considerations, on the basis of the preamble contained in ail its con­ tracts, which provides for the reopening of the wag« question at any time. Negotiations between the Union and representatives of all its contracted companies are currently under way. The Seafarers contracts are the only ones in the marine industry AA^hich contain this unique provision, allowing for discussions to be opened on wages at any time. Discussions centering on the Union's demands Avere entered •'into as a result of a letter to' all operators by J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer of the Atlantic and Gulf District, requesting an early meeting to reopen negotiations for the proposed wage increases. LOG press time wci'c as fol'ows: The letter was sent June 1. Marine Cooks and Stewards— The first meeting between NEW YORK—A recommenda­ still negotiating on the West tion that the Seamen's Section Coast; NMU — still negotiating; Union representatives and of the International Transportplace American Communications Asso­ the operators took workers Federation schedule a ciation — no contract on either Monday afternoon and an­ conference in London to discuss coast, negotiations open; Marine other was held late yesterday. thoroughly a program for deal- iTF Planning Panamanian London Meet Seafarers Again Pledges To Respect All Economic Picketlines Of NMU NEW YORK—While confusion reigned in the CIO maritime stoppage, which began Sunday '"night when negotiations between the National Maritime Union and the operators failed to produce agreement, the Seafarers Inter­ national Union stated clearly its position that there would be no crossing of picketlines establish­ ed for economic reasons.# The SIU's stand was made known in a telegram sent to the National Maritime Union's New York iPort Agent on June 14, the day before the strike began. "In the event you go out on strike," the message said, "or are locked out, we will support your picketlines around vessels contracted to your organization same as in the struggles of 1946." The telegram was signed by Morris Weisberger and Paul Hall, SIU Vice-Presidents, and J. P. Shuler, Seci-etary Treasur­ er of the Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ trict, and was in answer to a wire received a daj*- earlier from the NMU Agent, which read: "Shipowners stalling on nego­ tiations hoping that passage of Taft-Hatley bill will cripple power of unions. NMU contract expires June 15 and hopes of getting satisfactory agreement are dim. Can we count on the same support that we received from the AFL unions in our struggles in 1946." The Seafarers has also stated that it "would not man any struck ships reallocated to our operators," in accordance with Union policy. Thus far the NMU has not set up any picketlines, but its mem­ bers are carrying out orders of Joseph Curran, NMU president, to remain aboard their vessels to do ship's work but not to sign on for new voyages. The CIO unfon has called the operators failure to agree on a new contract a lockout, since the old agreement expired Sunday night, June 15. The operators have offered a renewal of last year's contract for one year. Six unions, including the NMU, are more or less involved in the current situation. All are negotiating separately but are represented on the CIO Joint Policy Committee. The unions concerned and their status at Engineers Beneficial Association —signed extension of old con­ tract on West Coast, negotiations still open in the East; Interna­ tional Longshoremen's and Ware­ housemen's Union — signed on West Coast with "escape clause" permitting cancellation if other unions do not get satisfactory agreements, is not involved on East coast; Marine Firemen's Union, an independent union, acting with CIO unions, has signed old contract extension. At the present time the Seafar­ ers' contracts are the best in the industry, and the renegotiated contracts will put the SIU far ahead of the rest of maritime. Representing the Union are Secretary-Treasurer Shuler, Rob­ ert Matthews, Headquarters En­ gine Department Representative, and Lindsey Williams, Gulf Area Coordinator. The Union negotiators stated that the dis­ cussions have thus far proceeded satisfactorily. CG Loses Control Of Hoaring Units The dictatorial power held over merchant seamen by the Coast Guard was dealt a severe blow last week when the, CG Hearing units were abolished by Congressional action, and all dis­ ciplinary authority transferred to the Civil Service Commission. The decision to abolish the Hearing Units, a yoke around the necks of free American seamen since the beginning of the war, was a fitting climax to the singlehanded fight waged against Coast Guard control over seamen by the Seafarers International Union. The blow came when Congress relieved the Coast Guard of its power to try seamen and render decisions, thus depriving it of all No. 25 disciplinary action against mer­ chant seamen. At the time the decision was announced, Morris Weisberge", SIU Vice-President, was in Wash­ ington where he received the an­ nouncement of the change to the Civil Service Commission. The Commission is to set up a board of examiners to hear cases against seamen, but no money has as yet been appropriated for its work, and there is no sign of such action in the near future. CAN INVESTIGATE As long as no funds come forth, seamen will not be brought be­ fore any governmental agency, whether it be the Coast Guard or the Civil Service Comrriission. The Coast Guard will still be able to investigate charges against seamen and present them at trials if and when the Civil Service Commission sets up its courts, but it no longer will be able to act as judge and jury in these cases. The Coast Guard isn't resign­ ing itself to this Congressional move, however, for already they are busy at work attempting to get the House Judiciary Commit­ tee to report a bill to restore the Hearing Units and their power to the Coast Guard. From the first days, of the Coast Guard's control of sea­ men, the SIU had gone on record as being opposed to the military {Continued on Page 16) jing further with the Pan.amanian situation was adopted by the Coordinating Committee of the ITF, which met here last week. Complete satisfaction with the work done thus far on the mat­ ter of ship transfers to Pana­ manian registry was voiced by Willy Dorchain, ITF represen­ tative in the United States and chairman of the commi^ee. He pointed out that the threat of ITF concerted action has slowed down, and possibly halt­ ed, such sales. R. Clausen, representative of the Danish Seamen's Union, in­ formed the meeting that mem­ bers of his union would be ex­ pelled if they signed on ships flying the Panamanian flag. All delegates present agreed that action should be considered for a program to effect the clos­ ing of all fink halls. William McLaughlin of the Canadian District and A1 Kenrepresented the Seafarers Inter­ national Union at the meeting. Also pi-esent at the meeting were J. Scott and R. Baker, Brit­ ish Seamen's Union; R. Clausen, Danish Seamen's Union; E. Johansen, Norwegian S e a m e n's Union; E. Raberg, Swedish Sea­ men's Union, Manuel Pitharoulis, Greek Seamen's Union, and Wil­ liam Ash, Masters, Mates and Pilots Association. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 20. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District By J. P. SHULER, Secretary-Treasurer Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 5i Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. Isthmian Certification of the Port of Galveston as Act­ The amounts of monies lost in ing Agent. each fund will be reimbursed by HAnover 2-2784 The Seafarers International It is hereby recommended their respective accounts at the Union of North America received that the membership accept Hay- end of the quarter. International Officers the final certification in the Isth­ When the Insurance Company mond as the Galveston Agent and mian fleet from the National La­ President HARRY LUNDEBERG --------that he accept the responsibilities repays us for the loss of monies, bor Relations Board Thursday, 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. and duties as Agent in that port. it will be credited to the respec­ June 12, 1947. This automatically PAUL HALL First Vice-President At the last Agents Conference, tive accounts. makes the SIU the Bargaining 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. Agent for Isthmian Steamship the membership went on record NMU Strike MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President Company. Negotiations will be to charge the responsibility of 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. The NMU strike was in an un­ opened in the near future for an the Gulf Area Tugboats to the Director of Oi-ganization. GAL TANNER Vice-President determined status as of noon, agreement with this company. 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. June 16, 1947. The three unions The Director of Organization Last week's LOG carried and involved are the NMU, MC&S, met mo in New Orleans last EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President this week's LOG will carry the 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. details and activities of the or­ week where a program was work­ and ACA. Apparently the operators have ed out to take over the tugboats ganizing and certification. JOHN HAWK Secy.-Treasurer locked these Unio^ out by re­ and try to make them an asset 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. fusing to give them an agree­ to the Union instead of a liability, Negotiations ment before the expiration date which they have been in the past. District Officials The Negotiating Committee has for their former agreement, The entire dues record system been meeting with the Mathiason J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District which was June 15, 1947. Tankers, Inc. to negotiate an of the tugboats, which has its P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. In the event of an all-out strike agreement. There has been quite Headquarters in New Orleans, which could develop and which HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific a bit of headway made up until was in as bad a condition as the may involve the SIU, the officials 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. this time and by the next regular dues record department of "{he and membership of this Organi­ FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District meeting, we will be able to Headquarters Offices was at the zation will work out a program 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan present an agreement with this beginning of 1946. Dolar Stone, who has been to control our policy. HUGH MURPHY .Seoy -Trpas Canadi.'in Distriet outfit to the membership for ac­ At this time, our official policy working in the records depart­ 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. tion. should be the same as was the ment in Headquarters Offices, The Union is meeting with the 1946 waterfront struggle when Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office Atlantic and Gulf District, has Nantasket Lines. This is an out­ the NMU went out; that is, to re­ in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. been sent to the Port of New Or­ fit with some small excursion leans to set up the same dues spect all of their picket lines GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor boats lunning in Boston Harbor. record system for the tugboats around ships owned or operated 267 They operate during the summer as we have in the Headquarters by companies contracted to the season and only in the daytime. Offices of the Atlantic and Gulf iinions involved. Our proposed agreement to the District. CG Hearing Unit company now will be a much bet­ While in the Port of New Or­ ter agreement than we had with leans, I met with the Insurance As of June 11, 1947, the Mer­ them in the past. Company in regards to the safe chant Marine Hearing Unit of No amount of publicity and attention which might The Union Negotiating Com­ robbery in the Port of New Or­ the United States Coast Guard be spotlighted on the Seafarers' ail-important victory in mittee has arranged a meeting leans, where the safe was stolen ceased functioning. For some being certified in Isthmian can be called excessive. Our with Atwacoal Lines June 23, from the Union Hall, containing time, they have been putting up membership's enthusiasm over this development is a natural 1947 for the purpose of negotiat­ $10,985.58' in Union money. The a hell of a fight to keep the sea­ ing a new agreement. They have Headquarters Offices shows that men dominated by their bureau­ one. been out of business during the money for three financial reports cratic control. In the latest test between the SJU and the NMU of war, but will resume operations was in the safe at that time. From the beginning, the SIU their recpective attractions for unorganized seamen, we soon. These reports were for the weeks has fought this set-up for what came off tops by an overwhelming majority, and the NMU There was a meeting today ending May 10, May 17 and May it was—a bureau of parasites who inserted themselves into a privwas emphatically rejected. But the victory was not a with the Negotiating Committee 24. of the operators' so-called At­ simple one. For in addition to clarifying the confusion Ceneral $10 lantic and Gulf Shipowners' As­ injected into the campaign by the NMU, there was the sociation, where our proposals Fund ADA Sir ASA Strike S&O Bldg. Hosp. Total terrific job of organizing which had to be done on an un­ for a wage increase were assumed May 10 $ 786.39 $615 $24 $ 840 $150 $55 $ 80 $10 $2560.39 1029 220 70 140 18 4947.00 2877.00 555 38 precedented scale. So if there are hurrahs for the Seafarers, but no definite proposals were May 1 7 471 180 50 100 4 3478.19 May 24 2061.19 590 22 given to the company as yet. there is good reason. Totals: $5724.58 $1760 $84 $2340 $550 $175 $320 $32 $10985.58 At the same time, there is reason to understand the Negotiations in all these out­ NMU's dejection over the major loss they have just suf­ fits will continue and all mem­ The General Fund, as listed ate industry, such as the Mer­ fered. But there is no excuse for its deliberate abuse of the bers interested should meet with above, includes initiation fees, chant Service, where they were the Ne,gotiating Committee on dues, duplicate books, transfer neither needed or wanted by the Isthmian seamen, as demonstrated by their prolonged the sixth floor tomorrow at 10 fees, LOG donations, fines, etc. seamen making their living in a stalling of' the inevitable certification of the Seafarers. a. m. and form a rank and file The ACA is a separate fund and private industry. Our victory was a clean one. It was simply that the committee to go along with the sent in as such and goes into the Since their inception, they Isthmi^ seamen preferred to have as their bargaining official Negotiating Committee General Fund. The SIF is a have caused nothing but tur­ separate fund and listed as such moil and confusion; most of them representative the SIU—whose accomplishments in behalf on all these contracts. and it goes into the General who have never been outside of of its membership stands unparalleled in waterfront history. Union Operations Fund, but is later transferred to harbor limits setting themselves Despite the fact that the NLRB has continually set Further changes were made in the Intei-national. All other funds up as authorities on the morals of the Merchant Seamen. aside its objections and charges, the NMU has just filed the Gulf Area since the last regu­ have their separate accounts. application to have the Board reconsider the original NMU lar meeting. On a recommenda­ The Insurance Company is Joseph Volpian, Special Serv­ motion to set aside certification. It is rare that such mo­ tion from the Secretary-Treas­ making an investigation into this ices Representatives of the A&G matter and has not made any District, appeared with Capt. tions are granted. But the real motive of the NMU in urer, the membership went on refund as yet. William Ash, of the Masters, making the application is to save face with its membership. record to place Earl "Bull" Shep- I also met with the Safe and Mates and Pilots, in Washington, pard in charge of the Port of New And while the NJMU drinks from the bitter cup of Orleans and to place J. Steely Loft Squad of the Police Depart­ D. C. on April 27 and 28 to pro­ defeat, the Seafarers is preparing demands which v/ill be White in Headquarters Offices as ment in New Orleans. They have test further dictatorship by tliis presented soon to the Isthmian Steamship Company. The Deck Department Representa­ made no arrest, but claim they set-up when a fight for renewal are still investigating the matter. of their jurisdiction began. number of days remaining when men who sail that vast tive. Morris Weisberger, SIU viceThis matter will have to be fleet must toil under putrid conditions arc rapidly The Texas Area is straighten­ straightened out in our records pi'esident, was in Washington on ing out. The Port of Galveston thinning out. In fact, the days are diminishing when any is now operating efficiently and in order that we may clear tbe June 10, when final disposition American seamen must sail at substandard conditions. The economically with four officials Certified Public Accountants on was made. Seafarers organizing drive will now be concentrated on from one hall taking care of all our financial reports. The man­ At this time, the NMU took ner in which it must be handled an arbitrary attitude in this beef. other outfits who have been dragging behind the field. The the Union business, where for­ is that Headquarters Offices must They could not decide just what mally, there were four halls and Isthmian victory is only the beginning. 14 persons on the Union payroll. remit from the General Fund disposition should be made with What lies ahead is a difficult job. But there are Within Bull Sheppard, who was placed $10,985.58 to the New Orleans this outfit or under whose juris­ our organization men with the stuff of which good union in charge of that port until such Branch to defray the loss due to diction "delinquent" seamen be punished. men are made. What was made possible in Isthmian will time as it was operating smooth­ the robbery. The New Orleans should The SIU took the stand from Branch in return must send in be done again. It is the good Union men of the Seafarers ly, has suggested that Charles $10,985.58 to Headquarters Of­ the beginning that this Merchant who will make future waterfront history, as they have in Haymond, former Port Agent of fices to clear its^ weekly accounts Marine Hearing Unit was a Houston, who is now in the Port Onward To New Gains the past. of Galveston, be put in charge of May 10, 17 and 24. {Continued on Page 14) �Friday, June 20, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Careful Planning, Hard Work Won Isthmian Isthmian, Too, k SlU—Credit Where Credit's Due J. p. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer With the certification of the SIU as collective bargaining agent for the Isthmian seamen securely in our hands, our next step is to negotiate a contract embodying the top wage and working con­ ditions that are essentially a part of every SIU agreement. The Union will direct its entire facilities toward the attain­ ment of a typical SIU contract for the Isthmian men, a contract consisten with the Union tradition of "the best in the maritime industry." Meanwhile, Seafarers are urged to remain aboard Isthmian and keep saUing vessels. We cannot afford to relax until complete victory is ourk Paul Hall, Director of Organization J. P. SHULER Through the efforts of the volunteer organizers, and the co­ ordination of the shoreside personnel, the Seafarers International Union was able to win a sweeping victory in the Isthmian election. Most of the credit goes to the men who stayed on those ships through thick and thin, sacrificing wages and conditions, so that the unlicensed Isthmian seamen could gain the benefits of SIU contracts and protection. PAUL HALL Earl "Bull" Sheppard, New Orleans Agent, who was in charge of field work on the Isthmian Campaign It took the wholehearted efforts of the entire membership to put this over. It was a big job, the biggest ever tackled on the waterfront, but SIU men gave it their best, and now it's in the bag. Our victory in the election proves once more the superiority of the Seafarers over the NMU. Their political flip-flops have made them many enemies among the men who sail the ships. i S. iiiKi: 4- Cal Tanner, Mobile Agent EARL SHEPPARD To the membership goes all the credit. They knew what they had io do, and they did a bang-up job. There was never any doubt about the outcome from the first minute that SIU members came into the Halls and volunteered to ship out on Isthmian scows. They stayed with those ships, and they are going to stay with them until we have a contract with Isthmian, signed, sealed, and delivered. GAL TANNER •v. 4. 4. 4- Lindsey Williams, Gulf Area Organizer ••"liilife Our men stayed in there pitching, and that's what really won the election for us. On some ships there would be one SIU volun­ teer, and a. couple of men from the NMU. But when the ships re­ turned from long trips, the crews were almost always pro-SIU. Isthmian's largest vessels, and the smaller ones, went for our Union, and it is the volunteers who deserve the credit. 4* 4' 4* Johnny Arabasz, Organizer The Isthmian Steamship Company was brought under the banner of the Seafarers through the efforts of the rank and file SIU members, who sailed these ships under terrible conditions. Since the NMU also had men aboard these vessels, we should be doubly proud that our men did a better organizing job. To do a better job they had to know the score, which means they are better educated in unionism, and are proud of being Union men—good Union men. Here's to more men of this caliber in the SIU. JOHN ARABASZ LINDSEY WILLIAMS (Continued on Page 4) The certification' of the Sea-' farers International Union as collective bargaining .agent for the unlicensed men of the Isth­ mian Steamship Company — after a long, hard-fought .strug­ gle, complicated by the die-hard delaying tactics of the NMU — stands as a tribute to the skill­ ful planning of the SIU organ­ izing department. In winning the election by an ovei-whelming majority, the SIU thoroughly trounced the NMU, and thus established the fact that the CIO union holds no at­ traction for the un.organized. Even worse, was the terrific defeat administered to forces of company unionism, with the number of voters designating "no union" being practically nil. But the SIU's victory in Isth­ mian was no accident. This victory is the end result of a carefully conceived, delib­ erately planned strategy supple­ mented by the sacrificing efforts and unstinting energies of the membership, who are firmly convinced that the SIU is the one waterfront organization which does the most for sea­ men. Plans for the drive to bring the best conditions in maritime to the Isthmian seamen were an outgrowth of a decision made at the Agents Conference in 1945, and approved by the mem­ bership, to undertake organiza­ tional expansion of the Union. DIRECTOR NAMED From this conference, concrete plans emerged for a central or­ ganizational office to be set up in New York, with Paul Hall designated as Director of Organization. The vast fleet of Isthmian ships was ringed as the number one organizing objective. Earl (Bull) Sheppard was named Field Director for the widelyspread operation. Coordination and deploj^ment of forces was a tremendous task involving obstacles that at times seemed insurmountable. Despite the magnitude of the job, how­ ever, a smoothly functioning tactical plan was evolved. Headquarters became the cen­ tral operational point'. Strategy, originally planned to permit a maximum of flexibility, was ad­ justed continually to meet new, unforeseen situations as quickly as they arose. It became a beehive of in­ dustry. Here an elaborate filing system was thrown into play, with complete information per­ taining to every single, solitary detail involved in the massive job. Complete reports on all Isth­ mian sliips were studied with care, as wore the reactions of crewmembers to the various approaclies of SIU literature and the effort registered in the drive by the NMU. Huge charts showed at a glance a graphic picture of the situation so that transfer of organizers could be effected ac­ cordingly at a moment's notice. DRIVE BEGINS In addition to the paid and volunteer organizers, the elected officials in the various ports assumed active roles and devot­ ed considerable time to the drive. Two months after the Agents Conference — on June 7, 1945— AL KERR E. S. HIGDON WILLIAM RENTZ CHARLES STARLING (Continued on Page 4) �THE Page Four SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 20. 1947 Careful Planning, Fully Supported, Isthmian, Too, Is SIU! Wen Isthmian Line For Seafarers (Contimied from Page 3) Harry Lundeberg, President, SIU (Contimwd from Page 3) the wheels of the organizalional machinery v/ere set in motion. Organizers began distributing the reams of literature apprising the unorganized men of the distinct advantages of sailing under the SIU banner. Leaflets, folders and circulars setting forth the aims and accomplishments of the Seafar­ ers, and its intention to win for all unorganized seamen the same unparalled wages and working conditions enjoyed by the SIU membership were dis­ tributed regularly wherever Isth­ mian seamen were present. General organizational liter­ ature to acquaint the men with the structure and functioning of the Union went out to the Isth­ mian unorganized in vast quan­ tities. Supplementing these was the SEAFARERS LOG. which gave complete coverage of the Isth­ mian campaign and devoted con­ siderable space to pictures of Isthmian crews and vessels. Crews of SIU ships passed the LOG to Isthmian men in ports throughout the world, enabling them to keep abreast of the situation and compare the mari­ time roles of the SIU, with its record-making victories in be­ half of its membership, and the NMU which was attempting to travel in two directions at once but was getting nowhere. COMPLETE COVERAGE Every Isthmian ship in port was reached. Organizers con­ tacted the Isthmian men as they came off their vessels, brought the SIU message to them, began getting pledges and signing up members. The next month bulged with hard work. There was no time for let up. All hands involved worked around the clock. Then, on Oct. 20, 1945. Di­ rector of Organization Paul Hall wrote to the Marine Superin­ tendent of the Isthmian Line, in­ forming him that the Seafarers International Union had a suffi­ cient number of unlicensed per­ sonnel employed by the company to qualify the Union as their collective bargaining agent. A similar communication went to the company president 10 days later. On Nov. 2, the com- The National Maritime Union I pany replied that the matter which ali-eady recognized de­ would have to be settled through feat in the campaign, pleaded the machinery of the National with the NLRB to extend the Labor Relations Board. voting time, and the board SIU PETITIONS granted an extension, with Immediately the Seafarers pe­ counting to begin Nov. 18. titioned the board for an elec­ The final tally stamped the tion, and on March 19, 1946 the SIU organizational drive a NLRB ordered an election to be staggering success. held. Meanwhile, the SIU or­ The NMU's prolonged stalling, ganizational staff continued its through the medium of legal work with unabating energy. technicalities to stave off the in­ Ffeld Director Bull Sheppard evitable defeat, finally collapsed notified on March 28 all ports to contact the NLRB as soon as with the announcement in V/ashIsthmian ships came in so as ington last week that the SIU to arrange for posting notice had won a clear cut and in­ of the election and to start disputable victory. In the triumph, the SIU gar­ balloting on the ships. In the meantime, the volun­ nered more than two thirds of teer organizers who were the all votes cast, with the balance backbone of the drive, receiv­ distributed between the NMU ed recognition from the mem­ and the company. bership - for their immensely As was expected in a cam­ important work. paign of .such magnitude, mis­ At the Feb. 3, 1946 member­ takes were made. But they are ship meeting, a motion was readily acknowledged. The or­ passed to remit the dues of ganizing department will profit tliese volunteers for the months by these e.xperiences, however, they served aboard unorganized for they will serve to bolster ships by putting a stamp in future expansion drives. their books for each month As a result of the decisive spent on these vessels. victory in Isthmian, the SIU The membership paid tribute towers as the undisputed lead­ to these men who were sailing ing waterfront union. unorganized, at less than Union Its record of accomplishment wages and conditions. in winning top wages and un­ And on March 30, the organ­ matched conditions for its mem­ izational department spurred bership has become a byword the drive for membership among seamen the world over. among the Isthmian men by The Isthmian decision can be adjusting dues for them to the regarded as a green light to fur­ original charter members' fee ther organizational expansion. of $17.00 with full rights and The Seafarers will now in­ privileges. tensify its efforts to bring all EFFORTS REDOUBLED the unorganized under the ban­ As the ships came in and ner of the SIU. voted and the SIU observers reported, the drive was consol­ idated and efforts were con­ centrated on the ships remain­ ing to vote. From the very start of the balloting, indications revealed strong preference for the Sea­ farers. Whei-e errors in strategy showed up, steps were taken immediately to correct the situ­ ation and tighten the lines. Gradually the number of un­ voted Isthmian ships thinner out and the NLRB annotinced that the ballots would be counted on Oct. 18, 1946. The AFL seamen can well be proud of the first-class job done in the Isthmian Line, and it showed conclusively that the American seamen are looking to the Seafarers International Union for their leadership and realize that, under the CIO and its maritime out­ fits, they lose ground every day, and are only fed large doses of propaganda and hot air, but no action. J. Morris Weisberger, SUP New York Port Agent If Seafarers hadn't gone out in a voluntary capacity and sailed Isthmian ships under the prevailing adverse conditions, the SIU most certainly never could have polled the votes it did, and, con­ sequently, we wouldn't have been certified as collective bargain­ ing agent. In the long, drawn-out battle to win the Isthmian fleet, the entire apparatus of the Union was thrown into play. All hands cooperated to the fullest degree in successfully coordinating the drive. The victory is evidence of the swell job done by the membership and the organizers. A1 Kerr, Organizer It is only through the action of the membership in being willing to give up the good wages and conditions that they have on contracted ships that we were able to win the Isthmian Fleet. Through action of this type we should be able to go on to more and greater victories. Membership action and participation is the theme of the SIU. Curly Rentz, Baltimore Agent Our organizers, paid and voluntary, had tremendous tasks. Among these was the NMU's flood of lying propaganda aimed at confusing the issue. As usual the NMU believed that if the Isth­ mian could be dosed with enough lies, they would begin to believe them. Fortunately, our rank and file voluntary organizers who were on the scene aboard the ships, were able to nail these lies flat. That they did so effectively can be seen by the final results. My hat is off to the volunteer organizer who put in many rugged months with no contract to protect him, who sacrificed time and money to bring the best representation to the Isthmian seamen. Led Isthmian Drive On The West Coast j Derision Proves Seafarers Is Vital Fatter In Lahor HARRY LUNDEBERG By BEN STERLING It is with a great deal of satis­ faction that I have received word from the National Lahor Rela­ tions Board that the Union was successful in overcoming the ob­ jections of the NMU, not only because we won, but also be-* cause it proves that the SIU is a vital factor in the labor move­ ment of today. All the legal work would have meant nothing but for the great teamwork of the paid and volun­ teer organizers, the witnesses •who appeared at the hearing and the rank and file of the union. I look forward with a great deal of confidence that the SIU, tinder its able and inspired lead­ ership, will become one of the leading unions in the country. \ ED TURNER MORRIS WEISBERGER HAL BANKS RED SIMMONS On The Coast BEN STERLING Not all the work of organ­ izing Isthmian was done on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. The Brothers out on the West Coast did a job of or­ ganizing that speaks for it­ self as a glance at the tallies of the ships that voted out there will show. A word of apology for not beiifg able to run the pictures of all the West Coast men who aided materially in pulling down Isthmian. �Friday. June 20. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five SEAFARERS HONOR ROLL These Are Some Of The Seafarers Who Unselfishly Offered To Work Under Poor, Non-Union Conditions To Bring Isthmian Into The SlU WARREN WYMAN ORGANIZATION is as- good as the individual members of which it is composed, the saying goes. The validity of that saying is no more amply demonstrated anywhere than it is in the Seafarers. And therein lies the key to the decisive vieiory scored by the SIU in the long, difficult Isthmian campaign. The members who showed the necessary devotion, loyalty, and understanding of the purpose and goal of the SIU, were largely responsible for the fact that the Seafarers occupies the dominant position on the wa­ terfront. It was men like these who worked untiringly, unselfishly to advance the cause of the Isthmian seamen and of the Union. They were the instrument by which Isthmian seamen gauged the worth of the Seafarers and, accordingly, chose it to represent them. WHITEY TANNEHILL iliiit® Those who were voluntary or­ ganizers are especially praise­ worthy. Getting jobs on their own with an unorganized com­ pany to sail on vessels with con­ ditions far below the standards in force on SlU-contracted ships was a sacrifice. JOE UDILJAK PER LYKKE Working for wage.s consider­ ably beneath our record-making wage scale, was an additional sacrifice. Yet they made them unhesitatingly. f j GENE DAUBER ED BENDER They can be compensated by the fact that their efforts were not in vain. For out of their many months of sweal and toil, the vast Isthmian fleet has emerged under the banner o.f the Seafarers—a tremendous accom­ plishment, one of the biggest or­ ganizational victories in water­ front history. On these pages appear some of the pictures and all of the names of those Seafarers who actively participated in the or­ ganizational drive. Unfortunately, pictures of all who took part were not available —but the thanks of the entire membership goes to all who made the Isthmian drive the major suc­ cess it was. WARREN CALLAHAN BOB BUNCE MIKE HOOK RED GIBBS i• BILL BROWN LES AMES JACK PARKER BILL HIGGS ROCKY BENSON „ J �THE Page Six SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 20, 1947 Long Trips, Bum Chow, Bad Conditions J. WUNDERLICH LEONARD POLLACK H. C. McCURDY PHIL ADELMAN ED HALLINAN f ED LARKIN BOB HUYKMAN PAUL GREIS H. J. HOLLAND PAUL SCHAD. Jr. id Not Faze These Seafarers At All �Friday, June 20, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven Volunteer Organizers Proved Again IRWIN SUALL ROBERT LARSEN JAMES FISHER FIDEL LUKBAN BEN TAFLEWITZ E. HANSEN CULVER STEVENS G. CHAMPLIN CHARLES BENWAY W, J. MEAGHER SIU Strength Lies In Rank ^ r,.: J. BLANCHARD RICHARD COMSTOCK PmCY BOYER GEORGE KOSCH ED BOLEHALA ROLAND STROM BILL STORY JACK BLAIR JOHANNES PAPAHILL JACK GILLER �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 20, 1947 Representative Isthmian Crewmembers ,' i WILLIAM D. HOARD—SIU: 24—NMU: 3 JOHN CONSTANTINE—SIU: 26—NMU: 1 KEN YON VICTORY—SIU: 19—NMU: 15 EDMUND FANNING—SIU: 13—NMU: 4 n STEEL INVENTOR—SIU: 20—NMU: 7 ANNISTON CITY—SIU: 19—NMU: 8 a �Friday, June 20. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Majority Of Whom Voted For Seafarers GEORGE READ—SIU: 15—NMU: 12 MONTGOMERY CITY—SIU: 4—NMU: 2 RED ROVER—SIU: 21—NMU: 9 MARY A. LIVERMORE—SIU: 9—NMU: 6 ) 7 GABRIEL FRANCHERE—SIU: 17—NMU: 6 EASTPOINT VICTORY—SIU: 19—NMU: 8 '-^11 �Page Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 20, 1947 No Union Vote [89 Of 2309] Proved Ml if KELSO VICTORY—SiU: 28—NMU: 5 MOBILE CITY—SIU: 19—NMU: 6 JOHN WANAMAKER—SIU: 5—NMU: 4 GEORGE M. BIBB—SIU: 13—NMU: 3 I f)\ PETER V. DANIELS—SIU: 24—NMU: 1 WINTHROP MARVIN—SIU: 19—NMU: 1 �Friday. June 20. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Isthmian Seamen Learned Unionism CAPE JUNCTION—SIU: 26—NMU: 5 CLYDE L. SEAVEY—SIU: 41—NMU: 7 SEA STALLIOxN— SIU: 21—NiMU: 17 NICARAGUA VICTORY—SIU: 17—NMU: 7 Isthmian Men Knew What They Wanted K''. On these and two follow­ ing pages are pictures of some of the Isthmian crews that voted for the Union of their choice—The Seafarers. These crews, like the crev/s of the 8S ships thai voted, put up with everything the company could throw at them. They took the abuse of company stiffs and suffered non-union conditions 24 hours a dey. They learned the score on the SIU while taking the ships through the sea-lanes of the world and while tied up at Far-Eastern ports. They took it and came in to cast their votes. Their smiles here will soon be repeated when they take the ships out again under an SIU contract. HAWKINS FUDSKE—SIU: 24—NMU: 3 FLASHER SIU: 21—NMU: 13 J �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 20, 1947 Isthmian Smiles Of Victory To Come GRANGE VICTORY—SIU: 23—NMU: 7 STEPHEN GfRARD—SIU: 27—NMU:,1 SEA PHOENIX—SIU: 28—NMU: 4 CAPE ORANGE—SIU: 12—NMU: 3 MARINE FOX—SIU: 43—NMU: 13 �Friday, June 20. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Pege Thirleen Sign Of Job Seafarers Did: So NMU Votes On 14 Ships THOMAS CRESAP—SIU: 3—NMU: 0 .• •'I I •••-si WILLIAM WHIPPLE—SIU: 27—NMU: 0 J. STERLING MORTON—SIU: 2—NMU: 0 HORACE WELLS—SIU: 25—NMU: 0 AM BYERS—SIU: 25—NMU: 0 JOAQUIN MILLER SIU: 1—MNU: 0 JOHI iOSBY—SIU: 28—NMU: 0 WILLIAM B. OGDEN—SIU: 7—NMU: 0 �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 20. 1947 Seafarers' Volunteer Isthmian Organizers Richard R. Adamson C. Albury Joseph A. Alves Alex A. Andreshak J. W. Alstatt E. W. Anderson Vincent Auvenite Cornsel Amolinckx Donald Adamson A. A. Abrams G. A. Allen A. Amenta G. R. Bauer A. Back Harold B. Baldauf C. Barcelo Louis Baxter John A. Bersen J. H. Berkshire E. A. Bishop J, Bissommet Julian Biomgreen John Bollella W. W. Boatright M. V. Bodden J. H. Boyles D. F. Boyne Anthony M. Branceni M. A. Braiina Bert G. Brehm, Jr, Denver Brenole H. H, Brown C. Bryant H. J. Borchers Henry D. Buckalew William Burke Charles H. Bush C. Buamgardner O. C. Bailey M. C. Bauldw G.^'Bane Edward Bolehala Harry C. Bennett - A. C. Burgos Hans Peter Bluhrr. Edv/ard Broaders Gloris U. Brekke A, E. Beiser C. J. Bolton W. A. Barwacz Percy Boyor J. D. Baugher R. Boswell S. Becar James Bryan A. Burris G. W, Champlin T. Cardorette Warren J. Callahan Nicholas Calzia F. Camacho Agnus G. Campbell Raymond R. Carroll Val. E. Carey V. Chubcn Joe Chabra Vincente Chavez Henry Clemens L. Coloske G. Condos Henry D. Cooper J. Cooper W. B. Cooper Enrique Cortes J. B. Crokaret John F. Cuthbert Aleksander Czerwinske Gerald Cameron C. Cummings Paul Curzi John J. Cannon Ctt Calevich E. J. Costello Richard Comstock Thadeus Chilinski R. D. Coony C. J. Clarke J, Collins P. J. Capariti M. Carter, Jr. W. Copley Charles Doroba Harry A. Druwuer J. H. Dinkins F. Dam Hurbert Daniel William Davis C. Defranch F. De Oliveira Lionel G. DeHaven Domenic Disei Edward V. Ditmars Charles Dixon Fred Doddy John Drewry E. Dompkosky W. E. Duggan, Jr. Charles E. Dumbauld G. E. Doty H. Engelder L. S. Ebberts Edgar H. Emery M. W. Eavers Milford W. Elliott, Jr. J. Ende A. Feinstein G. Fellman J. Forsberg H. Fossett G. Fredriksson A. Frissora E. Fromm David F. Frase James L. Fulton F. Folbrook J. J. Flynn James M. Fisher Adrian Fasc. Ray A. Fauber R. Frederick Keith Forster Julian E. Fant John L. Fox P. Frasca Glenn W. Gallatin Bernard Ganz Jack Geller Earl R. Gelnaw James E. George Charles R. Godar Raymond Gorju Paul Grecis G. T. Greene P. Greis Lawrence Grispart Charles Godar H. Gock E. Gunneson Eugene Gardner v.. Gardecke Roy M. Green Otto P. Geyer E. Gretaby W. C. Howell Casimir J. Hyrny Mason Hall Daniel A. Hutto Edward Hallinan Roland Hallis Holger Hansen G. B. Hatcher Albert Hatt Adam Hauke D, Hawkins A. Hayston J. Hernandez G. Hilty J. Hilliard Kyle Hilton J. F, Higging A. J. Hoag Marvin Holmes Kalver Holt J. A. Holsworth Otis S. Howell R. Huntington A. Hull Edward Hibbard W. H. Holliday Hutchinson Philip L. Huss Eugene R. Hall R. Heins Mike Hook Robert High C. Hughart C. E. Hammond J. R. Haupt F. P. Hipp C. Harulson William Howell William H. Humke William E. Jacobs J. Janton Rudolf Japel R. W. Jones R. Jones A. Jones E. R. Jordan C. Jacks C. T. Jones A. Janes John Johnson J. Karlsson Lester Kimbrail P. Kita Peter Kordakis J. A, Kuttley G. Kosmas K. H. Kristensen N. A. Kuff F. Kabavac Terry Kenny S. Kikvich O. F. Klein • C. E. Katrich Hugo Knutson Tono J. Kurki Edward C. Kelso A. Lammanna Orville Lantis Robert A". Larsen Edmund Larkin E. Laws A. Leiner G. V. Lemieux Kenneth Leonard Edward Levy L. Leskowsky W. Leuschner John W. Lincoln R. F. Linkowski A. Logindis Pedro Lopez John Lacaparra James La Gosh D. Leister H. L. Lanier Thomas G. Lyons J. C. Lewallen D. T. McKinnie W. McDonald C. McCormick John McAtee E. McDonald D. D. McKinna Byron McCandless F. Muchelot George A. Melzler E. K. Minyard W. Meagher S. Maggin A. M. Maldonado J. Martin Salvador Martenez J. Martinson G. Martinski George Maslarov James Matheson, Jr. James M. Marshall Carl E. Mayo, Jr. George W. Miller William Miller William E. Mitchell A. Monceau George Morris C. M. Mofris N. Mamal Edgar Marguard H. Monahan G. W. Meaney H. Murrenka J. A. Menville P. P. Miranda Horace J. Main S. S. Mancino V. J. Morgan Paul L. Melcott W. E. Morreale Miguel Medina W. T. Munell H. Mauldin A. A, Morrison H. O. Mesford J. Miller J. Mentzer L. Nasuklewicz William L. Nehem Robert H. Neisler Ralph L. Nixon Harry A. Nolen W. H. Nelson Martin O'Connor Thomas A. O'Hanlon William O'Dea Leo O'Connor John A. Orman Joseph Olinsky F. Oliwa R. F. Pepin Paul Paljasma C. H. Partello Roland E. Parady John A. Parker Otto Pederson R. J. Pendergast Walter Petrowski G. Peteusky Vernon G. Pickelmann U. Pipinen L. Pollock Pasquale Priolo Harry E. Pyle Edward Podgurski Vernan C. Porter R. A. Peak Percy Podolsky Clarence Paskowski Glynn Perrigo W. W. Potts P. Paulsen Carl Otto Polca J. L. Painter Hugo Reinson Stanley Rembetski P. Robertson Fred Robinson H. Robinson Manuel Rodriguez C. Rodriguez Edward J. Rogg W. Rom? V. Roll Lawrence Ronning Robert A. Rosenkrans C. Rusin Merrill L. Russell Samuel Rosenthal S. Rowe Norbert Rogan Clarence H. Roberts William J. Roach Marvin Rish R. Robker D. L. Rogess M. Radelirh L. Rancic Hugo Reinson G. Steinberg David Sacher Manuel Sanchez R. Satterfield W. Saylors Gerald Scarpata M. Schechter E. Schirrmacher Norbert L. Schultz J. Schweinefus Carl Senarighi Lee L. Sirrkowski R. Singletary Robert A. Skiles S. Smialowski George J. Smith Walter G. Smith F. F. Smith W. Smolinski Norman Smykov/ski Bera Smyley E. Sommer F. J. Soss H. E. Sohl William L. Spicer A. Sprung John Stevenson Robert D. Steele William F. Stewart Roland Strom T. W. Styron Howard Strohm William Storvis Dennis C. Stubbs Irwin J. Suall R. Sullivan T. n. Suttler Betrilo Sveiibald Henry Silkowski Paul A. Schad Mike Sikorsky J. T. Shaw C. E. Stevens W. Spencer E. Silverstrin George H. Seaman W. G. Schoenbarn W. Sommervills E. M. Sedlack Joseph L. Sonnek M. B. Selsuik J. E. Silkowski J. V. Subenick C. Stephens W. Saxon A. Smith J. Schumsky James Strickler Claude S. Scott C. Segarra H. R. Thompson C. Tannehill Evon Taylor C. B. Tetterton J. P. Thrasher William Trp.ser S. Turner Henry J. Twyman Benjamin Taflewitz Ralph W. Tindall Wilbur Taylor Clarence Tobias Paul E. Tassin Julian Torres Eric I. Upchurch G. S. Velie Jr. D. Vinge Joseph Vonick E. Vito F. L. Vanderavert Paul Van Verth H. Viik Stephen Vasilckik J. Vincent Hans Vincen J. Wunderlich Jr. W. Walterman Eugene-J. Walters J. Walchel Tor J. Wersoe Gorger Wilholmsen D. Winkler H. E. V/oods William Wyatt Ed Wilisch J. P. Wade W. Wyman Arthur Wert Edward Wilisch Thomas White A. C. Withers Dexter Worrell D. L. White Paul V/interly E. Waterman Joseph T. Yeager H. G. Zvorak M. Zeglen A. J. Zalewski Headquarters Reports To The Membership (Continued from Page 2) phony shipowners' set-up and should be abolished outright with the Merchant Seamen going un­ der the jurisdiction of the De­ partment of Commerce, •Bureau of Navigation, where it rightfully belongs, as a private industry. At this time, the jurisdiction of disciplining the seamen is un­ der the jurisdiction of the Civil Service Commission. No budget has been set aside so that they can operate. Therefore, the seamen, at the present time, will be treated as human beings, working in a priv­ ate industry the same as other men. The Merchant Marine Hearing Unit, in an attempt to hang on to pie, is nov/ applying for jurisdic­ tion where it decides the com­ petency of the seamen. This will never work out. as you can well imagine some Coast Guard punk who thinks a Bailey Board is another Government Bureau, deciding whether an en­ gineer, electrician or oiler is competent. Economy Most ports are now operating within the economy program laid down by the Agents' Con­ ference. However, one or two ports have to be reorganized in order to operate economically and efficiently. A couple of the ports are de­ linquent in sending in their fi­ nancial reports and these ports have been notified by Headquar­ ters that unless their reports are in on time, in the future the Headquarters Offices shall bring them before the membership for action. I have been requested in the minutes of the meetings of sev­ eral branches, including the Port of Boston, to survey that port. The last two regular meetings were attended by me in the Gulf Area, where a number of changes were made which are proving effective in straightening out that area. Due to negotiations in this Port, and to the possiblity of ac­ tion on the waterfront resulting from the NMU and other Unions' beefs with tlieir operators, it is necessary that I remain in the Port of New /ork this week. If no further complications de­ velop, I shall be able to attend the next regular meeting in Bos­ ton and survey that area. �Friday, June 20, 1947 Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Text Of NLRB Statement Of Certification On March 19, 1946, the Nation­ Findings of Fact al Labor Relations Board, here­ In all, 86 vessels were balloted in called the Board, issued an Order Directing Election in the i" the election which was conabove-entitled proceeding. Pur-!ducted over a period o 8 months suant to the Order, as thereafter 19 different ports located on amended, an election by secretAtlantic seaboard, the Gt ballot was conducted during then period between March 20 and No-1 The NMU Objections allege vember 18, 1946, under the direcsubstance that befoi^ and after tion and supervision of the Re­ the commencement of the elec­ gional Director for the Second tion, the Company (a) Entered into an agreement Region (New York City). Upon the conclu.sion of the election, a with the SIU under which the Tally of Ballots was fuimished SIU would bo permitted to furthe parties in conformity withjnish crew members for company and NMU members the prrcedurcs prescribed in the vessels Rules and Regulations of the would be denied employment; Board. The Tally, as revised, (b) Discriminated against showed L.e following results: NMU members while giving To support its claim that the, At Norfolk, there is likewise March 1, 1946, when that vesCompany engaged in discrimina- '"eliable, substantial, and proba- sel was docked at Alameda,, he tory hiring practices, the NMU tive evidence to support the NMU, observed SIU Organizer Turner offered evidence relating to the Objections. One witness, Morris! board the vessel; that shortly following ports:-New York Citv, Kamelhaar, testified that on De- thereafter the First Mate came Baltimore, Norfolk, Savannah, ccmbcr 8, 1945, at the office at; out and made a telephone call; Mobile, Los Angeles, San Fran­ Norton Lilly & Co., Isthmian and that, after making the call, cisco, New Orleans, and Galves­ agents at Norfolk, to which he the First Mate advised the had been sent by the New York watchman that he expected re­ ton. placements from the SIU hall At New York City, the Com- Isthmian office for placement on , .... the Isthmian vessel, B a t o n! who were to be sent to the deck panys home ami pnne.pal port, ^ no proof was submrned to show I any preferential hiring prior to an SIU organizer, cross-check i testimony that of the 10 replacethe eligibility date, and even such ' I with an Isthmian representative | ments taken on at Alameda, some evidence as the NMU did offer a list containing the names of 201 were NMU, some were non-unrelating to the post-eligibility seamen wlio later boarded the io"- and some were SIU.s period failed to substantiate the Baton Rouge with him.-' Higgs,: Principal reliance at San Franallegations of its objections. called as a witness by the SIU, Cisco was placed by the NMU Credible evidence, largely docu­ was positive in his denial that|"Pon the testimony of Enid Conmented, was adduced by the SIU he was in Norfolk at the time.' nor, the wife of an NMU memestablishing that the only means Kamelhaar's identification of t>er and former organizer, and employed by it in placing men Higgs was indefinite, and his tesa former NMU employee on company vessels at this port timony is not credited. i at Seattle, who, from August to was to flood the company office CONTRADICTIONS ; November 1946, occupied the powith SIU seamen who were in­ ^ , sition of secretary to Burns, IsthAt Savannah and at Mobile th® • , . structed to conceal their union • ^ , mian personnel manager at that affiliation, and that only a small only evidence offered ^ - port. Connor testified at some percentage of such seamen were NMU rela od to the period after concerning the Company's actually hired. The New York the eligibility date. ! hiring practices at that office durevidence, viewed as a whole, noti At Los Angeles, the NMU re- i^g ^he period of her employonly fails to support, it per-' hed upon a single witness, MorWe find it unnecessary to suasively refutes, the NMU con-^ ton ^Halpern, who testified that dwell upon her testimony or to tention that the Company follow- in February 1946, after calling pass upon its credibility; for her ed a preferential employment: with a friend who wore an NMU testimony relates wholly to a perpolicy in favor of the SIU on a ^ button, at the Isthmian office long after the commencement national scale. w leic c \\as to t ere weic Qf election, when, as already no jobs, he had boarded the Isth- indicated, discriminatory hiring WEAK TESTIMONIES P^^^tices could have had no subAt Baltimore, the NMU relied "Tn upon the testimony of two wit-; 'j"effect upon the outcome nesses, William Shikes and James ^een introduced by the SIU ship election. Standing alone __ , , and unsupported by substantial Watkins, to support its claim of organizer. Halpern s testimony, i showing that like pracIS not Viewed^ preferential treatment to SIU Approximate number members with respect to em­ of eligible voters 2646 ployment on company vessels, Void ballots 25 and generally established and Votes cast for Seafar­ made known a preferential emers' International Un­ plo.yment policy in favor of the ion 1256 Slli; Votes cast for National (c) Discharged NMU members Maritime Union 813 vvith a view toward influencing Votes cast for neither .. 89 the employees' choice of a bar­ Valid votes counted ....2138 gaining agent; and Challenged ballots .... 171 (d) Otherwise assisted the SIU. Valid votes counted The NMU made no effort to plus challenged bal­ establish, nor does the "ecord lots 2309 otherwise show, the existence of an express agreement between COMPANY OUT the Company and the SIU for On January 14, 1947, the Na­ preferential hiring of SIU mem­ tional Maritime Union, herein^ bers. Instead, the NMU sought called the NMU, and the Isth-.to establish inferentially, by refmian Steanrdiip Company, herc-jerence to specific incidents of alin called the Company, each filed | leged discriminatory hiring, that objections to conduct affecting the Company pursued a comtestified that in January 19^6 he' earlier period wlieii it might the results of the election. On' pany-wide policy designed to inoverheard Isthmian Representa-1 ^ ™ had such effect, her testiFebruary 10, 1947, the Regional fluence the outcome of the elective Flynn make a telephone call ^ thi T Anl£ though credited, can Dircctor issued and duly served ^ tion by favoring the SIU and dis- to one whose name he could not ^ accorded no probative weight. upon the parties his Report on ^ criminating against the NMU in identify but who he then hm-'w' .. . ff; the Sea Fid ' conclude that the NMU has Objections, recommending that its empolyment practices, to be an SIU organizer and order' OTTT support its objections in the Company's Objections be dis­ a number of seamen for a ves- operated terl with u th an an SIU STTT orgamzer nrapniyer ^''^ Francisco area. missed and that a hearing be NMU PROOF sel. Shikes' testimony, however, GULF ACTIVITY in placing a single seaman whom held on the Objections filed by| A considerable portion of the is not viewed as reliable. His he supposed to be an SIU seaman Only at New Orleans and at the NMU. The Company failed proof relied upon by the NMU cross-examination reflects that on that vessel. The record con- Galveston is there evidence tend­ to file Exceptions to the Region- in that connection relates to inhe did not really know to whom , tains no evidence indicating sim- ing to support the NMU objection al Director's report within the cidents alleged to have occurred Flynn spoke and that his iden(.Q^duct on the part of other: regarding preferential hiring, time provided by the Board's' after March 18, 1946, the voting Rules and Regulations. Accord- eligibility date fixed in the Or- tification of the person as an jg^hmian ship officers. Indeed, j Uncontradicted evidence estabingly, its Objections are hereby dcr Directing Election. Such S U organizer was based on hy- jj[aipg,.n's own testimonv shows I lishes, and we find, that beginEngineer I nmg about January 9, 1946.6 dismissed. On February 24, 1947,'proof we regard, in the particu- pothe.si.s. H.s testimony moreto rule out the pos-^^ '\-iolently anti-NMU," there [the Isthmian office at New Orthe Board ordered that a hearing lar circumstances of this case, j^ei-g on the ves- leans, at times at least, placed be held only on the NMU Ob- as having negligible probative sibihty that Flynn was requestmg men for one ot the non-lsthsympathetic to the calls for seamen directly with jections. j value. Obviously, any preferen- mian ships which, the record HEARING HELD hiring of SIU seamen occur- shows, the Company serviced at NMU. The record reflects that a (Continued on Pd,v;r 16) ing after the eligibility date could Baltimore. Watkins testified that majority of the crew on the Sea Fiddler was hii-ed at the time Pursuant to notice a hearing dii-gctly have affected the re3-Trenhath testified that in was held on the NMU Objections of election by adding in December_ 1945 while ^vaiting January 1945, after being ad­ between March 19, 1947, and fo the score of SIU votes. Nor at the Isthmian office for an as-.^^^^, when the vessel was voted ^^e NMU vised at the Isthmian office April 7, 1947, before Arthur Leff, could it indirectly have in- signment slip, he overheard the ; that there were no openings, hearing officer. All parties were f,fenced the votes of others on boatswain of an Isthmian vessel then in port tell Flynn that he he was taken by an SIU friend afforded full opportunity to bejfhe particular vessel for whicn NOTHING IN FRISCO to the SIU office where Or­ hoard, to examine and cross-exhired. The election was going to the SIU hall and asked Flynn what replacements ganizer Banks gave his friend amine witnesses, and to mtro- pi.ocedure generally followed was At San Francisco, also, there a note to Isthmian Personnel duce evidence bearing on the is-SQ vote each ship on the first were required, information which Flynn supplied. There is no evi-,'^ no reliable, probative, and Manager Burns, who, upon sues raised by said Objections. U^ailable post-eligibility date dence, however, that Flynn dur- substantial evidence to support receipt of the note, immed­ The NMU and the Seafarers' In- after it reached a domestic port ing that period refused to sup- ^ finding that the Company eniately gave him a job on an ternational Union, herein called and before it set out upon anply similar information upon re-' gage;d in discriminatory hiring Isthmian vessel. although the SjlU, appeared generally and other voyage. Thus, employees quest to a member of the NMU: Practices during the period which many others, some of them participated in the hearing. The hiced after the eligibilitv date as critical. The testiNMU member.s, were in the Company appeared specially lor could have shipped out only on nor is there any evidence that NMU witnesses reIsthmi.an office at that time the purpose of making a motion vessels already voted. The pos­ the Company at Baltimore ever '"""y of denied a qualified NMU seaman I^^'od directly to that period. That seeking employment. Banks for leave to present proof in sup­ sibility that post-eligibility pref­ a job when one was available, of one. Irwin Trenhath, is not denied that, except on one port of its Objections, and, when erential hiring might have had We find that the evidence relied credited.'' That of a n o t h e r, occasion long later, he had its said motion was denied, an­ an interfering impact upon sea­ upon by the NMU does not sup- Thomas Flook, serves, if anyever given any seaman a note nounced that it had no interest ir. men on other vessels not yet thing, to refute the NMU conten­ ply a sufficient basis upon which to Burns. Trenhath on crossthe Objections filed by the NMU, voted (because they were still on tion. Flook testified merely that, to predicate a finding that the examination was unable to and thereafter refrained from ap­ a voyage and had not yet reach­ after visiting the Isthmian office Company at Baltimore engaged state the name of his SIU pearing generally or participat­ ed a domestic port) is not only daily for a period of about 2 friend who had taken him to ing in the hearing. The rulings indirect but it, in our opinion, in discriminatory hiring prac­ weeks in February 1946, he was see Banks, and his testimony of the hearing officer made at the so exceedingly remote as to be tices during the period here placed on the Isthmian David W. was vague, indefinite, and hearing arc free fro.m prejudicial discounted. It is true, as the viewed as critical. Fields ' bv Burns who did not evasive concerning other rele­ error and are hereby affirmed. NMU contends, that the ques­ question him concerning his un­ vant details. We consider his Since the record and briefs, in tion goncerning representation 1—A thu'd witness, Robert ion membership. That of the testimony to be unreliable. our opinion, adequately present remained unresolved after the Clarke, testified that he ol> third, Morris Klopot, is inconclu­ the is.sues and positions of the eligibility date. But the primary tained a job on a company sive, self-contradictory, and un­ parties, the NMU's request for issue in this case is not whether vessel in October 1945, after reliable. Klopot, a seaman em­ 4—The Fields voted NMU—13'; SIU—3. oral argument before the Board the Company engaged in unfair pi-esenting a note from the ployed aboard the Isthmian is here denied. SIU office. That, however, Alamo 'Victory, testified that on labor practices generally, but m -.rx u- u was ' 5—The Alamo Victory which was prior to the date .the rep­ Upon fhe entire record in this whether by its conduct in claimed balloted the following month resentation petition was filed, case, including the record pre­ respects it improperly influenced voted 24 for the NMU and 14 2—The vote on the Baton Rouge when no question concerning viously made, the Board makes the results of a particular elec­ for the SIU. was NMU—21, SIU—14. the following: representaion existed. tion. I * m , XX X^ X \HX X XXX X > ^ JL �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Sixteen Bridges And Winotw Are Caught Meeting With Top Commies Friday. June 20. 1947 NLRB Report Certifies Seafarers find, that the Norman Mack, ports mentioned and did not exwhile in drydock at Galveston in tend to others. When the prefthe SIU hall, although qualified early March 1846, was manned crential hiring shown is considerseamen could have been hired at by seamen recruited directly! ed in conjunction with other i-elesuch times from among appli­ from the SIU." vant factors—the restricted area cants at the Isthmian hall or of its application, the geographiLITTLE SUPPORT tfirough the neutral recruitment cal separation of the po'ts, the As for the remaining allega­ facilities of the War Shipping Ad­ nature of the maritme Industry, NEW YORK—Definite indica-, stoppage, so far as I know, and ministration; that as a result tions of the NMU objections, and the organizing techniques tions that the communist party it will have none. We will not qualifed NMU applicants for em­ there is little record support. The employed by the unions therein, in the United States is attempt- tolerate any interference by any ployment who had .satisfactorily record does not show that Igamong others—, we do not be­ ing to exploit the current CIO outside groups in our attempts to served on Isthmian sh.ips before, nacio Reyes, a chief steward, had lieve it would be realistic in this maritime strilie to further its .secure economic .improvements such as Ignacio Reyes and James succeeded in having himself , , ,, ... r^TTr .case for us to assume that such own ends were revealed here in in in our contracts." placed through the SIU on the, j . u j ^ .i. Watkins, were denied employ­ „ 1 , 1-1 conduct had, except on those vesp. sensational story exposing a Mack m Galveston byi , , ... ... Curran evidently believes the ment; and that it was intimated Norman , , .... sels for which seamen were hired highly secret meeting between commies met to discuss the cur to two applicants for employ­ simulating an interest m the SIU; . xr /~, i , ^ . xm/iTT II New Orleans and Galveston, Harry Bridges) West Coast CIO rent big league baseball situa ment (Jameson and Kapilowitz) that, when his NMU allegiance 1 . . .v. , i,. , , , I any impact upon the election rehe was severely i ,. ., , . . longshore leader: Murry Wino- tion. by Isthmian hiring representa­ ,was, discovered, , suits or the employees' freedom cur, vice-president of the Ameri­ XT j tives (Bayerlin and Johnny Ba- beaten by SIU members of the .... J lu , A 1 II iriAii choice. . ,Nor . • do we believe ^ can Communications Association bcck) that the Company was ob- crew; and that on April 14, 1946,',, . ,, ,, , .that the deleterious effects of the ciecliun „ . j- u • i ^ j and secretary of the fJlO Joint •taining its seamen at New Or­ the day proceeding , , ... -I Reyes discharge, isolated as it that vessel, he was discharged I .i . • . Maritime Policy Committee; and leans directly from the SIU." on , , , , was, may reasonably be inter. j • .u • top officials of the Communist The evidence at Galveston is in by its master with the statement,' preted m the special circumpart related to that at New Or-|'T don't want two unions fightParty. ,, , . . , ., TI stances of this case, to have exI , ... . leans but involves a single ves­ ing on .,,the ,,ship, and besides The veil of secrecy surround­ „ : tended beyond the confines of the majority. But ., , u- u n sel, the Norman Mack. The cred­ stay , with ing the conference—held Mon­ . ,, . . , , , the vessel on which Reyes was ible evidence reflects, and we apart from this isolated occur­ employed. We are satisfied that (Continued from Page I) day afternoon in Winocur's midrence, the NMU came forward town apartment — was swept control of seamen working in a the record considered as a whole with no proof to substantiate its aside as a result of the story re­ civilian industry. does not establish such interfer­ allegation that the Company dis­ ported in the New York Worldence as to warrant our setting Since that time, the SIU has 6—On January 9, 1946, the Wil­ charged NMU members with a Telegram by staff writer Freder­ waged a relentless fight both on liam D. Hoard paid off at aside the election. toward influencing the einNew Orleans, and the NMU view ick Woltman. , . , . o . Accordingly, we overrule the the ships and in testimonies be­ ployees /^U- .• T L as pressed through a Govern­ At the meeting with Bridges fore Congress against the Coast , „ choice of a bargaining ® ° XTAATT NMU Objections. Inasmuch agent." Although tne record ,, OTTT u j • •. ment agency certain overtime and Winocur were William Z. Guard's stranglehold on the mer­ the SIU has secured a majority discloses a few isolated instances and loggings grievances for Foster, national chairman of the chant marine. of the valid votes cast plus chalseamen on that vessel. Wil­ of anti-NMU and pro-SIU state­ lenged ballots, we shall certify it communist party; John William­ In 194.5, before the war in liam Chondor, NMU organizer ments and conduct by certain as the collective bargaining rep­ son, its national labor secretary, Europe came to a close, the SIU at New Orleans, testified that ships' officers, they are not such resentative of the employees in and A1 Lannon, the CP's "na­ testified before Congress as being the NMU prior to the time as to establish a pattern or a de­ the unit heretofore found appro­ tional coordinator for the marine opposed to the plan of transfer­ the Hoard paid off, experi­ sign. It appears that while cer­ priate for the purposes of collec­ industry." ring control of merchant seamen enced no unusual difficulty tain ships' officers expressed tive bargaining. According to the story, com­ to the Coast Guard as a perman­ and had reasonable success in themselves in favor of the SIU, munist big-wigs Foster, William­ ent set-up. placing NMU seamen on Isth­ others indicated their favor to­ Certification of son and Thompson left Winocur's At the time the SIU was the ward the NMU, and it cannot mian ships through the usual place at 3:25 p. m. Representatives only organization to fight for the channels — direct application reasonably be concluded that the A half-hour later. Bridges, rights of seamen as civilians, and IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED at the Isthmian hall and reg­ officers on the Company's veswho has repeatedly denied af­ made clear its position that CG istration with the War Ship­ sels engaged in a general course . that Seafarers' International Unfiliation with the communist supervision of seamen in peace­ ping Adminstration. This of conduct designed to assist the jon, affiliated with the American party, but who conferred last time meant a continuation of tac­ Federation of Labor, has been situation changed after the SIU. September with Foster and Eu- tics that might lead to the indesignated by a majority of all Hoard paid off, according to FAILS TO HOLD gene Dennis, CP general secre- [ corporation of the merchant maunlicensed personnel in the deck, Chondor, and thereafter the In sum, then, the record fails to tary, came scurrying out of the.rine into the armed forces. NMU, although it continued substantiate the allegations of. engineering, and steward's debuilding on the double and duck­ The Coast Guard's Hearing to follow the same placement the NMU Objections, save for the including chief stewed into a taxicab across the Units, however, were praised by procedures, found it next to proof of preferential hiring at vessels owned and/ street. the NMU and the ACA, both impossible to place any of its New Orleans and Galveston, and or operated by the Isthmian The newspapcj-'s expose goes faithfully following the shipown­ men on Isthmian vessels at the discharge of Ignacio Reyes I 'P Company, whether as on; er's line of complete cooperation. New Orleans. from the Norman Mack at Gal- general agent for the War Ship"Before the door (of the cab) veston. But, so far as the record Administration or as owners, SIU TESTIMONY closed, a World-Telegram report­ e.stablishes, or as may reasonably excluding all radio operators, When the war ended. President er approached and said, 'Mr. be inferred therefrom, the Com-! veterinarians, hygien7—This finding is based upon unreorganization plan Bridges, did you have a good Truman's pany's preferential hiring, dur'^^^' super-cargo, pharmacists dontradicted testimony con­ called for the permanent incor­ conference with Mr. Foster?' " cerning specific incidents b./ ing the period we regard as cri-.'^^^f' clerk-typists and aU other poration of the Hearing Units un­ Caught with his pants down, NMU witnesses Louis Jame­ tical, was confined to the two, der the Coast Guard. ment as defined m the Staff Of-. the CIO longshore chief showed son, Mardy Errara, Benjamin When hearings were held be­ ficers' Act of 1939, as amended, obvious signs of being nettled Kapilowitz, James Watkins, fore a Congressional Committee 8—According to NMU Organizer as their representative for the by the unexpected discovery. and William Chondor, and the Chondor's testimony, about 8 purposes of collective bargaining. "Mr. Bridges looked flabber­ on the plan, then Secretarypartially denied but credited gasted," the. story continues. Treasurer John Hawk testified, Isthmian ships called at New . and that the aforesaid organizatestimony of Ignacio Reyes. A Then he said warily; 'What con­ .stating that the plan would Orleans during January, Febtion is the exclusive representanumber of SIU witnesses de­ ference? I don't know what "jeopardize the liberties of sea­ ruary and early March 1946, j tive of all such employee.s lor the nied generally that there was you're talking about. I just ran men and put them at the mercy .some of them taking on sub- Purposes of collective bargaining, any collusive hiring arrange­ down the street after this car. of a military body during peace­ stantially full crews, and, vith respect to rates of pay, ment betv/een the SIU and I didn't come out of any build­ time." others only replacements. ] wages, hours of employment, and the Company at New Or­ The charge was soon proven ing.' " Chondor and other NMU wit- other conditions of employment, leans. But the SIU made no He was shown three other per­ true for, when in July of 1946, nesses, however, were able to Signed at Washington, D. C., attempt to meet and refute sons who had seen him dash out eight dock mcmbei's of the SS identify only 6 of them by this 11 day of June 1947. the specific evidence of par­ Paul M. Herzog, of the Winocur apartment house. Helen, A. H. Bull Lines, refused name. The vote on the iden­ ticular incidents adduced by Chairman Feigning surprise, ho was re- to sail the ship on the grounds tified ve.ssels was SIU—136, NMU witnesses — evidence John M. Houston, poi'tcd as saying; "Winocur, does that the ship was un.seaworthy, NMU—28. So far as the rec­ which, although susceptible of Member he live on this street? You mean the Coast Guard immediately ord discloses, the only vessel (Seal) direct contradiction, was al­ brought the men up on trial and James J. Reynolds, Jr. Winocur of the ACA?" which crewed up at Galveston lowed to stand undcnied and Member Ho ordered his driver to get suspended their papcis for six during the preeligiblity per­ unexplained. True, with the NATIONAL LABOR going after telling the newspaper months. iod was the Norman Mack on exception of Paul Warren (an I Immediately the SIU went to RELATIONS BOARD man; "You're crazy. I don't which the vote was SIU—12, SIU official who did not tes­ know what you're talking about." bat for the Helen men and by a NMU—O. Only one other ves­ tify although directly impli­ A1 Lannon was seen leaving solid front of opposition present­ sel was voted at Galveston, cated), those who might have the building about a half-hour ed to the company and the Coast the Steel Engineer on May 9, contradicted the te.stimony of Guard the men won redress from after Bridges' departure. 1946, and that the vote was the NMU witnesses were com­ The period of substantially Joe Curran, NMU president, the company. Since the Helen NMU—17, SIU—8. pany employees not within continuous service in the Mer­ who has been the target of the ca.se the u.se of the Coast Guard the control of the SIU. But chant Marina required for the commies' wrath ever since ho by the companies has been rare. none of them was shown to 9—The NMU in its bill of par­ issuance of Certiiicates of Ser­ resigned the chairmanship •— With the end of the infamous be unavailable, and there is ticulars specifically named 11 vice which entitle merchant shared by Bi'idges—of the Com­ Hearing Units, an end has been nothing in the record to es­ persons as having been dis­ seamen to reemployment mittee for Maritime Unity, and put to the .seat-warming bureau­ tablish that they would not criminated against. Of these, rights, pursuant to Public Law precipitated its collapse, con­ crats v/ho can only look back on have responded to subpoena. 6, in additon to Reyes, testi­ 87 and to other benefits,, has tinued to play the roles of all a record of abuse, intimidation fied—James Almada, Thomas been reduced from 18 months The cumulative weight of three little monkeys, who hear and chaos for the men v/ho make Flook, Morton Halpern, Irwin to 12 months, it was announc­ the undenied specific testi­ no evil, see no evil, speak no evil. their livings by sailing the ships. mony, in our opinion, is more Trenhath, and William Chon­ ed by the United States Mari­ 'When told of the Bridges-Fos­ No longer will they be able to dor—but even their own tes­ time Commission. than sufficient to overcome ter meeting, Curran naively act as sole authority over seamen timony does not remotely sug­ and successfully refute the See next week's LOG for stated; to decide whether a man can con­ gest a basis-for any such find­ further details. general evidence adduced by "This has no relation to the tinue to make a living or not. ing. the SIU. (Continued Prom Page H) Hearing Units Transferred Time Reduced � 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 June 20, 1947 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. IX, No. 25 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU REOPENS CONTRACTS TO NEGOTIATE INCREASES IN BASE PAY, OVERTIME SEAFARERS AGAIN PLEDGES TO RESPECT ALL ECONOMIC PICKETLINES OF NMU ITF PLANNING PANAMANIAN LONDON MEET CG LOSES CONTROL OF HEARING UNITS ONWARD TO NEW GAINS CAREFUL PLANNING, HARD WORK WON ISTHMIAN DECISION PROVES SEAFARERS IS VITAL FACTOR IN LABOR SEAFARERS HONOR ROLL TEXT OF NLRB STATEMENT OF CERTIFICATION BRIDGES AND WINOCUR ARE CAUGHT MEETING WITH TOP COMMIES Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 6/20/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1a137b8858457b5055ab2ab4f1e9d674.PDF f98b6408223fc31afc4b9fe95a8baf5a PDF Text Text Friday, June 13. 1947 THE SEAFAEEES LOG Pag» Three I Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. JUNE 13. 1947 No. 24 1 I I J NLRB^ Certifies Seafarers As The Bargaining Agent Isthmian Seamen Hi NMU's Charges Of Collusion #•• Not Substantiated By Record rK • m:. i Story on Page 5. �I tt tL HE A FA R E'R S LOG SEAFARERS LOG * 1 Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG - - - President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL --- - First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER - - Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER r - Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. r District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Bo.x 25. Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED" FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY ----- Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor It's Been A Long Time There's a certain feeling in the air wherever mem­ bers of the Seafarers International Union meet these days. It's not a more militant spirit because the SIU has a repu­ tation the world over for its militancy. Hospital Patients It's just tliat after many months of wrangling, months When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ in which the Isthmian seamen were prevented from being card, giving your name and represented by the Union of their choice, the Seafarers the number of your ward. has finally been certified as bargaining agent for the un­ licensed Isthmian seamen. Staten Island Hospital This has been a long uphill struggle. From the first, You can contact your Hos­ the SIU was faced with opposition from both the com­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ pany and the National Maritime Union. Both resorted to ing tiems: any means to.gain their ends. Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. With the NMU it was unfounded charges of collu­ These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, (on 5th and 8th floors) sion after the SIU had clearly established a majority in the as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. elections, supervised by the National Labor Relations heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3i30 p.m. Board. With the company, it started even earlier when ing to them. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) BRIGHTON HOSPITAL SIU militants were weeded out and discharged from ships NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL J. NICKERSON leaving on long voyages. A. BUCHENHORNER R. BAASNER C. PEDERSEN But the men of the SIU survived all those obstacles. J. MINNAHAN W. PARIS J. HARRISON Ships came into home ports v/ith solid SIU crews; crews that W. PARIS G. MEANEY G. CARUSO had gone out undecided or pro-NMU. By the SQore, Isth­ P. STOFFEL 4 4 4 R. LORD STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL S. WILUSZ mian seamen flocked to SIU Halls to become members of A. SANDY E. JOHNSTON G. H. STEVENSON R. CHRISTIAN s. the Union that fought tooth and nail for its members. H. SWIM J. BURNS A. R. GUIDRY There was never any doubt in the mind of the volun­ R. MADIGAN E. CARRERA J. AMAYA teers who, by every method knov.m to seamen, succeeded H. DAUGHERTY E. MOFIENE A. M. BRANCONI in getting jobs on the Isthmian scows. How they did it is P. La Cicero R. G. MOSSELLER E. DELLAMANO P. KOGOy N. NEILSEN their business, but what they did once aboard is the busi­ R. WRIGHT J. M. DYKES J. ROY G. GREY ness of every maiT v/ho belongs to the SIU. C. CARLSON H. HAMOND t These men, aboard unorganized ships, stood stead­ C. CASE E. E. CASEY BALTIMORE HOSPITAL fastly for the rights of the crew; they fought out overtime; F. HAMON J. M. BROOKS THOMAS PHELPS J. BUJEWICH they battled for better conditions; and above all, they J. O'NEILL , GORDON RAY F. NERING showed how much the members of the crew could gain W. BROSE RAYMOND NICHOLSON E. CHATARD C. MASON MANUEL ROMERO with a militant, tight-knit organization. J. B. CAUSEY A. WALTERS MANUEL SANCHEZ And that paid off. By a vote of more than 3-to-2, the C. MARTINEZ WM. HENDERSHOT 5« 1 t V. PLACEY i SIU defeated the NMU and the company. And, after re­ EDWARD CAIN JR. NEPONSET HOSPITAL A. RIOS peated stalling by the NMU, the NLRB has certified the FRANK JASHOLSKI MICHAEL PISKIN I WILL;ARD BANKHEAD SIU as bargaining agent for the unlicensed Isthmian sfeamen. H. BURKE LEO RICE J. S. CAMPBELL •4. ^ 4 An SIU contract is next in line. It may take work L. CLARK SAN FRANCISCO HOSP. ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL * to gain an agreement from this notoriously anti-union E. FERRER , AARON McALPIN J. R. HANCHEY M. MORRIS company, but the Seafarers will fight, with all its power. J. HODO C. LARSEN W. B. MUIR This marks a new era for Isthmian seamen, and it JOHN KREWSEN L. L. LEWIS marks another s^d chapter in the anti-labor, pro-company, L. TORRES P. KOGOY history of the NMU. ^ Men Now In The Marine Hospitals i �Friday. June 13. 1947 THE SEAFAREBS LOG Page Three Long Struggle Ends—isthmian Is SlU Cooperation Of Membership ships can rest Seafarers will The winning of the Isthmian ment with the election by the Seafarers Inter ship Company national Union can be attributed cooperate in a to the cooperation of the mem bership in the organizing drive Tiiis will be ample repayment for the time, money, effort and sacrifices made by the member­ ship of this Union. Men now sailing Isthmian By J. P. SHULER And No Goal Is Impossible By EARL SHEPPARD The deci.sion for which we have waited so long has been handed down by the NLRB Isthmian, too, is SIU. The long hard pull has paid off. And the NMU's stalling campaign to keep from Isthmian seamen the bene­ fits to be gained by the Union of their own free choosing has been stopped cold. For this tremendous victory, the Seafarers can congratulate the Brothers who took part in the Isthmian drive for a job well done. They did their job effi- ciently and thoroughly with all the energy at their command. Many of these men were in­ strumental in extending the or­ ganizing drive beyond the ships and into every place a seaman could be found. They were not satisfied with organizing around the clock aboard ship, but brought prospective Seafarers right into the Union Halls. And the Isthmian seamen, who so overwhelmingly voted for the SIU as their collective bargain­ ing agent, also are to be congratu­ lated. They have shown their dissatisfaction with the substand­ ard wages and low level work­ ing conditions prevailing on Isth­ mian vessels. They have demonstrated that they want these substandard con­ ditions wiped out and replaced with the best wage and working conditions in maritime—through representation by the Seafarers International Union. A full volume could be writ­ ten on the individual and collec­ tive merits of the men who made the Seafarers' victory possible. It is men like these who have proved that no aim is too high, and no goal is impossible for the SIU. assured that the obtain an agree­ Isthmian Steam­ as long as they manner as they WASHINGTON, June 12—The long, hard fought struggle to organize the unlicensed seamen of the Isthmian Steamship Company by the Seafarers International Union was crowned with success today when the National La­ bor Relations Board certified the SIU. This brought to an end seven months of foul chicanery and stalling by the National Maritime Union — stalling which prevented the Isthmian seamen from being represented by the Union ^ of their choice. have in the past. The decision of the National Labor Relations Board made final what the Or­ ganizers and men riding Isth­ mian ships knew would be the outcome. This is a great job done by the Orgauhing Staff and the biggest -victory the Seafarers have ever won in the organizing field. There are still a number of unorganized steamship compan­ ies in the maritime field and with the continuance of the good work of the Organirrrs and the cooperation of the membership they too can be brought under jthe banner of the Seafarers In­ ternational Uniori^ of North Am­ erica. Victory Of Rank And File .riu • . • T .!_ thought in the bag, surprised The campaign to organize Isth- ,, . . everyone by rolling up sweeping mian started close-to two years totals in the Seafarers' column. ago. In 194.5, with the end of' . i . ... -. . I And when the counting of balthe war in sight, the proposition jots commenced, the NMU offiof organizing the unorganized oc­ cials saw the handwriting on the cupied a prominent place on the wall. As total after total v/as re­ agenda of the Agents Conference. corded for the SIU, they resorted to challenging the entire votes A program was adopted, plac­ of some ships. ing Paul Hall in charge of all or­ CHARGES FLOP ganizing for the Atlantic and Phony charges of collusion, Gulf District. Earl "Bull" Shepwhich, by the v/ay, the NMU pard was made primarily respon­ never substantiated, were hurled sible for the field work. Cal Tan­ at the SIU. Hearings were held, ner and Lindsey Williams were and the well-coached NMU wit­ appointed to positions of respon­ nesses were unable to prove one single item of their wildly-flung sibility in the program. At the hearings, the For the amount of money ex­ charges. SIU was represented by Attorney pended by the Director of Or­ Ben Sterling. ganization's Office in carrying And so, the biggest organiza­ out the program, the results have tional drive in the history of the been well worth the expenses. Final tallying of the ballots, American Maritime Industry has issued in January by the NLRB come to an end, with the Sea Regional Director, showed that farers International Union certi­ the SIU had garnered 1256 votes fied to represent the unlicensed to 813 for the NMU. This should seamen of the largest freight have been enough for the NMU, chipping company in the world. By PAUL HALL The National Labor Relations Board's certification of the Sea­ farer' victory in the Isthmian Steamship Lines election is a but it wasn't. Next 'step is an SIU contract, tribute to the membership of the and the Isthmian men can rest Resorting to every legal tech­ SIU and to the organization as a nicality, and using every possible assured that the Seafarers will whole. _ subterfuge, the NMU was suc­ put the pressure on the company This decision definitely finish­ cessful in delaying matters, and to force bargaining sessions soon. es off the prolonged stalling tac­ in forcing hearings which the of­ NMU stalling is now ended, and tics of the NMU, whose smashing ficials themselves knew were the Union will make sure that defeat in the election soured company stalling doesn't take its worthless. them so that they used every trick place. in the legal bag to prevent tlie SIU ALL THE WAY At the present time, Brothers Isthmian men from getting the Hall, Sheppard, Tanner, and Wil­ From the beginning, the Isth­ benefits of SIU representation. mian election was an open-and- liams are down in the Gulf Area The NMU is responsible for the shut case. Ship after sliip came setting up an organizing program fact that Istliinian seamen have back from trips pledged to vote for the Towboat workers and Al­ long been delayed in attaining the for the SIU. Hundreds of Isth­ lied fields.. best wage and working condi­ mian seamen took out Full Books tions in the maritime industry. When informed of the certifiThe victory is a tribute to the Those of our members who wisdom of the Isthmian seamen in the SIU, and when the voting ^ cation, they jointly stated, "The started, these men cast their Isthmian Drive is just one more acted as volunteer ship's organ­ themselves, who chose the water­ votes for the Seafarers. izers did so of their own free job successfully carried out by front union best qualified to will. They did so because thcy raise their wage and living stand­ On fourteen ships the NMU j the membership. There will be felt the vast number of Isthmian ards. didn't get a single vote, while more campaigns in the future, seamen were being deprived of the SIU wasn't sfiut out once, j and the men who made Isthmian The Seafarer's will now demon- ^ Isthmian's largest ships cast de- SIU will be the one's to do th? the top wages and humane workng conditions enjoyed by Sea­ strate to the Isthmian men that cisive majorities for the SIU, and Job." In true Seafarers style farers. their choice was a wise one. |even crews which the NMU.that's exactly what they will da. Next Week: The Men Who Organizet! Isthmian Isthmian has finally been awarded to the Sea­ farers—something, frankly, that we have expect­ ed, since we knew the energies spent, the time put in, and the money invested in the organizing campaign—things not at all necessary if we were in collusion with the Isthmian officials, whose record has been consistently anti-union. The Seafarers went into the Isthmian cam­ paign with a battle plan carefully drawn months in advance, set down with as much detail as a pre-battle blue print can be. As it turned out, the approach was a success­ ful one, but—and this is a very big BUT—only because of the wholehearted support given it by the rank and file Seafarer, who gave up the wages and conditions tht were their's under an SIU contact to work aboard an Isthmian ship. They worked under conditions that no long­ er exist on SlU-contracted ships, and at sub­ standard pay. They could have taken the easier way and enjoyed the top wages and unmatched conditions on SIU ships. But they sacrificed this security and instead dedicated their efforts to wiping out the Isthman open shop, and thus bring Isthmian seamen the decent living wages and conditions which .so rightfully belong to every man who sails the seas. The sacrifice was not in vain. These solid Seafarers did the job—made Isthmian SIU! All thanks, all appreciation belong to these militant, sacrificing Seafarers, and these pages are the place to show it. Unfortunately, the NLRB decision came on the date of publication, when the paper was all set and ready for the press. Remaking the whole paper would have meant delaying publication for three days (over the weekend), and the best we could do under the circumstances was to tear out and remake these few pages. But next week, the entire issue will be devoted to these men—SIU members and Isthmian seamen—who did so much to insure the success of the Seafarers campaign in Isthmian. Next week, then, the men behind the scenes, the guys who made the wheels turn—the volun­ teer SIU organizers and the Isthmian men who determinedly struck a blow against the last of the big, open shop operators left in this country. �Page Four THE SEAFARERS Friday, Jurte 13, 1947 LOG Texas Now Opetatmg h SlU Stfk, WhiihMeans Okay AllDown TheLine By EARL SHEPPARD GALVESTON—The trial committee in this port sat in on the game the performers and gas houjids were playing, and dealt out a few cards themselves. They handed out sentences rang­ ing from one year's probation to permanent positions on the so­ cial register. This port was a perfect ex­ ample of a few gas hounds giv­ ing the entire membership a bad name as well as a bad time. This stuff is now non-existent and, in the event it comes up again, the guy or guys pulling it had better duck, and fast. The members here have had a bellyful of the BS those guys were throwing, and will in all probability continue the good work started by the trial com­ mittee. Today, the SIU is a respon­ sible organization, and we have pi'oved this in the hardest field in the world. Our membership, and our Union, is big enough to run its own business. We can not allow a handful of broken down drunks to brand us as an orga'nization of screw ball gas hounds.. Unless we take care of those guys wherever they raise their imperor Tragedy Underlines Need For Seafarers heads, we will tarred with the | Waterman Ship, which paid off same brush. We made a good after a long trip to the East. SKIPPER ACCUSES start down here, and we are cer­ There was a bit of excitement tain to keep it up, on this one, when the Skipper SLIGHT PROBLEM complained to the authorities in We had a little problem last the Panama Canal Zone that week, shipowner style, which or­ there were "un-American" ac­ iginated when Waterman started tivities on board the ship. Evi­ crewing the SS Ross, The com­ dently the Old Man had been pany refused to call the new reading too many Hearst news­ replacements over the weekend papers. so as to save a few bucks, and Wonder never cease, however, when they did call the jobs, because the Skipper blasted the there were not enough takers. officers for this, and didn't men­ For a while it looked like the tion the crow at all. ship might be hung up, but we All the beefs on this baby finally succeeded in crewing her were handled to the entire sat­ without a delay. isfaction of the crew. To all members—if you want This should serve as a lesson to the shipowners that to move to make a fast job on' most any their scows on time, they must kind of scow you can name— be at least half-way fair with then Galveston is the port for the SIU men. They must not you. tiy to hard time us. There is a nice beach here various We have a contract and ex­ where a guy can find pect to live up to it, BUT we ways to, as >Trcnchy Michelet do not intend to take a shoving would put it, "while away the around from the operators in hours." doing so. And without a bunch of Last week one ship paid off. drunks to pester you, from now It was the SS Joseph N. Teal, a on. Seaway Lawyer, NMU Learn From Northland Parleys By WILLIAM T. McLAUGHLIN By JOE GRIMES Mr. Hartley, co-sponsor «of the continue to carry on his bastard Taft-Hartley slave labor bill, has tradition. It's the same old poli­ announced that he will not be a tical baloney no matter how you slice it. candidate for re-election. The story of Hartley is the THINGS TO COME story of Jhe great majority of The morning press of Wednes­ politicians. His record shows a day, June 11, reports that Hart­ political career starting with the ley thi'eatens still stronger labor job of Library Commissioner in curbs "if labor calls a general 1923, from which he graduated strike against the bill." to the Kearney, N. J., Police and The "gentleman" from Jersey Fire Commissioner's job. is alarmed at 91 recently filed He hung on to that job for four strike notices, and is beginning years, after which he began cam­ to see labor plots around every paigning for, and winning, legis­ corner. lators' jobs, first in the Sttae of The same "gentleman" has New Jersey and finally in the been given an appropriation of U, S, Congress, 50,000 bucks to investigate labor. Politicians like their jobs and It's easy to picture things to work like hell to get them, and come if hatchetmen like Hartley then work even harder to keep are permitted to threaten and in­ them. Hartley is no exception. timidate labor. Two monster labor demonstra­ In his last campaign he sold his bill of goods so well that a large tions have just taken place in section of the labor movement in New York. First the AFL, and his district indorsed his candi­ then the CIO, staged great pa­ rades winding up with Madison dacy. Glad-handing is nothing new Square Garden rallies. Hundreds to this sterling U. S. Representa­ of thousands watched these pa­ rades; other thousands wore tive from New Jersey. reached by every means from The Newark Evening News of notes tied to milk bottles to leaf­ July 1.5, 1940 reports that he lets passed out on the streets. attended the annual picnic of The theme of these meetings the Federation of German-Amer­ has been to defeat the anti-labor ican Societies of Essex County, Taft Hartley bill, to cause a and in a speech bragged that he Presidential veto and to force had been attending the picnic for Congress to uphold the vote. 12 yeai;s. This is all well and good, but No swastikas were displayed regardless of what happens to at this particular picnic, but in the present bill, other bills will the 12 years he had been attend­ follow, presented by other Tafts ing, Bund speakers and swastikas and Hartleys, but sponsored by had always been the order of the same old industrialists and the day—but after all Represen­ tative Fred A. Hartley is a poli­ financiers. JACKSONVILLE — The nego­ Jacksonville Port Agent, first tiations for a contract covering began organizing the crew of the Northwind, He encountered the the unlicen.sed personnel of the usual type of sour propaganda SS New Northwind, Seaway from the local NMU adherents By FRANK MORAN Lines Limited, came to a succes­ to the effect that the SIU was not as much interested in es­ SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich.— sful conclusion with a salary tablishing a contract with the tician, and to guys like him a The recent sinking of the Cana­ increase averaging 90 percent Company as it was in trying vote is a vote no matter where over former rates, a 40-hour dian freighter SS Emperor with to force the Seaway Lines out it comes from. an appalling loss of life should week in port, and a 44-hour of business in favor of U, S, Mr. Hartley didn't limit his su­ week at sea. bring home to the average Lakes shipping interests. per-patriotism to German picnics This is all old stuff since the seaman the risks that he takes alone, however. Just how barren and ^esolate in the every day following of LOG carried the story in full On November 28, 1941, the As­ two weeks ago. What is new, this sort of reasoning was is his chosen calling. sociated Press reports that he best pi-oved by the fact that the As long as anyone follows the however, is the way the Comp­ spoke at an America First meet­ Company, after signing the con­ any tried to stymie negotiations Lakes for a living, he should not ing in Paterson, New Jersey de­ tract, announced that it was at every turn, and how it was be satisfied with less than the best in wages, living conditions aided and a*betted by the Na­ buying another ship to be oper­ fending Japan with the state­ ment, "without provocation on ated under the same terms. and working rules, as well as tional Maritime Union, CIO. Japan's part we have made her a Incapable of understanding First, let's take up the Comp­ safely conditions. powerful enemy." These wages and conditons any stalling. Bargaining sessions the necessity - for seamen to be This was 12 days before Pearl have steadily improved over the commenced on May 12, but organized on an international Harbor. past few years, mainly through progress was retarded because basis, fustrated because they STILL BALONEY the efforts of the Seafarers. Inter­ the Company's legal adviser was stand exposed as Kremlin ac­ national Union and it's affiliate, on a case for the Florida Rail­ complices, these stooges will There is a story told on Jacobs stoop to any level to confuse Beach about the time the famed the Sailors Union of the Pacific. way Commission. Don't imagine for one minute The Company insisted that it unorganized seamen. cauliflower linguist and super that the big-hearted operators couldn't proceed without his ex­ In Canada it has been their bootblack "Beezey" Thomas ever improved these conditions pert advice because of the many stock ai'gument that SIU con­ shined Jack Dempsey's shoes. or ever will, unless they are technicalities involved in the ditions and wages aboard Cana­ Jack was wearing a new pair forced to do so by militant trade contract, which only a lawyer dian ships would force Canada of expensive white sports and out of the maritime picture. unions such as the SIU and SUP. could interpret. Beezey was in his cups. Jack When you're a member of the The Canadian Seamen's Union talked while Beezey shined, and So we marked time. Finall.y greatest seamen's union in the he showed up, and at every has fed this obnoxious tripe to its all would have been well had world,, the SIU, you can point session he admitted that ship­ membership for inany years. It Beezey not used black polish in­ with pride to the many things ping and" seafaring was utterly has raised this false issue for stead of white. ^ that you are helping win for all foreign to him, and he confi­ two reasons: When Dempsey became irate, seamen. Beezey looked up and inquired, ned him,sclf to battling us on the 1. So that the communist party When you're a part of the Sea­ ciuestions of wages and a closed could maintain firm control of "What's the difference Jack, it's farers, you can truthfully say shop. the maritime industry by mak­ .shoe polish ain't it?" that you're one of the guys who And the same goes for politi­ ing communist control pala­ FULL LESSON have" the best contracts, wages, table to the Government bureaus cian Hartley's decison not to run It should be noted that he and to the shipowners. hours, overtime, working and liv­ for office again next term., The ing conditions in maritime. The learned a full union le.sson, and 2. With the halo of "National National Association of Manufac­ when the time for signing the record backs you up. Unity" around its head, the turers always has a place for Here's another pointer. Make contract came around, he was party was assured a period of boys like him. The story didn't it a must to read each issue of the not present. reasonable growth with the tell what Jack gave Beezey, but. Since the SIU Canadian Dist­ minimum of interference. LOG and the Weekly Lakes Or­ it's a sure bet that the NAM ganizing Bulletin folded into it. rict won all its points, we regret will reward their boy Friday SHIPOWNERS' STOOGES If you don't secure your copy his absence. He could have with a good soft berth, regardless at the SOO, or at one of the ports rounded out his education by Canadian shipowners have of what color polish he used on around the Lakes where SIU or-' watching the Company officials gained millions in profits as a their shoes. gani'zers and Halls are located, reluctantly sign on the dotted result of this propaganda, and In Congress or in a director's drop a line to SIU Headquarters line. have gone as far as to boast scat, Mr. Hartley will still do at 1038 Third Street, Detroit 26, The trouble with the NMU how good CSU agreements are— the bidding of his bosses, and in Michigan, started when Jimmy Hanners, for them. congress other politicians will TWO BATTLE GROUNDS The employers and their politician-gcncrals have chosen their battleground well "and, as the House of Representatives and Senate roll call showed, are strongly intrenched in their Capi­ tol citadel. Labor has been banging its brains out but the big boys still hold the fort, securely intrenched behind their banucades of money bags and political domination. Labor can defeat this gang only by selecting its own battlefied, the point of production. If it must be war labor must win, for without labor there is no nation. Let the politicians label the general strike what they may, the general strike is the answer to capital's attack and will win the union's fight—and then Mr, Hart­ ley and Mr. Taft and the others of their ilk, will pull in their horns, tuck their tails between their legs and sneak away like the egg sucking dog. Attention Members Each man who makes a donation to the LOG should receive a receipt in return. If the Union official to whom a contribution is given does not make out a receipt for the money, call this to the attention of the SecretaryTreasurer. J. P. Shuler, im­ mediately. Send the name of the of­ ficial a,nd the name of the port in -which the occurence took place to the New York Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. �Friday.. June 13. 1947 Tn£ SEAFARERS LOG HAPPY—AND COVERED BY AN SIU CONTRACT Above is a group picture of the unlicensed personnel of the SS New Northland just after they had voted unanimously to approve the terms of a new agreement between the SIU and the Seaway Lines. Limited. By the smiles on their faces it is easy to see that they are pleased about the whole situation, and who wouldn't be with salary raises averaging so much as 90 percent. (See story on Page 4.) Special Meeting In New Orleans Accepts HQ Recommendations; S. White To New York NEW ORLEANS, June 11—A special m e c t i n g today voted overwhelmingly to accept the recommendations of SecretaryTreasurer J. P. Shuler to trans­ fer Port Agent Steely White to Headquarters , as Deck Depart­ ment Representative. It was pointed out in the Secretary-Ti easurer's Report that by so doing, it would make available in the Headquarters Office a Deck Department Rep­ resentative for negotiations and handling of disputes. Brother White will replace former Sec­ retary-Treasurer John Hawk in this respect. With Robert Matthews as En­ gine Representative, and J. P. Shuler representing the Stewards Department, this will give Head­ quarters representation in all three Departments. A further recommendation of the Secretary-Treasurer was to bring in Earl "Bull" Sheppard as New Orleans Port Agent, as well as Gulf Representative of the Seafarers. This was also adopt­ ed. STREAMLINING These moves are the ^latest in several actions designed to streamline the organization in the Gulf, as well as to giva bal­ ance to the organization in Head­ quarters. It also marks the third change in several weeks for Brother Sheppard. Sheppard, a veteran SIU mem­ ber and organizer who handled all field operations which brought the Isthmian Steamship Company into the Seafarers coliim, later assisted in laying out the program of the International for work on the Gi'eat Lakes. The drive so far has been re­ sponsible for entering eight pe­ titions for elections in that area. The first of these elections re­ sulted in a victory for the SIU in the Huron Transportation Company. In this balloting, the NMU and the Company were de­ cisively defeated. Following setting up the Great Lakes program, Brother Sheppaid was -transferred to Texas to take care of an emergency situation which had arisen there. His job specifically was to iron out all local difficulties in Gal­ veston. ON THE BALL This job was carried out in typical SIU style, and now the Texas area is operating effici­ ently, as well as economically. With Sheppard's vast amount of organizational experience^, the Seafarers can be assui-ed that the entire Gulf Area will rap­ idly be reorganized in the form­ er hard-hitting group of ports that it once was, and which at one time constituted such a vital part of the SIU. The SIU in the Gulf Area is now preparing for the many struggles which lie ahead. Pro­ tection of gains already won, and the further advancement of the Seafarers are the two prirnaiy aims. Plans are being made to ex­ pand the organization in the Gulf Aiea, particularly in the inland field and Brother Shep­ pard is now consulting with the Gulf organizers in setting up a program designed to bring thou­ sands of new members under the banner of |he SIU. SIU Wins First Test On The Great Lakes; Hnron Renndiates NMU DETROIT — Climaxing the first ten weeks of SIU organiz­ ing on the Lakes for the 1947 season, the SIU won the first NLRB conducted maritime elect­ ion this year when 58 percent of the Huron Transportation Company seamen chose the SIU in a smashing victory over the NMU. There were fifty eligible voters on the two Huron ships —• the SS Crapo and SS Boardman — and the final voting results were as follows: SIU — 28 votes: NMU — 2 votes; No Union — 18 votes; and Void or Challenged — 0 votes. This made a total of 48 ballots cast. Breaking these figures down into percentages, the SIU re­ ceived 58.3 percent, the NMU got 4.2 percent, and 37.5 percent voted for No Union. This was a disastrous showing for the NMU after considering the amount of effort they put into their attempts to organize Huron. CRAPO FIRST Voting late at night on June 4, the SS Crapo was the first of the two vessels to vote. After the crewmembers cast their bal­ lots forward in the crew's lounge, the ballot box was sealed and removed to NLRB headquarters. The SS Boardman was supposed to have docked at 4 p.m. on June 5, but due to a breakdown did not arrive at Detroit before Friday morning. As soon as the Boardman dock­ ed, she was balloted. Immediate­ ly after, the ballots were counted in the presence of one ob.scrver each from the SIU, NMU and the Company with the above results. At the completion of the count, a tally count sheet was signed by the NLRB officer and the three observers. However, a lapse of five days is permitted for any of the parties to file an objection, 'befoie the SIU is certified "py the Board as sole bargaining agent for the Huron men. This means that the SIU will be certified by Friday, June 13, unless any objections are filed, Uuder the circumstances, the NLRB certification is mei'ely a routine matter, and everything should be setled by then so that bargaining negotiations with the company can begin at once. At the conclusion of the vote tabulating. Assistant Organizat­ ional Director Paul 'Vari'en de­ clared, "This is only a starter. Huron seamen have the t-onor of having broken the ice. How­ ever, we expect to have V/yandotte, Hanna, Wilson, Steinbrenner and Shenango join the Pluron seamen in an SIU victory parade on the Lakes. "In addition to the above named fleets which the SIU is fully confident of winning, we have several other Lakes fleets on our obj'ective list. As these out­ fits are lined up, they will be petitioned, and voted just as soon as possible after the pet­ itioning.'' Victory In Huron Election Is Only The First Step In The Seafarers Victory Parade On The Lakes By PAUr. WARREN the ranks of a fighting Union— a Union which believes it's only DETROIT — Well, the SIU duties are to win the best pos­ is over the hump as far as the sible .wages, hours, working and first victoi-y for the 1947 sailing living .conditions for the seamen. season on the Great Lakes is Welcome, Huron seamen! concerned. Unorganized seamen ,, WYANDOTTE PROGRESS sailing on the two Huron Trans­ Latest reports on Wyandotte portation Company ships showed indicate that the men who sail their preference for the SIU in the. four ships of this company no uncertain terms — 58 per­ will have only a short wait be­ cent worth! fore they can register their Complete details regarding the choice for the SIU in an NLRB Huron election appear elsewhere conducted election. in the pages of the LOG, so it's No official NLRB report has needless for us to go into any been issued on Wyandotte. How­ details in this article. However, we do want to toss ever, we are revealing no secret some orchids at the men re­ when we state that the NMU sponsible for the Huron ships has been unable to prove its phony charges of collusion in voting SIU. the case of Wyandotte. Yes, it's true that the SIU Due to the lack of any such oi-ganized the two Huron ships. But it's also true if these men evidence, this case now goes to hadn't gone all out for the SIU the Regional NLRB Director for as the Union of their choice a- decisiop. His decision should we wouldn't have secured 58 be forthcoming within the next percent to the NMU's 4 percent.**" few days. Reall.y a tribute to the Sea­ Here was another case where farers' actual gains for the sea­ the SIU did a good job of organ­ men compared to the empty izing the Wyandotte seamen. promises of the bankrupt NMU When the NMU saw that Wyan­ leadership. dotte seamen wanted no part Huron seamen'deserve orchids of their bankrupt organization, for recognizing the seagoing facts but did want the progressive of life. Not the empty orchids of gains of the Seafarers, then they some Winchell, but the actual resoi'ted to their usual dog-inpraise of their brothers in the the-manger tactics. SIU. After the SIU petitioned for Certainly, the SIU is glad to Wyandotte, the NMU tried to welcome the Huron seamen into intervene. They were given one week in which to show evidence of representation — only 10 per­ cent was necessary — but they failed to prove this. So, merely in order to ham­ string Wyandotte seamen in their efforts to secure an SIU contract with BIU conditions, the NMU filed unfair labor charges. Now, after stalling an election for the past few weeks, the day of reckoning is just around the corner. Wyandotte seamen know who has been holding up their securing of SIU hours, wages and conditions, the balloting will show it. OT'HER ELEOTIONS Additional hearings were held during the past week on both Haima and Wilson. In the case of Hanna, the NMU forced into the untenable position of filing unfair labor practice charges. This is just another. phony stalling device to secure more time for the NMu to make a last desperate dying man's grasp to get additional Hanna votes. However, Hanna seamen had bellyful of the NMU's intimi­ dation during their phony strike of last Fall. Hanna seamen were threatened with violence if they didn't strike the Hanna ships, so that the NMU could organize them! L'on ingots were even dropped from bridges onto the decks of Hanna ships in an effort to intimidate the Hanna seamen. These terroristic tactics, rem­ iniscent of the goon tricks which the NMU attempted on some Isthmian ships, failed to coerce the Hanna seamen. They wanted a democratic right to choose the Union of their choice through democratic methods, and they rejected all terroristic attempts of the water­ front goons. Today, the men sailing the Hanna ships are firmly I'osolved that they want the SIU as their choice to represent them in col­ lective bargaining with the com­ pany. And, come hell or high water, we're going to see that Hanna has a chance to vote SIU, and win an SIU contract! As for Wilson, this Company has resorted to a familiar de­ vice. They are refusing to allowChief Cooks ancj. Utility Engin­ eers to be included in the barr (Continued from Page 11) �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June 13, 1947 Veto Anti-Labor Bills, AFL Rally Urges Excerpts From The Speeches Of Green, Meany, Duhinsky By AFL President Green: Abraham Lincoln once said: "Whatever hurts labor, hurts the nation." That is as true, now—every word of it—as it was then. And I don't think there can be any question but that the Taft-Hartley Bill hurts labor and therefore the nation. Thus, it must be obvious to any fair-minded citizen that that Tafi-Karilev Bill is a menace to America—a menace not only to all those who work for a living, but a menace to the American people as a whole, and menace to their cherished freedoms. We, of labor, want a strong America, not a weak and im­ potent one. We wa,nt prosperity in our country, not a Taft-Hart­ ley depression. We want to keep America free, not to let it succumb to the Taft-Hartley brand of oppression. By Secy.-Treasurer Meany: The attack on trade unions contained in the Taft-Hartley anti-labor bill is only one phase of an all-out war aginst the common people of America. Just as Hitler struck down labor unions as one of the first steps in his plan to enslave the people of Germany, so today we see the profit-greedy industrialists of America attempting to destroy workers' organizations as the first step in their plan to control the economic life of America. Pert of the gigantic AFL rally in New York's Mrdi'jon Square Garden v/hich called on Presi­ dent Truman to veto the Trft-Heriley "slave labor' till, end on Congress io support the veto. Twenty thousand AFL members were in the Ga.-dcn, while thirty thousand gathered outside to hear the speeches on the public address system. They knov/ only too well that the strength of the trade union movement must be eliminated before they can be secure in their domination of the lives of the people of this Nation. They are out to destroy the social and economic gains made by the little people of America since the failure of Big Business and Big Politics fifteen years ago. They are determined to bring back the good old days when the employer alone decided, under what wages and under what conditons the wage -earner gave his labor. Yes, they want a return to the company union, the com­ pany spy, the rule of company thugs, to barbwire fences, fear gas, company controlled sheriffs, company controlled judges and ever other devilish device of worker oppression that human ingenuity can devise. By ILGWU President Dubinsky: One more point—this bill is an invaluable recruiting agent for the Communists. At one strike, it nullifies the struggles we, in the labor movement, have waged aginst Communists. The The Tafts, the Hartleys, and their^masters of the NAM are blind. They couldn't do a better job them Stalin's own agents in fos­ tering resentment and strife in our land. Don't they know that this is the stuff upon which Communism feeds and flourishes? With telling shots. President Green scored the Taft-Hartley Bill as an instrument of the National Association of Manufac­ turers, and designed to break up the free American Labor Move­ ment. His words were greeted by resounding cheers. These three top AFL leaders called on President Truman to veto the bill, and characterized the bill as punitive and leading to industrial chaos. Pictured above, left to right, are George Mer.-ny, AFL Secretary-Treasurer; William Grean, President of the AFL; and David Dubinsky, leader of the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union. liii Everything ran smoothly, and the credit goes to the Committee on Arrangements, pictured above. Left to right, M. Rosen, Vice-President of the Central Trades and Labor Council; Martin T. Lacey, President of the Central Trades and Labor Council; Joseph Tuvim, ILGWU; Thomas Mur­ ray, President of the New York State Federation of Labor; Mrs. Betty Hawley Donnelly, VicePresident of the State Federation; William Collins, General Organizer of the AFL; and John Burke, Secretary, Joint Council 16, International Brotherhood of Teamsters. �Friday, June 13, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seyep AGREEMENT Between y Seafarers International Union Of North America .1 And Seaway Steamship Lines Ltd. This Agreement executed and entered into on tliis 1st day of June, 1947. by and between the Seafarers International Union of North Amexica, affiliated with the American Federation of Labor hereinafter referred to as the Union and Seaway Steamship Line Limited hereinafter referred to as the Company and shall re­ main in eilect until the 1st day of June, 1948. Provided, however, that this Agreement shall be considered as renewed from year to year thereafter by the respective parties hereto, unless either party hereto siiail give written notice to the other of its desire to amend or terminate the same. Any sucii notice shall be given at least sixty (60) days prior to the date of expiration. If such notice shall not be given the Agreement shall be renewed for the suc­ ceeding i'cai-, and from year to year thereafter. Ap­ plication by either party to open negotiations for changes in wage scale at any time during the life of this Agreement sh.all not be deemed cause for term­ ination. ARTICLE I Section 1. Recognition. The Company recognizes the Union as the sole collective bargaining agency for all unlicensed personnel from time to time employed by the Company on all deep sea ships of Canadian ro.gistry owned'and operated by the Company and under Canadian Articles except that it is understood and agreed that this Agreement does not affect nor cover Licensed Personnel, Cadets, Super-cargo, Purser, Doc­ tor, Conce-ssionaiies, Cruise Director, and all female employees oth(>r than Stewardesses, and Waitresses. Section 2, Employment: The Company agrees to give preference in employment of un-licen.sed personnel to members of the Seafarers International Union of North America (Canadian District) and to order all re­ placements for the unlicensed personnel covered by this Agreement from the nlfices of the Union, except that it is agreed that this clause shall not apply to employment of .galley personnel as specified in supplcmentarv agreement attached hereto. Section ' 3. Selection of Personnel; The Company agrees to secure its unlicensed personnel through the offices of the Union with the e.xception of rating listed in Article 5, Section 5 of this Agreement, and always subject to Section 2 of this Agreement. The Union agrees to fui-nish capable, competent, and physically fit employees and in the event that Union men are not furnished with sufficient promptne.ss to avoid delay in any scheduled calling, the Company is at liberty to hire men without regard to Union affilia^"section 4, Rejection of Personnel: The Union agrees that the Company shall have the right of rejection of personnel they consider unsuitable with the under­ standing that if the Union considers the cause of the reiection unjust, the Company agrees to endeavor to reach a satisfactory settlement with the parties in­ volved, the Business Agent of the Union and the mem­ ber or members in question. If an amicable settlement cannot be reached by this method, the Union agrees to furnish prompt replacements and the matter is to be immediately referred to a Port Committee for final set­ tlement In the event the Port Committee rules that the member or members have been unjustly rejected the Company agrees to pay the member or members in question thirty (30) days wages at their regular riionthly rate of pay for the position they were originally dis­ patched to the ship to fill. In the event any decision of the Company physician is challenged by the Union as to the physical fitness of a Union member said rnember shall be re-examined by a Public Health Physician and his decision shall be binding. Section 5, Passes: The Company agrees to issue passes to the Union representative for the purpose of con­ tacting its members aboard the vessels of the Company covered by this agreement. Representatives of the Union shall be allowed aboard at any time but shall not interfere with men at work unless said men arc properly relieved. (The relief gets no extra compensa­ tion). Section 6, Port Committee: For the adjustment of any grievances arising in connection with performances of this agreement which cannot be satisfactorily adjusted aboard the vessel there shall be established a Port Com­ mittee. The Port Committee shall consist of throe (3) representatives of the Union and three (3) from the Company. It shall be the duty of the Port Committee to meet within twenty-four (24) hours Saturdays, Sun­ days. and holidays, excluded. In the event that the committee cannot agree, the decision of an impartial refei'ee acceptable to both parties to this agreement shall be final and binding. ARTICLE II General Rules Section 1—Discrimination: The Company agrees not to discriminate against any man for legitimate Union Activity. Section 2 — Stoppage of Work: There shall be no strikes, lockouts, or stoppage of work while the pro­ visions of this Agreement are in effect. Section 3—Emergency Duties and Drills: Any work necessary for the safety of the vessel, passengers, crew, or cargo, or for the saving of other vessels in jeopardy and the lives thereon, shall be performed at any time and such work shall not be considered overtime. When­ ever practicable, lifeboat and other emergency drills shall be held on week-days between the hours of eight (8) A.M. and 4:30 P.M. and on Saturdays between the hours of 8 A.M. and 12 Noon. Preparations for drills such as stretching fire hose and hoisting and swinging out boats, shall not be done prior to the signals for such drills, and after drill is over all hands shall se­ cure boat and gear. In no event shall overtime be paid for work performed with such drills. Section 4 — Ships Charted By The Company: This Agreement is binding with respect to all ships chart­ ered by the Company. (See provisions of attached sup­ plement.) " ^ Section 5—Safe Working Conditions: The Employer shall furnish safe working gear and equipment when in any harbor, roadstead or port, no man shall be re­ quired fo woi'k under unsafe conditions. Ordinary haz­ ards of the sea shall not be considered unsafe condi­ tions when applying this section. Section 6—Securing Vessel for Sea: All vessels of the Company must be safely secured before leaving the harbor limits for any voyage. Vessels sailing in the daytime must be safely secured before leaving the har­ bor limits. In the event the vessel is not safely se­ cured before reaching the harbor limits the vessel shall proceed to a safe anchorage and be secured before pro­ ceeding to sea. Vessels sailing after dark shall be safely secured before leaving the dock, or may proceed to a safe anchorage to secure vessel before proceeding to sea. When lights can be maintained on the after deck gear and hatches may be secured on this deck enroute to anchorage. Seciion 7—Sailing Board Time; (a) The sailing time shall be posted at the gangway on arrival when the vessels' stay in port is twelve (12) hours or less. When the stay exceeds twelve (12) hours the sailing time shall be posted eight (8) hours prior to scheduled sailing, if before midnight. If scheduled between midnight and eight (8) A.M. sailing time shall be posted not later than 5:30 P.M. (b) All members of the unlicensed personnel shall be aboard the vessel in a sober condition and ready for sea at least two (2) hours before the scheduled sailing time. In the event any member of the unlicensed per­ sonnel fails to comply with this provision, the Com­ pany shall call the Union and the Union shall furnish a replacement. If the original member reports after the Company has called for a replacement the man sent by the Union as such replacement shall receive two (2) days pay, which two (2) days pay shall be paid by the member who was late in reporting for duty. (c) If the vessel's departure is delayed and the delay i.s due to the loading or discharging of cargo, the new time of departure shall imnficdiately bo posted on the board and if such delay exceeds two (2) hours the watch below may be dismissed and sliall receive two (2) liours overtime for such i-eporting (d) In the event, after cargo is aboard or discharged and ship is ready to proceed, the full complement of unlicensed personnel is not on board, no overtime shall be paid. (e) The overtime prescribed above shall not apply when sailing is delayed on account of weather, such as i-ain, fog, 01' any otlier condition be\ond the vessel's control. Seciion 8—Ship's Delegate: One man in each depart­ ment on each ve.--sel .shall act as delegate for such de­ partment. Such delegates are privileged to present to their superior ofTicer.s. on behalf of the members in their department facts and opinions concei'ning any matter wherein adjustment or improvement is thought proper. Any matter so presented which is not adjusted satisfactorily to all concerned .shall be referred to the Union officials and Company officials upon vessel's ar­ rival in the first port where the Union and the Com­ pany have officials for adju.stments as provided under Article I, .Section 5, of this Agreement. Section 9. Authority of Master and Obedience of Crew: Nothing in this Agreement is intended to, and .shall not be construed, to limit in any way the author­ ity of the Master or other officers, or les.-;cn the obedi­ ence of any member of the crew to any lawful order. Section 10—Return to Port of Engagement: In the event a ship of the Company i.s .sold, interned, lost or laid up tlie crew shall be given transportation back to the port of engagement with subsistence, room and tvages. When roont e;.nti subsistence is not furnished aboard the vessel, room and meal allowance will be paid as prescribed in Articles II. Section 33 until crew is fui-nished repatriation "oy tiain. plane or vessel. Section 11—In tiie event a sltip tif tlie Company is lost tile I'l'ew .shall be i-ecompensivl for the loss of clothing, not to exceed three hundred dollars ($309.00) and to be repatriated to the port of engagement with subsistence, room and wage.s as per tr.is .-\groement. Section 12. Travelling, ui) Members of the Lhiion when transported by the Company during the course of their employment shall be provided with first-class transportation by rail: wlien travel at night is involved a lower berth shall be provided or the cash equivalent thei'cof and with subsistence at the rate of $4.00 per day in addition to their regular monthly wages. When traveling b.v ship is involved men shall be provided with seconcl class transpoidation or the cash equivalent thereof. If a member of the Union completes three months continuous service with the Company, he will be entitled to the benefits of this pi'ovision. (b) When a member of the Union is discharged for cause or voluntarily quits his job before completing three months continuous service with the Company, he shall not be entitled to any travel allowances or other benefits of this section. Seciion 13—Cusiomary Duiies: Members of all de­ partments shall pcrfonn the necessary and customary duties of that department. Each member of all depart­ ments shall perform only the recognized and customary duiies of his particular I'ating. Seciion 14—Holidays. The Company agrees to recog­ nize all Canadian Statutory Holidays, namely: Christ­ mas Day, New Year's Day, Dominion Day, Good Fri­ day, Thanksgiving, and Remembrance Day. In the event V.E. or "Y.J. Day are observed as National Holi­ days they shall be included in this list. Saturday afternoons. Sundays and holidays while at sea shall be considered holidays for the unlicensed per­ sonnel not on watch. Men on watch shall perform only the routine duties necessary for the safe navigation of the vessel on these days. In the event any of the above named holidays fall on Sunday the Monday following shall be observed as such holiday. Any clay that is a recognized holiday for the longshoreman in Continental U.S. Ports shall also be a recognized holiday for the crew while in that par­ ticular port. �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 13. 1947 Section 15—Fori Time; For the purpose of applying (c) When men standing sea watches are promoted shall be allowed one unbroken meal hour, if port overtime provisiojis of this Agreement, "Port Time" for the purpose of replacing men who are injured or one unbroken meal hour is not given the nien or the words "In Port" shall be defined to mean the sick, they shall receive the differential in pay only. involved shall receive one hour's overtime following: (d) But in no event shall any .member of the unli­ in lieu thereof. Tnis penalty hour shall be censed personnel work more than eight (8) hours in Commencement of Port Time: in addition to the actual overtime worked any one day without the payment of overtime. (a) From tne time a vessel is properly secured to during the meal hour. Tiic provisions in this a dock, buoy or dolphins for the purpose of: Load­ .section shall be applicable at all times at Seciion 21—Overlime Rale: The overtime rate for ing and/or discharging cargo, ballast, passengers or sea or in port to. men on day work. unlicensed personnel receiving less than $200.00 per mail; undergoing repairs; taking on fuel, water or month shall be $.90 per liour. All ratings receiving Section 33—Fresh Provisions: Adequate supplv of stores; fumigation; lay-up; awaiting orders or berth. $200.00 or more per month, the overtime rate shall be fruit juices shall bo provided foi- the unlicensed ^per(b) From the time the vessel is properly moored $1.05 per hour. so:-inel. Fresh milk, fruit and vegetables will be furor anchored for the purpose of: loading and or dis­ Seciion 22—Compulalion of Overtime: When over­ ni.shed at every poi'L touched, where available, and if charging cargo, ballast, passengers or mail; under­ time worked is less than one (1) hour overtime for one supply is po.s.'^iblo a suilicient amoimt to last until the going repairs: taking on fuel, water or stores: fumi­ (1) full hour shall be paid. When ovei'time worked ex­ next port or to. last until the food would ordinariiv gation; lay-up; awaiting orders or berth. ceeds one (1) hour, the overtime work performed shall with good care, .spoil. Shore bread shall bo furni.-.lied (c) Port overtime provisions shall not apply to be paid for in one-half ((,'2) liour periods, and fractional at all U.S. poits when available. ves.sels entering a port and anchoring for tne sole part of such period shall count as one-half (Q) hour. Seclicn 34—Midnight Lunch: If crew works continu­ purpose of avoiding inclement weather. •Seciion 23—Commencemenl of Overlime: Overtime ous overtime until midnight, men shall be provided (d) Port time shall not commence until the ves­ shall commence at the time any employee .shall he with hot lunch at midnight, one hour to be allowed sel has shifted from quarantine anchorage to a called to report for work outside of his regular sched­ for such m.eal, if the work continues. If this full hour berth or other anchorage for the purpose as pro­ ule provided such member reports for duty within is not allowed, an addition hour overtime shall be paid vided for in subsection (a) and (b) of this Section. nftcen minutes. Otherwise overtime shall commence at If the crew works as late as 9 P.M., coffee and lunch (e) Vessels lying at the same anchorage after ob­ the actual time such employee reports for duty and shall bo provided. Fifteen minutes shall be ailo-vved taining quarantine clearance shall be considered such overtime shall continue until the emplovee is and be included in overtime if work continues If awaiting berth and port overtime provisions shall released. crew works as late at 3 A.M. coffee and lunch shall be apply except in cases where vessel cannot move Seciion 24 — Checking Overlime: After authorized provided. If crew works as late as 6 A.M. coffee shall due to weather conditions. overtime has been worked, the senior o.fficer of the be provided. Fifteen minutes shall be allowed and be (f) Port overtime provisions shall not apply to department on board will present to each employee who included in overtime if work continues. vessels mooring or anchoring for sole purpose of has worked overtime a s ip stating hours of overtime awaiting transit of canals such as the Panama Seciion 35—Coffee Time: (a) All hands shall be al­ and nature of work performed. An overtime book will lowed fifteen (15) minutes for coffee at 10:00 A.M. and Canal. be kept to conform with individual slips for settlement (g) Port overtime provisions shall not apply to 3:00 P.M., or at convenient time near those hours. of overtime. Officers and men shall keep a record of vessels mooring or anchoring for sole purpose of (b) When crew is called to work overtime coffee .shall all disputed overtime. No claim for overtime .shall he landing sick or injured persons. be made by the watch or watchman and be ready at valid unless such claim is presented to the head of the However, a vessel taking on fresh fruits, veget­ minutes of department within seventy-two (72) hours after com­ Ibe time of calling, and allowed fifteen ables or milk while transiting the canal shall not readiness period. pletion of the work. When work has been performed be considered io be in port under sub-section (b) and an overtime claim is disputed the head of the deSection 36—Crew Equipment: The following items of this section. partment shall sign tlie disputed overtime slip there- shall be supplied the unlicensed personnel employed on Termination of Port Time: board the vessels of tlie Company: by acknowledging that the work was performed. (h) Port time shall terminate when the first ahead 1. A suitable number of blankets. Section 25 — Continuous Overtime: When working or astern bell is rung the day the vessel leaves the overtime and crew is knocked off for two hours or less 2. Bedding consisting of 2 white sheets, one spread, harbor limits, however, this paragraph shall not the overtime shall be paid straight through. Time al­ one white pillow slip, which shall be changed apply in cases where the vessel is being shifted as lowed for meals shall not be considered as overtime in weekly except that m the tropics, pillow slips provided for in Article II, Section 21. this clause. shall be changed twice weekly. Section 16—Shitting Ship. After the vessel arrives Section 26—Payment of Overtime: All monev due for 3. One face towel and one bath towel which shall i."i port as outlined in Article II, Section 16. any sub­ crew overtime shall be paid at the signing off. In the be changed twice weekly. sequent move in inland waters, bays, rivers and sounds event payment of overtime is delayed bv the Comnanv 4. One cake of Lux, Lifebuoy, oi" Palrnolive soap shall be regarded as shifting ship and overtime paid beyond twenty-four (24) hours after signing off articles witii each towel change, for men on duty wliile such moves are performed on additional compensation shall be paid at the rate of 5. One box of matches each day. Saturdays, Sundavs and holidays and after 5 P.M. until $10.00 a day for each calendar day or fraction therenf 6. buiaibic matcresses and piiluw shall be furn­ 8 A.M. week days with the following exceptions: aforesaid payment of overtime wages is delaved. This ished but hail', straw or excelsior shall not be Port Alfred to Montreal*or vice versa suitable. shall not include disputed overtime being settled be­ Port Alfred to Quebec or vice versa tween the Union Representatives and the Company. I. All disnes provided lor the use of the unlicensed Montreal to Quebec or vice versa Section 27—Rest Periods: When ship is under port personnel shall be of crockery. All moves from American ports to working rules and sea watches have not been sot and 8. Sanitubes shall be availabic for the unlicen.sed British-Columbia ports or vice versa. personnel at all times. members of the unlicensed deck and engine personnel Norfolk to Balti.more or vice versa. are required to turn to on overtime between midnight Any member willfully damaging or destroying linen Montevideo to Buenos Aires to Rosario and 8 A.M. they shall be entitled to a rest pc;'iod of one shall be held accountable for same. When linen is not or points above or vice versa • hour for each hour worked between midnight and 8 issued, men shall receive $2.00 e>ach week for washing Boston 1(1 New York or vice versa. A.M., such rest period to start at 8 A.M. the same day. their own linen. Ciew shall turn in soiled linen before Moves from Baltimore through the Chesapeake and Such rest periods shall be in addition to cash overtime receiving new issue of linen. Delaware Canal to Wilmington, Camden or Philadel­ allowed for such work. If rest period is not given, men Seciion 37—Uniforms: All uniforms required by the phia or vice vtr.sa. shall be considered a move of the shall be entitled to additional overtime at the regular Co;npany for all unJicensccI personnel shall be "furnship and such v.-ork after 5 P.M. and before 3 A.M. or overtime rate, in lieu thereof. This section shall' not rsiiea and paid foi- by the Company. In tne eve:U a Saturdays, Sunday.s or holidays shall be paid for at apply to men turning to on overtime at 6 A.M. or after man is I'equired to furnish his own uniform he f ui ] "oe Seciion 28—Work Performed by Other Than Mem­ paid an additional $12.50 per month for sa.i.e. the overtime rate. Section 17—Standby Work. When men are hired by bers of Ihe Unlicensed Personnel:* (a) Any woi h no Section 38—Mess Room: Each vessel shall be furnish­ the Com.pany for standby work in port by the day and formed by cadets, workaways, passengers,'prisoners of ed with a messroom for the accommodation 01 the crew, war, staff" officers or any member 01 the crew omer board and lodging are not furnished to them on the such messroom or messrooms to be in each case so shin, they snail be paid at the rate of $1.45 per hour. than the unlicensed personnel, that is routine work of constructed as to afford adequate sitting room for all Their regular hours of work shall be from 8 A.M. to the unlicensed personnel, shall be paid for at the regu­ and to be so situated as to ailord full protection from Noon and -from 1 P.M.. to 5 P.M. Monday thi-ough Fri­ lar overtime rate. Sufch payment to be divided among t.ie v/eather and li'om head and odors arising from the day. Any work performed by them outside their regu­ the unlicensed personnel ordinarily required to per­ vessel's engine room, fiieruum and hold and toilet. lar hours of work shall be paid for at the rate of $2.17 V2 form such work. Section 39—Crew's Quarters: All quarters assigned (b) In such cases an no unlicensed personnel is avail­ per hour. Men hii'ed to perform standby work shall perform any work that shall be assigned to them by able to carry out routine duties, making it necessary for for the use of the unlicensed personnel are to be kept their superior unicer, and they shall not be subject to such duties to be performed by a member of the li­ free from vermin insofar as possible. This is to be any working ru'e.s set forth in this Agreement unless censed personnel, such member of the unlicensed per­ accomplished through the use of extermination facil­ they shall be required to keep steam in the boilers or sonnel shall forfeit from his pay the equivalent of the ities provided by the Company, or fumigating the oil winches. When standby work in any particular de­ overtime to the member of the licensed personnel per­ quarters every 6 months with gas. Room allowance as provided in Section 32 shall be partment is to be prjrformed, an effort shall be made forming such work. This not to apply to Stewards allowed when vessel is in port and: to obtain men with ratings in such department if they Department. Section 29—Carrying of Cadets. Etc. In Lieu of Crew: 1. Heat is not furnished in cold weather. are available and are competent to peri'orm such work. 2. When hot water is not available in crew's wash­ Any man so hired for standby work that reports No cadets, workaways, or passengers shall be carried rooms for a period of twelve (12) or more con­ when ordered shall be guaranteed not less than four in lieu of the crew. Seciion 30—Launch Service: When a ship is anchor­ secutive hours. hours work and sha'l be paid in accordance with the ed or tied up to a buoy for eight hours, or over, for the 3. When crew's quarters have been painted and rates of pay outlin.ed in this seciion. Section 18—Longshore Work By Crew: In those ports purposes outlined in Article II, Section 16, the unli­ paint is not absolutely dry and other suitable "quarters are not furnished aboard. where there are no longshoreiTien available, m.embers censed personnel off duty shall be allowed one round of the crew may be required to do longshore work or trip to shore at the Company's expense, every 24 hours, 4. At all times v.'hen vessel is in dry dock over. r drive winches for the purpose of handling cargo. For where launch service is available. night and it is impossible to keep crew on board. Section 31—Room and Meal Allov/ance: When board such work performed they shall be paid in addition to. 5. When linen is not issued upon man's request their regular monthly wages, one dollar and fifty cents is not furnished unlicensed members of the crew, they prior to 6 P.M. on the day the seaman joins the vessel. ($1.50) per hour for their watch on deck and two dol­ shall receive a meal allowance of $1.00 for breakfast, lars and twenty-five ($2.25) per hour for the watch $1.00 for dinner and $1.00 for supper. When men are 6. When vessel is being fumigated and not cleared required to sleep ashore, they snail be allowed $3.00 before 9 P.M., men standing midnight to 8 A.M. below. After 5 P.M. and bi-fore 8 A.M. and on Saturdays, per night. watch shall be entitled to room allowance in Seciion 32—Meal Hours—Re'ieving for Meals: The any event. Sundays or holidays the rate shall be $3.00 per hour meal hours for the un'icensed personnel employed in for all hands so engaged. Seciion 40—Ventilalion: All quarters assigned to the This Section shall not be construed as to be applic­ the Deck and Engine Department shall be as follows: uniicensed personnel and all messrooms provided foi" Brea.kfa.st 7:30 A.M. to 8:30 A.M. able to any work where longshoremen are not avail­ their use shall be adequately screened and ventilated Dinner 11:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. able due to labor trouble. and a sufficient num.ber of fans where no trunking . Supper 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Seciion 19—Working Ballast: Whenever members of exrsts shall be provided. (a) At sea ihe 4 to 8 watch shall relieve itself for the crew may be required to discharge ballast out of Seciion 41--Washrooms: Adequate washrooms and supper. holds or handle or discharge ballast on deck, the watch lavatories shall be made available for the unlicensed (b) The 12 to 4 watch on sailing day is to be on deck shall receive their straight overtime rate for personnel of each division, washrooms to be equipped knocked off at 11 A.M. in order to eat at such work. The watch below shall receive time and with a sufficient number of shower baths which shall 11:30 A.M. and to be ready to go on watch one-half their overtime rate for such work. be adequately equipped with hot and cold fresh water. at 12 Noon. Ddy men .shall receive their straight overtime rate (c) These hours may be varied, but such varia­ Section 42—Lockers: A sufficient number of lockers between the hours of 8 A.M. and 12 Noon and 1 P.M. tion shall not exceed one hour either way shall be provided so that each employee shall have one and 5 P.M. After 5 P.M. and before 8 A.M. day men provided that one unbroken hour shall be loc:ker of full length whenever space permits, and suf­ shall receive time and one-half tlieir overtim.e rate. If allowed at all times for dinner and supper ficient space to stow a reasonable amount of gear and watches are broken, day men's scale applies to the en­ p(?rsonal effects . when the vessel is in port. When watches are tire crew. broken, if one unbroken hour is not given, Sand Ballast shall be washed off decks with ho.se Section 43—Copies of Agreements to be Furnished: the man involved shall receive one (1) hour's during regular working hours without the payment Copies of this Agreement shall be furnished to the overtime in lieu thereof. This penalty hour of overtime. Master, Chief Engineer and Chief Steward who in turn shall be in addition to the actual overtime Seciion 20—Division of V/ages of Absent Members: shall supply each departmental delegate with a copy worked the meal hour. (a) When members of the unlicensed personnel are re­ at the commencement of each voyage. (d) When crew is called to work overtime be­ quired to do extra work because the vessel sailed with­ Section 44—Jury Toilets: When and wherever neces­ fore breakfast and work continues after 7:30 out the full complement as required by vessels certifi­ sary for sanitary reasons jury toilets shall be rigged on A.M., a full hour shall be allowed for break­ cate, under circumstances where the law permits such the poop deck. fast, and if breakfast is not served by 8 A.M. sailing, the wages of the absent ipembers shall be di­ overtime shall continue straight through un­ Section 45—Money Draws in Foreign Ports: Monies vided among the men who perform their work, but tendered for draws in foreign ports shall be in Canatil breakfast is served. no overtime shall be included in such payments. ^ (e) If one unbroken hour is not given, the men dian or U.S. Currency, where it does not conflict with (b) At sea, when day men are .switched to sea wacches existing laws. involved shall receive one hour's overtime in and promoted for the purpose of replacing men who lieu thereof. are injured or sick they shall receive the differential Section 45-—Calendar Day: For the purpose of this (f) When the watch below or men off duty are Agreernent the calendar day shall be fiom midnight to in pay and overtime for watches stood on the 1st working on overtime at sea or in port, they midnight. urday afternoon of standing sea watches. �.,F Friday. June 13. 1947 THE SEAFARERS lashings of cargo which has come adrift shall not con­ stitute overtime. Section 10. Call Back for Shifting Ship. When ves­ .sel is in port watches are broken..and men are called back to work after 6 P.M. and before 8 A.M. or on Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays for the purpose of shifting ship in inland waters, a minimum of two 12) hours overtime shall be paid for each call, except when WAGES men are knocked off for a period of one (1) hour or less, Section 1. Wages. The monthly rates of pay of Un­ in which case time shall be continuous. licensed personnel in the Deck Department when the Section 11. Using Paint Spray Guns. When members respective ratings are carried shall be as follows: of the crew are required to use paint spray guns they Rating Monthly Rate of Pay shall be paid at the regular overtime rate during straight Boatswain $202.50 time hours and at the rate of time and one half the 'Carpenter 202.50 overtime rate during overtime hours. Quartermaster 164.00 Section 12. Division of Overtime. All overtime work­ Able Seamen 164.00 ed shall be divided as equally as possible among the Ordinary Seamen 145.00 members of the deck crew. In any event the Boatswain "When the Carpenter is required to furnish his own shall be allowed to make as many hours overtime as tools, he shall be paid $7.50 per month in addition to the high man's overtime in the Deck Department. If his basic wage per month. the boatswain is required to work with and supervise Section 2. Setting Watches. Sea watches shall be the watch on deck on Sunday at sea for which the set not later than noon on sailing day. When the ves­ watch on deck receives additional overtime, he shall sel sails before noon watches shall be set when all lines receive the same amount for which the watch on deck are on board and ve.ssel is all clear of the dock. receives additional overtme, he shall receive the same Section 3. Breaking Watches and Work in Port, (a) amount of overtime per hour as paid to a member of the vratch on deck, in lieu of his regular rate. In all ports watches shall be broken except in these When the boatswain is working alone or with men ports where stay of vessel will not exceed twenty-four (24) hours, then watches shall run consecutively. Any on watch below only on Sunday, he shall receive the work performed on watch below shall be overtime. i-egular overtime rate prescribed. Seclion 13. Cleaning Bilges and Deck, (a) When Any part of watch from midnight until 8:00 A.M. on day of arrival shall constitute a complete watch. This members of the Deck Department are required to clean shall not apply to men required for gangway watch. bilges, or clean rosebo.xes wherein the residue of grain When such arrival occurs on Sunday, overtime shall or organic fertilizer is present, the watch on deck shall be paid the regular overtime rate, and the watch below only be paid for hours actually worked on such watch. (b) In port when sea watches are broken the hours shall be paid at the rate of overtime and one-half. This of labor shall be 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and 1 P.M. to 5 is also to apply to bilge and decks that have been flood­ P.M. Monday through Friday. Any work outside of ed with fuel oil. (b) When members of the crew are required to enter these hours or on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate for the bilges that have contained animal, vegetable, petro­ leum oil or creosotes including bunkers or molasses, for respective ratings. (c) In port when watches are broken a gangway the purpose of cleaning or making repairs therein, the shall be maintained at all times. A sailor may be as­ watch on deck during straight time hours shall be paid signed to maintain this watch and eight (8) hours shall at the rate of $1.50 per hour. Section 14. Additional Work, (a) In all ports, mem­ con.stitute a watch. No overtime shall be paid for these watches on week days betw(>en the hours of 5:00 P.M. bers of the Deck Department may be required to chip, and 8:00 A.M. Overtime shall be paid for watches sougee, scale, prime and paint the vessel over sides. (b) Overtime shall be paid when sailors are required, stood from midnight to midnight on Saturdays, Sun­ either in port or at sea, to chip, sougee, scale, prime or days and holidays. Sailors standing gangway watches shall not be re­ pamt galley, pantry, saloon, living quarters, forecastles, quired to care for cargo lights without payment of lavatories and wash rooms which are not used by the Unlicensed Deck Department. This shall apply to all overtime. Sailors standing gangway watches shall not be required to do any other v.'ork except raise or lower enclosed passageways with doors or bulkheads at both ends. gangway, tepd gangway lights, and man ropes. Section 15. Going Ashore to Take Lines. The prac­ (d) In port all work done on Saturday, Sundays and holidays shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. tice of putting sailors ashore on dock to handle lines when docking or undocking is to be avoided as far as Section 4. Work at Sea. Standing Sea Watches, (a) possible. If, however, no other means for handling lines Men standing sea watches shall be paid overtime for is avilable and sailors are put on the dock to catch the Sunday watches and for all work in e.xcess of eight (8) lines or let them go, the sailors actually going on the hours between midnight and midnight each day. No dock arc to receive $1.00 each in each case. This is to work except for the safe navigation of the vessel is to be in addition to overtme, if they are working oveibe done after 5 P.M. and before 8 A.M. and on Saturday time at that particular moment. afternoons, Sundays and holidays wiihout payment of Section 16. Docking and Undocking. The watch on overtime. deck shall receive overtime for breaking out or stow-(b) Sanitary work shall be done on week days be­ ing away mooring lines, docking or undocking after 5 tween 6 A.M. and 8 A.M. without the payment of over­ P.M. and before 8 A.M., and on Saturday afternoons time. Sanitary work in this section shall mean clean­ and holidays. All hands, necessary, shall be used to ing the wheelhouse, chart room, cleaning windows and perform this work. mopping out wheelhou.sc. Section 17. Cleaning Quarters. One Ordinary .Sea­ (c) If a man standing regular watch at sea on Sun­ man on duty shall be assigned to clean the quarters day for which he receives overtime is required to do and toilets of the unlJt;ensed personnel of the Deck work other than routine work for the safe navigation Department. Two (2) hours shall be allowed for this of the ves.sel, cleaning quarters as outlined in Article work between the hours of 8 A.M. and 12 Noon daily. III, Section 17, and docking or undocking as outlined Hv? shall be allowed two (2)-hours for this work on in Article III, Section 16, he shall be paid overtime in hoi'days and shall i-eceive two (2) hours overtime. addition to the overtime that he receives for standing Se.-ttion 18. Handling Hatches, (a) When the sailors the regular sea watch on Sunday. are u.sed to remove hatches, strong backs, and tank (d) If a man standing sea watches on Sunday is re- tops fo.'- the pm-pose of loading or unloading cargo, or required to do Longshore work, tank cleaning or hand­ to covei up hatches when cargo is in the vessels, they ling explosives during his watch he shall not receive shall rednve overtime as per Article II, Section 23, of the Sunday overtime but shall be paid the overtime the General Rules of this agreement. rate as specifed in this agreement for that type work (b) No overtime to be paid to day men on watch on in lieu of the regular overtime rate. deck between the hours of 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. for cover­ Section 5. Division of Wafches. (a) The sailors while ing up when no cargo is in the ship or taking off at sea shall be divided into three watches which shall hatches for the purpose other than actual cargo opera­ be kept on duty successively for the performance of tions. ordinary work incident to the sailing and maintenance (c) This section shall not be interpreted to mean of the vessel. that the Deck Department shall do this work, whej-e it (b) Not less than three seamen shall constitute a com­ conflicts with the lon.gshore'men and the longshore­ plete sea watch at all times. When any of these three . men have contracts that they shall do this. ratings are missing and The watch is not complete, Section 19. Cleaning Steering Engine. When sailors wages equivalent to the fating that is missing from the are required to clean steering engine or steering en­ watch shall be paid to the other member or members gine bed, they shall be paid overtime for such work making up the remainder of the watch. performed. However, sailors may be required to clean (c) When the watch below is called out to wo'-k thcy steering engine room and grease tiller chains in their shall be paid overtime for work performed during their watch on deck during straight time hours without the watch below, except for such work as defined in Ar­ payment of overtime. Section 20. Ship's Stores, (a) Sailors may be required ticle II, Section 3. Seclion 6. Day Workers, (a) The following ratings to handle deck stores both on the dock and on board shall be classified as day workers; Boatswain, Carpen­ ship during their i-egular hours without payment of overtime. Regular hours are defined to mean 8 A.M. to ters, Storekeeper, AB Maintenance. (b) The working hours at sea for all men classified 12 Noon and from 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through as day workers shall be from 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and Friday. (b) When sailors are required to handle Stewards or 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, and 8 A.M. to 12 Noon, Saturday. Any work performed by day Engine Room stores, both on dock and aboard the ship, men outside of these hours shall be paid for at their they shall be paid overtime at the regular overtime rate regular overtime rate, except for such work as defined during straight time hours and at the rate of time and one-half the overtime rate during overtime hours. in Ai-ticle II, Section 3. (c) Daily supplies of fresh provisions such as milk, (c) Working hours in port for all men classified as day workers shall be from 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and 1 bread, and vegetables shall be brought aboard by P.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday. Any work out­ sailors when required to do so without payment of over­ side these hours or on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays time. (d) Ship's officers shall determine the number of to be paid for at their regular ovei liine rate. Section 7. Relieving Helmsman. No mate shall re­ sailors to be used in handling stores. (e) The Company -reserves the right at any time to lieve the helmsman except in an emergency, Sougeeing, chipping, painting, etc.. shall not be considered an emer­ use shore gangs to handle ship's stores. Seclion 21. Topping or Lowering Booms. When all gency. Section 8. Unsafe Working Conditions. Working hatches are to be rigged or unrigged, all hands avail­ in holds into which cargo is being loaded or discharged able are to be used in topping or lowering booms. If the shall be considered unsafe working conditions. (Men booms of only one hatch are to be topped or lowered, working or watching cargo shall not be included in this not less than two full watches are to bo used. (a) The watch on deck may stretch guys, topping lifts clau.se.) ^ Section 9. Securing Cargo, (a) If cargo is not prop­ and generally make ready cargo gear for topping booms. (b) When booms are lowered and. properly secured, erly secured before going to Sea and the watch below is required to secure such cargo, they shall be paid at the watch on deck may clear the deck dnd secure guys. (c) The watch on deck shall perform this work with­ the rate of overtime and one-half for such work per­ formed. If the watch on deck is required to perform out the payment of overtime during straight time hours. (d) All hands necessary shall be used for docking such work they- shall be paid at the overtime rate. (b) Routine tightening up of cargo lashings and re- and undocking the vessel at all times. ARTICLE III Deck Department Page Nine LOG Seclion 22. Handling Mail or Baggage. When sailors are required to handle mail or baggage they shall re­ ceive the overtime rate provided in Article II, Section 23 of this agreement. Seclion 23. Boalswain or Carpenter Standing Watch, (a) If the Boatswain or Carpenter are required to stan'd watch due to shortage of men, such watches stood be­ tween the hours of 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. and all watches stood between the hours of 12 Noon Saturday and 3 A.M. Monday shall be paid for at the regular over­ time rate. However, all walches :stood shall be in addi­ tion to their regular duties as boatswain or carpenter. In such cases there shall be no divsion of wages. (b) AB Maintenance may 'pe required to replace any unlicensed membei' of the Deck Department when said, rnember is sick or missing without payment of over­ time. except on first Saturday afternoon of standing sea watch. Section 24. Carpenter's Work, (a) Caipenters shall paint, chip, or clean the windlass and sound bilges, fresh water ballast tanks where sounding pipes are lo­ cated outside of engine or fireroom spaces, shore up cargo, and do customary carpenter's work aboard the vessel. (b) Carpenters .shall be required to stand by the windlass when mooring or unmooring or anchoring or when nece.ssary. R') 1. The Boatswain shall stand by the windlass and shall take soundings when no carpenter is carried. 2. An AB Seaman may be required to relieve the^ Boatswain at the windlass during the Boatswain's regular working hours. (d) When soundings are taken after 5 P.M and be­ fore 8 A.M. Saturday afternoon. Sundays, and holiciays, overtime shall be paid for such work performed. members of the unlicensed deck personnel ^all be required to lake soundings in absence of the Boatswain and Carpenter, except in an emergency. When this work is done after 5 P.M. and before 8 A.M. and one Saturday afternoons, Sunday, or holidays, ovc'rtime shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (f) When members of the Deck Department are re­ quired to do carpenter work they shall be paid at the rate of $1.00 per hour for watch on deck and $1.50 per hour for watch below. Driving wedges, chipning, painting or cleaning windlass shall not be considered carpenter work on ships that do not carrv a ship's car­ penter. ' Section 25. Cleaning of Quarters. The unlicensed personnel of the Deck Department shall keep their re.^pective living quarters clean and tidy at all times, however, this .shall not- be construed to mean the daily cleaning by the ordinar .'^eaman each morning. Garbage. When m.embers of the Deck Department are required to handle garbage Py hand or .shovel, the watch on deck shall he paid at the legular overtime rate, and the watch below shall be paid at the rate of overtime and one-half Section 27. Sea Vv'atches in Port. When sea watches have been set or ha\e not been broken, all members of . each respective watch shall be on dutv and shall be paid overtime on Saturdays afternoons, Sundays and Tioiiday.s. Section 28. Chain Locker. Able Seamen, only, shall ,1 ' Locker to stow chain. In the event the Cham Locker i.s located lower than one deck below ^ suitable signaling system must be in­ stalled System to consist of two way bell or buzzer or voice tube. This shall only apply when men are .sent m tne_Chain Locker lor the puipose of stowing chain Section 29. Removing Scot from Smoke Stack. When members of the Dock Department arc required to removc soot accumulated inside of the smoke stack they shall receive mertime during regular working 'hours and time and one-hall during overtime hours. Section 30. Tank Cleaning, (a) When members of the crew are required to enter any tank in which water is regularly carried for tlie purpose of cleaning or' making lepaiis therein they .shall be paid straight overtime for r.titUght time houio for such work: for such work betweem the hours of 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. or on Saturdays, Sundays, or Holidays overtime and one-half shall be pnjo. ^^Len members of the crew are required to enter tanks that have contained animal, vegetable, petroleum oil or creosotes including bunkers or molasses, including use ol Butterworth System for the purpose of cleaning or making repairs therein, the watch on deck during straight time hours shall be paid at the rate of SI.50 per hour. On Saturdays. Sundays, and Holidays or oetween the hours of 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. the rate for such work shall be $3.18 per hour. Three hours overtime at the rate of $1.25 per hour shall be paid for mis woik m aoditon to the overtime actually worked, however, this three hours overtime shall be paid only once when tanks are being cleaned on consecutive worlimg days. Section 31. Laying Dunnage for Cargo. When the crew are required to actually lay dunnage in preparamn lor cargo they shall be paid at the regular over.Tm overtime and oneiialt foi the watcb below. This does not mean handling ol dunnage m order to clean holcls or stacking dunnage or removing dunnage from holds, but only refers to ' actual flooring off with dunnage for cargo. When crew IS required to install grain fittings or otherwise prepare holes lor gram cargo, except as outlined above, they forim>d''' ^ overtime rate for such work perSeciion 32. Tending Livestock. When livestock is cai lioci. the sailors may be I'ocunred to feed and clean up and otl-umwise tend the livestock. Durin^^ straight Tinie Jiouis they shah receive the regular overtime rate itnd oveitime and a hall during overtime hours. ARTICLE IV Engine Department WAGES Wages. The monthly rates of pav of Unlicensed Per-^ sonnel m the Engine Department when respective rat­ ings are carried shall be as follows: Rating Monthly Rate of Pay Engine Utility, Electrican Plumber combined $225.00 Oiler- i05_oo •I: �Page Ten Fireman 160.00 Wiper 162.00 Section 1. Arrivals and Depariures—Saturdays and Holidays. Upon ve.ssers arrival in port, as defined in port time clause Article II, Section 20, overtime shall begin when "finished with engines" bell is rung. Upon I' vessel's departure for sea, overtime shall be paid up until first "ahead" or "astern" bell is rung. Section 2. Setting Watches. Sea watches shall be set not later than the "eight bells" prior to scheduled sailing time. When sea watches are set they must be set for the entire watch. Section 3. Breaking Watches. When a vessel is in port as defined in poid time clause. Article II, Section 20, and is scheduled to remain in port twenty-four hours or longer, sea watches shall be broken. When scheduled stay of vessel will be less than twenty-four hours, sea watches shall be maintained. If sea watches are to be broken thec' shall be lai'oken on the "eight bolls" after arrival. Section 4, Using Spray Guns. When members of the crew are required to use spray guns they shall be paid at the straignt overtime rate during straight tune liuurs and at tiie rate of time and one-half the overtime rate during overtime hours. Section 5. Tank Cleaning, (a) When members of the crew are required to enter any tank which water is regularly carried for the purpose of cleaning or making repairs therein, they shall be paid straight overtime for straight time Jiours for such Y»'ork; for such work between the hours of 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. or on Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays overtime and one-half time sliall bs, paid. (b) When members of the crew are required to enter tanks, or bilges that have contained animal, vegetable, petroleum oil or creosotes including bunkers or mo­ lasses, including u.se of Butterwortn System tor the purpose of cleaning or making repairs tlierein, tne watch on duty during straight time hours shall be paid at the rate of" $1.25 per hour. (c) On Saturdavs, Sundays and Holidays or between the hours of 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. the rate lor such work shall be $2.50 per hour. Three hours overtime at the rate of $1.50 per hour shall be paid for this work in additon to tlie overtime actually worked, however, this three hours overtime shall be paid only once when tanks are being cleaned on consecutive working days. Section 6. Work Out of Engine Spaces. No member of the .Engine Department personnel other than the Deck Engineer, Engine Utilty, Storekeeper, Unlicensed Jr. Engineers, Electricians, Wipers, Plumbers and Ma. chinsts, shall be required to wbrk outsiUe the engine " spaces without the payment of overtime. Engine spaces to consist of fireroom, engine room and ice machine room. For the purpose of routine watch duties the en­ gine spaces siiall consist of fireroom, engine room, ice machine room, .steering room, and shaft alley. Section 7, Supper Relief, (a) At sea the four to eight watch shall relieve itself for supper. (b) In port the man detailed to oil winches shall re­ lieve the fireroom watch for supper when cargo is being worked, except when two or more men are stand­ ing fire room and/or engine room donkey watches to­ gether. Section 8. Work on Sundays While al Sea. (a) If a man standing regular watch at sea on Sundays, for which he receives overtime, is required to do work other than routine work for the safe navigation of the vessel, he shall be paid for such work at tne applicable overtime rate in addition to the overtime received for standing Sunday watch. (b) If a man standing sea watches on Sunday is ac­ tually required to do Longshore work. Tank Cleaning or Handling Explosives during his watch he shall not receive the Sunday overtime, but shall be paid tne over­ time rale as specified in this Agreement for that type work in lieu of the regular overtime rate. Seclion 9. Equalization of Overtime. Overtime work for men of same ratings shall be equalized as near as possible. This is to be govftrned by department head and departmental delegates. Section 10. Duties of Utility Man—Engine Depart­ ment. (a) The working hours of the Utilty Men .shall be the same as working hours for day workers. (b) They shall be required to assist engineers or deckengineers, etc., in all engine department work. (c) Utility men shall be required to have qualifica­ tions as oilers, watcrtenders and firemen. (d) They may be required to replace any unlicensed member of the Engine Department when said member is sick, injured or missing, without the jpaymcnt of overtime except for the first Saturday afternoon of standing sea watches. (e) The Utility Men shall not be used to replace any member of the ianlicensed personnel except when such „ member is missing or unable to perform his regular duties due to illness or injury. (f) All work classed as overtime for wipers during their regular working hours, with the exception of re­ pair work, shall also be classed as overtime for the utility men when performing the same type of work. Section II. Dulles of Oilers on Sea Watches—Steam, (a) Shall perform routine duties, oil main engine (if reciprocating), watch tempei-ature and oil circulation (if turbine), oil auxilaries, steering engine and ice ma­ chine. They shall pump bilges and tend water where gauges and checks arc in the engine room and no watertenders are carried. (b) Oilers shall do no cleaning or station work but they shall be required to leave safe working conditions for their reliefs, keeping the spaces around main en­ gine and auxiliaries clean of any excess oil. (c) On vessels with small cargo refrigeration plants, oilers shall oil plant, but shall not be required to take temperatures. On vessels carrying watch freezer.s, oil­ ers shall not handle refrigeration plant. (d) Starting and blowing down evaporator equip­ ment on freighters or vessels that do not carry special evaporator men, shall not be a part of the oilers' recog­ nized duties. . , , . (e) When such equipment is placed in operation, oilers may be required to check the equipment at regula- intervals, make necessary adjustments to insure proper and even flow of condensate and salt water, oil and tend any pump or pumps operated in connec­ tion with such equipment, without payment of overWhen oilers are required to start or blow down evaporator equipment, they shall be allowed one hour for each operation at the regular overtime rate. THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 13. 1947 Section 19. New Equipment Not Carried at Present. (g) On turbine propelled vessels which are certifi­ cated as passenger vessels and are carrying passengers, In the event the Company secures a type vessel dif­ the oiler on the 12 midnight to 4 A.M. watch may be ferent from those now opei-ated and covered by this required to assist in blowing tubes, where automatic Agreement or if the Company should install new or dif­ ferent equipment, than that presently in use and cover­ soot blowers are in use. (h) Oilers shall not be requiied to do any painting, ed by this Agreement, which would involve changes in cleaning paint, wirebrushing, chippng, scaling or polish­ working conditions the Company and Union shall meet to consider working rules to cover such vessel or equip­ ing wmrk without the payment of overtime. (i) When sea watches are maintained in port, oilers ment within a specified time agreeable to both parties. Section 20. Fire Room—Engine Room Boundaries. may, in additon to taking care of the Engine Room au.xiliaries, be required to do repair and maintenance On vessels having no bulkhead separating engine room work in the Engine Room between the hours of 8 A.M. and fire room, an imaginary line is to be drawn at after and 5 P.M. For such repair and maintenance work tiie or forward end of boilers, detpending on location of oilers shall be paid at the regular overtime rate of pay. boilers, for the purpose of defining engine room and Seclion 12. Dulles of Oilers on Day Work—Sleam. fire room boundaries. This imaginary line shall not ex­ Shall a.ssist the engineers in maintenance and repair clude from the duties of the fireman, fireman-watertender, watertender, and oilers any work as outlined work in engine room, machine shop, sliaft alley and store when located in or adjacent to engine room, pro­ in their respective rules. vided, however, he shall not be required to do any cleaning of boilers, painting, cleaning paint, poli.shing work, wirebrushing, chipping, or scaling. Their work shall be confined to maintenance and repair work only. Seclion 13. Dulles of Firemen—On Sea Watches (Wafer Tube Jobs), (a) Shall be required to do rou­ tine duties of the watch such as keeping burners clean, clean strainers, drip pans, punch carbon. He shall not be required to leave the confines of the fireroom at any time to do any work outside of the fireroom. (b) Firemen on watch shall be required to keep thihr respective stations cleaned and painted between the Rating f/Ionlhiy Rate of Pay lowest grating and the floor plates. On vessels with ir­ Chief Steward $300.00 regular gratings, 10 feet from the floor plates shall be 2nd Steward ... 215.00 considered the firemen's station limit. Head Waiter 100.00 (c) C leaning work for firemen on watch shall be Dining Room Waiters 145.00 confined to the hours between 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. week Office Man 145.00 days and between 8 A.M. and 12 non on Saturdays. Any Bellman 145.00 cleaning work performed outside these hours shall be Linen Man 160.00 overtime. However, on all watches. Firemen .shall Bai'tender 180.00 clean up any excess oil occasioned by changing burn­ Cliief .Stewardess 170.00 ers and strainers without the payment of overtime and Stewarde.ss •150.00 not leave it to his relief to clean up. Cabin Steward 145.00 (d) The practices of fanning tubes, and the use of Utility 145.00 XZIT and similar preparations shall be classified as Chief Cook 250.00 general cleaning work and shall be confined to regular 2nd Cook 210.00 cleaning hours. 3rd Cook 190.00 (e) Blowing tubes shall not be a part of the Fire­ 4th Cook 175.00 men's recognized sea dutie.s on ships where lubes arc; 5th Cook 170.00 blown by hand. However, the fireman on watch may Fry Cook 190.00 be required to assist to the extent of helping to open Night Cook and Baker 200.00 and close breeching doors, and turning steam on and Crew Cook . 200.00 off. Where automatic soot blowers are used. Firemen Butcher 215.00 will handle valves connecting with same. Chief Pantryman 190.00 Seclion 14. Dulles of Firemen on Day Work (Water 2nd Pantryriaan 175.00 Tube Jobs), (a) In port, firemen on day work shall be Messman 145.00 required to do general cleaning, polishing and paint­ ing work in the fireroom, sponging and blowing tubes and assist the engineers in making repairs to boiler mountings, etc. (b) They may also be required to wash down steam drums of water tube boilers. (c) When required to do any cleaning of boilers and fire boxes other than above, they shall be paid over­ time. Section 2. Routine Duties, (a) Routine duties for Seclion 15. When Planl is Shul Down. When vessel the members of the Stewards Department shall be to is in port and the entire plant is shut down, the Water- prepare and serve regular meals, cleaning and main-, tender, Fire-Watertender or Firetube Fireman may be tenance of licen.sed officers, staff officers, chief stew­ placed on day work. His work shall then consist of re- ards, and passenger's quarters, dining rooms and messrepair and maintenance work on all mounts and boiler rooms, all enclosed pa.ssageways, smoking and lounge auxiliaries which are located in the fireroom. rooms, dance halls, bath i-onms, toilets, galleys, pan­ Seclion 16. Wiper's Dulies. (a) Wipers working hours tries, and all departmental equipment. shall be the same as working hours for day workers. (b) Any work necessary for the service of passengers (b) Wipers shall do general cleaning, .scaling, shall be performed by the membc:r.s c.f the Stewards sougeeing, painting and polishifig work in the Engine Department assigned to those particular duties such as Department and take on stores including standing by deck service, handling deck chairs, layout of games, on water and fuel oil lines. handling hand baggage from the dock to passenger s (c) Wipers shall not be required to paint, chip, sougee, rooms when taking on passengers, and from passenger's or shine bright work in fireroom fidley except in port. rooms fo custom inspectors' office when passengers are (d) One wiper shall be assigned to clean quarters disembarking. and toilets of the unlicensed personnel of the Engine (c) The routine duties of tlie night cook and baker Department daily. Two (2) hours shall be allowed for sh.all be to bake all hot breads and prep:.re all desserts. this work between the hours of 8 A.M. and 12 Noon He shall not be reciuired to bake har.l rolls, breads, etc. daily. He shall be allowed two (2) hours for this work that is oidinaril.y furnished from ashore. on Sundays and holidays and shall receive two (2) Section 3. Selection of Personnel, (a) Recognizing hours overtime. the fact that the following arc essential to the welfare (e) Wiper may be required to paint crew's quarters of the passengers, the Union agrees that the Company upon payment of overtime. may select and employ the followin.g ratings provided (f) Wipers shall be paid overtime for cleaning in that the men are in good standing with the Union: firesides and steam drums of boilers. He may be re­ Chief Steward, Chief Cook, Stewardess, and Ca.shier. quired to wash out steam drums with hose without pay­ (b) The Company agree.s to .select all other unlicensed ment of overtime. personnel in the Stewards Department through the of­ (g) Wipers shall be paid overtime when required to fices of the Union, except as provided in Seclicjn 2, clean tank tops or bilges by hand or when required to •Article I hereof. paint in bilges. However, cleaning bilge strainers, Seciion 4. Overtime Work, (a) All work performed cleaning away sticks or rags shall be considered part, on Saturdays, Sundays and holidas in port, and Sunof v/iper's duties and shall be done without the pay­ davs and holidays at sea shall be paid at the overtime ment of overtime. rate. (h) It shall be the duty of the wiper to assist the en­ (b) On days when the ship arrived in port and .sails gineers in blowing tubes. The wiper shall also as.sist on the same day, the hours of work for the Stewards the engineer in putting XZIT and similar preparations Department shall be eiglit hours within a spread of ancl boiler compounds in the boilers. sixteen hour.s, the spread of 16 hours to commence (i) Wiper may be required to assist in repair work when the man reports for work. Any work performed but he shall not be assigned to a repair job by himself in excess of eight hours within the said 16 hour spread without the paymfent of overtime. This is not to include shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. Any dismantling equipment- in connection with cleaning, work performed outside of a spread of sixteen hours such as grea.sc extractors, bilge strainers and evapo­ within any 24 hour period shall be paid for at the rators, etc. rate of overtime and a half. (j) Wipers shall be required to pump up galley fuel (c) On days when ship does not arrive in port and tank during straight time hours without the payment sail on the same day, hours of work for the Stewards of overtime. Depai i'ment shall be eight hours within a spread of Seclion 17. Storekeepers (When carried), (a) Shall twelve hours. Any work performed in excess of eight be classifed as day workers. hours, or outside of the -twelve-hour spread, shall be (b) When carried, the storekeeper shall supervise paid at the regular overtime rate, except as provided work of the wipers under instructions for the First m Clause 4 (d) of this Article. Assistant Engineer and have charge of storerooms and (d) VVay Port Services. At Way Ports, the hours of stores. v/ork shall be eight (8) in a spread of fourteen hours. (c) Storekeepers shall not be required to do any Any work in excess of eight hours or outside of the painting, cleaning paint, wirebrushing, chipping scaling spread of fourteen hours, shall be paid for at the regu­ or polishing work without the payment of overtime. lar overtime rate. For the purpose of this clause, a Way Section 18. Hours of Work For Day Workers, (a) Port stop shall not exceed a 36 hour period. Working hours in port for all men classified as day (e) At all times, members of the Stewards Depart­ workers shall be from 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and I P.M. to ment assigned for the exclusive service of the crew 5 P.M. Monday through Friday. Any work outside these regular duties between the hours hours or on Saturdays, Sundays or holidays to be paid of o:30 A.M. "and 6:30 P.M. for at the applicable overtime rate, except as provided Steward Department: m Article II, Section 3. Seclion 5. Saloon Service for Officers, (a) No officers (b) Working hours at sea for all men classified as or crewmembers, except the Master. Chief Engineer clay workers shall be 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and 1 P.M. to Purser Doctor Cruise Director, and Chief Steward 5 P.M. Monday through Friday and 8 A.M. to 12 Noon shall be served in the saloon during the passengers Saturday. Any work performed outside these hours to meal hours, or be entitled to bell service. The Second be paid for at the applicable overtime rate, except as Stewards room and Purser's office shall be eptitled to provided in Article II, Section 3. bell service. ARTICLE V Wage And Manning Scales For Stewards Department Stewards Department Working Rules �Friday. June 13. 1947 THE SEAFARERS Page Eleven LOG (b) No member of the Stewards Department shall be extra work because a vessel sailed without the full required to serve meals to officers or crew (except those complement required by this Agreement, or because of entitled to dining saloon service as in Section 5, Para­ illness or injury, the wages of the mi.ssing or disabled graph a) outside of their respective messrooms, with- men shall be divided among the men who do their v/ork, / out the payment of overtime. It being agreed that cer­ but no overtime shall be included in such wages. tain merhbers of unlicensed personnel take meals in (b) In port, members of the .Stewards Department dining saloon prior to regular meal hours and are en­ shall be paid overtime for work in excess of eight hours titled to service without overtime. This section shall caused by the shortage in the department, but there not be construed to apply to passengers or personnel shall be no division of wages because of such shortage. served during regular working hours on account of Section 14. Galley Gear and Uniforms, (a) The Com­ illness. pany .shall furnish all tools for the galley including Section G. Late Meals, (a) When members of the knives for the cook, white caps, aprons, and coats worn Stewards Department are required to .serve late meals by the Stewards Department shall be furnished and due to the failure of officers failing to eat within the laundered by the Company. prescribed time, the members of the Stewards Depart­ (b) The uniforms worn by the Stewarde.sses shall ment actually required to stand by to^ prepare and be furnished and laundered b the Company. serve the late meals shall be paid at the' regular ovwSection 15. Fireroom. Members of the Stewards time rate, except in case of dire emergency. Department shall not be required to enter the Engine (b) When meal hours are extended for any reason at all, and the unlicensed personnel are un:ibie to eat Room or Fireroom for any purpo.se. Section 16. Minimum Complement, (a) No member within the regular proscribed time, all members of the Stewards Department required to stand by to prepare of the .Stewards Department shall be laid off Sundays or and serve the meal shall be paid at the regular over­ holidays while at sea. (b) On ships arriving or sailing on .Saturday, over­ time rate for the time the meal is extended. This shall not be construed to mean overtime shall be paid when time shall be paid to members of the Stewards Depart­ meal hours are shifted as per Article II, Section 36, ment for hours actually worked in port. (c) When the ship is in port and no passengers are Paragraph (c) of this Agreement. Section 7. Extra Meals, (a) When meals are served^ aboard but officers and crew are eating aboard, the to other than officers or to crew in the messrooms, minimum Stewards Department required aboard on fifty cents per meal shall be paid. This is to be di­ Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays for the purpose of vided among the rriembers of the Stewards Department preparing and servjng 'neals for the officers shall be: — actually engaged in preparing and serving the meals. one cook, one crew cook, one galley utility, three No extra meals shall be served without the authority messmen, and one dining saloon waiter. Other members of the Stewards Department whose ser\'ice is not re­ of the Chief Steward of the ves.scl. (b) All meals served in the pas.senger's dining saloon quired by the Company shall not be turned to on Satur­ other than to passengers, the-Captain, Chief Engineer, days, .Sundays, and holidays in the home port. The above members of the Stewards Department Purser, Doctor, Cruise Director, Chief Steward, Execu­ tive officers of the Company, or Government officials, shall be required to do all cooking and serving to the shall be paid for at the rate (jf fifty cents for each meal officers and crew in the home port. Section 17. Cleaning Toilets. No member of the served to the waiter actually serving the meals. Section 8. Stores and Linen. Members of the Stew­ Stewards Department who is required to handle food ards Department sliall not be required to carry stores for the unlicensed personnel shall be required to clean or linen to or from the dock, but when stores or linen toilets or baths. are delivei'ed aboard the ship, members of the Stew­ Section 18. Penalty Work. Any work performed by ards Department may place them in their respective the Stewards Department that is not recognized as store room within their regular prescribed eight hours routine duties in this Agreement shall be paid at the without the payment of overtime. regular overtime rate. Section 9. Cleaning Chill Boxes. Members of the Section 19. Authority of Chief Steward. Nothing in Stewards Di^pai'tment shall be assigned by the Steward these working rules .shall be deemed to distract from to clean domestic refrigerated walk-in boxes and .shall the authority of tiie Chief Steward who shall be final be paid at the regular overtime rate for the time that authority aboard the vessel in all disputes in the Stew­ the work is performed. This shall not apply to re­ ards Department subject to the provision of Article II, frigerators in pantries, messrooms, bake shops, gal­ Section 9, of this Agreement. ley, etc. Section 20. Day Work, (a) When the full complement Section 10. Chipping and Painting. Members of the of the Stewards Department is carried and the passen­ Stewards Department shall not be required to chip, ger complement aboard ship does not require full scale, or paint. Stewards Department service, members of the Stewards Section 11. Sougeeing. When members of the Stew­ Department not required for the service of the pasards Department are required to sougee, overtime shall .sengers may be placed on day work and shall be sub­ be paid for the acutal time worked. However, porters ject to the following working rules:— may be required to a^ugee during their regular working (b) When members of the Stewards Department are hours without the payment of overtime. on day work their hours shall be from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Section 12. Shifting Ship. When a ship is making Noon and from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Mondays through a shift as prescribed in this Agreement, Article II, Sec­ Fridays. tion 20, it shall be considered in port and overtime shall (c) Wh%n members of the Stewards Department are be paid to members of the Stewards Department on on day work they may be required to work in store­ duty on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. rooms, linen lockers, toilets, passenger and officer quar­ Section 13. Required Complement, (a) When mem­ ters, messrooms, galleys, bake shops, and butcher shops, bers of the Stewards Department are required to do steward department passageways, and do general clean­ ing, including sougeeing, within their regular hours without the payment of overtime. (d) When members of the Stewards Department are on day work they shall receive one full hour from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. for lunch. (e) When any members of the Stewards Department on day Work are required to change their hours so as to serve passengers in the dining saloon they shall be knocked off their day work at least four hours prior to the time of beginning such service or shall be paid at the regular overtime rate for all work performed out­ side of their regular day work schedule. SUPPLEMENT TO SECTION 2 ARTICLE 1. It is agieed that a galley unit of twenty-two (22) British Subjects, residents of Nas.sau. Bahamas .shall Ise maintainf d in employment as galley personncd in the fol­ lowing ratings: 2nd Cook. 3rd Cook, 4th Cook, 5th Cook, Night Cook, Steam Table man. Fry Cooks (2). eight (8) Galley Utility, Pot Washei-, Vegetable man (2), Dishwashei'.s, Bakei''s h(;lper (1). Pantrymen. It is furthei- understood .and agieed that rrcrnbership in the Union shall be a condition of employment, and that the conditions and provi.sions that constitute this basic, contract covering the unlicensed personnel as outlined in tSec. 1. Art. 1) shall have full foree and effect. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the duly authorized repNort'h A Seafare-is International Union of w-v\u '' 'm District) A. F. of L. and Seahave executed this Agrtrment the day and year first above written. SEAWAY STEAMSHIP LINES LIMITED N. E. WHARTON GLORIA WELLS. Witness SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA (Canadian Di.strict) A.F.ofL. WM. MCLAUGHLIN E. M. BRYANT JAiMES BANNERS MEMORANDUM AMENDMENTS AND CLARIFICATIONS In the event that the Cornpanv shall have cause to operate Passenger Ships chartered baiebuat or otherwise .Cargo ship chartered bareboat or otherwise, for vyhich no provisjon ha.s been made in the general or cepm-tment rules of this contract, it is agreed and un­ derstood that the amendments or clarifications deemed necessary by either party in connection with the fore­ going shall be negotiated in good faith and upon settlement being reached shall become attached to and be a part of. the provisions of the basic contract.' SEAWAY STEAMSHIP LINES LIMITED N. E. WHARTON GLORIA WELLS. Witne.ss SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF " NORTH AMERICA (Canadian District) A.F.ofL. WM. MCLAUGHLIN E. M. BRYANT JAMES BANNERS Endorsements Necessary For Rated Jobs By PAUL GONSORCHIK NEW YORK — On occasions when shipping is good in one department and somewhat lax in another, men have approached the dispatcher's window to reg­ ister for jobs in ratings other than those for which tney hold endorsements. While I want men to lill the positions that are heavy on the board at the moment. I can't register men in ratingJ for which they hold no endorsement. When men come to }'egister, they must show their qualilications for that position. Many new members are under the impression that even if they don't have the qualification they can ship in the job. Although an officer himself— OFF MY SEA CHEST. By Lewis H. Conarroe. New York: Henry I reserve, of course — Conarroe, who admittedly pulled strings to Holt & Co.. 283 pp.—$2.75. In his four years in the war­ gain his commis§ion, says his time United Navy, Lewis H. Con­ sympathies were four-square for arroe saw enough to make his the enlisted man, that monkeycivilian blood boil. Wisely and clad biped so constantly remind­ expediently, he didn't let it run ed of his social and intellectual over. Now that his dress blues inferiority. But ..despite the fact that he have been tucked away in moth balls at the bottom of his trunk, holds much of the Navy in con­ he gets it all "Off My Sea Chest," tempt, the author doesn't make ENDORSEMENTS FOR ALL which in some portions is hot speeches. The pages are chock Tliats impossible, for all men enough to melt down the Navy's full of chuckles. The purpose of !nust have an endoi-semcnt foi' the book is to make the reader ample endowment of brass. Fortunately, the author never laugh. And it does exactly that— the particular rating desired. Unrated men such as wipers lost his sense of humor, although and with satisfjnng regularity. Conarroe doesn't name names and OS, cannot .sliip in posi­ he came uncomfortably close to it on several occasions when he when he goes after his admirals, tions o*'w III. their 6 n un­ ran afoul of the snarl of red tape captains, commanders, et al. He less they i:;:v- eudorsemee.f.s fo.' in the U. S. version of the makes a composite picture of all those job.-. the brass-laden characters, in­ "Queen's Navee." gets of Mr. Connarroe's debunk­ In fact, he puts this sense 6f stead. ing operation. Among them you'll find the humor to work unsparingly in That small-time imitator of the dry-land skippers who make time his verbal broadside well-aimed bigtime Navy—The Coast Guard with their executive officers' at many aspects of Navy life. He —gets its share, too. Seafarers vacuous wives, who, in turn give debunks, he criticizes, he casti­ who know this naval arm. better, gladly of their time to add a gates the caste system husband­ will appreciate the author's feeled and nurtured by the Annapo­ stripe to ^heir mates' sleeves lis Academy and its socially con­ everybody thus getting some­ ings. With tongue in cheek, the exthing out of the deal. scious graduates. Lt. Commander furnishes a glos­ Most everyone should get a He lambastes the "old line," sary of naval terms, which he rigd adherence to "doing things kick of this book, all except the dedicates to "Landlubbers and the Navy way" instead »of the connivers, grafters, bootlickers the Washington Navy." and arrogant fools who are tarcorrect and easier way. Shippi ij Ri. t 22, whir". r.'ivPis- pass the Dispatcher's office un­ this, states: "Members upon shipping shall show then' qual­ ifications to Di-'patcher ii;r the job shipped on. No man shall be shipped wh . does not q'o.alify." Infractions of this ride oceur occasionally, and the mcrnbci can be held in violation of both 'h.' 'nioping nues and the consfduiciun of the SIU, wii?! ir Article 20, Section 7, reads: "Any member "found guilty of violating the shipping rules shall forfeit his shipping card and shall not have another is­ sued prior to the expiration of 30 -days." To be on the safe side and to avoid a non-desirable 30 day vacation, the best bet is to by­ less you are holding the en­ dorsements for the job you want. While shipping continues to remain pretty good in this port, it is expected to taper off in the near future when the relief ship­ ments ,of UNRRA come to an end. I'd like to remind members to take the jobs -off the board, as many permits have been issued lately due to a lack of men wanting the jobs listed. Every permit issued means one more man to compete with you for a job when shipping be­ comes tight, so. the best way to insure a quick ship in the future is to take a ship now. Huron Victory Is First Step {Continued from Page 5) gaining unit of unlicensed per­ sonnel. As a result, the Wilson Ti'ansit Company will be given a few days in which to file an answer to the SIU's demands that an election be ordered for all un­ licensed personnel on the Wilson ships. As soon as the NLRB decides on the bargaining agent unit for Wilson, then an election will be ordered for this company. Wilson seamen will then have an op­ portunity to choose the SIU to represent them in negotiations with the company leading to a union contract. Tiiose two companies have alread.y been petitioned, and pre­ election Imnrings were held in Cleveland on June 9. Following the same pattern already estab­ lished by other LCA operatoi-s, these two outfits are also trying to exempt Cliief Cooks. Thi.s the SIU will not agree to. We ai'c attempting to have an election date set for both Slienango and Stcinbrcnnei', wivh the NLRB deciding whether or not " the Chief Cooks are to bo in­ cluded in the unit. However, the NLRB has not yet informed us whether they will adopt the SIU suggestion or not. �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 13. 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Robert H. Harrison Loses Propeller; Storm Impedes Towing To Liverpool BLAST-MADE NETWORK It's open season on ship's propellers. Screws are busting out all over. The list of victims of sea mishaps w.is increased this week with the report that the SS Robert H. Harrison, a 7,181-ton South Atlantic Steamrhip Company vessel, lost her propeller several weeks ago, approximate-'t ly 400 miles off the Irish coast. She was towed into an English port after five hazardous days, which were aggravated by whip­ ping squalls and heavy seas. TELL OF PROPELLER LOSS Two weeks ago the LOG pub­ lished the story of the SS Fred­ erick W. Galbraith. also of South Atlantic, whose propeller went to the bottom off the African coast. This week the Seafarer-manned tug Eugene Moran towed another propellerless ship into New York harbor. The story of the Harrison's in­ voluntary contribution to the ocean bottom's collection of screws was recounted bv two of her crewmembers, Frank Jones, Bosun, and H. Kelly, AB. Against a background of heavy fog. the fwisied wreckage of Ihe SS Newhall Hills presenis an eerie scene of tragedy. This photo was taken by "Mac" Auley, Oiler aboard the tanker, two hours after series of blasts which cut the vessel in two. Probe Newhall Hills Blast That Took Seafarer's Life STOPPED COLD The loss occurred at 5 a. m. April 18—a Friday—as they were moving along off the Irish coast. The ship was jarred as the screw vrent swooshing to the bottom, giving the vessel the shakes for a few moments, they said. The First Assistant Engineer, who was at the throttle at the time, later told the two men that the engine stopped cold. A radio report to New York, explaining the Harrison's plight, was sent immediately. New York in turn radioed a British port to send a tug to the dis­ tressed vessel. At 7 p. m. that night, the British tug turmoil set out. She arrived at the Harrison's position on Sunday. Visibility was then extremely poor with rain squalls and heavy seas bat­ tering the helpless ship at will. A Dutch tug reported to have started out never showed up, apparently having been forced back by insurmountable sea con­ ditions. DRIFTS The inquest into the death of Seafarer Edward Bolehala, who was killed in the explosion aboatd the tanker Newhall Hills when it was rammed in a thick fog by an unidentified small crafr in the English Channel May 24, Seafarers H. Kelly, AB, (left) and Frank Jones, Bosun, of the SS Robert H. Harrison, who revealed story of five difficult days in squall-swept seas which hampered tug's task in towing their ship to port. By 10:30 p. m. the squall sub­ sided and a third line was pitch­ ed from the tug. It held and by midnight the Turmoil had the Harrison safely in low. In all, nine rockets had been used. On arrival at Mersey Bar, sev­ eral tugs took over and the Har­ rison was berthed ir Liverpool for two weeks r Tumg a new propeller. Th-^ - v,.- was trans­ ferred to Birkc-,.nead, where she remained in drydock for. eight days while she was outfitted with a new propeller. She arrived back in Norfolk May 27. The payoff was held the next day. All hands put in, for and were paid, overtime for their aroundthe-clock work during the deli­ cate towline operations. Kelly and Jones were on deck through­ out. The two Seafarers reported that in appreciation of the job done by the English crew of the Turmoil, the Harrison crew do­ nated 54 cartons of cigarettes— two cartons for each tug man. They said that every man in both crews worked like a beaver, and added that Chief Mate Pe­ ters and Second Mate Miller "were really a big help." They had praise, too, for the Harrison's skipper. Captain J. G. O'Rourke. was scheduled to be resumed thistweek. The inquest being con­ to save the vessel from sinking. ducted in England, adjouimcd "Mac" McAuley, Oiler aboard l^t week so that attempts could the Newhall Hills, said that never be made to trace the identity of once was there evidence of panic. "A torpedo couldn't have done the unknown vessel, which van­ a better job," McAuley said. ished after the blast. The 10,441-ton Newhall Hills, a The Newhall Hill's skipper. Pacific Tanker vessel, had her Captain Robert Lenahan, testibow completely blown off by the field at the earlier hearing that series of blasts touched off by he believed the missing ship was the collision. She flew her flag the Swedish ship Monica, of 396 at half mast for the 23-year-old tons. He said "she disappeared in Bolehala, an AB, as she was tow­ smoke and flames." ed into Sheerness, Kent, 38 miles PRAISES CREW from London. High praise of the Seafarers The tanker was moving at halfr crew was voiced by the Captain, speed in the dense' fog at the who said the men displayed time of the collision. The No. 2 "sheer guts" in volunteering to tank exploded violently, blowing man hoses and stand by the a mast overboard. engines while fire threatened a Captain Lenahan reported that' center tank, explosion of which, "tank tops, steel girders and the skipper said, would have de­ electric cables were blown over molished the ship. the top of the bridge and onto The crew battled for 24 hours the after part of the ship." Lira Rate, 'Snooty' Engineer Make Crew's Blood Boil The Harrison had drifted about 150 miles from her original Accusations of short changing position by the time the Turmoil reached her. Efforts were made and unfair money practices were to drop the anchor, but it didn't levelled at the skipepr of the Casa Grande by the crew at a touch bottom, Jones said. All apparently went well at recent shipboard meeting. the outset of the operation to ef­ The considered bearish act fect a towline. The Harrison be­ was pointed at the skipper when haved well until about 3 p. m. it became known that in Pal­ Monday, when the wind was al­ ermo, Italy, a nearby Waterman most hurricane in force, and the ship was given 373 liras to the tug had difficulty in keeping dollar while the boys of the away from her ward. One of Casa Grande were swapping the wind blasts almost ran the their bucks for only 225 liras. Harrison right on top of the tug At the meeting, which took as they were making up the first place May 5 at sea, the crew line, which parted soon after it of the Pacific Tanker vessel de­ was secured. cided to take the matter up "You could have spit on the when they hit New York and deck of the tug, from our ship, 'see by what sign of the zodiac Jones said. or by whose charts did he de­ termine the exchange rate. In The second line broke Wednes­ fact, there was quite a hollah day afternoon. Mountainous seas over the dollah. halted. continuance of the opera­ The ere vv, however, wasn't tion and-the tug skipper hove to until he thought it sufficiently through when it withdi-ew its safe to open the hatch contain­ attack upon the dubious mone­ tary dealings of the skipper. ing gear. They next inserted their barbs into the tender hide of the Chief Engineer and his "phony" assistant. According to the minutes of the meeting, the Chief had in­ structed his Engineers that they ts WWU& r STIFFS/ were not to associate with the crew in any manner. Giving the rest of the black gang the B.O. treatment- didn't ring true with the rest of the crewmembers. They realized that working in possible to wash down the mess the bowels of a ship does not and asked the Chief, in a nice make them aristocrats but, they way, if he would be so kind as asked: Can the rooster call the to have them cleaned. hen foul? The Chief, however, claimed UNTOUCHABLES that they were cleaned at least What roused the ire of some ten times since the ship left of the men was not the elevateds,.New York. snouts of the Engineers, but the To the Deck Delegate, Martin snub-all order of the Chief had Hitchcock, this was quite a meant the end of a study of joke, for he reported that some enginering which had been con­ 01 the crew had ben aboard for ducted by one of the less class- five months and they had never conscious engineers. seen them cleaned. The crew suspects that the PRESSURE PUT ON Chief Engineer did not gain his With the aid of the other aloofness in the engine room, Clyde DeShettler, but ashore, where they report, delegates, he "taught as a stooge all dur­ Stewards, and Eugene McNeill ing the war at the greatest naut­ of the Engine Department, the ical school in the world: Sheeps- Chief was approached and "pres­ head Bay." sure was put on him in a nice The crew was less concerned way." The scupper, situation was with the stand-offishness of the cleaned up satisfactorily to all. Chief than they were with the With all the grievances out of clogged up scuppers in the crew's the way,« the. meeting was admess. They were finding it im­ {Continued on Page 13) �Friday, June 13. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings SPAN SPLICE. May 19— Chairman Charles Scofield; Secretary Theodore Edwards. Delegates reported everything in order. Good and Welfare: After considerable discussion it was agreed to change lunch hour back from 12 to 1 to 11:30 to 12:30 as per agreement. Un­ animous agreement among the crew to have a log removed from a crewmember as it is dis­ rupting the cooperative spirit. S. J. 4S. T. BALDWIN HILLS. March 19 — Chairman Rossi; Secretary Weathers. Motion made that tripcard man's card be lifted due to his misconduct. List of fines for various offenses drawn up and approved by crew. i. 4. 4. TULARE VICTORY, March 19—Chairman Louis Fuselier; Secretary John Zenmer. Dele­ gates reported all in order in their departments. Ship's Dele­ gate elected. Motion carried that any crewmember using the laundry and leaving it in a dirty condition shall be fined $5.00. Money to be donated to marine hospital fund. 4. 4- 4. period he sail on union ships only so he can get a thorough understanding of the operation of the SIU. 4- 4* 4* BERTRAM G. GOODHUE. March 11 — Chairman Regan; Secretary Chow. List of fines and punishment for leaving messroom dirty drawn up and approved by crew. Discussion on night lunch. Suggestion that only the men on night watch be allowed to eat night lunch. Majority disapproved. Decided to put out sufficient night lunch for all until the supply runs out. Motion carried that the delegates contact the Captain and see if it possible that news broadcasts and music is turned on. Motion for Bosun to check on slopchest was seconded and amended to wait until trip back. He'8 Still Wearing The Same Size Cap r\is.sed along to the LOG this week was an cxtruet said to have been from a newly made Bosun's letter to his wife. Said the for­ mer AB; ' "I have been made a Bosun, which is my first big step up the ladder of success. However, for the time being, please continue to speak to the neighbors as usual and don't, under any cir­ cumstances move to a larger hou.se or buy a piano." 4. 4. 4. NEW LONDON. March 30— Chairman Gowder; Secretary Parkman. Reports received from the delegates of depart­ ments. No beefs in any de­ partment. Good and Welfare: Discussion on keeping the messroom clean at night. It was agreed that all would be a little more careful and try to keep things cleaner. Discus­ sion on the dirty muddy water in all the bath and wash basins was also brought up and was agreed by all thai something be done about it. It was agreed that Delegates use their own judgement about gathering up Union books and tripcards. Motion carried that a copy of the ship's paper "The Breeze" be shown to the Patrolman on reaching port ?.nd all insulting cartoons left out. 4- 4- 4JAMES JACKSON. March 24 —Chairman J. McGuffey; Sec­ retary E. B. McAuley. Dele­ gates reported disputed over­ time in their departments. New Business: Motion carried that pro-book crewmember be placed on probation for a period of six months and that during this 44CAPSTAN KNOT. (Date not given) — Chairman A. W. Dan­ ny; Secretary George Chisholm. Delegates reported all in order. New Business: Cap­ tain. when asked about paint­ ing crew's messroom, claimed there would not be time enough before reaching port. Vote of thanks to the Steward Depart­ ment for the way it has been carrying on its work. Good and Welfare: Motion carried to leave the ship and foc'sles in a good clean condition as every SIU ship should be. 4-4-4* JOHN A. DONALD. Chair­ man Nanjalis; Secretary Ker­ shaw. Motion carried that crew is not to sign articles until repair list is checked by board­ ing patrolman. Motion carried to have crew check slopchest medical supplies and stewards stores before leaving port. Mo­ tion carried to have radio loud­ speaker inspected and repaired. One minute of silence for de­ parted brothers. ^ ;; 4 4 4 M A D A K E T. April 20 — (Chairman and Secretary not given). Deck and Steward De­ partment Delegates report all in order. Engine Delegate claims that the food was not satisfactory. New Business: Motion carried that unless water situation is cleared up there will be no signing on. Motion carried that Patrolman is to instruct Captain that there is no contracted overtime. Good and Welfare: Discussion over the Deck Department not be­ ing allowed to paint out their foc'sles on company time. 4-4 4 HAWAIIAN CITIZEN. April 21—Chairman D. Prevatt; (Sec­ retary not given) Motion car­ ried to keep laundry clean by rotating the work among the three departments. Motion car ried to contact the Chief En­ gineer to fix leaking valve on alleyway starboard side. No slopchest aboard. Motion car­ ried that delegates check on slops when they come aboard in next port. Discussion about reading material for the crew aboard ship. Brother Prevatt was elected to contact shoreside for books. 4 4 4 HALF KNOT, March 29 — Chairman William Lawton; Secretary William Slusher. Delegates reported all running smooth in their respective de­ partments. New Busines: Mo­ tion carried to ask for wind chutes and a new clothes wringer. Good and Welfare: Suggestion made that members take coffee cups and dishes used between meals back to the pantry. Members asked not to use coffee cups as ash trays. Steward Department commended for good service. 4 4 4 NIANTIC VICTORY. April 12 —Chairman Morris Norris; Sec­ retary Joseph Garello. New Business: Motion carried that no member receive pay unless all money due him or his broth­ er members is paid before sign­ ing off. Motion carried to give Stewards Department a vote of thanks. Repair list made up and attached to minutes. Lira Rate, Chief Engineer Rile Crew {Cot!tinned From Page 12) journed, as the crew decided to get some rest following the hec­ tic boat drill they had experi­ enced the day before on Sunday. Sunday boat drills, the crew feels, makes the skipper out to be a fanatic. To them Captain Bligh is still on the high seas. (Editor's note: The LOG checked into the dollar-lira rate of exchange and came up with conflicting figures rang­ ing from 225 to 600 liras per buck. The Italian Consulate in New York, however, reports the official rate of exchange to be 225 liras. So fellas, give the skipper another chance and take that rope down off the olive tree.) i" SWAK/^B OJTFiTS •\o oo^ , rne UAifOAJ. WITH \ QJDMIHGAW O.-K-'SV UAJIOWCFF/G/AL fAerT^/^3- WITH Vo(;RHARP-E=A^ep DOIJISH f CUT and RUN By HANK Here's a newspaper item, dated June 10, 1947, full of good news for all merchant seamen: "A move is gaining ground in Washington to transfer from the Coast Guard officers to Civd Service examiners of the Department of Commerce the right to hear cases involving charges of negligence or disobedience brought against licensed or certificated merchant marine personnel. Leg­ islation is being prepared by Representative Lewis, of Ohio, and while it is estimated that the transfer would cost $280,000 a year in extra Civil Service salaries, the move apparently has the support of the Inaritime unions. About 18,000 cases of this type arise every year, of which about 5,000 are formally heard. Under the Presi­ dent's Reorganization Plan No. 3, these powers would be vested permanently in the Coast Guard." . . . Well, that's good news in­ deed, once this Reorganization Plan is defeated and legislation is passed to remove the Coast Guard from the backs of all merchant seamen. We hope the transfer will be a speedy success! To Brother Simon Kendall in the State of Indiana: Your shipmate. Dick Johnson, was around town recently asking for you to get in touch with him. He sailed on the SS Robin Wentley for South Africa . . . We just received a scenic post card of Fort St. George, from Brother Eddie Mooney aboard the SS Cavalier: "Hope everything is okay in the Hall. This trip is okay. Give my best regards to the Patrolmen and Slug. One more port and then home." . . . Little Joe Arras and his ever-faithful cigar just ca.me into our crazy-weathered town— from a trip which included a visit to Paris. Any story for the LOG, Joe? ... To Brother Abe Sprung, who may have just come in from his trip, we're repeating this important message: "Contact your sister. She's seriously ill. Signed. M.G." . . . We received another scenic post card from Baltimore Ski, who prefers to anchor in New York in between trips: "We're in Bari, Italy now and I thought I'd drop a line to let you know I'm still in the best of health, etc. Hope this card finds every­ thing with you okay. I'll probably see you about the 8th of June. Give my regards to all." 4 4 4 Brother Franklin Smith just shipped out on a long trip. Be­ fore he said adios to his shipmates in the Hall, to the habitues of the heart of New York, Brother Smith said that his shipmate, Alex the "Old Greek" probably shipped out down there in Galves­ ton after they had paid off from their trip to the Far East . . . George Walker, who just came back recently from a three month trip to the Far East, is now listening to little Joe Felton, the Bosun, who keeps worrying abopt getting two dollars for a shave . . . Herbert Bi-aunstein just grabbed a ship for a long trip. Good luck in everything, Herbert, and we'll be waiting for those occasional letters you promised. ' Here's a newspaper item which reveals another fasfmushroomed organization trying to grab merchant seamen: "The name of some Bronx merchant seaman who ga.ve his life during the war will be given to the Bronx unit of the Merchant Marine 'Veterans of America, a recently incorporated organiza­ tion to win for Merchant Marine veterans the rights, privileges and benefits accorded to other service veterans. Units, termed ships, are being formed throughout the country.'^ Doesn't this ambitious organization, rushing to bloom all over the country, realize or know that the SIU has been doing its best to get the Seamen's Bill of Rights passed? Now what can this mys­ teriously financed and, inspired outfit expect to suddenly per­ form for merchant seamen? Not miracles, anyway! �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS Friday, June 13. 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS SS Evelyn Payoff In Balto. Climaxes A Smooth Voyage A SEAFARER TURNS CAMERA ARTIST Log' A'Rhythms Captain's Shore Leave] To ihe Editor: By THURSTON J. LEWIS Paid off the SS Evelyn, the "Pride of the Bull Line.'' On the trip I took a few pictures that I thought you might like to see. Maybe you can use some of t'uem. The captain roared upon the bridge. And paced the after deck. He worried every mile of wave For fear the ship would wreck. Down in Boca Grande, one of the Brothers started to swim to Cuba. Brother Harris threw him It- But when we got her safe to port. And tied here to the pier. Then he shouted in retort. And grumbled in his beer. *1* ^ •• •iiiiiiii Sunbathing on deck is Char­ les Mitchel, the Evelyn's Bellyrobber. difficLiltj' prorjto vvhcn he found the Mate. Scuttlebutt has it he isn't hard to sail with now. OVERTIME GOOD SS Evelyn crewmember with 'doughnut" he tossed to a Brother who foundered shortly after starting to swim from Boca Grande to Cuba. a doughnut so he wouldn't get lonesome. The .sea gulls asked him if he was g'jing to disap­ point them at supper time, so he called to the smaller of two boats in the vicinity to take him aboard, as the current had him and he was moving out fa.st. There were two men and two women in the small boat. They wei'c too much interested in .something; else to give him any help. They had plenty of beer aboard and urohably figured that he might like som.e too. They •uped archer and gave him a salt water m their wake. There was plenty of overtime on the Evelyn, especitlly in the Stewards and Deck Departments. The Engine Department didn't do so good compared to the rest of us. They put new pilows and mat­ tresses aboard. The first week the mattresses were too short. The next wek they began to wash over the sides and ends of the sacks. The pillows were about as big as the Moo.se's two fists. Something was being done a!K)Ut this when I got off. The woman in the pictures is Dotty Gann, who is trying to become one of our sister's. She is Baltimore's first stewardess, the only woman to be issued seaman's papers in aproximately ten years in this port. She says her old man is gone so much SOME CLASS •We finally attracted a cabin cruiser of the $20,000 class that went to his aid. He bought back the doughnut. He won't be swimming away from the regular beach in Boco Grande again very soon. (I hear that another of the boys got caught on the regular beach by swimming out too far and had to be bought in.) The current down there is plenty rugged, so watch it. Everything went fairly smooth aboard the scow. Slhe is paint­ ed up for Mrs. A. H. Bull to come aboard for dinner, and that isn't altogether a joke. Have a pic of the Deck De­ partment that a lot of you guys may know. Another pic of Chuck Hensely and Moose Foster, who iS«ere plenty useful around BaltiBfoite during the strike. Dolly Gann, first woman to be issued seaman's papers in Baltimore in 10 years. she figures that if ho can't stay home more than 15 percent of the time, she might a§ well go too. She has already been off Hatteras. 'Will send you some pictures There was only one smaU dis­ pute in the Deck Department— before long. yfhitey Gann, Cook about overtime, Baltimore Agent SS Evelyn Curly Rentz cleared up that This effective bit of pictorial composition is the work of Gilbert Parker, OS, who used the SS Meredith Victory to frame this early morning scene at sea. San Juan Hall's Treatment Wins Tribute From Brother "Who can stand a crew ashore. When they should be aboard? Next v'yage we'll gdt an ocean crew This line can well afford. "When I was young and shipped to sea I didn't give a flip For what's on land; now. look SEAFARERS LOG my apprecia­ To the Editor: St me— tion to the Agent in San Juan. The Captain of the ship." At the time of the strike, I was And to the Brothers who had in New York at a meeting where Yes. Captain, when your veins the Hall in San Juan was on the ran hot. pan. To me, then, it was another And ours were on the way. beef, and what the h - - -. You stayed aboard as like as not. Well, to get down to it, on But that's not what the ladies the way back from Liverpool, re­ say! cently, the SS Franz Sigel was sent to Puerto Rico for sugar. I ^ ^ 3* paid off, intending to go to New York City for a bit of vacation Seamen's Lament and then meet the ship in Mo­ bile. Little bankroll, ere we part. But during the trip across Let me press you to my heart; country I was in some way slip­ All the months I've worked for ped a knock out and I woke up you. minus my gear, shoes, glas.ses, cards and did not compete for the I've been faithful, you've been etc. I managed to make the job—my sincere thanks. true. Union Hall in San Juan, where I Harry McCormack saw the Dispatcher and told him Little bankroll, in a day. my story. You and I will go away. NICE TREATMENT To find some gay and festive Now get this. The Agent came spot. in. I didn't know him. Well, he I'll return—but you will not. went into his own pocket and Submitted by came out with a couple of bucks, got me fixed up with a place to Dick Birmingham To ihe Editor: sleep and within 2 hours I was 1 wish to pass along a word of on a job—and, I am glad to say, warning to those who are wise MEMBER'S FATHER making out okay. enough to accept it: Don't go to Now I'm Irish. I don't speak sleep on the subway, as 1 did WILL TRANSLATE the lingo of the island, and I had recently. It cost me $210 in hardnever seen' any of these men be­ HARVEY'S LETTERS earned cash to learn the lesson fore. I know that when I threw first hand. To the Editor: in my day-old card down here for I'm hoping the Brothers won't a Bull line ship, that almost every 1 read in a recent Issue of the require as costly an education. man in that Hall could have beat LOG where one of the Brothers The birds who get into the sub­ that card, as there was no man­ wants to have some letters writ­ way with a nickel and then get power shortage there. ten in Dutch translated for him. off with about 4200 nickels have But they all gave me»a break. set themselves up a neat racket. He can send them to me and i They did not compete against my They ride up and down all night will be glad to do it . for him. card. Remember, this—I asked for We get the LOG every week looking for guys who are asleep nothing. in uncrowded cars. And they find and like it very much. Our son IS OLDTIMER is an Oiler on the tug Moose them, too. •When 1 went down to Pier 9 Peak, Moran Towing, at present I am an oldtimer, who held a book in the old Atlantic and Gulf the following day to get a reissue on the way to Java from Tampa Watertenders Union in 1920-1921, of seaman's papers, which also with a dredge. He is a Union who was ISU until 1937, and then, were picked from my pockets, member and we are proud of him. during the mixup went to the three other guys came in during His name is Charles Engelsma. NMU, where 1 got fed up and the half hour 1 was there. They, If Brother Dave "Red" Harvey packed in my book. Then 1 got too, had made the mistake of will send his letters to me, I'll a pro book in the Seafarers Inter­ falling asleep in the subway. do the translating. I was born Their experiences were the same in Holland on a sailboat, and was national Union. But to get back to the treat­ as mine—cleaned out of cash and a sailor in that country until ment shown to me in San Juan. all papers. 1929, when 1 came to the States Besides losing everything — and started farming. Never in all the time I've been around—and it's longer than I cash, papers, etc., I have to wait I'll be looking for the letters. care to admit—have I seen such ten days before I can ship again. Thomas Engelsma a display of understanding and So, take heed Brothers. Stay Box 18 sympathy from a Union Brother; awake on those subways! Please express through the P. J. W. Alden. Ilh Subway Snooze Costs Him 4,200 Nickles �Friday, June 13, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS ABOARD THE SS JOHN SWETT Page Fifteen Montreal Branch Doing Good Job, Brother Says others I spoke to, arc more than To Ihe Editor: Most of the SIU members have appreciative of the fact that the lot had the opportunity to visit SIU has come to Canada to give he new Canadian District Hall the Canadian seamen the oppor­ n Montreal, so 1 went to tell all tunity to join the best Union i^n j •rothers that our Union is well existence. A.gain I want to say that when cpresented in that port by a 'cry able man. Brother Gene you aie in Montreal, give Brotl^Ler Gene Markey a hand, and you Vlarkey. Brother Mai'key is, vrithout a will find thiit he will redouble doubt, one of the best men that th;o favor. Eugene Wood could have possibly been assigned Stewerds Depp.rtmenl, front row, left to right; Black Gang men, kneeling, left to right: to the job. Not only did he go Stewards Delegate Hal Orbofske, Harry Croke and Joe Valenoia; Thomas Kennedy, Tony Sefpe; standing, left to out of his way to help the fellow MV Gadsden standing, 1. to r: Jimmy Savalle, A1 Manchester, right: Mitchell Zelack, Fr6d Clopton, Walter on this ship, but brother, he is Fillipponi. Edward Gross Snd Thearon Taylor. doing plenty to knock the hell Georg:; Barnes and Max Greenwald. Maneuvers In Port out of the commies' organization Cut The Day Short up here. In the short time he has been To the Editor; Ship's Officers here he has really done a job Thumbing thiough a copy of Proud of Crew on them. The way it looks at the "Shipmate," a "salty" publica­ Hall, with CSU members lining tion, 1 chanced across the follow­ To the Editor: up to get into our union, and all ing poem. I'm passing it along to We, the officers of the SS Ly­ of them more than willing to the readers of the SEAFARERS man Stewart, wish to express our throw in their CSU books, the LOG: da.vs of the CSU are numbered. One morniiig rocentl.\' a young sincere appreciation for the coTwo new Canadian District wife jperation received from, the men have shipped aboard this got out of bed, members of the crew of this ves­ ship with us. At one time both slipped into her slippers, got into her robe, sel. It is exceedingly rare that bolongcKl to the CSU and that raised the shade, a crew comes aboard and works was not so long ago. They are more than pleased with the won­ uncovei-ed the parrot, with us as unstintingly and will- derful conditions and wages on put on the coffee pot, inglj' as these Brothers have. this GIU ship and tlie treatiuent answered the phone, and courtesy shown to them bj' and heard a male voice say: We are proud to have had them the officers and crew. "licllo, honey—just got off the aboard. Deck Gang men in front row, left to right, are: Jimmy ship NEW EXPERIENCE Sa.vallc, Juan Lopez. • and Tex Jacks: Standing, left to right: Frank C. Waters, Master As one of the fellovv'.s, Jacques I'm coming right overl" Bill Scudder, Herman Monteiro, Nick Chichciln, Pied Carroll, Ethier, put it: "We're being So, the young wile unlocked and oi-icr officers Richard Kapps, Blackie Colucci, Sal Arine and Whitey Leuschkan. treated like fellowmcn." the door, Tlte new members are proving took off the pot, to be a fine bunch of brothei'.-. so covered the pai-rot, when you sail with them, help pulled down the ,shade, them along for they have a lot 1o took off her slippers, slipped into bed, learn about the SIU. Ha'cing boon imder the control of the commies and heard the parrot numble: To the Editor: scholarships in the U. S. to coor- to get a license so he can hit the so long, they find it hard to ex­ "Judas priest: What a short day that was!" While reading the April 25 is­ dinate the best features of all into floorplates the rest of his life, press themselves. Personally, 1 feel they will let him stay out of the Cadet sue of the SEAFARERS LOG, I an American cadet program. —J. S. Tu 193C Congress passed a bill Corps. The best way for hin^ to make wonderfully active mem­ noticed a letter written by one "Steamboat" O'Doyie, in which calling for not only a long-range got a license is to ship out until bers for they arc in a position LOG he gave the United States Mer­ shipbuilding program but akso for lie has the requisite sea time, and to make a logical comparison be­ For Sununer chant Marine Cadet Corps quite an adequate training program for then go to school for. a couple of tween the two unions. the men to .sail them. Out of this weeks. an unmerciful panning. The Second Cook, another To tlia Editor: 1 have not been going to sea former CSU member, told me While I am quite sure that came the USMS, which was found­ 1 am going to spend the sum­ King.s Point is well able to stand ed, not by a group of professional long enough to lose my idealistic that there is a tremendous dif­ mer at my home here in Mil­ by itself, on its own merits, due strikebreakers but merely as an view of it. In my opinion, sea- ference in the wages and work­ waukee, due to important busi­ to the fact that I am a graduate organization to give a bit of uni­ fai-ing is an honorable profession, ing conditions of CSU ships as ness that must be attended to. I feel constrairied to make some formity to a group of men who be you wiper or master, and 1 compared to SIU ships. 1 would appreciate it very much inquiry as to the source of our do more than anyone else towards choose to believe that seamen are The Second Cook told me he if you would send the LOG so friend "Steamboat's" alleged shaping the U. S.'s foreign policy. "Ambassadors without Portfolio," had quit sailing for awhile be- 1 can keep up with the Union's "facts." The Cadet Corps was launched in since in mo.st cases, the only ;ause he could not live on the activities, meanwhile. I have sailed with men of all 1938 as a separate organization American people of other coun­ noney and put up with the CSU Donald Strelow tries see are the seamen and they lictatorship. He, and all the the major unions of the United from the Maritime Service. Milwaukee, Wis, States and I have not the slight­ With the advent of the war, it base their opinions accordingly. est doubt that the SIU has the was necessary to provide officers We are the-government and the TRIO OF DUNCAN MEN cream of the unlicensed person­ fast and so the laboriously-plan­ only reason unions are broken by nel, and that it is the coming ned four year program was "organized government finkihg" union. shelved in favor of a quick course, is because they put themselves which quite satisfactorily did the out on a limb and let someone LAUDS SIU CREW At present, I am sailing on the job of providing engineers and saw it off. At Kings Point there are no cartdlelight ceremonies, Meredith Victory, South Atlantic mates. where the "crumbhouse cadets" It wasn't until June 1946 that Steamship Company, and we have pledge themselves to be union the original four-year course was a good responsible crew, which is bi'eakers. reinstated at Kings Point, and the more than I can say for a certain Grace Lines passenger job I was first graduates will come out in READ THE LOG 1950. 1 am inclined to say that CO on a few^ months ago. The SEAFARERS LOG and the I think I have made clear the to 70 per cent will go to sea. Pilot are always in the libi-ary fact that this is not a letter by a PHONIES OUTNUMBERED and no one is shot at sunrise if "government fink," but is some­ Sure there have been phonies caught reading them. I venture thing for "Steamboat's" benefit. graduated from the academy, but to say that cadet midshipmen 1 wonder if he is aware of the they are more than offset by the know great deal more of the sea­ fact that, prior to the inception many hundreds of graduates who men's fight for decent working of the Cadet Corps, and its acad­ have Chief Engineer's and Mas- conditions, from Andrew Furuemy, the United States was the ters' licenses. There were many seth's time until now, than many only sizeable maritime nation in who were draft dodgers but what average good union members. the world that did not have a were they dodging? The Cadet And through it all. never are the training program to adequately Corps had the highest mortality unions presented in other than a insure a steady fIo<w of officers to rate of anything under the U. S. completely unbiased light. man its ships. The wmy "up the hawsepipe" is flag, for its size. As early as 1931, several years As for the Coast Guard boys still open, and many good men previous to the first concerted ef­ being used to crush the unions, I are still coming up that way. The fort of the seamen to better their am quite sure that or friend must only man who might have to •conditions,-Richard'McNiilty, now be dnaware "that when a ihan worry about his job is 'the than Rear Admiral'6f U. S. M. S., was goes to join"' the MEBA Or the Who is grossly incOnipetent ahd Aboard ihe 'V/atefman Vessel, SS Jaittes Duncan oh a re­ ithdying the Vafibds ptbgrams of 'MMP, they dotft ask him Where \vho shouldn't have it anyway, cent'trip to'Lisbon'for discharge of hOr coal cargo, were Slim, Biitain, Japan, Germany, Nor­ he got his license. That he has it Carl H. Swadell, MEBA Second Cook; Clyde White, Bosun, and the Chief Cook, who was way and the three or four state is sufficient. If a man just wants SS Meredith Victory unidentified. Ray Durbin, Deck Maintenance, took the photo. MEBA Man Holds SIU Crews Top Industry; Denies Charge Cadet Corps Is Anti-Union �Pege Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, June 13, 1947 143 Companies Contracted To The SlU -Admira! Oriental Line -American Eastern SS Co. 3- -American-Hawaiian SS Co. 4- -American Mail Line 5- -American President Lines Ltd. 6- -American President Lines Ltd. 7- -Alaska Packers Association 8- -Alaska SS Co. 9- -Alaska Transportation Co. 10- -Ashley & Dustin Steamer Line 11- -Atwacoal Co., Inc. 12- -Automotive Trades Steamship Co. 13- -Arnold Bernstein SS Co. 14- -Alcoa SS Co., Inc. 15- -A. H. Bull SS Corp. 16- -American Liberty Lines Inc. 17- -Baxter and Co., J. H. 18- -Burns SS Co. 19- -Bloomfield Steamship Co. 20- -Bob-Lo Excursion Co. 21- -Baltimore Insular Inc. 22—Coastwise (Pacific Ear East) Line 23—Canadian National Railways 24 Cement Transit Co. 25 -Chicago, Duluth, Georgian Bay Transit Co. 26 -Cleveland & Buffalo SS Co. 27 -Cleveland & Buffalo Transit Co. 28 -Construction Aggregates Corp. 29 -Cleveland—Cedar Point SS Co. 30—Crystal Beach Transit Co. 31—Chamberlain & Co., W. R. 32 Coastal SS Co. 33 Coastwise SS & Barge Co., Inc. 34 Consolidated Olympic Line 3 5 -Coos Bay Lumber Co. 36 -Colonial Navigation Co. 37- -Canadian Gulf Line Ltd. 38- -Illinois-Atlantic Corp. 39- -Calmar SS Co. 40- -Cuba Distilling Co. 41- -Coyle Lines 42- -De La Rama SS Co. 43- -Detroit & Cleveland Navigation Co. 44- -Dorothy Phillips SS Co. 45- -Deconhil Shipping Co. 46- -Dougherty Co. 47- -Debardeliban Coal Corp. 48- -Emery Co., W. L. 49- -Erie Sand & Gravel Co. 50- -Eastern SS Co. 51- -Eastern Transportation Co. 52- -Fitzimmons & Connell Dredge & Dock Co. 53- -Freeman & Co., S. S. 54- -Frelihew Southern Corp. 55- -Florida East Coast Coal Co. 56- -Florida Car Ferry Co. 57- -General SS Corp. 58- -Grace & Co., W. R. (As agents for Grace Lines, Inch Pacific Coast, West Coast, Mexican, Central Ameri­ can, Panama Service of Grace Line, Inc. and Pacific Coast South American Service of Grace Line, Inc.) 59- -Gorman SS Co. 60- -Griffiths & Sons, James 61- ^Griffiths SS Co. 62- -Gravel Products Co. 63- -Great Lakes Dredge & Dock 64- -Great Lakes Transport Corp. 65—General Petroleum Co. 66—Gulf Canal Lines 67—Gulf Shipbuilding Corp.—Tugboat Div. 68—Hammond Lumber Co. 69—Hammond Shipping Co., Ltd. I s T H M I A N I S I 70—Hanify Co., J. R. 71—Hart Wood Lumber Co. 72—fdobbs. Wall & Co. 73—^Hedger SS Corp. 75—Interocean SS Corp. 76—Island Transportation Co. 77—^Johnson. Lumber Co., A. B. 78—Kearney Steamship Co. 79—Kelley Island Lime and Transport Co. 80—Kingsley Co. of California 81—Luckenbach Gulf SS Co. 82—Lake Sand Corp. 83— -Lawrence Phillips SS Co. 84— -Linderman Co., Fred 8 5- -Los Angeles Tankers, Inc. 86- -Matson Navigation Co. 87- -Maritime Transit Co. 88- -McCarthy SS Co. 89- -Midland Steamship Co. 90- -Moore SS Co. 91- -Mississippi Shipping Co. 92- -Martin Marine Transportation Co. 93- -Mobile Towing & Wrecking Co. 94—Moran Towing & Transportation 95—Nantasket Boat Line 96- Northland Transportation Co. 97- Oceanic SS Co. 98- -Olson & Co., Oliver J. 99- -Owens—Parks Lumber Co. 100- -Overlakes Freight Corp. 101- -Ocean Dominion Line 102- -Orbis SS Corp. 103- -Ore SS Corp. 104- -Olympic SS Co. 105- -Pacific Atlantic SS Co. (Quaker Liite) 106- -Pacific Mail SS Co. 107- -Pacific Republics Line (Moore-McCormack, Inc.)] 108- -P. L. Transportation Co. 109- -Port Oxford Lumber Co. 110- -Peninsular and Occidental SS Co. 111- -Pacific Tankers, Inc. 112- -Ponce Cement Corp. 113- -Pope & Talbot, Inc. (McCormack SS Co. Div.) 114- -Ramselius Co., Captain J. 115- -Raritan SS Corp. 116- -River Terminals Corp. 117- -Richfield Oil Co. 118- -Sag Harbor Tanker Corp. 119- -Santa Ana SS Co. 120- -Seaway Lines, Limited 121- -Shepard SS Co. 122- -States SS Co. 123- -Schafer Bros. SS Lines 124- -Solano SS Co. 125- -Sierra SS Corp. 126- -Sudden & Christenson SS Co. 127- -Standard Oil of California 128- -South Atlantic SS Line 129- -Smith & Johnson SS Co. 130- -Seas Shipping Co. ' 131- -Savannah Lines 132- -Southern Transportation Co. 133- -Seatrain Lines, Inc. 134—St. Lawrence NavigatiomSS Co. 135—The Union Sulphur Co., Inc. 136 Tri-Lakes SS Co. 137- -Tidewater Associated Oil Co. (Associate Div.) 138 -Wilson Line 139 -Wisconsin & Michigan SS Co. 140- -Wheeler-Hallock Co. 141 -Wood Lumber Co., E. K. 142 -Waterman SS Corp. 143- -Wilmington Transportation And There Are Many More Coming � 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 June 13, 1947 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. IX, No. 24 Description An account of the resource Headlines: IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME LONG STRUGGLE ENDS--ISTHMIAN IS SIU COOPERATION OF MEMBERSHIP AND NO GOAL IS IMPOSSIBLE VICTORY OF RANK AND FILE TEXAS NOW OPERATING IN SIU STYLE, WHICH MEANS OKAY ALL DOWN THE LINE SEAWAY LAWYER, NMU LEARN FROM NORTHLAND PARLEYS EMPEROR TRAGEDY UNDERLINES NEED FOR SEAFARERS SPECIAL MEETING IN NEW ORLEANS ACCEPTS HQ RECOMMENDATIONS; S. WHITE TO NEW YORK VICTORY IN HURON ELECTION IS ONLY THE FIRST STEP IN THE SEAFARERS VICTORY PARADE ON THE LAKES VETO ANTI-LABOR BILLS, AFL RALLY URGES ENDORSEMENTS NECESSARY FOR RATED JOBS ROBERT H. HARRISON LOSES PROLLER; STORM IMPEDES TOWING TO LIVERPOOL PROBE NEWHALL HILLS BLAST THAT TOOK SEAFARER'S LIFE LIRA RATE, 'SNOOTY' ENGINEER MAKE CREW'S BLOOD BOIL SS EVELYN PAYOFF IN BALTO. CLIMAXES A SMOOTH VOYAGE SAN JUAN HALL'S TREATMENT WINS TRIBUTE FROM BROTHER Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 6/13/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/59d468722a9b3872feab55df4b194501.PDF e783d61c3e408cf365ef35f3fe7898c9 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. JUNE 6. 1S47 Secretary-Treasurer FredFarnen Clarifies Position Of Seafarers On The Grent Lukes DETROIT, June 4—Widely circulated repDrts by the NMU, and wild rumors on the water­ front regarding SIU support for any NMU strike on the Great Lakes on or after June 15 were soundly denounced in a statement issued today by Fred Farnen, Secretary-Treasurer of the SIU Great Lakes District. "The Seafarers International Union. AFL. is composed of 81.000 members in five autono­ mous districts," declared Farnen, "and the Great Lakes District of the SIU decides all questions of policy affecting its Lakes members. "Great Lakes Seafarers decide all matters concerning Great Lakes seamen, and are not bound by actions of seamen from other SIU Districts, unless those actions are approved by a inembership vote of the Great Lakes District," stated Farnen. "In the event that the NMU men on the L^-kes are forced into a strike to pull the chestnuts of their Coast brothers and other unions out of the fire," continued Farnen, "the Great Lakes Seafarers will honor all legitimate NMU picketlines around NMU contracted ships only. "We will not observe any NMU pickeilin?s around SIU contracted vessels or unorganized Lakes ships which the SIU is currently organizing. "The SIU Great Lakes District does not intend to allow the NMU to put any phony picketlines around SIU ships, as they attempted arou.nd the Bob-Lo and McCarthy ships last year." Brother Farnen concluded his remarks by slating, "The Seafarers policy, as always, is to honor all of our contracts. We intend to observe all contracts to the letter, end in the event that SIU strike action is ever necessary, that will be decided by the Great Lakes Seafarers themselves in their own membership meetings. "Any time the SIU has to tie up any ships, they'll remain tied up, and not wander around the Lakes like the NMU ghost ship, the SS Jupiter." No. 23 New York AFL Rally Demands Truman Veto Of Taft-Hartley Bill NEW YORK, June 4—In one of the greatest demonstrations ever staged by organized Tabor in this country, 25,000 members of the American Fed­ eration of Labor met in huge Madison Square Gar­ den to demand that President Truman veto the TaftHartley "slave-labor" bill. The meeting further urged that Senators and''^time ^ that " Congress gave its at­" Representatives sustain the tention to the things that Amer­ veto. ican people really need—decent Heading an impressive list of housing for all, health insurance labor leaders who addressed the for all, a reduction of the cost-ofthrong, AFL President William livng by curbing profiteers, and Green told the assemblage that a full measure pf social security." now was the time for them to make their voices heard in Wash­ ington, "both in Congress and in the White House." Sharing the platform with Brother Green were New York's Mayor William O'Dwyer, who had issued an official proclama­ tion declaring June 4 Veto Day; George Moany. AFL SecretarySTOCKHOLM Swedish sea­ Treasurer; David Dubinsky, men are turning thumbs down President of the International on ships flying the Panamanian By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Representative Ladies Garment Workers Union; flag. Shipowners looking for Howard McSpeddon, President cheap labor at substandard con­ On June 1 the manning of American vessels reverted to peacetime law. Ships of the AFL Building Trades ditions won't find any takers in will no longer be allowed to carry 50 per cent aliens in their crews. Instead, the pro­ Council; and Senator Robert this country. The Swedish sea­ visions of the American Merchant Marine Act of 1936 have again become operative. Wagner, New York, author of the men's union has warned its National Labor Relations Act membership against ships under Under the return to the old regulations, crews of government subsidized vessels must which Congress is now deter­ Panamanian registry. be composed ICQ per cent of American citizens. However, on passenger vessels granted mined to scuttle. Martin Lacey, Characterizing P a n a m a n ian -isubsidieii, the Stewards Depart­ head of the New York Central vessels as "slaveships," the ment will be allowed to carry up Trades and Labor Council, pre­ union pointed out that they of­ sided. fer seamen "worse conditions to 10 per cent of aliens in its BOSSES AFRAID than during the darkest period complement. These aliens must President Green savagely at­ of sailors history."' have finst citizenship papers, or tacked the proposed legislation, The union added that unless have established legal residences and declared that it was inspired Swedish seamen are guaranteed in the United States, which by fear. that they can work under Swed­ week as for means they must have been WASHINGTON —Negotiations pay for a five-day "The enemies of labor are ish law and under the terms of granted a visa. between the AFL United Mine the present six, or else the same afraid," he said, "afraid of true the union's agreement with Workers and the nation's soft pay for an eight hour day as for American ships, which do not democracy and frightened by the Swedish shipping companies, the coal operators—now in the third the present nine. receive subsidies, must now be voice of labor demanding its seamen should'not sign on ships week — entered the showdown crewed by at least 75 per cent of rights." MORE PAY ASKED of Panamanian registry. stage as the UMW for the first He brought the i.ssues out into American citzens. In addition, UMW is pressing time made known its new con­ The more important sections of the open when he declared that for a 30 - minute underground tract demands. the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, the slave labor bill is punitive, lunch period to replace the cur­ With no definite signs that would promote industrial chaos, now applicable, follow: rent 15-minute respite, and a complete agreement was in view, outlaw the closed shop, and 1132. Citizenship of officers universal mine safety code to the possibility of a strike on would weaken the nation's econ-^ and crew—Vessels docu­ prevent recurrence of disasters July 1, by which time the gov­ omy and create a dangerous hate mented under laws of the such as recently happened at ernment must return the mines philosophy in this country. United Stales the Centralia, 111., pits. BUFFALO—The Seafarers In­ to their owners, became a fac­ "We, of labor, want a strong More than 2500 mines are (a) All licen.sed officers of America," he concluded. tor. Meetings are being held "We ternational Union has pledged its sepai-ately between UMW nego­ scheduled to go into private op­ vessels documented under the want prosperity in our country, all-out support of the Grain tiators and the northern and eration by midnight June 30, laws of the United States, as not a Taft-Hartley depression. Scoopers' strike, which now has western mine owners, represent­ the deadline for government re­ now requirecl by law, shall be We want to keep America free, every grain elevator in the Port ing 75 percent of the nation's lease. The mines will be re­ citizens of the United States, not to let it succumb to the Taft- of Buffalo tied up solidly. The striking Grain Scoopers lartlej' brand of oppression. bituminous production, and the turned even if a nationwide native-born or completely nat­ strike breaks, it has been stated uralized; and upon each de­ are affiliated with the Interna­ "We thmk it is time that Con­ southern operators. l.iy Secretary of the Interior Ju­ parture from the United States tional Longshoremen Association, gress refused to be pressured any High on the list of UMW's lius Krug. of a cargo vessel in respect of AFL. longer by the National Associa­ newly released contract demands Indications based on the effec­ Beginning June 28, 350,000 which a construction or op­ tion of Manufacturers and other is an increase in the health and erating subsidy has been grant­ tiveness of the tie-up point to a. monoply interests who are try­ miners in the 2500 pits will welfare fund assessment from ed all of the crew (crew includ­ swift settlement since every ing to line their already.fat start 10-day vacations with $100 the present 5 cent-a-ton to prob­ ing all employees of the ship) waterfront union affiliated with, pocketbooks at the expense of pay, under terms of ,a Coal ably 10 cents. The miners are the AFL is backing the walkout. every one of us. We think it is Mines Administration order. (Continued on Page 6) also asking for either the same Alien Seamen, Once War Herees, Rewarded By Prewar Restrictions Swedish Senmen Put Thumbs Down On Punumn Ships Mine Workers Union Asks Increase In Welfare Fund Seafarers Supports AFL Grain Scoopers In Buffalo Strike �Friday, June 8, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Two SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affilialed with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. i HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL --------- First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER ----------- Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. ; JOHN HAWK - - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. P. SHULER - - - Secy.-Trcas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25. Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Trcas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Sccy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Ha.stings St.j Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second cla.ss 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 The End In Sight The NMU bag of tircks is finally empty, and it is hoped that within a short time the National Labor Rela­ tions Board will render its decision on whether or not the NMU's charges of collusion between the SIU and the Isthmian Steamship Corp. have been substantiated. It is obvious, from reading the testimony at the hear­ ings and the briefs filed by both unions, that the NMU flung around wild charges with not a grain of truth in them. It is also obvious that the NMU really had no hope of making its charges stick, and were only interested in stalling matters as long as they could. Hospital Ptitienis When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals Why did the NMU, which represents itself as a union These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, interested in advancing the conditions of seamen, want to stall the certification of the SIU? That is a question which as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging interests all seamen, and is one which the NMU could heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. never answer honestly. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL • The truth is that the NMU officials, most of them communists as charged by NMU President Joe Curran, Bad to save face with the rank-and-file membership. The NMU spent thosuands of dollars on the Isthmian organizing campaign, only to wind up on the very short end of the vote. Of course, now it has come out that most of the money was spent on organizing for the communist party, and the NMU commissars had to raise the phony issue of collusion in order to hide their own dirty dealings. All these underhanded tircks which the NMU has re­ sorted to have resulted in just one thing. Isthmian sea­ men, who desperately need the representation of the SIU, have been denied that representation. If the officials of the NMU were being paid by the company, they could not have done a better anti-labor job. The finky record of the NMU is well known to all U. S. seamen, but that unioji has reached a new, all time low in the way it has prevented unlicensed Isthmian sea­ men from enjoying the same wages and conditions which are contained in every SIU contract. Isthmian seamen want the Seafarers, and we are con­ fident that the NLRB ruling will open the way for the SIU to start the wheels moving to gain a contract for these exploited merchant mariners. A. BUCHENHORNER C. PEDERSEN J. HARRISON G. CARUSO P. STOFFEL A. SANDY R. CHRISTIAN A. R. GUIDRY J. AMAYA H. DAUGHERTY P. La Cicero R. WRIGHT G. GREY H. HAMOND C. CASE F. HAMON J. O'NEILL W. BROSE C. MASON A. WALTERS t t t NEPONSET HOSPITAL H. BURKE J. S. CAMPBELL L. CLARK E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY C. LARSEN L. L. LEWIS L. TORRES C. SCHULTZ BRIGHTON HOSPITAL STANLEY WILUSZ (SUP) ED JOHNSTON HERBERT SWIM PAUL MADIGON (SUP) EMANUEL MOFI^NE E. J. DELLAMANO DANNY BURLISON (SUP) PETER KOGY WILLIAM PARIS GEORGE MEANEY GEORGE MIDGETT MELVIN BROWN S. Si ft BALTIMORE HOSPITAL THOMAS PHELPS GORDON RAY RAYMOND NICHOLSON MANUEL ROMERO MANUEL SANCHEZ WM. HENDERSHOT EDWARD CAIN JR. FRANK JASHOLSKI WILLIARD BANKHEAD SS. 4. SAN FRANCISCO HOSP. AARON McALPIN J. HODO JOHN KREWSEN P. KOGOY J. RUBERY You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 8th 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.) J. MINNAHAN W. PARIS S. Si 4. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL G. H. STEVENSON J. BURNS E. CARRERA A. M. BRANCONI R. G. MOSSELLER N. NEILSEN J. M. DYKES C. CARLSON E. E. CASEY J. M. BROOKS J. BUJEWICH F. NERING E. CHATARD J. B. CAUSEY C. MARTINEZ V. PLACEY A. RIOS MICHAEL PISKIN LEO RICE ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL M. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. MCDONALD C. RASMUSSEN J. KOSLUSKY i = �Friday, June 6, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG 'RBPORT, mMsexasm Pag9 fhrea Here's The Lowdown On What's Really Happening On The Lakes By PAUL WARREN DETROIT—First off, let's do their phony charges^ are killed, a little resume of the National they'll not even be on the ballot. Actually, we'd really like to Labor Relations Board hearings, By J. P. SHULER, Secreiary-Treasiirer see the NMU have a place on elections, etc., which are sched­ The last regular meeting - was ies will be centralized in one complimentary remarks made in uled to come off in the near fu­ the Wyandotte election ballot. Then, the Lajces seamen would attended by me in the Port of Port. reference to Mrs. Charles Brown ture. This is in order to keep see for themselves how badly the Galveston, Texas, where I met generally known as "Ma." The All Ports have been notified with the Director of Organization that their weekly financial re­ only statement made in Head­ you posted on what's what in the NMU would be repudiated. Do Paul Hall to work out an effici­ ports must be submitted on Sat­ quarters Report in reference to Lakes area, and let you know you think their stalling is mak­ ent program in the organizing urdays for the previous week. "Ma" Brown was that she spear­ the complete score on the results ing the Wyandotte seamen any drive and the Branches in the This has been done by several headed this Merchant Seamen's of the SIU organizational drive fonder of this bunch of phonies? Hell, no! on the Great Lakes. Texas Area. While in the Texas of the Ports and the General Every day the election is pro­ On the two Huron ships—the Area, I visited the Port of Hous­ Fund jumped up quite a bit on longed, the SIU becomes that SS Crapo and SS Boardman— ton, where the Branch was clos­ the last Headquarters Financial much stronger. Ask any Wyan­ the election date has been nar­ ed down and Agent C. Haymond Report. In keeping these finan­ dotte seaman. He'll tell you! rowed down to sometime this and Patrolman Tex Suit were cial reports dp to date, the NEW BULLETIN week. Under the terms of the transferred to the Port of Gal­ Union will always have a true In line with the many requests consent election, the company is veston. They are now operating picture of its actual finances. supposed to notify the SIU, NMU we've received for more detailed out of that Port with the elect­ The Port of Tampa has not and NLRB 24 hours prior to the'i'^formation regarding hearjngs, ed Officials in that port. submitted a financial report since ships being brought into Detroit, elections, and news of special inD. L. Parker, elected Agent in April 12. The Agent has been and then the elections will be terest to the unorganized seathe Port of Galveston, submitted notified that the reports must be held in the crew's lounge forward on the Lakes, we're issuing a letter asking for a 90 day leave submitted immediately or it will in both boats. Now, we know it first Weekly Organizational of absence. This was granted by be taken before the membership will be between the 1st and 7th. Bulletin this week. the membership at special meet­ for action. After having been in contact I Weekly Bulletin will be ings in all Ports and E. ShepAt this time, all Ports, except with the Huron seamen ever ^ feature for the balance of the pard, International Organizer for the Port of Boston, are operating Anchorage and was formerly at­ since the start of the fit out, 1 sailing season. It will be the Great Lakes District was with the number of representa­ tached to the United Seamen's can truthfully say that the SIU shipped out to the various ports placed in the Gulf Area, to act tives laid down at the 1947 Service. If either of these are is going to win this election general, circulation on the as Agent in the Port of Galves- Agents' Conference. The mem- uncomplimentary, then it is hands down. These Brothers, at Lakes. When you see an SIU ' ton and to check the entire Gulf bership in the Port of Boston "Ma" Brown's fault, and not the least the ones to whom I've talk- organizer ask him for one, if he Area and report to Headquart- has requested that the Secretary- SIU's. ed, have assured mc that they akeady given you the ers the necessary changes in Treasurer survey that Port and all want the SIU. We're taking REINSTATEMENTS that Area. as soon as the Gulf Area is their word for it. That's why ^till giving the SEAFARThe Organizers for the Texas completely straightened out, this - At a regular meeting held in we know the Huron boys are all LRS LOG the widest possible cirArea will operate out of Galves­ shall be done. because everyone New York on August 14, 1946, set for that good old SIU con- culation ton, Texas. John Ward, who has swears by the LOG as being the a resolution was accepted and tract bringing SIU conditions. CONTRACTS AND only seamen's paper on the Lakes been working out of the Port concurred in by the membership NEGOTIATIONS NLRB HEARINGS that gives them the real facts Arthur Branch, will cover Port and later concurred in on a On the morning of June .1, straight from the shoulder. HowArthur and all the Sabine Area Robert Matthews, Headquart­ coastwise basis by all Ports that from the Port of Galveston. the new Bunlletin merely ers Representative, and E. S. no man be reinstated into the an NLRB hearing on Hanna was An entire re-vamping of the Higdon, Philadelphia Port Agent SIU if he was over 12 months leld, and we should be able to supplements the LOG, and is not Tugboat structure will take place are now negotiating an agree­ in arrears in dues and/or assess­ set the date for the Hanna elec- "leant to replace it or cut down ^ts circulation. in the future and the tugboat ment with Mathiasen Tankers ments. Regardless of the fact tion in the very near future. •K, i iu Tr I If you like this newsy little records and finances will be and they report they are making that communications have been Many of the Hanna crewmem- T, ,i , u V. • ... -.1. Bulletin, drop into one of our moved to Headquarters Offices good progress and that an agree­ sent to all Ports in several in­ hers have been in contact with , ,, , i f ... halls and let the organizer or where they will be handled the ment that will be satisfactory to stances on this. Agents and Pa­ this office and, with me person- ... . . ^ \ \ 1, .... ,, , Agent know what you think of trolmen in different Ports are same as the Norfolk ferries and the membership will soon be ally, and they have all expressed t .• . R- If you don t see one of these still disregarding the member­ practically the same sentiments. other similar set-ups are. The reached with this company. .. j ., mu • .u . .1 1 .• guys, then drop us a line. Wed tugboat set-up at this time is William McLaughlin, from the ship's wishes and reinstate men That IS, they want the election will be only still in an undetermined status Canadian District of the SIU, fionv 1 to 5 years in ariears. In over in a hurry, and they're all and it will be necessary to in­ and James Hanners, A&G Jack­ some instances, the buck has rooting for the SIU. It won't be letters. augurate a completely new sys­ sonville Port Agent, iiave just been passed to the rank and file long now! Send them in to the SIU Or­ tem before this matter can be completed negotiations with the membership by electing com­ As far as either the Lake Sail- ganizer, Seafarers International straightened out so as to run geaway Lines, Ltd. They got a mittees who recommend rein­ or s Union (LSU) or the National union, 1938 Third Street, Detroit properly. closed shop agreement. The sea­ statements. Maritime Union (NMU) are con- 26, Michigan. We'll 'oe glad to This practice should be dis­ cerned, neither of these outfits The sub-branch in Corpus men received a 100% increase ^ou. Christi was closed and also the in wages in all ratings, and in continued immediately and will pose any threat to the SIU in i ^ ^ , Branch of Port Arthur. Things some in.stgnces, more than 100%. be brought to the membership's the winning of elections on the are pretty bad in the Texas The working rules are the same attention in every instance Hanna or Wilson vessels. Every || |2 OA||ll0llf'ifll1 Area and the membership in the as the P&O SS Company's as where it occurs. It is herby time either one mentions the •'•W UUIIWCIIIIUII J Port of Galveston took action to this is a passen.ger line with recommended that any further fact that they have a future pro-| straighten this ar-ea out. practically the same operations infractions of this rule by any gram for this, that or the other ||| 6VO13110 as the P&O. official of the Union be penal­ thing, the men laugh. TROUBLE MAKERS Then, they point to what the QH .llinp 1 ll Heretofore, no overtime has ized by a recall vote on the of­ SIU has already accomplished on,^"" •'•••lU IU There are a number of gas- been paid by this company and fender. Such action is some­ hounds around the Port and a now everything in e x c e s s of the Lakes this year. First, thej YORK — Nearly 1000 number of so - called Wobblies ' eight hours and all other over- times necessary because of the reduction of the week on the delegates to the 26th annual conthat were giving everyone a bad time applicable to the P&O SS fact that some of the officers of passenger boats to the current vemion of the International La­ time. This has been straighten­ Company will be paid by this j the Union disregard the mem- 44 hours. Second, the first 40 dies Garment Workers, AFL, coned out to an extent and this sit­ company. will gather in Cleveland bership's wishes and take mat­ hour contracts on the Lakes for ^ die sandboats. Ne.xt, the current on June 16. uation should be completely in ters into their own hands which, SIU negotiations with all con­ MERCHANT SEAMEN'S hand in the future. Hundreds of resolutions have ANCHORAGE if allowed to continue, would tracted companies which will been received by the ILGWU's In closing down the Branches I am in receipt of a letter from destroy the rank-and-file rule of bring a 40 hour week to all of national office here for proposals of Houston, Port Arthur and to the convention. They cover Corpus Christi, the Union will George T. "Charlie" Noble. Sec­ the SIU, which is its backbone. them. ! such issues as the current antiretary of the Merchant Seamen's WYANDOTTE ST.\TUS RECOMMENDATIONS labor drive, political action, labor Anchorage, expressing all the At the present time, the Wyan-lenity, housing and rent control, virtues and benefits of this Or­ The attornies for the SIU have dotte election is still being tern-' g^3J.aJ^^ggd annual wage, Palesganization. He requests that a been notified by the NLRB that porarily delayed by the NMU. tjne, refugees and displaced perretraction be made in reference the Sun Oil has an agreement This outfit has filed a numbei ggns, aid to democi'atic Italy and to the last Headquarters Report with the Company Union which of unfair labor charges against organizational drives, to the membership on this set­ is in effect for three years and the company in an attempt toj The ILGWU was founded 47 up. forestall the election. All years ago by nine workers, the The only thing that was said that it will be three years be- these charges have so far been ILGWU'S paper recalled editor in that report in reference to ;fore an election can be held in tossed out. and only one of them iaUy jagt ^eek. The nine reprethe Merchant Seamen's Anchor­ that company. Therefore, it is remains to be disproved. sented some 2000 men and womage is that it will bear investi­ recommended that inasmuch as In the first place, the NMU en, nearly all of them cloakgation. Acting upon George T. Marcus Hook Branch was open­ hasn't the slightest possible makers. "Today that fledgling "Charlie" Noble's request that I ed for the purpose of organizing chance of winning the Wyan- has grown to giant proportions— retract this statement, it is here­ dotte election. They couldn't to a membership of 380,000, with by retracted. Possibly this out­ Sun Oil, that the Marcus Hook even produce enough pledPf^ more than 400 locals scattered save a hell of a lot of money Hall be closed as per the motion fit will not bear investigation. cards, only 10 percent is required, over 38 states and four Canadian and will be able to operate more made from the regular meeting in order to intervene and be provinces the ILGWU today is In another part of the letter efficiently than it has in the past in New Orleans on May 7, 1947. placed on the ballot. Now, when truly an 'international' union." inasmuch as all of these aclivit-11 am asked to retract the un- '-•m ••t ' �Page Four TBB S E A F'A R E R-S •Volunteer Organizer LO G FVid87« June 6, 1947 Selling Ships To Foreign Countries Wili Destroy U.S. Menhant Marine By "CUT and RUN HANK' loans be shipped in American ly have built in foreign yards, our vessels." Merchant Marine will suffer—as With all the analyzing and ad­ Roland Strom is as hardy and In other words, our govern­ well as our seamen. vising this special Merchant Ma­ militant a Seafarer as any Union rino Advisory Committee to ment will now allow 50 per cent We have allowed the crime to man would want to meet. With or probably more of the foreig.n President Truman is accomplish­ be committed. What the coun­ a sailing record that date.s back ships to carry cargo from this ing in regards to the present and try of Panama has in her posses­ to 1911, Brother Strom's enthu­ future position of the American country. This ridiculous stab-in- sion in her ships will always be siasm hits a high pitch when he Merchant Marine, I stop to think, the-back idea or law will affect an economic weapon cutting our takes off on the subject of trade and I liope this special commit­ our merchant marine in more trade. She may never get an­ unions, particularly the one he How can we other ship from the U. S. but her tee of outstanding business men ways than one. so solidly believes in and works maintain or desire to have a large ships will always carry cargoes, (who are not connected with the for. 'That one, naturally, being merchant marine, essential to American, and foreign. Maritime Industry) will also stop the SIU. our prosperity and national de­ to think, whether they will disAs with most oldtimers, Strom BUILD FOR FUTURE regai-d the following phases fense. and providing full 'employ­ is in a position to know what a which this article is mainly based ment for all our merchant sea­ With Panama and her huge boon the Seafarers is to the men on. Whether the Congressional men. if we allow the foreign fleet of ships, the country of who sail the seas. He is able to Merchant Marine Committee or ships to take away most or even Honduras, and then England, recall ver\y easily the long hours this newly-born Advisory Com­ lialf of American manufactured Norway. Sweden, France, etc, of work, the substandard pit­ mittee of wealthy landlubbing cargoes? you can see the ridiculous picture tance .-and the unanswerable businessmen knows it and won't of how we have forgotten our abuse that was the lot of seamen OUR OWN WELFARE? regard it seriously, or it doesn't own Merchant Marine—for the not so very long ago. know it, I believe and shall bet Isn't it rather ridiculous to future. The criminal mistakes Brother Strom, who, by the ROLAND STROM a deflated American dollar that shove aside the welfare of our our government committed since way, is a Bosun, is therefore there are two outstanding threats own ships and seamen while we the end of the war will hit us— Brother Strom wa.s working to our Merchant Marine—threats qualified to compare the "then easily loan billions of dollars to and hit us hard—later on. To see and now." The top wage' and ashore—as a union man, of course which are already in ridiculous other countries, cheaply sell what happened hei-e's another working conditions won by the —when the United States enter­ e.xistence or shall soon be per­ them our laid-up raeichant ships news item: ''Except for the sale Seafarers and set forth in the ed the war. When the nation is­ manently so, if allowed. and then finally allow these for­ of Liberty ships to operators in best contracts in the maritime sued a plea for experienced mer­ The first threat is revealed eign nations to carry so much of those countries which still need industry has so changed the pic­ chant .seamen, in 1942, he rushed plainly enough in the following American car-goes in their cheap­ to replace tonnage destroyed dur­ ture that men who have since out of retirement to take his Picture the ing the war, the Maritime Com­ paragraph from a recent new.s- ly-operated ships? sailed into the Great Beyond place on deck. It was then that futui-e of the American Merchant mission plans to sell very few of paper article: "Goods purchased wouldn't recognize the water­ he joined the SIU, which was the in this country for shipment Marine! It must certainly wi;l the remaining war-built vessels front were they granted a peek embodiment of all that he abroad and financed by credits have to be a small fast fleet while to foreign countries. Applications thought a militant organization at it today. extended by the Export-Import the rest of the world will have for 670 vessels are pending. And it is men like Roland of seamen should be. Bank no longer have to be car­ bigger and busier fleets! American flag-line operators are Strom, oldtimers and youngsters Although there were many ried exclusively in American seeking 94 ships and the foreign"Labor is opposed to transfer alike, who have brought about tough trips for him in the four ships. It was learned hei'e yes­ to foreign flags," said Joseph Car­ flag lines are seeking 576 ships. that change. For they are the war years, one stands out in his terday that the Maritime Com­ son, recently appointed member Of the ships sold so far, up to salt and substance of the Sea­ mind as the one he most likely mission has interpreted the so- of the Maritime Commission, the third month of this year, 831 farers. will remember longest. It was called 'tonnage-clause' in Export"and I don't blame labor for tak­ vessels were sold for foreign reg­ Strom, whose 36 years of sail­ llie one aboard the SS John Import Bank loans to require ing that view ... I am not refer­ istry." ing took him through the two Stevens which had been assigned that only 50 per cent of the ex­ ring to high wages or respectable For e.xample, here's what one World Wars, is an ardent Sea­ to carry 700 troops from Norfolk ports financed by United States living conditions—I believe pas­ foreign country is doing, and if farer. He worked diligently and to a Mediterranean port. government credits need be car­ sionately in both. American sea­ we don't halt the practice, it will effectively for the SIU in the im­ ried in American bottoms. The men, like all our citizenry, arc En route, the Stevens became be regrettable later on. "The new portant Isthmian campaign, dur­ Maritime Commission made this ing which he sailed on three of separated from the convoy of India Shipping Line has a fleet interpretation some time ago in that company's vessels: the Po­ seven ships. Their position, to of eight modern vessels, (all Victhe case of Italy and has recent­ say the least, was a bit pre­ land Victory, Sea Triton and Sea toi-ys), six of which were pur­ carious. For despite a congres­ ly informed Norwegian authori­ chased in this country. The gov­ Fiddler. sional ruling that no ammunition ties that they are at liberty to ernment of India, it is pointed ISTHMIAN VOLUNTEER ships could carry troops, "we had draw on their $50,000,000 Exportout, is anxious that no longer Import Bank credit so long as a both," Strom recalled. shall the entire export and im­ His enthusiasm is, perhaps, 50-50 balance is maintained be­ port trade of India be cai-ried in best expre.ssed by his own words, ATTACKED BY PLANES tween American and foreign-flag foreign bottoms." which were given in testimony As the Stevens approached ships. at the recent National Labor Re­ Well, if the government of In­ "The policy that required use lations Board hearings, where he Gran, Strom continued, 21 escorts dia does such a thing, for the of American tonnage in shipping came out from Gibraltar to con­ was an important witness. welfare of her own ships, sea­ abroad goods purchased here was • When the NMU's attorney quc.s- voy them into the African port. men, shipping operators and never considered a 100 per cent tioned Strom as to his activities The troops were disembarked in other business corporations, then prohibition on the export of this aboard the Isthmian ships, it was the early morning and the Ste­ what will prevent other coun­ merchandise in foreign bottoms. revealed that the doughty SIU vens pulled out to wait and take tries from doing same? It was stipulated that American entitled to economic and work­ Bosun had been doing voluntary its station in the 80-ship convoy. ships had to be physically avail­ ing conditions in keeping with It is only natural to think that organizational work. Suddenly out of the haze, two able, an exception to the general the United States will be the last American standards of living, but "And why not?" asked Strom advance enemy planes appeared. rule which is understood to have at the same time they must know country to wake up when the at the hearing. "I do not see anj*- They were heading for the con­ crime in that. I have been ri voy, followed by waves of tor­ frequently permitted use of for­ they are expected to produce other nations have their desired union man since 1914, which 1 pedo and bomber planes, flying eign ships. The American ship­ with an efficiency that has made fleets. What we do now to pre­ ping industry while insisting that American's industrial output able serve and strengthen our own have proof of right here." under cover of smoke screen. loans made by this government to meet almost any world com­ Merchant Marine will either save The militant Seafarer's union "It was 9:10 a. m. and I was at should be utilized partly to build petition." or ruin it in the next five or ten days started in 1914, when he the wheel," Brother Strom point­ up the country's mei'chant ma­ years. joined the National Seamen's Here's a man on the Maritime ed out. rine, has never been adamant and Firemen's Union of Great Today, we have an imperfect Commission who has realized "As the planes zoomed over that all merchandise purchased in what the future holds for our balance of minds, ideas, laws and Britain and Ireland. It was as a member of that union that he the Stevens, our guns blazed this country through foreign merchant marine if we allow the plans affecting or concerning the away. "We shot down two, and served during World War I. foreign ships too much of the American Merchant Marine. po.s3ibly accounted for a third." trade which we should keep for While there are some fine things being accomplished or planned our own ships and men. "And not a one of the 80 ships in several phases of the Mer­ was lost," the Bosun said with Our second threat is a per­ chant Marine there are a few Each man who makes a a smile. manent one, it seems. From the other things being allowed to de­ When you are in Texas donation to the LOG should "You can imagine the laugh we end of the war the government stroy or weaken it in slow-death ports be sure that all crew receive a receipt in return. got the next morning," he con­ rushed into selling as many of fashion. replacements sent aboard If the Union official to whom tinued, "when our radio picked our laid-up ships as they could to your vessels are shipped from a contribution is given does Let's not fall asleep again. All up 'Dirty Gertie from Bizerte,' the foreign nations, never realiz­ the Galveston Hall. This is not make out a receipt for phases, especially the two which broadcasting over the Nazi radio ing however, that our presently the only port open in Texas the money, call this to the were revealed in this article, in­ that 24 ships of the convoy were prosperous fleet will eventually at present. Anyone coming attention of the Secretarysunk or burning." decrease when all the world's volved in our Mei-chant Marine on board as a crew replace­ Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, im­ ships stai't importing and export­ should be immediately analyzed ment who has not been ship­ Queried as to his plans for the mediately. ing cargoes. Shipbuilding is in­ (not only for the present but also futuie, the rugged oldtimer re­ ped from the Galveston Hall Send the name of the of­ creasing in the world. In five for the future) and swiftly re­ plied—as if the answer .should is to be classed as a fink. ficial and the name of the years or sooner the foreign na­ paired for the benefit of the Mar­ have been obvious: Protect your jobs! Protect port in which the occurance tions will have stopped our Mer­ itime Industry, the merchant "I'm going to keep on sailing, your Union! Keep the finks took place to the New York seamen threatened with eventual chant Marine. of course. I was born for the sea off the ships we fought so Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New unemployment and the prosperity With the ships we sold them of all American businesses and and I guess I'll just keep on go­ hard to bring under contract! York 4, N. Y. ing th.ut way." and the ships they shall gradual- national employment. m ATTENTION! Attention Members �r Friday, June G, 1947 TH E SEAFARERS L lO G Page Five Long Atlantic Ocean Voyage It's not all work on a ship these days—at least not if you have an SIU contract to protect you. These SS Madaket crew­ men take time out for a little relaxation. Anyway, as pictures at the bottom of the page prove, there wasn't much work for the men to do since the First Mate tried to do everything himself. This little girl, one of the passengers, was an in­ stant hit with the Seafarers crew. All waited to have their pictures taken with her, and. these .men,;above were successful. Others of the passengers also rni^e a hit with the crew, as the pictures on the right will readily prove. ine .aoove is an excellent picture ot a tan'rer, passed by the •that the vessels were headed in opposite directions, the pitch of waves, and distance between the two ships, this is one of the best the LOG has ever printed. Don't know the nam; of the tanker, or picture. The rolls of film were brought into the LOG office by N. Gonzales, who made the ship. Another "little" girl who made friends among the crewmembers is pictured above. When the pictures . appearing on. this-page were handed in to the LOG, one of the Seafarers made sure to remark that the pictures did not do the young lady justice. Well, she can't be much better looking. Hard at work is this Frist Mate, unaware ihat his picture is being taken for all to see. According to members of the crew, the Mate heaved-ho with a vigor, but wasn't much better than the newest OS. Madaket at sea. Considering the Madaket as she rode the "crossing paths" pictures that of the Seafarer who took the Y. Stewards Patrolman Ray "Getting Into The Act" could very well be the title of this picture. That's the way it always is—a pretty girl appears on the scene and everything comes to a halt while all the males look and sigh. This pic­ ture is a little blurred, probably because the camerama.n was blinded by the young lady's beauty. Here's another view of that hard working Mate. It seems that no matter how vigorously he worked, he never took off his high pressure cap. That was about the only thing that marked him as an officer. But the Male wasn't the only one who worked. Here is a crcwmember on his way to his post. Sorry, no pictures of him actually working. �THE Page Six BRITISH BROTHERS When a couple of Briiish ships came info New York harbor, the crewmembers decided lo come up to the SIU Hall for a looksee. They were conducted on a tour of the building, and then they were brought up to the LOG office for a picture. Another picture of the second crew appears on page—. SEAFARERS Friday. June £. 1947 LOG Alien Seamen, Once War Heroes, Rewarded By Prewar Restrictions (CottfimieJ from Page I) shall be citzens of the United States, native-born or com­ pletely naturalized. Passenger vessels granted subsidies (b) For a period of one year after the effective date of this chapter upon each departure from the United States of a passenger vessel in respect of which a construction or op­ eration subsidy has been grant­ ed, all licensed officers shall be citizens of the United States as defined above, and no less than 80 per centum of the crew shall be citizens of the United States, native-born or completely nat­ uralized, and thereafter the percentage of citizens as de- fined above, shall be increased 5 per centum per annum until 90 F^r centum of the crew . . . shall be citizens of the United States, native-born or com­ pletely naturalized. Aliens; conditions of em­ ployment (c) Anj- member of the crew, not required by this section to be a citizen of the United States, may be an alien only if he is in possession of a valid declaration or intention to be­ come a citizen of the United States, or other evidence of legal admission to the United States for permanent residence. Such alien, as defined above, may be employed only in tlie Stewards Department on pas­ senger vessels. Insofar as alien seamen wlio are members of the Seafarers International Union are con­ cerned there appears to be no cause for alarm at this moment. This department has been checking into the implications of this new ruling on our alien Brothers and, on the basis of in! complete information available at press time, the number of SlU-contracted ships involved may be negligible. GOVT. REPUDIATION "It's sure a shipshape set-up," these British seamen declared after going all over the SIU New York Hall, The men are members of the British National Union of Seamen and so they know what a union should be like. According to them, the fame of the SIU has spread all over the world. "Wherever we go," they said, "the SIU is well known, and the LOG is the favorite seaman's paper. During your General Strike, we were all with you. and if you button up Panamanian ships, we're sure that seamen all over the world will support the SIU." Nevertheless, it is most regretable that the government, which clamored for the help of aliens when its existence was threaten­ ed, should now repudiate these very same men who responded to the call and served so hero­ ically. This reversion to the prewar regulations is, bluntly, a slap in the face to every alien seamen who went down on an American ship. Under the wartime waivers es­ tablished April 3, 1943, as a re­ sult of the extreme manpower shortage, aliens were permitted to fill up to 50 per cent of the unlicensed posts on American vessels. The lifting of the waiver June 1 was touched off by President Real Brotherhood Found In Men Who Go To Sea By "STEAMBOAT" O'DOYLE We all know that the SIU mot­ to is "The Brotherhood of the Sea," but how many of us ever stop to think just what this means? The SIU is more than a mere union for bettering conditions. Unlike shoreside unions, it is also a fraternal organization, a lodge, a brotherhood. We of the SIU are not merely fellov/ workers, but friends and shipmates. We have not only worked to­ gether, we have lived together, got drunk together, and even faced death together. Every one of us has hundreds of old shipmates with whom we share all kinds of memories— memories of laughs and tears met with in the most remote parts of the world. Whenever you meet a Seafar­ er, you meet a buddy ready to give you a helping hand. There is no price ou can set on com­ radeship of this kind. Go sit in a corner of the Hall sometime, watch the crowd awhile, and you will see guys suddenly clasp each other's hands, their faces light up in""a sudden grin as they shout greet­ ings and cusswords at each other in laughing voices. Two old shipmates have met up with each other again after put­ ting thousands of miles of blue water between themselves. It is like running into a long lost brother. Down to the ginmill they go, to drink a beer and reminisce of Evangeline Sails On Regular Bermuda Run The .SS Evangeline, Eastern Steamship Lines Company, will sail from New York tom'orrow, June 7, on her regular run to Bermuda, Nassau and the Ba­ hamas. Other departures from New York are scheduled for June 18 and 28, and at approx­ imately 10-day intervals through­ out the summer months. Among the Evangeline crew is Fred Hart, former Stewards De­ partment Patrolman in New York. rollicking nights in faraway ports, to lecall an old ship or a missing buddy. Is there any bet­ ter feeling than this to relive for a moment a joke, or a close call, with an old friend? Shore dwellers can know noth­ ing of this feeling of brotherhood, of one for all and all for one. The hectic life of the land keeps them too busy fighting each other and working against each other. We of the sea, however, work together and fight together all the time against our commo.n foes whoever they may be. We remember the miserable and vicious conditions- of ship iife before we got together and licked them together. We re­ member the fascist beast that roamed the sea, making it a thing not of freedom, but of ter­ ror. Who among us has not lost a shipmate or a pal in the war at sea, the war we fought together and helped win together. Yes, we of the SIU are com­ rades in all things. Sometimes you know just what this means in the solemn moment when a whole meeting stands hushed in memory of our brothers lost at sea. A FRIEND, INDEED Or perhaps it is only in some waterfront ginmill when, as the chairs are swinging and the bot­ tles go flying through the air, suddenly see a fellow Seafarer grinning at you from across the room and you know that you are not fighting alone. All through the ages there has been a feeling of deep fellowship among the men who share the hard lonely life of the sea. There is .something about the sea that draws her sons together. Perhaps it is because only they have fought her terrible storms when she is in an evil mood, and only they have been rocked in her gentle arms when, change­ able as a woman, she again grows quiet and calm. Oldtimer, youngster Nor­ wegian, Greek, American—yes, even NMUer and Seafarer, we are all drawn together in a bond of friendship—"The Brotherhood of the Sea," that is what our SIU motto means. Truman when he signed on Dec. 31. 1946, his declaration maiking the end of hostilities. The return to the more re­ strictive employment of alien .•<eamcn was originally .scheduled for March 31 last, but vigorous protests were launched in Wash­ ington by such seamen's repre­ sentatives as President H a r r y Lundebcrg and Vice-President Morris Weisberger of the SIU, both of whom appeared in per­ son. As a result of their efforts an extension of the waiver was granted until June 1. While in Wa.shington Brothers Lundeberg and Weisberger also brought pressure to bear in an effort to obtain citizenship for alien seamen who had served during the war. Action on this pi-oposed legislation is still pend­ ing. UNFAIR RESTRICTION As for the restrictions again placed on alien seamen this week, we wish to point out it des not mean they can no longer sail. It merely restricts the num­ ber of aliens American ships may carry in her crew. But at the same time, we must add that it is entirely likely that a much greater number of ships may be subsidized in the future, thus leaving fewer jobs avail­ able to alien seamen. In view of the regulations just invoked, and of the possibility of an increased scope of subsi­ dization, we must repeat what we have been urging for t hepast many months. And that is the urgent advisability for all alien seamen to immediately make every effort to gain legal entry into the United States, and to take steps to procure their first citizenship papers, in every case possible. As the situation stands at pres­ ent this is about the only way these men can free themselves of the restrictive measures of this peacetime law. The Special Service Depart­ ment is still accumulating data in order to determine the net ef­ fect of this change in regula­ tions on alien seamen within our oiganization. As soon as our compilation is complete, this in­ formation will be released to the membeiship through the.se columns. Huron Election Held This Week DETROIT—Dated May 23, the SIU recently received a letter from the Huron Transportation Company noti.f/ying the Union that the two Huron ships would be brought into Detroit for the election some time between June 1 and June 7. According to the .stipulation of the consent election on Huron, agreed to by the SIU, NMU and the company, the election was to be held between May 15 and June 11. Now, the SIU has been noti­ fied of the latest date on this election. Whenever the two Huron ships are brought into Detroit, the SIU is to be notified 24 hours in ad­ vance of the actual election time. This is in order that the observer will have sufficient time to ad­ just his schedule accordingly. �Friday, June 6. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven New Geivesten ^ Branch Officials inherit A Fouled-Up Situation By EARL SHEPPARD GALVESTON — Most of you fellows are aware that I assum­ ed office here as Galveston Port Agent Monday May 26, 1947 as pei" the membership concurring i n Secretary - Treasurer J. P. Shuler's report. The former Officials of this Port were, in my opinion, abso­ lutely non - cooperative in the matter of turning over the tJnion's funds and property in this branch. This opinion is substansiated by the three men auditing committee elected for the purpose of taking inventory who made special note of the fact. This was regrettable inasmuch as the Union was the loser in this matter.* The committee also pointed out that there were sev­ eral differences in the number of dues receipts supposed to be on hand in the branch. This too was pointed out by the commit­ tee and headquarters instructed to take action on same. You will note from the read­ ing of last week's financial re­ port that there were a number of bills paid. These consist most- V'HAi/e To TO THG WOBBlies To SHIP oVTfA / IV -rtJiC dAJ i f noitcn'r/ I BEkJAJfi / I' Tom s;(f; Two vessels paid <iff here since last meeting. They were the SS Signal Hills, a Pacific Tanker, and the SS J. D. Ross, a Waterman bucket. All the beefs on these ships were squar­ ed away to the satisfaction of the crews, A beef regarding the skipper of the Tanker as well as the Chief Steward is still pending. The FBI is holding both of them regarding a bunch of missing ship's gear. The Patrolman pulled three men's permits on the S.ignal Hills for performing and con­ duct unbecoming a Union man. The days of performing and gashounds raising hell around this Port has come to an end. This Union is too big and too damned good to tolerate some of these Union wreckers any more. There are a couple of these people coming up on charges tonight. The committee elected to handle their cases will bear in mind that if these characters are allowed to tear down this Union then eventually we will all be screwed up. Bear down on them and bear down hard. Shipping should continue fair in this Port and there are sever­ al scows expected in the next few days. The new Officials ask that all of you fellows co-operate in put­ ting Texas back on the map of the SIU. Shipping Slows Down In Toledo NO NEWS ? ? But For The Time Being Only Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: NEW ORLEANS DULUTH MOBILE NORFOLK SAN FRANCISCO JACKSONVILLE MARCUS HOOK MONTREAL SAN JUAN BALTIMORE SAVANNAH CLEVELAND The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due. etc., is the Monday preceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that dale, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. Shipping Very Good In Philly; Rumor Has Regular Run For Port ly of bills which were allowed to accumulate over a period of By E. S. HIGDON time. There are still some more of these back bills left and we PHILADELPHIA — 1 see by like Kephart. We should make hope we can have enough in­ one of the Philly newspaper sure that we let them know just come to square them a w a y that the cost of living has gone how we feel about labor. without having to send to head­ up in the Philadelphia area. Ac­ "Nuff o' that . . . The master quarters for money to do so. cording to this article, since 1939 of the Newhall Hills tanker. This branch has been a financial the cost has soared to the unbe­ Captain Robert E. Lenahan, said drain on the Union long enough. lievable height of 105 percent. 1 that an unidentified vessel "dis­ The Union in this area has wonder if the Industrialists ever appeared in the flames and not been in too healthy a con­ take time out to read this kind smoke" after colliding with his dition. Up until recently repre­ of an item. ship in the fog-bound English sentatives of the Merchant Ma­ It looks like business is start­ Channel about a week ago. One riners Club were allowed to so­ ing to boom again in the City local Brother, Seaman Edward licit membership in the Hall. of Brotherly Love. Shipping is Besides this, SIU members were very good, and we are very short told that to ship from the SIU of good old ABs. It has been Hall a fellow should join the rumored around in Sonia's Em­ IWW. porium, in booth one in rear of the beer, that a certain company BOTH VIOLATIONS Both of these things were and with two ships a week is going are a direct violation of SIU to make Philly its home port. •Well, if this gas is real, that policy. In the future any man will be right in line for some of pulling either of these two ca­ the natives and will be quite a pers will have charges placed help to the Port, against him. In the meantime, The Labor Unions here in any one who has been sold Philly are becoming union-mind­ membership u n d e r these pre­ ed. I under'+and that Harristenses in either of these two or­ Bolehala, of Bridgeport, a suburb ganizations is to call it to the burg, Pa., is flooded with letters of here, was killed in' the ex­ of protest from union men from attention of the Port Officials. plosion. There arc several more mat­ all crafts protesting the phony Guess this is all for now . . . ters in the Branch which will Kephart Bill to close all Union but if you want to ship hop need considerable work before hiring halls, I guess by now our down to Philly and we will take esteemed legislators are con­ being cleared up. Former Pa­ care of you. fronted with the real facts, that trolman Ted Cummings disap­ the rank and file members of peared from the Port the same time as did all the local Tugboat craft Unions and not only the of­ ficials, as they thought, want to financial records. have their own union hiring At the same time, numerous All applications for SIU halls. As previously stated, these receipts, money, etc., of the Ca­ burial benefits must be mailed nadian district of the SIU, which Representatives and Senators in to: according to former Agent Park­ Harrisburg were under the JOSEPH VOLPIAN er were in the hands of Cum­ wrong impression. Special Services Dept. TIME TO WAKE UP mings, also walked off. Head­ Seafarers Intl. Union 1 have been giving this quite quarters has notified all ports 51 Beaver Street that Cummings is not to be al­ a lot of thought lately. We of New York 4. N. Y. lowed to ship until these mat­ the labor movement must be asleep to vote for a character ters ar: clarified. Attention Agents By JOE SHIMA TOLEDO—Things remain the speech, and all of the privileges same here in regard to shipping, guaranteed under the Bill of It's slow in our Hall and at the'Rights, will be for all Lakes seaLSA hall, too. ' men. We still have the u.sual run of questions regarding membeiship in the SIU, and asking our opin­ ion if shipping will pick up. The first about the SIU is easy to answer, but the second is a little more difficult. We'je not enough of a prophet to predict whether shipping in Toledo will pick up or not. It depends on many things. The Conneaut of the Wyandotte Transportation Company was in last week, and she seems to be in tip top condition as far as the SIU is concerned, just like the other three Wyandotte ships. A couple of men off an Interlake ship dropped into the hall. They were fired off one of these PM scows for talking union. Of course, the company used the usual smoke screen, and blamed it on to some other reason. Only when you are a member of the SIU, with an SIU contract giving you SIU conditions and protection will you be secure in your job and secure in the know­ ledge that the strength of the SIU, of the AFL Maritime Trades Department and 8 million AFD Brotheis is behind you! Port Houston Closes As SIU Moves To End Needless Spending By CHARLES HAYMOND HOUSTON—The SIU Hall m this poit closed on May 24. Its closing was preceded by the shuttering of the Halls in Port Arthur and Corpus Christi. All business formerly transacted in JOB SECURITY the Ihrt e ports will now be hand­ This is something that's going led from Galveston. to be a thing of the past one of The main reason for these these days. Soon, when the en­ tire Lakes is united under the moves was purely economical. SIU banner, job security will For a long time these Texas ports drain on mean something. Lakes seamen have been a financial will then be able to speak their the Union, and the Agents Conminds freely, without fear of any ti renre recommended that steps be taken to economize in all company coercion. phases of the Union's apparatus. WhencN'er one of these open shop outfits pulls a fast one, just This was concurred in by the as was pulled on its PM ship, membership in all ports, and all it makes the unorganized Lakes Agents and other officials of the seamen realize how much they Seafarers International Union need the protection and securiiy should abide b\- the decisions of of an SIU contract. the membership. Otherwise they The day is fast approaching on do not deserve to be officials of the Lakes when freedom of the SIU. NMD Chances Are Slim Indeed In The NLRB Elections In Huron By SPENCER FOLEY ALPENA—Things have been a little quiet in this fair city for the past week or so. But. I have been getting many questions tossed at me from the numerous men contacted aboard the ships of the Huron and Wyandotte Transportation Companies. The Number One question is, of course, "When is the election going to be held on our ships so that we can vote for the SIU?" This is an easy one to answer for the Huron seamen, because this election is being held during the week that this article goes to press, more specifically, be­ tween June 1 and 7. If the election comes off before this issue of the LOG goes to press, it will be carried some place else in this issue. If not, the article telling of the Huron election results will be in next week's LOG. More than 95 per cent of the Huron seamen have indicated that they are voting for the SIU. So, just like Brother Paul War­ ren. Til be greatly surprised If the NMU secures more than a couple of votes, if that. WYANDOTTE STALL As for the Wyandotte election, the NMU cannoL succeed in stalling this election much longer. The NLRB should dispose of the NMU's phony charges some time this week. Then, we can have the election that all Wyandotte seamen are waiting for. Paul Warren, down in Detroit, thought that he was going out on a limb when he predicted that the SIU would win more than 95 per cent of the Wyandotte votes. Yours truly will go Paul one bet­ ter. We'll predict that the NMU doesn't even secure one vote off the Wyandotte ships! This is based on what Wyan­ dotte men have told me in the past few weeks. They're all for the Seafarers International Un­ ion, AFL, and they're voting to a man for the SIU as the Union of their choice! �THE Page Eighi Dispatcher Writes About Jobs And Membersbip For Newcomers By PAUL GONSORCHIK SEAFARERS Friday. June 6. 1947 LOG Attention Members Each man who makes a donation to the LOG should receive a receipt in return. If the Union official to whom a contribution is given does not make out a receipt for the money, call this to the attention of the SecretaryTreasurer. J. P. Shuler. im­ mediately. Send the name of the of­ ficial and the name of the port in which the occurence took place to the New York HalL 51 Beaver Street, New York 4. N. Y. Boston Shipping Cleans Out Hall; Manpower Shortage Is Critical By JOHN MOGAN The Evangeline finally got BOSTON — Business was slow (Editor's Note: To clear up Hall for a replacement. the past week, with the SUP doing away from here, though a bit misunderstandings end misin­ This is a violation of the rule terpretations of the shipping as when a man leaves a ship for better than the SIU in the New short in the Engine and Deck rtiles, a short scries of articles a vacation he is not to make ar­ England area. Shipping, on the departments. Now the Yarmouth concerning the rules that come rangements with the ship's of­ other hand, was at an all-time will start getting ready and we in for the most discussion and ficers for the holding of his job high. Jobs of all kinds were on arc hopeful that a full crew may trouble hrs been prepared by until he returns. the board all week, plenty of be obtained for this one. Paul Gonsorchik, Chief Dis­ These men, after their vacation, permits were necessarily issued, The tanker business up this patcher. New York Branch.) head back to the same job withand still ships left the poit way is very good, with two or .u ... out the Union having any knowshort-handed. Many jobs phoned throe paying off and crewing up !lled^^ of the job being vacant for into New York also were still weekly. The SS Smoky Hills was weeks I've been concentrating on this period. open at week's end. The man­ tnc last one to pay off in Port­ the shipping rules and the many This, my brother members, is power situation is getting more land, after a five-months' trip. difficulties that arise over their what is known as shipping off critical all the time. This ship was manned entirely interpretation. the dock. Even though you were by SUP members, and although The points I want to stress this on the ship before you went on e\-erything was finally straight­ week are not part of the ship­ vacation, you cannot go back ened out in good style, a hectic ping rule^ but they ore Dispatch-1 time was had by all before all ers problems and so I want to disputes were settled. Patrolman pass along the straight dope and violationg this rule. Sweeney picked up one book to clear them up. Another matter which is caus­ forward to SUP Headquarters, as One of them pertains to stew­ ing some headaches, is the prac­ By SONNY SIMMONS the gang was insistent that this ardess jobs on SIU contracted tice of a few members to take TAMPA—We have more jobs will be starting another ship this man not be allowed to ship again ships. Lately some members jobs off the board during the have suggested that their sweet­ hourly call just to hold for a appearing on the board than men season, and with what we al­ until he had squared away with hearts, sisters, and aunts try for ahort time until their friends to fill them. Right now there are ready have, that will make us the SUP. The beef? The usual stewardess jobs with the SIU. come down to the Hall to claim two or three Ordinary Seamen ! just about the busiest port in thing—a performer and a bully. and Messmen on the beach, but the Gulf, At the present moment there them. Speaking of performers, the we seldom have that situation are not enough of these jobs to LOG has been printing plenty SS FLORIDA IN POOR UNIONISM with rated men in the Deck and go around for the applicants. of warnings recently, but appar­ There is nothing in the ship­ The Patrolman makes the SS ently these guys either can't or There are many regular steward- ping rules which prevents this, Engine Departments. Florida this week, and that will don't read. We are having the best weeks, but it is very poor unionism. be good for the Poi I's income. SORR'I' 3OT yot/ By doing this they are depriving financially, that the Port has Still no replacements on the ABOUT ECONOMY CWW'T SHIP ogf- other members of taking jobs ever known. On our last finan­ Lollypop. and all hands seem HA\fB At the last regular meeting, in which perhaps they were anx­ cial report we managed to remit verv well satisfieci with the .letA WiPggs over $500.00 to the General connection with the Secretaryiously await'ng. ' icoRseFund, something that Tampa has Treasurer's report, and. specific­ This is especially injurious to There is a rumor current of ally, the section knocking the not been able to do before. the alien members of the Union. the Florida going into dry-dock port of Boston for not living up These men, now shackled with At the present time we have this summer. If that happens, to the policies laid down by the government restrictions, can only the SS Nampa Victory and the she will probably go to Norfolk. Agents' Conference in regard to sail foreign, so be considerate SS Columbia Victory in here for It sure would be a great help if economies, the motion w'as caiand don't deprive them of the she went, in here, but right now ried to instruct the Secretaryopportunity to take a ship. it looks doubtful. Treasurer to visit this area and I've mentioned a lot of niles Attorney General Tom Watson survey the Now England situa­ and violations, and I'm afraid I'm was in New Orleans and made a tion insofar as the SIU is con­ ^ going to be thought of as a sore­ esses waiting around for jobs, i speech before some group there. cerned. with most of them having ATS head. I hope this isn't true as I He claimed that the Florida hate to worry about rules and The local membership dc vn't service from the war. Closed Shop law was a great go for this business of people regulations just as much as any­ NO DISAPPOINTMENTS success. one. who have never been north of Until they all get placed aboard j But more than anything, Fm In this town it's hard to tell New York recommending arbi­ ships, there'll not be any jobs for a bigger and better SIU and anything yet. Anyone who wants trarily the number of Patrolmen available tor newcomers. So, to the only way we can accomplish to can belongs to a union, and necessary to cover the New Eng­ avoid any false hopes and dis- ^ this is through cooperation and a union members are the only land coastline. appointments, don't encourage little respect for the other guy. ones making a living: the aver­ At the Agents' Conference it your female friends or relatives j The rules are simple and they Waterman, and the SS Half Knot age wage here is $25.00 a week. was understood that we were to look to a summer job on a are rules we ourselves adopted, for Bull. Three more Waterman SORRY NOW operating with one less man than ship' so with just a little consideration ships are due in soon, and Bull The people who listened to during 1946, and that we would A lot of Seafarers have been for our brothers we can make has three phosphate ships Wat.son are now crying the blues go along without, replating him. bringing new men to the Hall Hfg aboard ship and in the Un- scheduled for early arrival. This has been done. However, it for the purpose of getting them ion Hall a hell of a lot easier. It is now pretty sure that P&O and the people who supported a ship and membership in the him are sitting back to think seems that this recommendation Union. As a general rule the SIU things over. The next line of did not get into the official min­ IS not aiding new men to get their goods he tries to sell will be utes of the Conference. There­ seamen's papers unless the man carefully examined by the voters fore, the sooner J. P. Shuler gets up this way for a look-around, is a veteran of the armed forces. in this state. the sooner he will be convinced. Men brought to the Union for The very fact that only union membership, even though they •We are getting into the sum­ [workers are making even a de­ may be ex-memb'=-rs of the serv-j MAURICE DOLE mer season now, when all the cent wage has started workers excursion boats will start run­ ice, are always given a screening.. ASHTABULA—Activities keep. It's in the ^ . , --well-known bag! thinking—No Union, No Money. ning. There are plenty of jobs At the New York Hall, Brother ^ Ashtabula hum- The SIU has set it's 1947 goal as That's right, and the sooner Siekmann handles al newcomers ,he securing of a 40-hour week more people realize it, the bet­ and learns their qualifications. , as the blU s drive to,^^^ tankers, auto carriers, ter off they will be. Sometimes when the prospec- organize all of the uriorganized freighters and sandboats. tive member is not up to snuff, seamen on the Great Lakes moves he has to be turned away. It is mto high gear. stopping until all SIU conunfortunate, but IS is necessary. The 40-hour week which the fracted ships are operating under so don't get hot under the collar SIU just won on the sandboats 40.honr 40-hour contracts, contracts, Reports have been coming if this happens to your buddy. was an eye-opener for a number ^ Unorganized seamen on the in citing dirty deals given Brother Siekmann knows what of unorganized Lakes seamen. Lakes should take a leaf out of seamen by several laundries, he is doing and is protecting the V/hile the NMU and the LSU Lake operators book. These which profess to "cater to present union membership. have been mouthing wild prom- birds, rich and powerful as they men of the sea." RARELY VIOLATED rses of what they are going to gj-e, have seen the need for a Roland Velasco of the SS I couldn't wind up this article get for the seamen some distant union these many years. Yes, Arch Hopkins reports that without pointing up at least one time in the future, the SIU is fhe Lakes operators have their Ungar's Laundry of St. John, shipping rule which is being vio- going out without any ballyhoo' union the LCA! And, they have N. B., picks up laundry lated. This rule is a little out pfiOnd winning the best conditions „ stooge outfit that they drag out aboard ships in that port, the ordinary, and violations are and contracts on the Lakes, j of the closest every time the SIU with these outfits for the yo;mgwith the promise that it will not usually intentional. Facts, not promises, are what the begins to get close—the LSU! er men, for they get invaluable returned by the weekend. Shipping Rule 34 states: ". . . . Lakes seamen want to see. If the.se birds realize the need training for future jobs on SIU The promise is never lived Men coming ashore on vacation Well, they're really seeing ' of a union, it's high time that all off-shore ships. This year we up to, shall register at the bottom of plenty of facts now. First, it Lakes seamen realized the same will have one additional ship in the shipping list and ship out in was the 44-hour week on the thing. Join the SIU today, drive "They don't say in which the excursion business, and pos­ their regular turn." year it will be returned," says passenger boats. Next, it was the tfie open shop operators off the sibly two. Occasionally members have 40-hour week on the sandboats. Lakes, and win SIU security and Velasco, warning Seafarers Well, so much for this week— to keep their laundry out of made arrangements with the I And, within the next couple of protection, as well as SIU wages and a.s a parting thought, rated Ungar's hands. Chief Engineer or Chief Mate to' weeks, the SIU will win the 40-j and conditions for all Lakes seamen can go to work here any take a week off and not call the'hour week on the bulk freighters, men! time. Tampa Reports It Has More Jobs Than Seamen To Fill Them All Winning Of The 40 Hour Week An Eye-Opener To Lakes Seamen Keep Yeur Shirt On •ft: �Friday, June 6, 1947 THE Influx Of Tankers, Freighters Keeps Port New York Very Busy SEAFARERS LOG Milwaukee ILA Leader Chicago May Be Home For Two More Ships, Says Scuttlebutt By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—New York dur­ ing the past week has been a very active port with all of us being kept busy, however, noth­ ing sensational can be reported —just hard work. With a good crop of tankers and dry cargo vessels in port we are continuing our call for rated meji. We can use rated men in the Black Gang badly, so you Oilers and Firemen come on down and take a look at the board on the second deck. I'm sure there is something up there that will interest the most dis­ criminating Engine Department man in the Union. By HERB JANSEN men are getting a taste of good weather. For the past several weeks what with all the rain they have been complaining of the need for foul weather gear in­ cluding the hip boots. Now with Old Sol beaming down on the sons of Gotham they can put away their fountain pens that write under water. On the organizing front the door is still open for all men who want to lend a hand in the or­ ganizing drive. As long as an un­ organized ship plies the seas there will always be a job waiting for men who want to run the SIU banner up the flag halyard. TAKE 'EM OUT Occasionally I see a Patrolman around the Hall, but for the most Although the companies still part they are out in the wilds ofjto be organized are small, having Brooklyn or over in Jersey put-'only a ship or two this shouldn't ling all in order aboard the ships discourage volunteei-s m the that hit this area. BLUE SKIES With the hot weather finally hitting the big town the Patrol- AH, A PATROLMAN^ £OT »S A , eusv oA4e! Canadian Seamen Come To SIU For Helping Hand By ROBERT DODD BUFFALO — Having contacted several ships under the Canadian flag in this port recently, it can be said that Canadian seamen are truly receptive to the SIU. They are really interested in the ex­ panded activities of the Canadian District of the Seafarers. least. It's true that they don't have fleets like Isthmian, but many of these companies that had only a ship or two when we signed contracts now are adding several more to their fleets. One of these paying a divi­ These Brothers of ours from dend is the Bloomfield Steamacross the border are worked all'ship Company which was recentsorts of hours with no overtime, ^ly organized and signed up by and have had lousy working and! the SIU. This week the comliving conditions aboard their! pany added another ship to their ships for years. These men are string and it is being crewed up hoping to have their sub-stand- at the moment here in New York. ard conditions rectified and The jobs now being taken by brought up on a par with U. S. SIU members aboard this ship seamen. The only way they can were made possible by volunteer do this is through the SIU-AFL. organizers who wept out and. did For years, outside of the Cana­ a job for the Union. That's the dian SIU on the Canadian West way it is with all SIU ships, so Coast, they have only had the don't hesitate to volunteer and phony Moscow-dictated Canadian insure future jobs for yourself Seamens Union. Now, the SIU and your union brothers. The Evangeline, East e r n, has expanded it's Canadian Dis­ trict, and is covering the East which had a bit of hard luck in Coast and Great Lakes as well the Cape God Canal last week should be out of the Jersey ship­ as the West Coast. yard early next week. Wliile COMPARISON PROVES she is in drydock getting patched Canadian seamen are now hav­ up the Union is seeing to it that ing an opportunity to compare certain repairs are made that their 56-hour week with the Sea­ were recommended bj' th# crew. farers 44 and 40-hour week on WORD OF CAUTION the passenger boats and sandQuite awhile ago I cautioned boats respectively. Soon, all SIU men against breaking into the bulk freighters will be under ship's cargo and pilfering the 40-hour week contracts, and then stores. Once more I'd like to they'll really have something to stress this point. Crewmembers drive for—the 40-hour week for have no right to break into these Canadian ships as well as Amer­ stores, and are liable to severe ican. punishment by the civil author­ 'Whenever Canadian seamen ities. visit any Lakes port where there If a guy has itchy fingers and is an SIU hall, they are invited lifts a few items for himself or to drop in. We're willing to an­ for sale, he shouldn't expect any swer questions from our Broth­ sympathy or aid from the Union, ers across the border just as we There's nothing the Union can are from our unorganized U. S. do for you in a case like this. seamen on the Lakes. The local police are the sole The SIU latch string is out to authorities and if a guy gets a unorganized Canadian seamen a.s has only himself to blame, well as unorganized American long vacation up the river he seamen. Drop into the nearest A situation in the fourth floor SIU hall, and find out why the baggage room of the New York SIU is fast becoming the only Hall has been called to our at­ union for unlicensed seamen— tention. There is gear of all deep water, Lakes, and inland {Continued on Page 14) waters. . Page Nine President John Brzek, of the Milwaukee Longshoremen, who went all out in support of the Seafarers* recent and success­ ful strike of the Milwaukee Clipper. CHICAGO — Shipping is still fair in the Windy City with only a few men on the beach. After a bad Spring start in Chicago, it finally begins to look as though the boys on the ships can get out on deck and soak up a little sunshine via the sunbath method. It's a certainty that we'll have one newcomer in this port, and possibly two, this saling season. First, of course, is the D & C cruise ship, Citj' of Cleveland III, which formerly operated out of Detroit on a regular run to Buf­ falo. Now, .she'll visit Chicago once a week in her new role as a cruise ship covering the Up­ per Lakes. There's also some discussion about the SS Put-In-Bay, for 35 years an excunsion ship operating out of Detroit to the Lake Erie Island.s, shifting to a ChicagoMichigan Citj' run with nightly moonlights on the side. There's no official confirmation of these stories, so it might be just so much v,^hi.stling in the dark. In any case, she'll have an SIU crew aboard, as usual. Also paying our fair city a visit during the week were the Carmi Thompson and the Coralia, both making their first trip of the season. Around June 1, a Hall was opened in South Chicago at 3261 E. 92nd Street. Brothers who sail into South Chicago are invited Shipowners Cry For Economy — But Only At Expense Of Seamen By J. M. (WINDY) WALSH During the lush wartime days done in the past on overtime they when Uncle Sam was footing the! now planned to have the crew bill with our tax money, the! perform during working hours, sky was the limit, with laxity and Definite in.struftinns w-ere given w-astefulness prevailing from the the Mates that if they exceeded top to the bottom of the shipping' a ridiculously low figuie they would be removed and replaced companies. The various companies hand­ with a Mate who obeys orders. The companies set a low al­ ling ships merely as agents for the WSA weren't quibbling. The lowable overtime figure arrived more dough they handled for I at by some hocus pocus method Uncle Sam, the larger were their: of the port officials, who know nothing about conditions aboard profits. But then came the day of reck­ a ship. NO STANDARD oning. V-E Day, V-J Day, re­ One ship may make a smooth conversion. Private management She back in the saddle. Off came the crossing with no hitches. gloves, out came the axe, and will manage to get tied up in the operators all ci'ied in uni­ the daytime, put in all her Satur­ day's and Sundays at the dock son: "Economj'." Now where do you tliink they with all hands off, get a shore started their economy? In their gang to paint her, get stored by staff? In their fat salaries?-- a shoregang and be secured on company lime. Not on your life. Naturally she comes in with They planned to starf at the bottom and cut the take home practically no overtime. The port pay of the man making the least officials using this as a yard­ stick immediately decrees that money in the .set-up. All of a sudden they demand­ henceforth overtime will be such ed that Mates and Engineers keep and such. He reasons, if one ship can do their crew overtime pared to the absolute minimum. it, .so can the rest in the fleet. In the days of the WSA, the What he needs is a trip to sea shipowners contended that 100 r,cross the North Atlantic in the hours per man per month was winter. Now, put yourself in the pothe absolute minimum under which the ships could be effi­ sition of the poor Mate (my heart What would ciently operated in the Deck De­ bleeds for him). you do? Would you economize partment. Now they discovered that they by cutting the overtime of the had overestimated .slig.htly and ^ officers, or would you borrow means have been found to limit one from the bosses' book and the overtime. ! start at the bottom? The anCertain work that had been swer is obvious. to visit the new Hall when i.n port. Drop in, say hello, and find out what the score is on the SIU, IN DETROIT During the past week, I've been in Detroit helping our Sec­ retary Treasurer. Fred Farnen, complete the drafting of the pas­ senger and sandboat agreement? wliich have already been nego­ tiated with the operators. We have also started negotia­ tions with the bulk freighter operators, and good progress is being made. These contracts should be out of the way soon, and then all Great Lakes officials can concentrate on the Seafare"s Great Lakes oiganizational drive, which has already begun to show so much progress, and should re­ sult in several new fleet addi­ tions to the SIU contracted op­ erators this season. All SIU Brothers sailing on our contracted vessels will soon receive copies of the new con­ tracts. When you receive them, read 'em over well, and when­ ever you get a chance, show them to the unorganized Lakes seamen. In addition, show them to the unfortunates sailing on NMU contracted ships, and let them sec for Themselves what kind of wages, hours, overtime, working and Jiving conditions that SIU !!ien enjoy. Show these long suffering NMUers what SIU democratic control can secure for the mem­ bership. Let them see our splen­ did working conditions, and tell them of SIU representation ' whenever a justifiable beef exNetwork Program Day Time j ists. •A• • • • I Yes, Brothers! SIU job seEvery 9:30 P. M. 5-Sler Varieiy Show ABC Icurity and conditions are the Thurs. E.D.T. From Hollywood I backbone of the Union. No one bumps an SIU member off a ship Daily New Radio Drama because he doesn't like the way (except 3:45 P. M. ABC Wiih Stars from Stage your hair is parted, or because E.D.T. Sat. & and Screen they have a friend or relative Sun.) leady for your job. That doesn't 1 happen on SIU ships. !1 -A • • • • Every 1:30 P. M. Mutual Repeat Performance It was common practice years E.D.T. Sunday Of 5-Siar Variety Show ago. and was not felt during the past few years. However, when Talks by 8:15 P. M. Every shipping gels tough again, that's ABC Outstanding Speakers E.D.T. Tuesday when it'll be felt again. Get job security for your ship by joining NOTE! Please check radio listings in your local newspaper the SIU, and making certain that for time of broadcasts. All times given above are EASTERN your ship votes SIU when an DAYLIGHT TIME. election rolls around. AFL BROADCASTS �Page Ten THE SEAFARERS Fridayi June 6/1047 LOG SHIPS' MUHUTES JIND MEWS v.'.v.xI ••.j. •• v..;-.. EXTENDING HANDS ACROSS THE BORDER CSU Crew Raps Leadership, Lauds SIU's Maritime Role Concrete signs that the Canadian Seamen's Union has completely failed its membership and that the rank and file now look upon the Seafarers International Union as the leader in the fight to advance the cause of seamen everywhere were in sharp evidence as the CSU crew of the Mont Rolland revealed a growing dissatisfaction with the organization's leadership. The disillusioned CSU men air­ ed their feelings at an informal meeting aboard the SlU-contracted vessel SS John Swett' of the Kearney Steamship Company on May 9, when both the Canadian and American ships were in the port of Genoa, Italy. FRIENDLY SPIRIT A spirit of friendliness and unanimity marked the unusual meeting as the two crews discussed the relative roles played by their respective unions in beliolf of their memberships. In discussing the tactical use of their organization by the com- Clearly visible from the Sweff was the name of the Canadian vessel, as photo above, taken aboard the SIU ship, shows, stores. They said the request was promptly forgotten, with the result that for the duration of the voyage the ship fed very poorly. CSU man on vray down Mont Rolland's to small boat, which will take him to meeting. munists, the Canadian crew said they were fully aware that CSU funds were being used to^foster the aims of the communists. They added that they are fully determined to put a stop to this practice. Explaining the manner in which their beefs are handled. the Mont Rolland crew cited a typical example of the "raw deals" they have been getting. While in a Canadian port, the CSU Patrolman was asked to check the condition of the ship's DEAF EARS Demands made to officials of the CSU for better working con­ ditions are met with silence, the Rolland crew pointed out. They commented frankly on the enviable working conditions and wages which the Seafarers has gained for its membership and its resultant position of lead­ ership in the maritime industry. It is believed that the recent resignation of Pat Sullivan as head of the CSU opened the eyes of the union's rank and file, ac­ cording to Seafarer Blackie Colucci, a member of the John Swett crew, who was present at the meeting and talked with most of the Canadian seamen. On the subject of the com­ munists and the hindrance which they pose to the advance of seamen, the SIU crew assured the CSU men that they fuUy backed the fight to cleanse the Cana­ dian waterfront of the commie smudge. Informal discussion on deck of the Swett is halted momen­ tarily as Seafarers and Canadian crewmembers of the Mont Rolalnd look up at cameraman. Meeting was one of harmony, and CSU men told of kicking around they've been getting from of­ ficials of their organization. Front row, left to right: Red Burnhp.m, H. Beaudan, L. Fu­ ruya, H. Christiansen and P. McAleese—all of the CSU. Top row, left to right: E. Allen-CSU, Richard Kapps, Tex Jacks, Sal Areni, Juan Lopez, J. Murphy-CSU, and G. Chaput-CSU. Flanked by crewmembers of the SlU-manned SS John Swett and members of the Canadian Seamen's Union from the Mont Rolland. Seafarer Blackie Colucci shakes hands with CSU man L. Furuya. Photo was taken aboard the Swett when the two groups held a friendly, informal meeting in Genoa last month. From left to right, sitting: Mitchell Zelace, Joe Valencia, Herman Monteiro, G. Chaput-CSU, Thomas Kennedy, (man unidentified), and Juan Lopez. Standing, from left to right: George Barnes, Tony Serpe, Edward Gross, Nick Chicichellr Sal Areni. Colucci, Tex Jacks, H. Christiansen-CSU, Furuya, J. Murphy-CSU, Richard Kapps, Len Dower and O. Bolivae-CSU. Men not designated as CSU are Seafarers. 'Pop' Sweetzer Dies Aboard SS Jas. Gillis Seafarer William (Pop) Sweet­ zer, a member of the SIU since 1939, died aboard the SS James S. Gillis on May 3, apparently of a heart attack, according to word just received from Gustav V. Thobe, Steward on the vessel. He was 57 years old. Brother Sweetzer's body was buried at sea in accordance with his wishes, which were revealed at an informal meeting held by his shipmates shortly after his death. He had no known surviv­ ing relatives. Members of the Mont Rolland crew as they came alongside the SS John Swett to board her for the unusual meeting. MSHUTES OF SIU SHIP MEETINGS DIGESTED FDR EASIER READING Services and burial took place at 9 a. m.. May 4, as the Gillis was "right abeam" of the Island ALEXANDER G. BELL, of Minorca, one of the Balearic March 16—Chairman Lader; Isles, a day out of Genoa, Italy. Secretary Ross RcKennie. Good On the evening of May 2, and Welfare: Suggestions con­ Sweetzer, a member of the Deck cerning better care end clean­ Department, went to Brother ness aboard ship and in the Thobe and complained of a pain messroom. In particular the re­ in his chest. The Steward im­ turning of all cups and dish­ mediately took the ailing Seafar­ es to sink, the cleaning up of er up to the ship's hospital, then any mess after playing poker, notified the Mate and the Skip­ the cooperation of all in not per. wasting water. SEEMED IMPROVED The following day. Brother Sweetzer's condition seemed to be somewhat improved and his spirit was good, Thobe reports. In fact, both Thobe and the Bosun, who ^ it* paid him a visit, kidded him ALCOA CAVALIER, May 25 about being confined. —Chairman Steve Carr; Secre­ At 2:30 p. m. Sweetzer col­ tary John Jellette. Delegates lapsed, while on the way to the reported no beefs in their de­ head. He was dead before aid partments. New Business: Mo­ could be administered. tion carried that new grill be A native of Baltimore, where installed in place of the smaJl he was born Feb. 2, 1890, Brother and inadequate one now being Good and Welfare: Sweetzer went to sea all his life. used. Records in Union Headquarters Recomruended that Chief Cook reveal that he joined the Sea­ get together on the menus so as to improve service to crew. farers in Baltimore. Suggestion that Delegates go aboard the Clipper to observe and bring back a report on the Stewards Department working conditions, etc. Brothers asked where is the stea.k. Cooks stated that due to the range be­ ing too small there is no room on the places for steak. One minute of silence observed in memory of lost brothers. i .V J, SEATRAIN NEW ORLEANS, May 10—Chairman A. Capote: Secretary Robert G. Huff. Dele­ gates reported on the number of book and tripcard men in their departments. New Busi­ ness: Motion that a fine of $25 be levied against book mem­ bers failing to return to ship or who cause a delay in the ship's sailing. Tripcard and permit men to be punished by loss of their papers and right to sail for a period of three months. Amendment: Section covering withdrawal of a map's papers for three months is to strict. (Contimicd on Page 11) �Friday. June S. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings (Coti/iniicd from 10) Second Amendment: that the fine be increased to $50. Mo­ tion with amendments carried. Discussion concerning the capa­ bilities of the Steward. De­ cision to take up Steward beef with a Patrolman. removal of crewmember, and that he be returned to the States for medical attention in­ asmuch as he is mentally ill and potentially dangerous. '€IA (yive VfU / S. 4 J. ROSWELL VICTORY. April 4—Ship's Delegate H. Perlinson. Summary of six meetings held during voyage. Recom­ mend Steward as being a good union worker and member Eind a little more time at sea will prove him to be a good Stew­ ard. Recommendation of in­ vestigation of Angelo Addina who has been tripcard man for three years. Recommend that he be denied pro-book until he shows a more cooperative spirit toward his fellow crewmen and the union. Crew suggested oral reprimand to two crewmen to bring them in line. 4 4 4 Too Much Suit In Dixon Food I Meeting. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that a collection be made for brothers in hospitals and jail. Decision that all stay out of mess while messman is setting up and cleaning. Re­ pair list made up and attached. 4 4 4 FRANCIS J. O'GARA. April 19 — Chairman Cliff Nelson: Secretary Jim Lomas. All books and permit cards examined and found in good order. Motion carried to enforce cleanliness of messrooms and pantry. Mo­ tion carried that Delegates con­ tact Captain in reference to draw in home port before the payoff. Good and Welfare: No member to wash clothes in toilet washbasins, any mem­ ber found so doing will be fined. Suggestion made that Chief Cook use a little more season­ ing in the food. Cook claims grade of pepper is inferior and suggests requisitioning a better grade of pepper. Try eating sometime with salt water coursing down your neck and into your food. See if it doesn't make you feel like a deep water fish, besides giving you a soaking pain in the—well, in the neck, anyway. If you're unwilling to make the salty sacrifice, at least take the word of the crew recently aboard the SS Ben F. Dixon, who were involved in such an experi­ ment, although not voluntarily. Besides making you feel like the inside of a water-conveying pipe, it's darned annoying—pretty mis­ erable, in fact, to use their own words. The ship's minutes say some­ thing has to be done to "get those 4 4 4 mushroom ventilators free, so we ALCOA PLANTER, April 20 can tighten them down in heavy weather. It's pretty miserable to —(Chairman not given); Sec­ eat with salt water leaking down retary R. S. Vandercoort. New Business: Motion carried that your neck." Something should be done— the Steward more carefully in­ struct and supervise the mem­ and quick. bers of his Department. Mo­ 4 4 4 tion carried that the crew's FRANCIS J. O'GARA, March pantry ice box be cleaned and 31—Chairman Joseph Phillips; defrosted once a wek without Secrelary Jim Lomas. New fail by the pantryman. Good Business: Motion carried to and Welfare: Motion carried make list of repairs and equip­ that the crew's feelings on sub­ ment. Ship to be checked for jects aired at the meeting be unseaworthiness. Foc'sles, and made known to the proper au­ alleyways being flooded when thorities. Crew is dissatisfied shipping seas. All mushroom in that they have been pro­ vents to be checked for pos­ vided with no liberty launches sible repairs. Motion carried or liberty while at anchor in for all hands to keep messrooms Puerto La Cruz. Crew desired clean! and to keep feet off chairs. 4 4 4 R. NEY McNEELEY, April 8 —Chairman John Hall Secre­ tary Leo Schmitt. 1st meeting: Steward Department to issue soap for all departments. Crew not to soak clothes in the laun­ dry. Each Department to clean laundry a week at a time in rotation. Delegates in each Department to make up repair list. Standby on four to eight watch to clean messhall, 2nd \bu CANTROUOW WfiAftTUCBMlSp/ 4 4 4 WAYNE MacVEAGH, April 16—Chairman George Romano; Secretary Denny Joe Ryan. En­ gine and Deck Delegate report­ ed all fine in their departments. Steward Qelegate reported lack of cooperation and much con­ fusion. New Business: Motion carried that all tripcards and permits be taken up by depart­ ment delegates. Motion carried thai New Orleans Agent be present at payoff in New Or­ leans. Motion carried to have awning put up on stern as for­ eign ships have it and it is necessary in the tropics. Mo­ tion carried that every one be more quiet at mealtime so the messman can get his orders straight. Good and Welfare: One minute of silence for broth­ ers lost at sea. ee suRe YOU GET A RecsfPr WHBN you POMATE MONeV Jo THE 10&. If THE UWK] OFFICIAL COLLECT/AIG FA/LS TD G/VE you A RECEIPT NOTlf^ THE SECReTARyTReA^UReR AT OA/CE / CUT and RUN By HANK 4 4 4 Back SIU Stand On Anti-Labor Law With the threat of the vicious Hartley-Taft "slave labor bill" hanging over the head of trade unionism, the crew of the SS Robin Sherwood, acting at a re­ cent shipboard meeting, sent the following telegram to SIU Head­ quarters: "Realizing the grave danger to the existence of trade un­ ions—the sole means of pro­ tecting and improving our standards of living—we hereby stand opposed to the anti-labor legislation before Congress and wholeheartedly endorse any course of action taken by the membership to stop enactment of such laws." 4 4 4 PHILIP SCHUYLER, April 18 — Chairman Willon Mc­ Neill; Secretary J. F. Bartlett. Motion carried that all loose trash be emptied at stern of vessel and all garbage be emptied aft of forecastle by number four hatch. Motion carried that the LOG be noti­ fied of carelessness and a ne­ glectful attitude by the U. S. Coast Guard toward Roy Pritchett when he sustained an in­ jury aboard this vessel. Good and Welfare: List of repairs made up with additions com­ ing from the floor. Send Those Minutes Send in the minutes of your ship's meeting to the New York Hall. Only in thai way can the membership act on your recommendations, and then the .minutes can be printed in the LOG for the benefit of all other SIU crews. For .several years the SIU has shown, proved and has in turn noticed the immediate surprise and honest-minded desire of various unorganized seamen—those who sail the Great Lakes; the neighbor­ ly Canadian sailors; the Isthmian seamen and the tanker seamen— to have the SIU as their union. Reading the LOG, listening to SIU Brothers sailing with them, these non-union seamen, overworked and underpaid by the shipping companies have seen, read or heard SIU's powerful and successful militancy in all its phases, vitally affecting the sailors in their wages, conditions, beefs, etc. Many of them have seen the various new agreements which were signed for Great Lakes seamen, several Canadian ships, etc. In­ deed, the SIU has honestly proved to all unorganized seamen that it has been and remains the best and strongest militant union for the highest wages and conditions to meix-hant seamen. 4 4 4 More and more of these seamen who keep losing dollars and securiiy by sailing wifhoul Ihe SIU are sensibly and slowly realizing what they shall gain and have protected—once they're in the SIU. No sir, you can't beat the SIU agreements—whether they're for the deep sea, Moran tugbocits. Great Lakes ships, in­ cluding the sandboats, passenger ships, etc! We in the SIU know it. Now all seamen—Canadian, tanker. Great Lakes, Isth­ mian, etc.—know it or should know it—through the voluntary efforts of SIU brothers who sail these unorganized ships, show­ ing these exploited seamen what the SIU has accomplished and what it means to be an SIU sailor! 4 4 4- Last week, smiling S£im LLittrell .said that if Bosun Robert Hillman (or any others) want to see him, they would have to do the best they can to get to Trinidad—vRere Sam went—to get some smoked ham. Sam's reason for sailing was that he was pining away here in New York without his pals, feeling deeply lonesome and that he didn't even have his vacation, either. A few days later, Bosun Hillman, accompanied by his familiar cigar, anchored into town, to hear the news that Sam sailed, handicapped without his best pals . . . Vv''e were asked to print the following item: "Jimmy Milliean and Little Heavy are in Mobile, asking for you. Sunshine is good." . . . Brotlier John Santos just blew into town. What's new, John'? . . . We sure hope the best of luck and the swifest re­ covery to Bosun Mike Rossi who has been hospitalized down in the port of Montivideo, Uraguay. Weigh that anchor. Mike, and sail out fast, indeed ... By the way, Mike, your shipmate and mine, "Lucky" Lee Luciano is in town right now—vacationing a little. "Lucky" akso says that his shipmate Bosun Smith is still aboard the SS Yaka—making a lengthy home out of her, indeed. Brother Warren Callahan, citizen of upper New York, just came in from a rest with his family after finishing a recent trip. Warren announces he's going to try to ship out with his wife (she will be Stewerdess) so that he can show her what this sea life is all about. Good luck. Warren . . , Brother Ray Myers collected about 70 bucks of retroactive pay last week and happily told us that he was immediately buying some retroactive beers to make it just right . . . Here's another message: "Hats off to Brother Baldy McAdoo. Get in touch with me. Signed, Walter H. Stovull, c/'o SIU hall. 531 West Michigan Street, Duluth. Minnesota." . . . Oldtimer Jimmy Brooks happily confessed he had a successful operation. 1 "A I �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS Friday, June 6, 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEJtBS fS Sells Story Favoritism Is Basis Of Hiring By Lakes Carriers' Association To the Editor: Thought I would drop you a few lines to let you know a thing or two about my experience while up on the Lakes last week. I went up there from Baltimore with the sole purpose of getting a job on an unorganized ship and helping in the organizing drive on the Lakes. I could have ship­ ped on our organized ships on the Lakes but it was either unororganized ships or deep sea SIU vessels for me. I hit the LCA halls in Toledo and Detroit and applied for AB's jobs. The hall in Toledo was about half the size of our Balti­ more shipping deck. There were a couple of tables in it, along with about 18 or 20 men and, of course, the shipping master. There was no board or any­ thing to show what jobs were open. He could have had two I believe I'm a pretty good AB, but because the fink-herder thought I was a Union man, he told me he could never use me. Why doesn't the NAM or the Chamber of Commerce have these stories printed? Why don't they print the stories, for ex­ ample, of a seaman not being able to get a job because his cousin, uncle, father, brother, etc., is not a company stooge or doesn't own stock in the com­ pany. Or because his sister or aunt isn't married to, or doesn't go out with, one of their officers, or company officials. Well, the Germans swallowed so much of the Nazi propaganda Log -A- Rhythms Mama Mia! that they believed it. Perhaps the capitalists in this country, through their mouthpieces—the radio and newspapers — are swamping the American people the same way. It'll be a rough day for the working people if they fall for this guff. Come to think of it, it doesn't matter if they do or don't. Congress seems to have a habit of doing the things that capital wants them to do, regard­ less of the peoples' opinion. All this newspaper stuff is just a cover up for the dirty work on Capital Hill. John Gallagher Baltimore, Md. Alcoa Bucko Is Hot Stuff, Needs 5 Fans To Cool Off By JESSE MILLER Sixa or sevena years ago, I come to dis land a, I come a wit Angelina, And I tink dis place is granda. I sent a Angelina to nighta school, Sheesa. go dere every nighta, Sheesa quit in justa tree months. Cause sheesa know tree words all righta. Wyndon (Wendy) Floyd, OS, whose first published literary effort appeared in the May is­ sue of "The Family Album," a monthy magazine circulated widely in Long Island. Sheesa use dese words at a grocery stora, (Sheesa go dare every day) She say-sa to da grocery man, "I wanna beans," she-sa say. Now baka beans are a wonderful. For a good American, But eata beans and no spagetts. Is nota for Italian. Brother Floyd's story, "His you'll have to make an appoint­ Own Way," was sold as a result Angelina, learna some other To the Editor: of his response to an announ­ wordsa. Of all the peculiar skippers ment with the Purser first." •When we hit the tropics, he Causa I'ma getting sore, cement appearing in the LOG, that ever went to sea, this guy tops the list. The finst day we had five fans going in his foc'sle, offering marketing aid to Sea­ I eata beans for sevena years. And I don'ta wanta no more. saw him at Pier 45, New York along with a wind chute for each farers with literary talent. Sea­ porthole and three special vents City, we noticed something built on the bridge connected to farer Carl Cowl arranged for queer. publication of : Floyd's . story He had so much luggage you'd his foc'sle. In our first port—Puerto La through the medium of a repu­ think he was a first trip passen­ Cruz—he had the crew restricted table author's agency with ger instead of being master of an old Alcoa liberty. The first but issued special passes for the which Cowl has connections. day at sea he had the entire Deck officei'S and himself. The Dele­ Cowl's success with the first Department chipping and scrap­ gates went to see him about this manuscript submitted to him ing that section of the bridge and he said the 'Venezuelan gov­ by Floyd has inspired the Sea­ To the Editor: which covers his foc'sle over­ ernment had restricted the ship; farer-writer to begin work on he didn't do it. head. Here is something on the a novel, he says. The Delegates told the old man He then had this small section Brighton Marine Hospital where Other Seafarers with literary painted white so the sun that when a ship is restricted, it I arn a patient in the -surgical ambitions are invited to submit ward. I was admitted afler only means everyone, not just the wouldn't bear down on it too much. The next day he roped crew. The old man's answer to their material for approval and 15 minutes, which is pretty fast advice, without having to pay time, and after entry, the doctor off the same section so the watch this was: the customary charges for this STEADY, GENTS wouldn't talk over it and disturb examined me at once. service. Manuscripts must be him. "The officers are gentlemen I wish to state that this is the NO BELLS and they don't get drunk and typewritten. best marine hospital there is, as He also had all the bells dis­ into fights like the crew." They should be addressed to I have been in a few of them. connected on the bridge and has That very night, three officers Carl Cowl, care of SEAFAR­ The doctors here are on the ball shut down the radio altogether. were thrown into jail for being ERS LOG, 51 Beaver Street, at all times. And the treatment The Delegates went to see him drunk and disorderly. New York 4, N. Y. Enclose a is of the very best. The nurses about a few beefs and he got dis­ He searches the foc'sle every stamped envelope addressed to are very pleasant and courteous gusted with them and said, "If day for extra bars of soap, sender's residence to insure safe to all patients, and do their best you wish to see me in the future. matches and linen. John Bluilt return. to help in whatever way possible. I also noticed that the night nurses are right on the job. For HORSE-PLAY ALONG THE BAUXITE TRAIL example, I saw the signal light on one night, and in less than a minute the nurse on duty was (%il Pa frier, ijret "tke down the ward to .see what .she nf frr-e UP could do. That is what I call co­ operation. The orderlies are a nice lot of boys, and if anyone has any beef to make you can show them this letter. The food, too, has been very good since I have been in this ward. So if any SIU boys need medical treatment I would advise them to get to the Brighton Ma­ rine Hospital as soon as possible. I have been taken care of so well here that I feel more at home here than in any other hospital. By the way, I would like the boys to knov/ that I am here. George Meaney Okays Treatment By Brighton Marine Hospital jobs or 30 jobs, you'd never know it. It he did have any he was probably waiting for his pals and favorites to show up and take them. QUESTIONS When I entered the joint, the "herder" was interviewing ABs to see which one he would choose for the job he had. Probably he was looking for a docile lamb. He asked me if I was an AB. "Yes," I answered. Ever ship with a Union? I told him no. "How long have you been sail­ ing?" I told him four or five years. Then he asked me a few more questions and from my answers must have figured I was a Union man. He then told me he couldn't use me "ever." Well, Editor, I've given you the high spots of my experience on the Lakes. I'm back in Bal­ timore now ready to ship any darn time I please. I'm just won­ dering how the Lakes seamen have put up with this stuff for •so long a time. It's about time they organized into our SIU and did away with this unfairness and discrimination. This brings me to the labor bills now before Congress. One of the things the anti-labor news­ papers have been screaming aobut is- the close'd shop. They say the Unions can discriminate. The lying propagandists are con­ tinually building it up. The pro­ verbial molehill becomes a mountain. But do they ever print the sordid stories of discrimination practised by the companies — such as the Lakes Carriers Asso­ ciation. m*' y • (Ed. note: Brother Meaney would probably like to hear from some of his Union Broth­ ers. Just drop him a 4ine at ' ihe Brighton Marine ; Hospital, JBrighton, Mass. He'll .appre­ ciate it.) �Friday, June 6,1947 THE AT NORTH END OF BAUXITE TRAIL SEAFARBRS LOG Page Thirteen Wayward SS Semmes Is Still Cutting Up; Fire, Stowaway Mark 2nd Phase Of Trip to that point aboard the SS Mate discovered a stowaway, an Raphael Semmes, but you ain't ' SUP man who is still with us I've got a bone to pick witli heard nothing yet. as we were not permitted to land j'ou. In my last letter to you, him in Manila. We reached Honolulu okay, which was printed in the April From Manila we went to Bav/ith just a few minor break­ 4 edition of the LOG, you got a tangas to load copra. This is the downs, but after taking on bunk­ little fouled up. I stated that the only port so far than we havn't Chief Mate, not the Chief En­ ers and water there, we ran out had any trouble. From Batangas gineer, was the ex-SeafaVer and of fresh water enroute to Shang­ we went to Romblon. Here we ex-Union man. The Chief En- hai. Even with water being ra­ had more troubles. tioned, things got so bad they giner, who is a regular Joe, still The longshoremen left some carries his SIU book, which hap­ had to cut out the drinking water empty copra sacks in No. 2 hold and head in to Kobe, Japan. pens to be No. G-16. and one of them threw a cigar­ ONE CAN EACH Well, Ed, I also made a miscue. ette butt into the pile. So back In that letter I also stated that We were each given a can of the Chief Cook's name was Tony drinking water from the life­ Bender. His name is Tony Mi­ boats, and to this day it has never All hands aboard the SS Alcoa Pilgrim had cause for cele­ randa, and Tiny Bender is the been replenished. We made Ko­ bration recently, when the ship arrived in Montreal after cutting Saloon Messman. be, but as usual, when the Sem­ In that last letter I told you of mes pulls in, it means hard luck her way through ice. Above, four of the crew are seen doing our experiences and troubles up to somebody. their shoreside slaking. Space committments prevented picture This time the somebody was from being run with others of Pilgrim crew last week. Beware The Golden a Jap watertender. The GI guard who was at the gangway to the Calf, Brother Warns crew from going ashore, was To Ihe Editor: gassed up and in fooling around The following notice should be with his carbine, the Jap waterplaced in the LOG to insure the tender was shot. The Jap was in charge of giving us water. bald have many days of sailing safety of seamen who have been To the Editor: Three MPs came aboard and we go to Manila to discharge the away from the States for the last with crews of SIU men. took the guard and one of the copra that was ruined in the The SS Oliver Loving, which few months and don't know the John Coppess crew ashore. The crewmcmber attempt to put out the smolder­ operates from Mobile and New Rec. Sec.. SS Oliver Loving score on the latest of feminine was Joe DeCabo, who was on ing fire. styles: Orleans to the Islands, has a real gangway watch at the time of the We are now under way and Attention: The gals you see good skipper. Captain Irby F. HORSE-FLAY MARKS incident. In Kobe, we also lost headed for Honolulu again. We wearing the various new colors an Oiler, who had to go to the don't know whether we are go­ Wood. Tlie Cliief Male, too, is TEXAN'S REPLY TO in silk stockings are not what hospital. ing to pick up pineapples or not, a good man. you think. They're just in the LABOR-HATERS We finally got to Shanghai, two but in any case, we should be groove, sporting the latest As some of the oldtimers, like months and three days out of back in the good old U. S. A. To Ihe Editor: Bosun Thomas, Deck Engineer New York, with the Semmes around the middle of June. This While reading the Houston running better than she had at is, of course, if the SS Break­ Smith, Deck Maintenance SaxX WM? Post this morning I read an ar­ any time during the trip. But not down should hold together that ton, and Chief Cook Grice have ticle that I think should be print­ AIOK/' for long, for the old girl sure long. stated—it is some time since we ed in the LOG. I showed it to likes to stay in port once she gets So long, Ed, will be seeing you have sailed with such topside some of my shipmates and they there. Anyhow, Ed, the Chinese in the funny papers. really got a bang out of it. I'm men on Alcoa ships. get the fans in working order Milton B. Williams sure all other Seafarers would by putting in new ones, and we Deck Delegate FOOD GOOD TOO enjoy it, too. took off for Manila with two SS Raphael Semmes We just recently put into new crewmembers. The food served by the Stew­ (Ed. note: Sorry for the sna­ Houston from the Philippines One of these was an AB from fu in your last letter. We apolo­ ard's Department has been tops aboard the Berea Victory. It an NMU tanker; the other was a gize to you. You apologize to in this ship. And there has been was a good trip and we'll be pay­ second mate from the same ship. the two Tony's. That should no trouble in the Black Gang. ing off soon in New Orleans. He took the ordinary's berth and make all hands happy. Mean­ Albert Lee "Tex" Quinn This, I believe, is a point which the AB took the Wiper's job. while, we wish you better luck (Editor's note:—The item re­ all Brothers might be interested fashions. So don't make the About three days out the Chief on the last lap of your trip.) in. In the closing phase of the ferred to by Brother Quinn vras mistake of flirting with them, trip, all department overtime an amendment jokingly pro­ or you may have your head sheets should be checked before posed by a pro-labor Texas leg­ busted in. signing off, as there has been a islator fed up with the many I know! great temptation for this com­ anti-labor laws under discus­ Ed Larkin To the Editor: say, I have been in the union pany to forget, we might say, by sion in the Lone Star State's It's a good thing to see some of since the beginning. I know for voture. In other words, you Legislature. It reads: the recent letters in the LOG. The a fact that people like these per­ CREW, OFFICERS "All labor unions are here­ never get the last minute over­ ones referring to union responsi­ formers didn't have a damned by abolished. Their property HIT IT OFF OKAY time which is performed. bility are good, particularly the thing to do with getting our pres­ and assets shall be confiscated ON LYMAN STEWART one by Windy Walsh. ent conditions, and that they AVOID TROUBLE in the name of the Texas Man­ would be the reason for losing I have been in the Union since To the Editor: By checking the sheets at the ufacturers Association. And it started. There is no use in them—if we let them. very last minute, you thereby all members shall be lined up Our trip on the SS Lyman kidding ourselves about the rea­ Jack Kelly eliminate all cause for doubt and against a rock wall and shot by Stewart of the Alcoa Steamship sons why we have to do our jobs chances of unnecessary mistakes a firing squad and their fam­ Company is about to be com­ ship-shape when we are aboard Galley Man in all departments, before the ilies sent to a concentration pleted and we, the Deck Depart-; ship. sheets are turned over to shore camp." ment, wish to praise highly the We believe that if you have a The representative should Master, Captain Frank Waters, beef with the shipowner, it officials for the final payoff. have prefaced his proposal with There were no beefs, nor dis­ the Claghornian expression. and our Chief Mate, Henry Gatza. should be settled in the quickest puted overtime and this trip end­ "That's a joke, son." for the The Chief Mate and Master have manner possible, hitting as hard worked and treated us 100 per as necessary. We have done so ed with great success. amendment, though well de­ cent throughout the entire trip. in all our beefs and strikes. It is the crew's wish that Cap­ feated, gathered eight votes in We also recommend to all But if we have no beef, every tain Wood and Chief Mate Aix-hi- its favor.) brothers that they ship aboard guy signing on a ship should do a vessel under the command of his job. If he doesn't, then as a the officers named above. group we are not going to do so HER CREW SENDS GREETINGS We further recommend the hot. When we make a contract the Second Mate, Thomas J. we must keep our word. Only a Walsh and the Third Mate, Rob­ bum does anything else. ert F. Pelouze. Not to be for­ In the union today—on a few gotten is our Chief Engineer ships—we have a few drunkards Henry C. Anderson, a 100 per who think their shipmates should cent SUP Brother, and his As­ do their job, while they knocked sistant Engineers: James Hallock, out and brag, what they did" in 1st; George Gonzales, 2nd; Joe twenty-one. Collins, Acting 3rd; and Nathan To SIU men who know the B. Stone, Jr., Chief Purser, and scoe, fellows like these are no An unidentified member of the the Ste\yard, Rolf Berg Hansson. good, and they only pull this The undersigned Brothers, stuff on young kids who don't Stewards Department aboard representing the entire crew, know the difference. The quick­ the SS Hibbing Victory, whose praise the Captain and officers er we straighten them out the crew recently won high praise from the vessel's skipper. Men for the 100 per cent ti-eatment better. Having a wonderful lime with the girls in Copenhagen. Den­ We have the best contracts in like the one above transformed they have given us, Arlen Torp, Deck Delegate the business and we should take ship from a dirty scow into mark. are the lads aboard the SS Rosario. writes oldtimer "Uncle" Charles Humphrey, Bosun care of them. I know, for, as I spic and span SIU ship. Otto. The Rosario, by the way, is Otto's 108th ship. To the Editor: SS Oliver Loving's Voyage Ended 'With Great Success' Abide By Contract, He Says •; i li,' •'ii Hi �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourieen French Communists Keep AFL Rep From German Zone | Friday, June 6, 1947 Paper Profiteers Peri! existence Of Labor Press WASHINGTON — Henry Rutz,'French CGT (General Confedera-| international representative of tion of Labor) and of the World ' WASHINGTON — A major the AFL, was denied entrance in­ Federation of Trade Unions, with scandal in the field of newsprint | to the French-occupied zone of which the CGT is affiliated. broke out into the open last Germany this week. The refusal Rutz was violently attacked by | week when congressional testi­ of the French authorities to per­ newspapers in the Soviet zone l-~— — ^ mony proved existence of a Ca­ mit Rutz to observe labor condi­ of Germany after a speech to the ^ ^ ^ nadian newsprint monopoly tions in the French area was May Day celebration' at Hamburg The Dark Ship, by Richard O.rmake them appear the prime which has victimized Labor, re­ made the subject of a strong pro­ in which he attacked the use of Boyer. Published by Litlle, J movers of seamen's organization. ligious and other smaller papers. test to Premier Ramadier by slave labor anywhere in the Brown and Company—$2.75. Through profiteering which FINKY RECORDS Matthew Woll, AFL vice-presi­ world, including the Soviet Un­ has pushed the price of news­ Most of them came to the This is a book which is sup­ dent and chairman of the AFL's ion and Yugoslavia. print four times its pre-war cost, International Affairs Committee. In excerpts from his speech posed to be a historj' of the Na­ movement with finky records, and the witholding of the paper Woll warned Ramadier that which have just reached the U. S., tional Maritime Union, CIO, and which they enhanced while in from independent publishers, the incident, if not corrected, Rutz told the German unionists a story of a wartime trip made the NMU. but not a word of hundreds of small papeis have this is told by the author. might disturb the "cordial rela­ that even during the war the AFL by the author. been forced out of business. The internal fight now going tions between the American and believed that "we cannot affor..! it is possible that many landLabor papers, including the French people in general and la­ to carry over into the new world ^ lubbers will be taken in by the on in the NMU is also a matter SEAFARERS LOG, have been bor in particular." Later Woll we hope to create after the war facts which the author presents, which Mr. Boyer glosses over. under terrific pre.ssure due to said that the reason Rutz was a spirit of vengeance or the prac- but for anyone who knows the He only refers to the struggle in this profiteering and have at denied entry was his distribution tices of domination and enslave­ history of seamen's unions in order to take a back - handed times been forced to reduce the in other parts of Germany of the ment. We can neither exact ex­ the United States, the book is swipe at Curran, who seems to number of pages, some even he heading the opposition to the AFL publication "International orbitant reparations nor compel a total loss. having to cancel issues. Free Trade Union News." The the labor force of conquered na­ So -much is misrepresented, so communist marching in that In the testimony before a spec­ magazine has been critical of tions to rebuild for the conquer- much is omitted, tViat one is union. ial House Committee investigat­ Communist leaders within the ers on the basis of forced labor." immediately struck by the The NMU's wartime record is He deplored the fact that "in thought that the writer of the told of in laudatory terms. The ing the newsprint shortage, it many lands forced labor has be­ book was very naive, or just no-strike pledge is mentioned, was made known that newspiint which had a pre-war selling come an officially recoginzed in­ plain dumb. but no mention of the fact that price of $50-a-ton is selling at stitution. This advance of slave And then, the awakening, the men of the NMU had to de­ $200-a-ton in the black market. labor represents a tremendous danger for the free workers o7aTl R'chard Boyer is a contributing pend on the Seafarers for lead­ This was admitted by the Jour­ countries." He referred spe-| ^'^itor to New Masses, the com- ership, otherwise their own lead­ nal of Commerce. ers would have stood idly by cifically to the presence in France "literary" magaTHREAT TO ALL while the operators made big of PWs; he referred to Czechoslo^ consistent profits and the men risked their The monopolistic set-up in WASHINGTON — Less than a vakia's "brutal mistreatment" of supporter of Russia's policies, lives with no compensation. Canada is now a threat to all of over 2,000,000 Sudeten Germans; both domestic and foreign, so it month after the Wage-Hour and The NMU's collaboration with America's publications inasmuch wonder that he falsifies Public Contracts Division of the and he charged that in Soviet 1® the shipowners and the Coast as 80 percent of all U.S. news­ Labor Department protested to Russia "Under the whip of the f^ots when writing about a comprint comes from that country. Guard, is also not mentioned. Congress that a GOP economy NKVD or MVD and under the rnunist-dominated union, One company, the Clinton Pa­ It may be that Richard O. This bonk grew out of a series slash in their funds would crip­ threat of Soviet bayonets millions ple their power to enforce federal of Austrians, Estonians, Hungar- of four articles Mr. Boyer did Boyer is NOT a member of the per Company of New York ad­ laws, the two units announced ians, Germans, Lithuanians,' for the New Yorker magazine. communist party, but he mis­ mitted profiteering. On One lot that last year 54 per cent of the Letts, Ukranians, Tartars, Japan- His additions, to round out the represents history like a dyed- of newsprint that cost $800,000, nation's manufacturing indus­ ese and Roumanians, men and book consist mainly of character in-the-wool party member, and Clinton sold it for a clear profit tries inspected violated the mini­ women, civilians and soldiers, sketches of NMU officials, who so he may just be cheating the of $1,000,000. One of the Labor papers that are lauded with words which CP out of dues. mum wage, overtime and child sre used as forced laborers." suffered by this action Was Jus­ labor laws. tice, the newspaper of the Inter­ Labor Department witne.sses national Ladies Garment Work­ before both the Senate and House | ers, AFL. Their publisher, who Appropriations Committees com­ had bought paper from Clinton, plained that even under previous Palrolnian's Delight the line and the entire crew was Union hesitate to adopt such a billed the ILGWU $30 a ton fund allotments they had only plan. present for the payoff. higher than they had previously NEW YORK—Sometimes after enough inspection personnel to For one thing, administration Not only was the vessel lack­ paid. check a small percentage of fac­ a difficult payoff, a Patrolman ing in beefs, but officers topside of the plan would entail an en­ The publisher sent Congress tories and business firms. The gets down in the dumps. Every­ came in for a round of applause. ormous amount of clerical work a letter protesting this action, thing seems to go wrong. The best they could hope for, they The entire crew expressed their requiring the setting up of an declared, was that other employ­ Skipper is a tyrant, the company complete satisfaction w i t h the entirely new and separate or­ and since then has not received any paper from the Clinton ers would comply with the min­ plays hard to get and the pe*-- ship's officers. ganization. Company. imum wage and child labor laws formers are at their worst. Our adopted program does not At the payoff the officers were When faced by the Congress­ when they heard of other com­ But the other day. the SS on hand to return the praise of permit this at the present time, ional Committee, the vice- p'resipanies being cited for violations. Celilo, Pacific Tankers, renewed the crew and aid with the de­ but 1 have a suggestion that I Of the plants checked last year, my faith in all that is seagoing, tails that go along with the ter­ think we could undertake which dent of the Clinton Company about 29,000 of the 200,000 under­ when, after a short trip of 17 mination of a voyage. So well would serve much the same pur­ blandly stated that he charges paid workers in manufacturing days on a coastwise run she thought of were the officers that pose and could be undertaken "whatever 1 can get; whatever had been handed less than the bumped into New York for the 95 percent of the crew signed on with much less time, money and the market will bear." Whether the Committee will Wage-Hour Law minimum of 40c for another trip. They all feel effort. payoff. do anything about this practice an hour, or less than .$16 for a MORE PARTICIPATION I hit the ship and found her that they've found a real honey is doubtful. While they hold 40-hour week. of a ship and are anxious to That is a welfare fund admin­ their hearings and deliberate, shape. She was Violations were found in 60 to be in fine stay with her. istered by a three man board. the big money boys will con­ per cent of the 2660 food prod­ one of tho:se ships that make it One of the officei's that lent This would be much simpler and a real pleasure to handle at the tinue to put the small nev/spaucts establishments. Other high much to the feeling of good will more fluid than a credit union pers out of business. Then the percentages were disclosed in: payoff. 1 had expected that was the Chief Engineer, an exand would permit a larger per­ bosses' newspapers, which own rubber, 71 per cent; textiles, 54 there would be a lot of misun­ SlU member who made a host centage of our members to bene­ their own paper mills, will have per cent; lumber and wood prod­ derstandings and 'beefs for the of friends in the Black Gang. fit. free reign, having stilled the ucts, 60 per cent; printing and ship oai'jied 65 percent tripcard If there were more ships like The fund itself could be raised voice of Labor. publishing, 49 per cent; leather, men, but 1 was all wrong. the SS Celilo, 1 would never by a tax based on the earnings T'ne tripcarders. along with the 55 per cent; tobacco, 59 per cent; find any reason for getting down of our members, v/ith the com­ furniture, 59 per cent; paper and'^jook men a'ooard were all real in the dumps again. plete details worked out in co­ paper products 58 per cent; union men and were a credit to Should the Celilo crew keep operation with other unions chemicals and allied products, 51; the SIU at the payoff. The her as clean and as happy as she which already have such plans. per cent. I Delegates cooperated all down is, I'm sure she will give some Each man who makes a I'm just tossing this idea into j other Patrolman the enjoyable the ring without any attempt to donation to the LOG should receive a recei'pt in return. time that 1 had -while aboard. lay out a specific plan. I think If the Union official to whom Ray Gonzeles the membership should grab hold a contribution is given does of it and kick the idea around 5. i. t dispose of this unclaimed bag­ (Contimied from Page 9) not make out a receipt fox awhile. Welfare Plan description which has been lay­ gage. the money, call this to the It would be a good idea if the ing unclaimed for two years or Men who have stuff in the NEW YORK — From time to members would discuss the pros attention of the Secretarymo'-e in this baggage room. The New York Hall over a year—in time the .membership has con­ and cons of this idea through the Treasurer, J. P. Shuler, im­ stuff is cluttering up much-need- fact, for any period over three sidered the institution of a credit medium of the SEAFARERS mediately. .ed space and accumulating dust. months,—• are advised to write union, the principle behind which LOG, giving vent to their feel­ Send the name of the ofIn view of the time limit plac­ immediately to the baggage is to extend a helping hand finan­ ings and suggestions. ficial and the name of the ed on the holding of baggage room in the New York Hall, cially to brother SIU members in port in which the occurence Maybe we can come up with and since the gear in question giving a complete description of time of need. took place to the Nev/ York something that would be of bene­ has been he'd considerably long­ the gear being held there for In itself this is a • very good fit to us all. How about it fel­ Hall, 51 Beaver Street, New er than the prescribed limit, ar­ them and an address to which idea, however, it has certain lows? York 4, N. Y. rangements are being made to it can be forwarded. drawbacks that have made the Howard Guinier 54% Of Bosses Violating U.S. Wage, Hour Law The Patrolmen Say... Attention Members Tankers, Freighters In New York �m. s -J- il /-- SlU HALLS ASHTABULA •m^LO^ A^onoe'^\jN SS NEW YORK R. Pierce. $1.00; N. West. $1,00; C. Wolf. $1.00; M. j. Phillips. $5.00; C". L. Keckly. $5.00. SS S. BRETTON P. Bazaar. $1.00. Lelour- GRIFFIN By way of warning to iheir Brother Seafarers, the crew of Alcoa's SS Benjamin Fish­ er reports that seamen have been getting; a raw deal at Rene Laundry, 9688 Notre Dame, Montreal, Canada. The Fisher crew said sea-. men are overcharged for their laundry and the service is very bad. Talce heed! I MONEY DUE Smith & Johnson 1027 West Fifth St. Phone 552J BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 SS JOHN B. LENNON BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. S 8.26 Cleveland 7391 Begley, Raleigh CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Brown, Elmer L 1.37 Superior 5175 62.58 Burton, Wm. A CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. 8.15 Main 0147 Conrov, .John R 40.85 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Foster, Robert W Cadillac 6857 Hulton, Clarke 8.26 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. O'Brien, Edw. J 8.15 Melrose 4110 7.57 Rhodabarger, B. T GALVESTON 308'/i—23rd St. 2.06 Phone 2-8448 Thomas, Lloyd J. 114.06 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. Toporski, Victor Phone 58777 Verna, Raymond 28.44 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Weis.s, Karl 10.75 Phone 5-5919 Williams, Gene A. . . 5.51 MARCUS HOOK 1'/z W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 •t. 4. t MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. SS JOSEPH LEE Phone 2-1754 MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St. easier, Jack W 3 1.44 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. Fair, Laurel G9 Magiiulia 6112-0113 Hunter. Bertram 69 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. 69 HAnover 2-2784 Kellogg, Charles MacDonald, Ernest 11.16 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Phone 4-1033 Melita. Joseph 69 PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Mon, .Daniel . SS JOHN GALLUP Crew of SS J. Gallup. $25.00. SS LOOP KNOT D. Giangiorda. $1.00; B. L. McNeil. $2.00; E. Bla-kurn. $2.00; J. Mac69 Gregor. $2.00; II. D. Fitzgerald. $5.00; Lombard 3-7651 N. Keith. $5.0''; W. Waddington. $1.00; Pigg. Leonard E. 1.44 PORTLAND Ill W. Bumside St. D. J. Peurala. $1.00; J. A. iVtcCraw. 2.83 Beacon 4336 Rossi, Leo A $2.00; P. Russell. $1.00; R. D'Orio. RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. Sammon, Donald 69 $1.00. Phone 2599 Wilson, Donald ... 4.17 SS T. MEADOWS SAN FRANCISCO ICS Market St. A. E. Slowip. $2.00; J. Petusky. 5. 4 4 Douglas 5475 - 8363 $2.00; A. A. Polesel. $2.00; W. TherSAN JUAN. P. R. ..252 Ponce de Leon SS JOSHUA SLOCUM ault. $2.00; W. Rowlee. $1.00; A. San Juan 2-5996 Gcrm.iin. $1.00; E. A. Diaz. $1.00; Hughes, James J $ 2.25 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. E. '5'auch. $2.00; A. Driessens. Sl.OO. 38.02 Phone 8-1723 Kennedy, Louis B SS FRANCIS SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. McCarthy, Charles 10.69 A. J. Caparclla. $1.00. Main 0290 Noll, Oi'val A 2.25 SS PURDUE VICTORY TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin eSt. E. T. Calnan. $2.00; U. V. Andersen. Schumacher 2.75 Phone M-1323 $4.00; P. Anaslasia, $4.00; Irving Joyce. 118.61 TOLEDO ...615 Summit St. Vorras, Nicholas $4.00; EE C. .Atkins. $3.00; James WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Nicholl. $1.00; R. R. Meintel. $1.00. 4 4 4 Terminal 4 3131 James Mitchell. $1.00; W. J. Pollard. SS LAURA KEENE VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. $1.00; R. J. Ward. $1.00; W. J. Garden 8331 D'Orazio, Augostino J .$ 3.20 Ayers. $1.00; S. Shatrdvnik. $1.00. VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St.! SS ALCOA POINTER 4 3. 4 Pacific 7824 A. S. Ghita. $2.00; R. G. Long, $1.00; SS MATTHEW B. BRADY E. C. Catchot. $2.00; J, C, Alderman. $1.00; J. L. Barria. $2.00; S. El. BobAlbertson, Jack E $ .58 inger. $2.00; W. R. Raymond. $2.00 Candler, William E. . .69 S. blanks. $2.00; F. C. Bellot. $2.00; R Collins, Lawience J. .69 El. Shettlery. $20.00; J. W. Elemin Farland, R. M ROBERT DAVIS 13.06 $1.00; E". Lawshee, $2.00; R. Johnston $1.00; B. J. Conley. $2.00; S. J. Ham Get in touch with Frank Schutz Concalves, John M .65 ilt.nn. Jr.. $4.00; R. D. Cain. $4.00; J at SIU Hall, 51 Beaver Street, Huebner, Chrysostom J. .. .69 E. Rewilt. $4.00; B. R. Stevens. $4.00 SS E. JANEWAY j. \'ertilla. $1.00; G. Gentry. $1.00; E. Jordan. $2.00; B. Roosbar^. $1.00; H. Quinby. $2.00; G. J. Major. $2.00; R. B. Lewis. $1.00; J. T. Watt. $2.00; E.D Birdsall. $2.00; O. T. Gates. $i.OO; A. S. Saladiner. $2.00; W. E. Waldiop. $1.00; O. L. Sartin. $2.00. SS IBERVILLE S. P. Anderson. $1.00; J. T. Bennett. $5.00; GeorKe Walker. $1.00; P. Smith. $5.00; G. r-ellman. $1.00; Joe Ramos. $1.00; J. N. Karlson. Jr.. $1.00; Jack Kirby. $2.00; J. W. Paruulski. $1.00; II. V. Grimes. $1.00; R. E. Johnson. $1.00; R. J. Burton. $2.00; O. N. Peltom.d. $2.00; J. Vakush. $5.00. SS SIMMONS VICTORY J. W. Brodeur. $1.00; R. Morl.anen. $1.00; P. J. Gorfrey. $1.00; George R. Goss. $2.00; J. Bilko. $1.00; J. E. Aylward. $2.00; J. Colon. $1.00; J. P. Eloyd, $2.00. SS BLOOMQUIST D. Carey. $1.00; H. E. Rice. $1.00; J. Erancisco. $1.00; A. D. Messana, $1.00; J. T. IliKJtins. $1.00; E.J. Leslie. $2.00; J. M. Mikon.s. $1.00; M. M. Bryant. $1.00; Wm. McCartay. $5.00; GALVESTON P. J. Snider. $2.00; D. E. Kelleher. $ 1.00. SS J. D. ROSS SS SIGNAL HILLS SS NIANTIC VICTORY C. R. nullum, $5.00; V. J. Keller. Peter Jomides. $1.00; R. D. Kidd.^ $2.00; A. E. V'etu, $2.00; D. Cameron, $5.00; C. Kirby. $5.00; J. C. Gleason. $1.00; H. N. Eraser, $1.00; B. Woz- $5.00; El. G. Harris. $5.00; R. Natier. nicki. $2.00; J. Stanwood. Jr.. $3.01); $5.00; K. Karloon. $5.00; E. Jones. John TravaHlini. $2.00; J. J. Brennan. $5.00; C. C. Wooley. $5.00; Stewards the SS J. D. Ross, $1.00; W. J. Prince. $1.00; M. M. Department of McDonouirh. $2.00; J. Riddle. $2.00; $10.00. G. H. Weller. $5.00; J. W. Buller. L. Snares. $1.00; E. C. Pflnce. $2.00. R. Walker. $2.00; R. J. Thebarije. $5.00; S. L. McNcely. $10.00; Frank $2.00; J. Smyth. $2.00; J. Leydon. S. Bosment. $10.00; Robert Rigdon. $2.00; E. El. Johnson. $1.00; A. O Neil. $10.00; C. J. LaCosta. $10.00; Gerald Bredwig. $5.00; J. Turek. $4.00; I. $2.00; D. P. Stafford, $1.00. Magarvy. $6.00; D. M. Erickson. $5.00; SS JEAN A. Botelho. $1.00; M. D. Gctchell. J. Kirk. $3.00; A. Biornsson, $4.00; W. $1.00; ,W. II. Williams, $2.00; Armond. P. Elopkins, $5.00; B. M. Stunke. $4.00; Renins, $2.00; Ray Smallwood. $5.00; L. A. Dick. $5.00; G. Emmcrl. $25.00. J. W. Kumierski. $1.00; E. T. Andrews. NORFOLK $1.00; T. N. Shea. $10.00; Dunphy. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $1.00; R. McEnrland. $5.00; J. C. G. N. McEarlnnd. $3.00; C. V. Minor. Brumbaugh. $1.00. $5.00; C. Daniels. $3.00; J. C. Mattiiews, $3.00; E. H. Goodwin, $3.00; Vt. L. Hughes. $3.00. Watch Wash a 60 BEAVER STREET, L. Labrador. $2.00; I. Levy. $2.00 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS M. A. Kurkemeli.s R. Davidson. SI.00; J. 13. Davis. J. Miniz. $2.00; $4.00; II. Skauerup. $2.00; W. O'Con- $2.00; J. M. Soto. $2.00; E. Mill. $2.00 nar. $1.00; E. Dorc. $1.00; G. H. A. L. Eerreira. $2.00; T. Moncho. $2.00 A. R. Chiriani. $2.00; I". Aiell. Jr. Mara(\. $1.00. $2.00; E. Mosaal. $2.00; D. Snyder SS ROBIN GOODFELLOW $2.00; B. Undertilo. $2.00; G. Iversen Jo.! Kite. $2.00; D. W. Clark. $1.00; $2.00; L. PiKk'. $2.00; A. Baer. $2.00; j. E. .McCrani'j. $2.00; j. .Ackarman, J. Denopra. $2.00; E. Weiss, $2.00; A. $1.00; W. M. Todd. $1.00; J. II. Ma.xey. Dans. $2.00; S. Hotchek. $2.00; T. $1.00; Euschio Elorcs. $1.00; II, G Wablin, $5.00; T. Rodgers. $3.00; G. Brann.n. $100; G. Styles. $1.00; j. W. Iversen and Crew. $11.00. Rirnio. $1.00; E. E. Parker. $5.00. SS WARRIOR E. .M. Brooks. $1.00; E. E. Cox. J. J. O'Connor. $2.00; C. T. Ridge. $5.00; II. Wladyslaw. $-1.00; D. B. Brownlee. $1,00; U. A. Coroneas. $1.00; $2.00; D. Carnap and Crew. $32.00. SS LOST HILL Maynard .Adams. $2.00; D. neaii. $1.00. Page Fifieen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. June B, 1947 BOSTON INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Trrw nf SS Klamnth Falls—$5.00. J. Moynihnn. $1.00. MONEY DUE Crewmembers of the Deck De­ partment who paid off in Mo­ bile on March 20, 1947, have over­ time coming to them. This money can be collected at the Alcoa of­ fice in Mobile. PERSONALS NEW YORK Stallones, Hurley Vandenbelt, Robert V .72 3.86 ^ ^ SS NEGLEY D, COCHRAN Cantin, Joseph E $ .15 Jamsson, Sven 62 Mare H. Thomas 3.28 Strlbbling, Joseph 3.58 .4 4 4 SS RALPH A. CRAM Jacobson, T. M S 7.57 4 4 4 SS THOMAS J. LYONS Barbae, Billie $ 2.92 Colucci, Paul 69 Czyzewicz, Edward 13.81 Fimovicz, Bernard 3.48 George, James E 4.13 Graves, Richard W 69 Hah'Ston, Billie 3.49 Landfall', Jaes 3.49 Moroni, Emil J 4.98 Nichols, Raymond .71 Sakers, George 15.45 Saunders, Charles 1.37 Strayhorn, Donald 2.22 4- 4 4 SS WALLACE M. TYLER Birmingham, James $ 1.44 Bloom, Frederick 72Dworanczyk, W. J 4.13 Johnson, E. S 1.72 Jones, G. F 7.23 Lolly, J 1.37 Newell, Dominic J 2.97 Williams, M. M 7.85 4 4 4 SS WILLIAMS VICTORY Arscott, David S 8.72 Chwan. John 26 Davis, Paul H 2.63 Dazzara, Giorainni 2.41 Hendricks, Leon 4.87 Nason, Edward 3.97 NOTICE! Koski. Albert 6.93 Miller, Edward P. 2.41 4 4 4 JOHN COTTON Riley, James 7.56 MICHAEL SERVONE RUDOLPH GILLIN Robinson, Charles S .69 AL SARDINA E. W. VEACH Ziats, John .69 John N. Thompson, a former These men have eight hours 4 4 4 fellow crewmember on the Belle overtime for working Good Fri­ SS MATT W. RANSOM of the West, is anxious for you day on SS Barbara Fritchie. .$ 8.68 to contact him. His address is: Raulsome, Charles .... Money may be collected by writ­ 4' 4 4 U. S. Marine Hospital, Ward B-6 ing or calling at Bull Line Office, No. 11, Stapleton 4, Staten Island, SS M. MICHAEL EDELSTEIN New York. New York. Binning, Leonard S $ 2.88 4 4 4 Coggins, Wm. F 4 4 4 3.55 ALOYSIUS A. KESSEN Anyone who shipped on the SS Cole, Walter 1.37 Your seamen's papers, dis­ Fort Fredericka last Feb. with Frietas, Herbert E 4.98 charges and citizenship papers Second Mate W. E. Finn is urged Jennings, Junior 1.37 are being held for you in the to get in touch with him at the Lindsay, Frederick L. 24.49 baggage room of the Baltimore Galveston Marine Hospital in Lopez, Kenneth .72 connection with an injury he re­ Williams, George E 1.37 Hall. ceived at that time. 4 4 4 4 4 4 GEORGE B. FLEMING SS MUHLENBERG VICTORY Book No. 6306 Acosta, Antonio $ 4.32 Please report to cashier's win­ Adamko, Edward W. . 5.69 dow on 6th floor of New York Delgado, Frank 2.16 Hall, 51 Beaver Street. Brother Peter Lopez, No. DuBois, Charles W 3.59 21825, a member of the Sea­ Dziubanski, Edward 38.11 farers since April 1942, died Hell, George A 3.86 in the Baltimore Marine Hos­ Jones, John A 1.19 pital on May 25. Brother Lo­ Juncker, Arnold All applications for unemploy­ .74 pez, who was born in Spain Hidwell, Wm. J .59 ment insurance in New York in 1885, succumbed after a Poppas, Leonidas .74 State must be made through the long illness. Burial was in Purvis, Robert J 26.79 offices at 277 Canal Street, in­ New York. Raspante, John 25.85 stead of the District offices, as Rosencrans, Thomas P. .. 2.52 formerly. New York City. "i. Final Dispatch Attention Members! ..K; y?'' I' I �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. Juno 6, 1947 smAnss iHnaw/i/l.uNioN ofNMAMERlCA • A.F.ofL. J � 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 June 6, 1947 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. IX, No. 23 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SECRETARY-TREASURER FRED FARNEN CLARIFIES POSITION OF SEAFARERS ON THE GREAK LAKES NEW YORK AFL RALLY DEMANDS TRUMAN VETO OF TAFT-HARTLEY BILL ALIEN SEAMEN, ONCE WAR HEROES, REWARDED BY PREWAR RESTRICTIONS SWEDISH SEAMEN PUT THUMBS DOWN ON PANAMA MINE WORKERS UNION ASKS INCREASE IN WELFARE FUND SEAFAERS SUPPORTS AFL GRAIN SCOOPERS IN BUFFALO STRIKE THE END IN SIGHT HERE'S THE LOWDOWN ON WHAT'S REALLY HAPPENING ON THE LAKES SELLING SHIPS TO FOREIGN COUNTRIUES WILL DESTROY U.S. MERCHANT MARINE MADAKET CREW AT WORK AND PLAY ON LONG ATLANTIC OCEAN VOYAGE REAL BROTHERHOOD FOUND IN MEN WHO GO TO SEA EVANGELINE SAILS ON REGULAR BERMUDA RUN HURON ELECTION HELD THIS WEEK NEW GALVESTON BRANCH OFFICIALS INHERIT A FOULED-UP SITUATION SHIPPING SLOWS DOWN IN TOLEDO BUT FOR THE TIME BEING ONLY PORT HOUSTON CLOSES AS SIU MOVES TO END NEEDLESS SPENDING SHIPPING VERY GOOD IN PHILLY; RUMOR HAS REGULAR RUN FOR PORT NMU CHANCES ARE SLIM INDEED IN THE NLRB ELECTIONS IN HURON DISPATCHER WRITES ABOUT JOB SAND MEMBERSHIP FOR NEWCOMERS BOSTON SHIPPING CLEANS OUT HALL; MANPOWER SHORTAGE IN CRITICAL TAMPA REPORTS IT HAS MORE JOBS THAN SEAMEN TO FILL THEM ALL WINNING OF THE 40 HOUR WEEK AN EYE OPENER TO LAKES SEAMEN INFLUX OF TANKERS, FREIGHTERS KEEPS PORT NEW YORK VERY BUSY CHICAGO MAY BE HOME FOR TWO MORE SHIPS, SAYS SCUTTLEBUTT CANADIAN SEAMEN COME TO SIU FOR HELPING HAND SHIPOWNERS CRY FOR ECONOMY--BUT ONLY AT EXPENSE OF SEAMEN CSU CREW RAPS LEADERSHIP, ALUDS SIU'S MARITIME ROLE 'POP' SWEETZER DIES ABOARD SS JAS. GILLIS FRENCH COMMUNISTS KEEP AFL REP FROM GERMAN ZONE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 6/6/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d30579e769daf2ca8d00c163ef21ac69.PDF 1125d91d2e3996b59ee4990bc6b3f7e3 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Green Sees Wage Peril In Slave Bill NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. MAY 30. 1947 TANKER SPLIT IN TWO BY BLAST WASHINGTON — AFL Presi­ dent William Green charged last week that the NAM "which has consistently fought in the past aginst every decent measure to protect the public welfare and is still battling against such mea­ sures, now has the effrontery to claim that tTie anti-labor legis­ lation which it actively sponsor; will serve the public welfare." Green, in a nationwide radio debate with NAM Presi­ dent Earl Bunting, declared that the NAM "is an organization dominated by the most reaction­ ary, labor-hating interests in America." Citing the NAM's record in op­ posing the child labor amend­ The stern section of the SS Newhall Hills, Pacific Tankers. lies in the English Channel after ment,, social secui'ity, housing leg­ the crew abandoned the ship which was cut in half by flames and explosions on May 24. Crew­ islation and price control, Green men who went from the stern to the bow by boat, found the bowman, Edward Bolehala. dead. emphasized that "The whole pur­ This photo was received in New York on May 24 by radio from London. (Press Assn., Inc. photo) pose and intent of this legisla­ tion, regardless of the pious claims made for it, is to weaken the labor movement and make it impossible for unions to function. "The effect would be to under­ mine and destroy the wage stand­ ards established by unions. "The result would be a slash With one man dead as a result High School in his sophomore in mass purchasing power and far lower production, because of the explosions which rocked year in I94I to join the mer­ He became an people would not have the money the vessel after being rammed chant marine. SIU member, and was active in to buy what they need. by an unidentified trawler off the drive to organize the Isth­ "Factories would be forced to Margate, England, the tanker mian Steamship Company. shut down and millions of work­ SS Newhall Hills was towed into ers would lose their jobs. If that Captain R. E. Lenahan, Mas­ the Thames Estuary on Sunday, ter of the Newhall Hills, praised happens, America would find it­ May 25. self buried deep in another dis­ his crew for the "sheer guts" astrous depression. The dead seaman was identi­ they showed in volunteering to "The Taft-Hartley bill paves the fied as Edward Bolehala, of man hoses and stand by the en­ road to such a depression. Labor Bridgeport, Pennsylvania, who gines while a raging fire threat­ would not be the only one com­ suffered a concussion and other ened the center tank. Explosion pelled to travel that road. Mer­ injuries when the collision with Edward Bolehala. AB. who the trawler set off a series of of that, he said, would have de­ chants, professional people and ^the public as a whole would suf­ lost his life when his tanker was blasts which ripped off the tank­ molished the ship. rammed in the English Channel. er's bow in the fog-shrouded fer." English Channel. Five fishermen were missing from the trawler. Bolehala left Upper Merion Seafarer Loses Life fn Newhall Hills Blast Charles Haymond, former Houston Agent, has been trans­ ferred to Galveston, as has Graydon "Tex" Suit, Patrolman. Leon Johnson, former Port Arthur Agent, will work out of New Or­ leans. Corpus Christi had no elected officials, and therefore no switch­ es were necessary. Brother Shuler has just return­ ed from a trip to the Texas Ports, where he assisted Bi'other Hay­ mond in closing up the Houston Branch, and where he made other changes in the SIU set-up in the Gulf area. SS Northwind Crewmen Win SIU Contract JACKSONVILLE — Time al­ most ran out on the Seaway Lines, Incorporated, operators of that used-to-be slave ship, the SS New Northwind. Just about a month ago the company acced­ ed to a 3C-day interim agree­ ment, first, however, granting a $30.00 per month raise across the board. This came about through the use of job action on the part of the crew, all members of the Canadian District of the Seafar­ ers International Union. Following the pay raise, the company resorted to stalling, and the time limit drew near without a contract being agreed upon. The company called on its high-priced lawyer to beat down the Union, but the SIU argu­ ments soon had him on the ropes. But still the company held out and hoped for a miracle. The crew was prepared to use job action once again to gain a decent contract, and the com­ pany was well aware of this. Just before the deadline, the company officials accepted the terms drawn up by the Union, and now the Canadian District is in possession of a closed shop contract covering all the unli­ censed personnel on the ship. BIG JUMP IN PAY Wage increases ranging up to $95.00 per month were agreed to, and overtime for all work done in excess of eight hours daily will be paid for from now on. This is far different from what went on previous to the time the SIU stepped in, when the em(Continued on Page 5) Contract Negotiations Continue Between Mathiasen And Seafarers Three Texas Halls Are Closed; Galveston Will Service Area NEW YORK—Word has just been received from SecretaryTreasurer J. P. Shuler that the Halls in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Port Arthur have been clos­ ed. Elected officials in those Branches have been transferred to other posts. This action was taken on the basis of the Headquarters Report to the membership, and was con­ curred in by the membership in regular coastwise meetings. The Port of Galveston will ser­ vice the membership in all Texas Ports, and SIU members are to ship through the Hall in that Port, • No. 22 ATTENTION! When you are in Texas ports be sure that all crew replacements sent aboard your vessels are shipped from the Galveston Hall. This is the only port open in Texas at present. Anyone coming on board as a crew replace­ ment who has not been ship­ ped from the Galveston Hall is to be classed as a fink. Protect your jobs! Protect your Union! Keep the finks off the ships we fought so hard to bring under contract! PHILADELPHIA — Following on the heels of the National La­ bor Relations Board's certifica­ tion of the Seafarers Internation­ al Union as collective bargain­ ing agent, a Union committee swung into negotiations last week with Mathiasen Tanker In­ dustries, Inc. The negotiations are to estab­ lish wages and working condi­ tions on the company's vessel, the SS Petrolite, the election aboard which the SIU won hands down. The final tally of ballots revealed a 27 to 2 vote in favor of the SIU. The meetings between the com­ pany and union representatives are being held in this poi't. In its counter-proposals to the SIU's contract demands, Mathia­ sen has shown a willingness to accept an agreement almost iden­ tical with that of the Pacific Tankers, Inc. The Seafarers' negotiating committee, consisting of Robert Matthews, Headquarters Engine Department Representative, and several rank and file members from the Port of Philadelphia, is pressing for even better condi­ tions, however. Although Mathiasen has only the one ship now, several others have already been ordered. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS Friday. May 30. 1947 LOG SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor Ac 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N, Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HAREY LUNDEBERG ---------- President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL - - - First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER ------- Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER ----Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK ----------- Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Trcas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG - Sec.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - Sccy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY ----- Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in Now York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Non - Union Unionists There are a few men in the Union, making a noise out of all proportion to their numbers, who are going to make it difficult for the SIU to press for added benefits in the contract negotiations which lie in the future. Hospital Patients These men parade around as "super militants," while When entering the hospital in actuality they are drawbacks to the further progress of notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the organization. In short, they are the gas hounds and per­ the number of your ward. formers who are constantly putting the Union on the spot. Staten Island Hospital The SIU has made it a practice to crack down on any You can contact your Hos­ operator who failed to live up to the terms of his contract pital delegate at the Staten with the Union. By such action, we have prevented any Island Hospital at the follow­ monkeyshines which would have weakened our agree­ ing tiems: ments, and today we stand at the top of the maritime in­ Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) dustry insofar as wages and conditions go. Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. These are Ihe Union Brolhers currently in the marine hospitals, We tvaut to maintain that leadership. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging Some members take a job from the board, set out heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) for the ship, and never get to. their destinations. While ing to them. they start out in good faith, they stop in for a quick one, NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL and are still holding up the bar when the ship sets sail. P. KOGOY A. BUCHENHORNER WM. BARGONE J. RUBERY Others get to the vessel all right, but are dissatisfied C. PEDERSEN WM. KEMMERER J. MINNAHAN WM. HENDERSHOT with the ship, the job, or the officers, and decide to pile J. HARRISON W. PARIS LORENZO BRIGIDA G. CARUSO off. They do so without notifying the Hall, jt> 3>> PEDRO GONZALES Another man may be on the ship for a few days be­ P. STOFFEL STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL PETER LOPEZ A, SANDY fore it sails, never saying a word, and going on about his R. CHRISTIAN G. H. STEVENSON MANUEL ROMERO J. BURNS business. Just before sailing time, this fellow starts to blow A. R. GUIDRY 'EDWARD CAIN JR. E. CARRERA off steam, and refu.ses to allow the ship to sail until cer­ J. AMAYA THOMAS PHELPS A. M. BRANCONI I?AYMOND NICHOLSON H. DAUGHERTY tain changes are made. R. G. MOSSELLER GORDON WALLACE He may have a legitimate beef, but waiting until P. La Cicero N. NEILSEN ANO ANDERSOON R. WRIGHT the last possible moment is no way to get a beef settled. J. M. DYKES JOHN WEBB G. GREY C. CARLSON In all of these cases the Union is the ultimate loser. H. HAMOND JAMES McMAHON (G.L.) E. E. CASEY Many times the vessel is forced to sail shorthanded, and C. CASE J. M. BROOKS F. HAMON that cheats some other Brother out of a job. SAN FRANCISCO HOSP. J. BUJEWICH The shipowners are watching these happenings with J. O'NEILL AARON McALPIN F. NERING BROSE delight. This adds fuel to their fire, and when negotia­ W. J. HODO E. CHATARD ; C. MASON JOHN KREWSEN • J. B. CAUSEY tions commence, they are sure to point out that certain A. WALTERS C. MARTINEZ SIU members have not lived up to the terms of the con­ i, t t BRIGHTON^HOSPITAL V. PLACEY 1 tract, while the Union has forced 100 per cent observance NEPONSET HOSPITAL A. RIOS D. KREWSKI from the~ operators. MICHAEL PISKIN S. WILUSZ (SUP) H. BURKE The Seafarers membership has expressed itself as being J. S. CAMPBELL LEO RICE E. JOHNSTON wholeheartedly against the actions of the performers, gas L. CLARK H. UWiM S. & ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL P. MADIGAN (SUP) E. FERRER iK>unds, and phony last-minute-militants. Branch after E. MOFIENE J. R. HANCHEY M. MORRIS Branch has passed resolutions condemning these fellows, C. WALSH LARSEN W. B. MUIR and unless they take steps to halt their activities, the mem­ C. E. DELLAMANO L. L. LEWLS D. MCDONALD bership may be forced to take matters into its own hands. L. TORRES D. BURLISON (SUP) C. RASMUSSEN Tloafs a word to the tvise! J. MORRISON C. SCHULTZ J. KOSLUSKY Men Now In The Marine Hospitals i J �Friday, May 30, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three SlU Takes Action Against Irresponsibles Texas Braashes Merge, The Union membership has taken steps to stamp out the practice Drive On Performers of irresponsible Brothers who "sign on a ship and then walk off," with­ out notifying the Union Hall or Ship's Delegate, thus threatening job se­ curity and the operation of the Union hiring hall. Acting on a proposal submitted by a former crew of the SS Edward W. Scripps, SIU members in all ports have concurred in the resolution to invoke penalties against performers who thus cause "confusion and hardship on the rest of the crew and very often make it necessary to sail short-handed, or to ship a non-union man on a pier-head jump." The original resolution adopted aboard the Scripps was drafted by the following crewmembers: A. L. (Blackie) Gardner, Eddie T. Driggers, Richard C. Lewis, James P. Creel, Charles R. Littlejohn, Santo P. Garcia, Jacinto V. Velondin, James L. Gates, Roger D. Still and A. (Blackie) Bankston. Text of the resolution follows: Whereas: The Union hiring hall and job security was won by the SIU after a long hard fight, and it is the policy of the SIU, for our own protection, to insist on our ships being crewed at all times by SIU members, and Whereas: It has become a habit with a number of Union Brothers to sign on a ship and then walk off without informing anyone of their intentions, thus causing confusion and hardship on the rest of the crew, and very often making it necessary to sail short-handed, or to ship a non-union man on a pier-head jump, Therefore, Be It Resolved: That any member, who signs on a ship and then deliberately walks off and misses the ship intentionally with­ out informing the Union Hall or Ship's Delegate in time to ship a re­ placement, be fined the sum of $50.00 for the first offense; and in the event the man pulls the stunt a second time he shall be brought up on charges and stand trial before a duly elected trial committee in the port where he misses the s'.iip, or the port with the nearest Un­ ion Hall." By EARL "BULL" SHEPPARD On concurrence of the mem­ bership in the recommendation of the Secretary-Treasurer, I have assumed the duties of Branch Agent in this Port. Recently the Halls in Houston, Port Arthur, and Corpus Christi have been closed and the elected officials from the Port of Hous­ ton will work out of this Port. This will give us quite a bit of territory to cover, but we should be able to do it with the elected officials from Houston and Gal­ veston. The gas hound situation has been causing quite a bit of trouble here, giving the Union a bad name. Some of the tripcard men would ship on a vessel, get gassed up and miss her at the last minute, and never report back to the Union Hall until they wanted another ship. ter every war. The thing to do is to keep the racketeers off the ships, hang onto your money, and build the Union, for it is the only real representative of the Seamen. Bell Workers Did Not Lose Their Strike By BEN DOR (LPA Columnis!) Recently, a friend of mine re­ minded me of the time, a few years ago, when he and I first talked about the chance of a real telephone workers union, and I said that it couldn't be done. Ladies and gentlemen of This has caused a lot of ships the long and short lines, here is to be delayed, or to sail dliort- my apology—plus the details. I had had a lot of chances to handed- A stop is being put to this, and all tripcard men are see how big utilities could spend warned that, if they get off a your dough and mine to beg, be­ ship without giving proper no­ guile and persuade their workers tice, their shipping cards will be away from unions. And the strong arm stuff they were will­ taken from them. ing to pull when the sweet words However, all the gas hounds failed. are not tripcard men. There are When this friend of mine told a few book members who hang around the beach here, and grab me that the workers in the local off jobs that are going to stay phone company were getting union conscious, I smiled out in Port. loud. They have no intention of sail­ It looked to me like a com­ ing, and never bring up a beef pany official having the jitters until sailing time. Then they turn because his kid employes were up gassed to the gills with a forgetting to say "sir." thousand phony beefs and hold highly essential that the Brothers to the Union Hall the next day up the ship for no reason. How wrong I was. The kids By BENNY GONZALEZ understand the meaning of this trying to get someone to excuse have grown up, in understand­ NEW YORK—Lately some of Several of these men have al­ article if the great number of them. It's too late then. ing and courage, even if not so the Brothers have failed tb get ready been put on charges and beefs on this question are to be However, ,if you send a letter, any of these other performers much in years. Even the hellotheir hospital discharges honor­ eliminated. telegram, postcard or other com­ that act up in this manner can ex­ girls have developed in many ed and, in most cases, the reason Article 5 clearly says that munication in writing before the places from the employe-benefit the reason has been that they pect the same thing. when a member has been dis­ meeting, it will be acted upon by stage to the militant union level. didn't know what they can and The Seafarers holds a record of charged from a hospital, his hos­ the membership and you may be Their little local unions got tocannot do. pital card will be honored at any excused and retain your shipping usmg job action when necessary ggther in a national federation For the purposes of clarifica­ Union Hall providing he reports date. This is not a guarantee for to get our ship's gains, and wei^nd the Federation pulled a tion, let's look at some of the within 48 hours after being dis­ an excuse. In fact, it does not are certainly not going to jeopar-' gt^ke against the American Teleshipping rules which apply to charged. appear specially in the shipping gas hounds in this Port, or any P""- & ^egraph corporatio„. hospital cases: rules. BEAT BIG OUTFIT Article 2 of Hospital cases REGISTER IMMEDIATELY other Port, mess things up by ac­ means that if you are registered It exists by virtue of a resolu­ quiring a bunch of bottled milit­ Think of it, you oldtimers. Article 6 says that if you are and go to the hospital, you must Even before they had an inter­ ill or injured and go to a hospi­ tion that was made in the past. ancy right at the last minute. upon discharge clear through the national or a national union, tal, you must, upon discharge Article 33 of the rules cover it, WATERFRONT RACKETS Union Hall. If you have been m they struck against the biggest from the hospital, report io the as follows: the hospital over 30 days you It seems like all of the water- corporation in the country, Union Hall immediately and reg­ YOUR RIGHT will be issued "a new shipping front rackets known are in evi-l This is a corporation that conister on the shipping list. Now, card dated prior to date of dis­ "In the event that anything dence in some form or other in trols as much money as 21 Amthis is what you are entitled to charge from the hospital." How­ happens not specifically covered this area. We have had instances states put together. It is if you have followed this cor­ ever, you must clear through the by these rules, any member has of men boarding ships and repre-, richer than U.S. Steel and Genrectly: When the ship you got Union Hall within 48 hours, as the right to present his case in senting themselves as Union Of- ®ral Motors put together, with off makes a trip back to the port stipulated in Article 5 of the where you left her, you have the writing to the Union and have it ficials when in reality they were General Electric tossed in. settled by the membership at a there to roll our members into Shipping Rules. this young union took right to go back on that ship— various phony merchant marine ^hem on, and really made them 30 DAYS OR MORE providing there is a vacancy. But regular meeting." One more thing I want every veterans organizations. know that they had been to war. Article 3 says that when a in no event are you entitled to member to know. When you o,—-o What did they get out of it? any other privileges of any other This has been going on all over member has been in a hospital Western Electric, the man30 days or longer, he will be article in the shipping rules for have been on a ship less than 15 the country and not only seamen days and lose the job through but also service veterans have "facturing arm of AT&T, they given, on proper proof, a ship­ hospital cases. got 11% per hour, the same base The most difficult and hell- no fault of your own, you are en­ been victimized. ping card dated 30 days prior to his date of discharge. Members raising beef of all arises when titled to get your shipping card The LOG has repeatedly car<""« bis Indus, hospitalized less than 30 days members miss the meetings and back. However, you must always ried articles exposing the activnions go . will receive a card dated as of keep coming into the hall with a get a pay voucher and bring it to ities of these "saviours and beneother parts of the indate of entry into hospital. But doctor's slip stating that "Joe the Hall when you come for your factors," and will continue to increases ranged from $2 all hospital cases have to clear Blow was under my care." There shipping card. If you don't bring so. up. I'm told that the average through the Union Hall with 48 is no privilege attached to this the pay voucher, you'll have to The best guard against these would run around $4 per week. whatever—and there is no men­ go back for it. So it's easier to hours after discharge. That $4 figure is the payoff. racketeers, however, is to make Article 4 says that "any mem­ tion of it in the shipping rules, get it at the payoff. any man coming aboard a ship ® double what AT&T is used In the event the company re­ ber receiving out-patient treat­ which state clearly that you must show his Union credentials begiving its workers as a wage ment shall have his shipping have a hospital discharge and fuses to give a regular pay fore he is even listened to. : increase, and it's double what card stamped in the regular you must have been an in-pa­ voucher, get a letter from them An authorized SIU official hasi*^® other big communications manner at the regular business tient. Remember if you are an stating the date employment regular credentials and these are Western Union, gave meeting." This means you are out-patient, we can't honor your commenced and the date you the only persons authorized to * employes, were paid off. If you do this it treated the same as anybody else discharge. The increase was won the hard Members who don't attend will cut down a lot of beefing, talk for the Union. on the beach. You must attend History has shown that these negoUations carried all regular business meetings or meetings for whatever reason and you will save time and money, too. , phony artists always crop up af(Conthnud OH Page 4) rfse lo^ your shipping date. It is they may have should not come Failure To Get Discharges From Hospitals Due To Misunderstanding Of Rules �THE " Page Four Trinity Victory First Assistant Reai Watchdog SEAFARERS Friday, May 30, 1947 LOG Shipboard TrNtment Of VD Poses Multitude Of Dangers erful drugs. Aboard sliip there By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Representative is no laboratory where diagnoses can be made. One of the popular beliefs Also there is no provision for since the war is that penicillin microscopic examination to de­ and sulfa are wonder, drugs evol­ termine whether the seaman is ving overnight cures of all di­ able to withstand thc^ treatment seases known to man. Unfor­ should it be administered. tunately for mankind, this is not Because ships do not carry the case. doctors, there are a multitude of So far medical science has not dangers in placing the treatment provided us with that panacea, of a suspected disease in the but has given us penicillin and hands of a Purser or a "foc'sle sulfa as drugs with definite lim­ doctor." itations and purposes. The average person has been One of the greatest uses of the drugs is in the treatment of ed to believe that penicillin and venereal diseases, but even here sulfa are wonder drugs, and a If the First Assistant Engineer of the Trinity Victory, Isthmian, was paid a commission for over­ time lie withheld from the crew^ he must have cleaned up a small ' fortune on the last trip. This is the considered opinion of the crew, all of whom ran into him at one time or another. Here's the tale, as told by Coy Gilbert, FWT; John W. MacKenzie. Jr. Engineer; R. C. Guthrie, and H. R, Kirkwood, COY GILBERT ABs, JOHN W. MacKENZIE All of them recently com­ pleted a trip on the Trinity, and the drugs are limited and, more after paying off in New York, important, pose many dangers came right down to the LOG when administered by a person office to give the lowdown re­ other than a doctor. garding conditions on board the In recent weeks the Union has ship, . _ received complaints that some The crew signed on in New companies have neglected to Orleans on January 1, and the place penicillin and sulfa drugs new year got off on the wrong aboard. It must be pointed out, foot. . however, that merely placing the The First Assistant didn t wait drugs aboard will not take care long before he started throwing of the treatment of VD. . I his weight around. First off,^ he It is to the members' credit refused to okay overtime for'the ii Jr. Engineer for cleaning the that they are anxious to have the drugs aboard should the occasion couple of shots of penicillin, or lube oil purifier. COMPANY STIFF ari.se for their use, but there are the munching of a few sulfa Then he denied OT for blow­ several dangers to keep in mind. pills, will restore one's health. ing down and shocking the evap­ NOT QUALIFIED Medical men who work with orator. Such operation is always A Purser of a Captain is not the drugs do not share this be­ classed as overtime, with one a qualified physician. They know lief. They realize that both drugs hour being marked up each time little or nothing of the dangers are very powerful and are still R. C. GUTHRIE the job is performed. and consequences of these pow­ in the experimental stage. H. R. KIRKWOOD By this time the First had his They know that they have sea legs, and was ready to go performed some miraculous to town. He worked the Wipers cures, but they also know that on Saturday afternoon, with a the drugs have killed and crip­ promise of free time off, no pled when administered by the overtime. wrong persons. One Wiper stated flatly that other crack at industry-wide or­ A few example of what can he wanted to be paid for his (Continued from 5) ganization, or will they give up and has resulted from improper work in money, not in free time, on by the leaders were backed on that part of the fight? treatment should alter the aver­ and as a result, he was not al­ up by the steady faithful picket­ Will they see themselves as age person's opinion of these lowed to work. ing of the rank and file. part of the whole American la­ drugs: By STANLEY WARES '•Heard enough," grinned MacOlder, experienced unions bor movement, fighting the same CAN CRIPPLE Kenzie. "There's still more to CLEVELAND — The American were so impressed by the per­ battle we're all fighting? come. Down in Texas this same Sulfa drugs are known to have Federation of Labor Maritime formance of these newcomers Or will they go off in a corner character fired a Jr. because he caused serious kidney infections Trades Department has been pe­ put in for overtime for carrying that they pitched in to help. But by themselves, licking their when the crystals of the drug titioned for a charter by the local it was the work of the telephone wounds as though they are the Port Marine Council. It is be­ engine room stores. (^Continued on Page IS) '•And that's not all," chimed unions themselves that kept the only ones that have them? lieved that this is the first port picket lines going, in some cases in Brother Gilbert. "He broke on the Great Lakes to make ap­ watches whenever he felt like for almost seven weeks. plication. If so, Cleveland is ONE GREAT LOSS it, stopped Wipers from sweep­ mighty proud she is first. ing out foc'sles, allowing one There was one great loss in The charter application was Wiper one hour per day to clean the strike. It's one that every Although Finley Peter Dunne, the creator of Mr. Dooley. acted upon at the May 16 meet­ out two heads and two showers. union member should be think­ has been dead many years, the words he put in Mr. Dooley s ing of the Port Council at which delegates from all member or­ To top it off, he locked up the ing about today, because it was mouth ring true today. .. , j *i. i,.,ec.»c rags, and doled them out one our loss, too. The union was un­ When Finley Peter Dunne was in his heyday, the bosses ganizations were present. In at­ able to make AT&T negotiate were up in arms against the closed shop, using the same false tendance were the delegates from at a time. What a guy." The other two veterans of the on a national basis; the strikes reasoning which their descendents are using today. ® the following unions: Trinity Victory were just listen well-chosen words. Dunne knocked the bottom out of all their had to be settled locally, on a . Masters, Mates and Pilots; In­ ing during the interview, but plant-by-plant basis. ternational Dredge Workers As­ arguments. Here is what Mr. Dooley had to say about the open shop; sociation, Local No. .5; Tug Fire­ now Brothers Guthrie and Kirk­ The fight that AT&T carried "What is the open shop? Sure, 'tis where they kape the men and Linemen, Local No. 3; wood wanted to be heard. on against industry-wide bar­ "Don't forget to mention the doors open to accommodate th' current strearn av' min comin' International Longshoremens As­ gaining is the same one that in t' take jobs cheaper than those what has th' jobs. sociation, Local No. 1317, and the Steward," reminded Guthrie we're all up against in Congress •'He deserves a good blasting, " 'Tis like this, Hinnessey. Suppose one av' these free-born Seafarers International Union. right now citizens is workin' in an open shop for the princely wage av In applying for the charter, too." If the bitter-enders in Congress OFFICERS FIRST wan' large iron dollar a day av' tin hours. the delegates specified that all "That's absolutely right. The | get away with it, none ot us "Along comes anither son av' a gun an' he sez t' th boss, of the above AFL affiliates ap­ will be able to sign an industry­ 'Oi could handle th' job nicely f'r ninety cintsj 'Sure,' sez th pear on the charter, plus the In­ way he toadied to the officers wide agreement any more than boss, and th' wan dollar man gets out into th' crool wuruld t ternational Teamsters and the Li­ was enough to make a man the telephone workers were able sick," said MacKenzie. "He exercise his inalienable roights as a free-born American citcensed Tugmen P. A. Local No. 5. to get one. would give the officers ice cream izen an' scab on some other poor divil. ^ The application was directed to By standing them off. AT&T "An' so it goes on. Hinfiessey. An' who gits th binifit? John R. Owens, Executive Sec­ for dessert v/hile the crew had made its contribution to the fight no dessert at all. True, it saves th' boss money, but he don't care any more f'r retary of the MTD. on the Hill; if AT&T had signed money than he does f'r his roight eye. ^ A general discussion centering '•The Steward made sure that an industry-wide contract with "It's all principle wid him. He hates t' see min robbed av on the best means whereby each the officers had t'wo bath towels this new union, our case on the their indipindince. regardless av' anything else." member union could help the apiece," he continued, "but the Hill would have been strength­ "But." said Mr. Hinnessy. "these open shop min ye menothers w^hen the need aro.se drev/ crewmembers got only one each. ened. shun say they are f'r unions if properly conducted." much attention from the dele­ He put out napkins and tooth­ When the telephone workers picks in the saloon, but not in "Sure." said Mr. Dooley. "iv properly conducted. An't gates. got licked on this issue, you and there ye are. An' how would they have thim conducted? No Delegates also discussed the the crew's mess." "We could go on like this for I got set back too. strikes, no rules, no controls, no scales, hardly any wages. problems of their respective un­ I'm interested in seeing what an' dam few mimbers." ions and outlined plans for the hours, but you get the idea now, happens inside the Telephone don't you," said MacKenzie. "All Mr. Dooley discharged himself of his remarks around the future. Federation now. Will the union the officers had a low opinion of turn of the century, but they are of at least as much point now The council will operate with members see how much they unlicensed seamen, and the only as when they were written—maybe more, in view of the Hartley the present temporary officers have won, and why they couldn't way we can change their minds Bill. until after the MTD meeting in win the industry agreement too? October, in accordance with a is with the Union. That's what Will they come back for anwe're all waiting for." • motion passed. .• Unions Apply For Cleveland MTG Charter Telephone Workers Made Gains In Recent Country-Wide Strike Mr. Dooley On The Open Shop t. (: .S • �THE Friday. May 30. 1947 Propelleriess Galbraith Has Hectic Narrow Escapes When the SS Frederic W. Gal­ braith lost her propellor off the African Coast shortly aftgr noon on May 11 it was but the be­ ginning of a series of hair-rais­ ing, breath-taking incidents. For, according to the report of the ycssers tribulations just receiv­ ed, there's nothing worse than a rudilerless ship, except one that is floating around minus her screw. The ship was then five miles off shore. The outlook was bleak and the crew sensed insecurity in the whole situation. SEAFARERS LOG Page Five SS Noithwind Crewmen Win SIU Contract (Coutiiuicd from Paf^c I) By FRENCHY MICHELET "With darkness came the wind ployes worked as much as 16 and rain, and by midnight it was For the benefit of those who Newman, John Howell, "Red" hours daily for $75.00 per month. blowing up a gale," the crew- haven't made the West African Wallin and "Blackie" Makowka (Schedule of new salaries, as member's report says. port of Casablanca lately we —all book men whom we've sail­ compared with the old. appears ed with before and .all right guys. want to report a development of "Sea-bags were packed. Every­ The Bosun is one Joseph Pat­ outstanding interest—You may below:) one was ready to go. We drag­ ged closer to shore. It was pitch now get $130.00 in American sil­ rick Shaughnessy, a Boston Irish All unlicensed personnel earn­ ver coins for $100.00 in currency. trip carder who is going to make black outside." ing S200.00 per month or more Brother Michelet can assure one swell union man. The trip, which packed more Land was dimly visible in out­ He's a good sailor, a hard work­ will be paid SI.10 per hour for you that it's good dough because thrills than a raft of Hollywood melodramas, started in Savan­ line about 2:30 a.m. But the out­ he has bitten his merry way er at sea and a good guy to prowl overtime, while those earning nah, Ga., April 2, when the Gal­ line was assuming greater pro­ through so many stacks of half the beach with—all of which adds less than $200.00 will receive $.85 braith left for Norfolk to pick portions as the stricken Gal­ dollar pieces that he feels like a up to our idea of a first class for all woik in excess of eight up a load of coal destined, for braith moved slowly closer and guj' who has lived a week on an seafaring man. hours daily. closer to shore. A charting of exclusive diet of Ruler's bis­ Venice, Italy. GIN MILL POET position revealed the vessel was cuits. Overtime will paid for Sundays The cargo was discharged only three-tenths of a mile out. There's a real character aboard, at sea and in port, while only • Unfortunately, Casablanca just there May 1 and the ship set Everyone aboard fidgeted irn- popped up on the boys out of a too. A gin mill poet, empiric- Saturdays in port will be consid­ out for Ceuta, Africa, for bunk­ clear blue sea, for this rusty old philosopher and sometime sailor ered overtime days. ers, with arrival in that port patiently for the break of daJ^ Liberty, the Arnold Bernstein who's a riot when the beer gets echcduled for May 12. After that, They wanted, at least, to see P&O CONDITIONS "Salvador Brau,'' left Galveston to flowing freely. what they might hit. the States was to be the next His name is Danny Graves, but supposedly bound for Marseilles, As in all SIU contracts, there Stop. "With the wind and the seas consequently relatively few of us he's better known around mon­ are nine paid holidays each year. blowing up steadily, the crew­ But the States wasn't the next key-wrench corners as "The had American dough to trade. All the other conditions agreedman writes, "there wasn't a Stop. Nevertheless. our cigarettes Deacon." to by the company are the same chance, if we should hit the brought us Moroccan francs ga­ The Deacon is a self-confessed In fact, the next thing says the rocks. No beach was in sight. same as those embodied in the report, which was received by All we could see was a cliff lore and there's plenty to buy. philosopher of the Atomic Age. P&O contract, -w-hich is among The port boasts numerous well- He has a better slant on life than Slug Siekman at the New York straight down. If we got closer stocked box-like bazaars where Hume and Schopenhauer and all the finest in the industry. Hall from a friend in the Gal­ to that it would bi-eak up the In the negotiations, and in the braith crew, "was a jar which ship before we knew what hap­ a babble of voices in a medley of action which forced the company tongues offer outlandish wares to we felt about 2 p.m., May 11, pened." to see the light, the SIU was rep­ the passersby. and the ship started to shake all H6RE'S THE resented by James Manners, LIKE IN THE MOVIES BARGAINS GALORE over." Jacksonville Agent, and "William SERMOM FOR Luxurious handwoven rugs of T. McLaughlin, of the Canadian In the best traditions of thrill­ LIKE A BRICK WALL' TONIGHT . .. exquisite design are available for District. ing fiction, the first shafts of "It felt like we had run into light began poking through the the exchange value of a few car­ Winning this contract from a brick wall," the report con­ low hanging- clouds, just as the tons of cigarettes (preferably SeawajLines is a big step for­ tinues. Galbraith was about 100 yards Camels) and the hammered gold, ward for Canadian seamen. silver and brass shown in a few All hands left the messhall on from the rocks, with no help in For many j-ears these men were the double to see what had hap­ sight. The scow's hours are of the shops are works of such artistry that they are calculated forced to work under slave con­ pened. What they discovered numbered, mused her crew. to square a beef with the most ditions for meager wages. The didn't appear to be too bad—at Tugs had been dispatched from shrewish frau on earth. Canadian Seamen's Union, which the time. Nothing a little tow Gilbraltar the previous day but Or, if wasting good dough on job couldn't overcome. A radio had been held up by the wind the other sourpusses who have was nothing more than an arm such mundane things rubs you of the communist party, did noth­ message went out to Gilbralter and seas. But the tug from Orgone before, for the Deacon's against the grain, then there's ing to alleviate their plight, and for a tug to tow the Galbraith an reached the perilous scene in philosophy is of the earthy "eat, wares for the discerning as well. year after year the situation grew into port. drink and be merry" vein. the nick of time. She hove into Just grab yourself a hansom steadily worse. "You should loop 'em 'fore Meanwhile, the helpless ship, view at 4 p.m.—the day was and chop-chop through the CasNow that the SIU is in the which is operated by the South May 14—and everything was un­ bah where Christian, Jew and j'ou scoop 'em," the Deacon says. field in a big way in Canada, And with this inestimable gem Atlantic Steamship Line, began der control. Arab dolls vie with one another things will start to look up for of wisdom we leave you, for the drifting slowly in a southerly di­ By 7 p.m. the tug had the ex­ for partners in the oldest game in master has spoken: and, thumb Canadian seamen, and soon they rection, although not rapidly at hausted Galbraith in tow.-They the world. the dog-eared nautical almanacs will all be enjoying the benefits fust. We recommend the Arabian were under way at 11 p.m. The as you may, you won't find which have been won by SIU By the time night fell, aid had report, which was written as the girls, for in addition to being sounder counsel for a seafaring mmbers on this side of the bor­ not arrived. "We drifted all vessels made their way to port the youngest and prettiest (some man! der. night," the report goes on, "and at about three knots, concludes are 14 and 15), there's the lure at daybreak a heavy fog fell in." as Oran became visible from of the Mussulman taboo as well. The Ai-my has carefully conceal­ "Land was nowhere in sight, the deck. ed the number of soldiers who "The old saying," it says, "that were mutilated and murdered and we couldn't have seen it anyway. Finally, it lifted a lit­ goes: 'Like a ship without a rud­ "polluting" Arabian gjrls, but Rating New Salary Old Salary tle. All wo could see was rocks. der, he wandered around,' was you can take our word for it that Chief Cook $250.00 $175.00 "We were bearing down on made by a man who evidently the figures run high. hasn't been on a ship that has Second Cook 210.00 165.00 them—and there was no way to There's a swell crew aboard Third Cook 190.00 165.00 lost her propellor." this scow with a real union spirit stop the ship," the crewmember Fourth Cook 175.00 100.00 spirit animating them all even continues. Fifth Cook 170.00 120.00 though the majority are trip Something had to be done to Night Cook and Baker 200.00 Not used before carders. ward off the approaching disas­ Crew Cook 200.00 155.00 Frank Fullbright is Ship's Dele­ ter—and done fast. And done fast Members of the SIU have Butcher 215.00 150.00 gate, and he has done much to it was. A sail was rigged on the a long record of supporting Chief Pantryman 190.00 120.00 No. 1 hatch, a trick which saved other unions in a just beef. Second Pantryman 175.00 100.00 the day—or the moment, at least. For this reason, all Seafarers Utility 145.00 75.00 "Everyone was happy, but the are urged not to purchase the Chief Steward 300.00 190.00 worst was yet to come," the re­ Vancouver Daily Province, Second Steward 215.00 170.00 port states. a scab newspaper, set up and Deck Steward 145.00 75.00 printed by non-union labor. Lounge Steward 145.00 75.00 FEELING BETTER Head Waiter 190.00 140.00 The Vancouver, B. C.. With all hands heaving a sigh Dining Room Waiters 145.00 75.00 SIU Branch is supporting the of relief, an anclior was dropped Linen Keeper 160.00 90.00 International Typographers and the wait for the tug began. Bed Room Steward 150.00 75.00 Union, AFL, both morally There was about 42 fathoms of Bartender 180.00 90.00 and physically in their eight water, the anchors were holding Chief Stewardess 170.00 75.00 month old strike. and land was about eight to ten Assistant Stewardess 150.00 75.00 'When in Vancouver show miles off. The harried Galbraith Cabin Stewardess 145.00 75.00 your contempt for the scabs men were feeling a bit more Bosun 202.50 150.00 by refusing to buy a news­ comfortable. keep things running smoothly. QM 164.00 95.00 paper put out by strikebreak­ Fi-ank's one of the charter AB , 164.00 95.00 But the anchor started to drag ers. This will help the ITU members of the organization. OS ' 145.00 75.00 and a second one was tossed members to win their strike He's been everywhere and done Utility Plumber 225.00 Not used before over, thus checking the drag, for better wages and condi­ everything and is a damn good Oiler 164.00 95.00 but only slightly. The anchor tions. man to have aboard. Fireman , 150.00 90.00 was dragging steadily with the Then there's Julian "Sammy" Wiper 162.00 90.00 advent of darkness. Noithwind Wage Scales Canadian Seamen ll 1 �THE Page Six SEAFARERS Ah, The Good Old Bathless Days Sailing On A Foreign Flag Ship! By J. F. CURLS A few years ago I walked over the gangway and dropped my seabag on the deck of my first ship. She was a Dane, docked at the sugar refinery in New Orleans. 1 felt some misgivings about sailing on a foreign ship, but it was the only job to be had at that time and I knew little or nothing about unionism. My ambition was to become a sailor to see the world and to do the things I had read or dreamed about. I wanted to see those places where copper- skinned girls swarm around you, smother you with flowers, make love to you in native fashion, and sundry things that today are too damn silly to mention. I was standing there on deck, my mind occupied with such fancies, when up walked a fel­ low who asked me what the nature of my business might be. From the looks of his clothes I knew he must be one of the longshoremen, so 1 politely in­ formed him that I was a sailor of the seven seas and that my business was my own. MEETS THE SKIPPER I didn't like the look on his face when I said that, however, he just studied me for a few minutes with amused interest and finally walked off laughing to himself. That was my first interview with the Captain. I looked for the Bosun, but I discovered they didn't carry one. That was the Chief Mate's job. It seems all the Mates worked on deck while in port. We sailed down the river the next morning bound for Santia­ go, Cuba. A boy named Walker and my­ self were the only Americans on board, both of us Ordinary Sea­ men. Our wages were fifty-five iwcvMoeR I IF IT'S LOADED... ' watch. They worked on deck. Two Able Seamen constituted a full watch. . I was told I might persuade an AB to let me steer for an hour or so on Sunday if the weather was good—it didn't re­ quire much persuasion. ASTOUNDING DISCOVERY In the shower that night I made an astounding discovery— no soap suds. For the first time in my life I learned that a salt water shower is u.seless without salt water soap, which is also useless. Eventually I became inured to the salt water shower. It was alright except in oily harbors. There it became an asset to the town by increasing the clientele of the YMCA and the turkish bath. The sink was equipped with fresh water but it was produced by a single hand pump, which was supposed to accommodate twenty-two men. The pump did its duty about twice a week. We arrived at Santiago five days later and my heaving line troubles began. The pilot boat was coming alongside and the Mate told me to fetch a heaving line and stand by. Well, I had dragged out about seven different lines when Walk­ er showed me the right one. He was smart alright. All it was was a rope with a bump on one end. I carried it to the ladder and stood there. The launch was alongside with the Pilot, who was standing in the bow waving his arms. The Captain's weather beaten visage then appeared over the bridge shouting, "Throw him the line" Whereupon I tossed the heaving line to the Pilot, still made up. The Captain called me stupid, the Pilot called me something in Spanish which sounded worse. Apparently that little line was Friday. May 30.. 1947 LOG L0($ of some importance, but in what way was more than I could fathom. That was just one of many blunders I made during, the trip, but through trial and error and NEW YORK a bruised backside I managed to SS BESSMER VICTORY correct them. A. Nacqurz. $1.00: R. Follett. $1.00; We spent three days loading B. C. Simpson. $1.00; J. W. Bi^'woorf, sugar. The Cook got drunk and $1.00: L. Nioves, $1.00; P. Lolea, $1.00. couldn't cook. The Steward sold SS HASTINGS W. Trach. $1.00; G. H. Villatrc, all the stores to the natives so we didn't need a cook. We ate $1.00: .1. Haitman. $1.00; C. C. ButUr. $1.00: R. G. PatHson, $1.00; D. T. papaya and bananas all the way- Soiptt, $1.00: L. W. Goldthwaite, $1.00; back. ! L. L. VonV'oltenburch. $1.00: N. WorThe day bofore we arrived in Icv. $2.00: H. DelCOrfano. $2.00. R. Dachorty, $1.00: W. E. Wade. New Orleans,^Walker and I were $1.00: W. Shea. $4.00: A. B. M.icRae. sweeping down the boat deck $2.00: E. Sheehy. $2.00: W. J. ReaKwhen the Captain walked up to an. $2.00: D. Menderihil. $2.00: M. L. PillinKaine, $5.00: J. P. Thompson. us. $2.00. He wore a .snow white blouse SS ROBERT HART with bright gold epaulette.s, an V. Diyiaconio, $1.00: E, Bonefont, Admiral's high pressure, duty $1.00: K. Vamikainen, $2.00; L. A. dungarees and tennis shoes with Karttunen. $1.00; E. J. Williamson, the toes cut out to relieve his $2.00: E. E. Davidson. $2.25: J. C. Lord. $1.00: J. Lukacs. $1.00. bunions. Patrick A. Dunphy. $1.00; G. Bone, What impressed me most was font. $1.00: R. W. Prye. *100: John his benevolent manner. He smil­ Ostroski. $2.00: A. Rossi. $2.00; H. ed at us and asked Walker if he Viik. $2.00: John O'Connor. $2.00. would like to make another trip. Paul Lalli. $.5.00; W. S. Hamilton. Walker assented and was $5.00: W. B. Arcock. $1.00. SS FORT RALEIGH given a friendly pat on the back J. Anderson. $2.00; H. Littlejohn. by the Skipper along with a $2.00; Wm. Dowling. $2.00; G. O. hearty pep talk. Burt. $2.00: S. Casdrez. $2.00; J. T. In my turn I refused his in­ Renard. $2.00; H. E. Newberry .$2.00; vitation point blank and receiv­ A. Keller. $2.00; M. P. Rial. $2.00; ed the surly reply, "Move the E. A. Han.sen, $2.00; E. J. Oriuni. $2.00; J. Evans. $2.00; C. Noonan. broom faster." $2.00. It wasn't until a few years SS ROBIN SHERWOOD later that I was capable of mak­ John R. Lee. $3.00; R. D. Rittle. $2.00; ing any real comparisons. That S. ReKner. $1.00; W. Wentin;;. $2.00; is, until I had become a mem­ C. P. Achoy. $1.00; D. W. Willaford. ber of the SIU. Only then did $2.00; M. Santa. $2.00; R. O. Smith. I fully realize what organiza­ $2.00; I. Usera. $2.00; D. L. Townsend. $2.00; L. E. Cooke. $1.00. tion and representation can ac­ A. T. Emery. $1.00; E. J. Marnaty, complish for the working man. $1.00; C. Torres. $1.00; N. E. EverAll this may be scoffed at by ard. $2.00: H. D. Linder. $1.00; W. the oldtimers who have experi­ Barrett. $2.00; B. Torbick. $1.00; T. enced conditions far worse, but Overland. $1.00; H. Scott. $1.00; C. Bekken. $1.00. it will tend to show the younger SS WM. DACA element just how far the Sea­ J. E.-Cantin. $3.00; R. May. $1.00; farers has advanced in the past F. A. Tickler. $1.00; D. McCracken. five or six years. $1.00: H. B. Thomas. $1.00; H. Brand­ Sometimes you learn more by ies, $1.00: F. R. Clarke. $1.00; G. looking backward than by ahead. Zidik. $1.00; E. E. Sexton. $1.00; C. C. Crabtree. .$1.00; W. G. Simmons. $2.00; You get a better perspective that H. B. Smith. $1.00; V. S. Bowman. way. $1.00; C. J. A. Durocher. $100; W. F. Brown. $1.00; K. Sczylvian. $2.00. Hoffner. $2.00; S. SS ORBIS R. VanClief. $2.00; W. McLaughlin, $20.00; S. H. Parker, $2.00; F. Flecha, $2.00: J. R. Anderson. $1.00; G. A. Rea-d. $2.00: W. J. Fitch. $2.00; C. Esolan. $2.00; W. Lowpseen. $2.00; H. G. Dittmer, $1.00; G; Vepa. $3.00; A. Apolito. $2.00; L. H. Joynes. $2.00. SS DALE W. W. Mclntyre. $2.00; P. W. McRae. $1.00; C. E. Waldrop, $2.00; C. Grepor.v, $3.00. Jack J. F. SS Craven. MARINA $2.00. SS JUNEAU Kinp, $1.00. SS CAVALIER C. W. DuBois. $1.00: C. M. Bailey. $1.00: J. T. Turpin. $1.00: W. H. Dunham. $1.00: K. Tomczyk. $1.00. SS GATEWAY CITY W. Nicnlaisen. $1.00: A. Dnnal, $1.00: R. W. Kluge. $1.00; Roy D. Roberts. $1.00; P. G. Saline. $2.00; P. Dejesus. $1.00; V. F. Hammargran. $1.00; J. Garcia. $1.00; A. Oquendo. $1.00; Jose Tore. $1.00; I". Pantileef. $1.00; H. Randaja. $1.00; H. D. French. $1.00: J. F. Stephenson, $2.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS M. W. Mirando. $2.00; J. Osborne, $3.00; W. K. Becker. $4.00; C. V. \'ierra. $1.00; A. Partner. $2.00; M. R. Chabler. $2.00; A. Lugo. $3.00; I Re.c7el. $100; L. Jiles. $200; G. V. Ilall, $2.00; J. Magdelena. !• 1 : ,A Suarez, $1.00; C. W. Vieria. $3 00. A. J. Lcma. $2.00; J. W. Failla, $1 00; L. I. Rohles. $1,00; M. J. Brow. $1.00; J. E. Murphy, $1.00; F. Barri, $1.00: S. B. Ferrer. $1.00; O. J. Beadling. $1.00. H. Murphy. $10.00; S. M. McConnell, $2.00; E. Sheppard. $1.00; P. Thillet, $6.00; T. McGuine. $1.00; W. Plucinki, $1.00; W. Walterman, $2.00; A. Nevins, $1.00; A. Swanson, $1.00; S. Rygielski. $1.00. BOSTON SS KLAMATH FALLS R. Wcdemeyer. $ 10.00; C. .Moss, $1.00; T. Nichols. $1.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS L. Sangiolo. $1.00. NORFOLK INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS V.' A. Reid. $3.00: W. G. .Martin, $3.00: R. H. Hale. $3.00. Steamboat Lowdown; Nobody Believes His Yarns By "STEAMBOAT" O'DOYLE tacled monster had us pretty busy readjusting all the machin­ Why do sailors have such a ery. reputation for telling tall tales? 8 POINT LANDING People will usually take a lands­ The whole black gang was man's word for something, but as fighting him, but he was a good soon as they learn you are a sea­ wrestler and held us all off with man they want proof for every his eight arms, and even picked dollars a month and for "ac­ statement you make. cepted" overtim.e we received Personally, I'm gelling lired of seventy cents an hour. That wasn't so bad except for having people doubt my word and the fact that American seamen call me a liar every time I de­ were receiving much more, not scribe one of my experiences at only in wages but in other bene­ sea. fits such as good living condi­ For instance, I came home tions, better food, representation, from one trip and told how an GET THAT etc. octopus was sucked into the hot FINK OUTTA I knew nothing about that at well in the engine room. HERE-HE'S I don't see what is strange the time, being under the im­ OO/NG POOR pression (created by the skipper) about that, as powerful pumps MEN'S WOftK that the American seamen were are sucking in sea water all the grossly underpaid and overwork­ lime. ed. But when I told how we had up a wrench with which he The first day out we spent in to remove the manplate to get knocked out the Engineer. Finally we had to call the Deck cleaning up the ship. I didn't the octopus out, and how he got make any mistakes that day as away from us and climbed up Department for reinforcements. the only tool I had to use was into the steamlines, opening and With their aid we got him pinned closing valves with all eight of down with two Ordinaries hold­ a broom. I was a little disappointed, his arms,—well, that was too ing each arm. When I tell people this story though, at not being allowed to much for them to believe. Some people are just skeptical they look queer and tell me to steer, but it .seemed the Ordin­ ary Seamen did not stand a but, believe me, that eight-ten- stop drinking. Really, it's very irritating to have doubt cast on my word in this manner. Most people have heard of the Sargasso Sea, composed of miles of seaweed, but when I tell them of the Soapy Sea they look strange. Those of us who have been through the Soapy Sea know that it is caused by large deposits of soap on the ocean bed, which form great mountains of suds through the action of the waves. If a ship" has been through there ahead of you it will often kick up enough suds to soogee .your whole deckhouse. You only have to lean out a porthole to wash your face. Arid yet, strange to say, there are people who look unbelieving when I tell them this. I once saw a guy with "Emily Parker" on his chest. He has been coming down from the crow's nest, when lightning branded the ship's name on him. Yet, although you could read it there in black and white, his SUPER CHARGE Shore dwellers will believe all kinds of freakish tales about lightning, but do you think they would believe that I saw a bolt of lightning write "A.C. Cur­ rent" on the stack? So far, however, I have not told anyone this, as I am afraid their reaction might be incred­ ible. wife refused to believe this story and threatened him with divorce. It is very discouraging. All kinds of interesting things hap­ pen at sea, but what is the use of telling people when they won't believe me? My faith in human nature is being ruined. Why can't there be a little more trustfulness in the world? •-rfr HONEST, PAULA, IT'S A TVPOGRAPHICAL �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 30, 1947 Page Seven San Juan Signs Shoregang Pact Giving SiU Top Wages, Hotidays By SALVADOR COLLS SAN. JUAN — After three been put aboard ships. It seems that most of the men weeks of huddling with the com­ who payoff here are taking panies, we have signed a new planes back to the States and shoregang contract which is the as a result only ten men are best ever on the Island. registered here at the moment. The agreement has as its ma­ If a large order comes in for jor gains the increase of holi­ men Tm going to find it difficult days from ten to nineteen and to make up a crew on short the wages from 80 to 95 cents order. per hour. With this new set-up, Beefs on the ships that have been hitting port are at a mimwe are continuing in the true imum. The majority of the beefs SIU style of being the first in pertain to crewraembers who the field and setting the pace forget that they have to stand for the others. their watch or turn to the,morn­ The men of the SIU covered ing after a hectic night ashore. by this contract are now the ACHING FEET highest paid men on the Island My major beef at the moment of Puerto Rico except for those is one that involves our janitor in highly skilled positions. here at the Hall. Augusto, as we Over in Fajardo we are con­ call him, has a pecular dislike centrating our organizing efforts for shoes. Two times I've fired on two tugs and from reports him for not wearing shoes and we are meeting with encourag­ each time his excuse has been ing success. that they were in hock. We have quite a few pledge Both times we got together cards from these men and if and gave him the dough to bail things continue as they are we out his shoes, but after wearing may have something favorable them for a day or two the shoes to report in the near future. are soon back at "Honest BLOCADE John's." Negotiations by the ILA and UTM to gain new contracts are proceeding quite well except for a blockade put up by a guy named La Rocca, who is living up to his name, La Rocca mean­ ing "The Rock." All efforts to budge this guy have been fruitless and because of his stubborness we may have to tie up a few ships to jar the rocks loose from his head. I have been meeting with the ILA and UTM in respect to forming a Maritime Trades Coun­ cil. Both organizations look fa­ vorably upon the idea and we will probably lay the ground­ work when they finish with their negotiations. Here at the SIU Hall shipping is really up on its hind legs. In the past three weeks about one hundred men in all ratings have Since his last visit to the pawnshop, Augusto has not shown up at the Hall as I told him not to show his face unless he was wearing shoes. In the meantime we are with­ out a janitor. Can anyone give me a hand in settling this beef? (Editor's Note: Sure can. Just see below.) JDST P/MNT FEET BLACK ANDNOeOPy WILL <NOVJ THE DiFFEREbCe • Says Lakes Seamen Are Fed Up With The Phony Promises Of NMU Seafarers Campaign Will Finally NO NEWS?? End Slave Conditions On Lakes Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: MILWAUKEE DULUTH MOBILE NORFOLK CHICAGO JACKSONVILLE MARCUS HOOK MONTRAEAL BOSTON BALTIMORE SAVANNAH TAMPA The deadline for port re­ ports. monies due. etCu is the Monday preceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. Galveston Calls For Firemen, Other Ratings By R. W. SWEENEY GALVESTON — Last Sunday the SS Pan Massachusetts caught fire in Texas City, but this time the townspeople did not go down to the docks to watch as they did when flames hit the Grand Camp. Instead, they headed for the wide open spaces, hoping that those who remained in the city would not be caught in another disaster. By HENRY W. CHAPPELL TOLEDO — The tremendous pleased when spring opened the progress made by the SIU in Lakes. bringing union conditions and a All the work you did in the fair wage to the m.en on the fall was for nothing if a Mate Great Lakes has done more than brought his cousin aboard toany other factor to put an end take your job, and this happen­ to the slave conditions that ex­ ed all too often. isted on the inland seas only a •^his condition still exists on few years ago. certain ships here, but it is To men who have enjoyed an simply a question of time until SIU contract for many years, the the SIU membership and of­ days of working for board and ficials make these finky condi­ room and being bumped out of tions a thing of the past. a job by a company relative are If we go all out to crush this only stories they have heard phony practice we will be put­ from old-timers. ting an end to a practice that is Some men are inclined to take hanging over from the "old such stories with a grain of salt. days." Such conditions, they think, ON THE ALERT could never have been, but, un­ "We now have a chance to fortunately, they did exist. I recall in the late twenties gradually bring the entire Great and early thirties when the Skip­ Lakes under tlie banner of the pers of certain Great Lakes ships SIU and in so doing knock the would come into the Lake Car­ Lake Carriers off their feet for riers Halls and recruit men to fit good. Recently I received a copy of out their ships with just the a circular being mailed to sea­ paj'ment of board and room. men aboard Lake Carriers ships LCA CONDITIONS The men who did this would by the phony Lakes Seamen's work six hours a day, just as if Union. I want to quote the last line they were on the payroll. Then thej' would go ashore and bun» of paragraph seven of the throwtheir smokes from guys holding away: "'We think hard work and an honest seamen's program will more favorable jobs. If jmu were dissatisfied with do more for us than cash." Noble sentiment, indeed. this set-up and protested to the The only program this outfit Lakes Carriers shipping masters, you were told that if you didn't has in store for the Lakes sail­ like it you didn't have to do it, ors is to throw a monkey wrench but if you want to ship out you in the machinery of the one had better keep your mouth shut legitimate union on the Lakes. They are doing their best, too, and do the work. In those days even if you had judging by the delays they have worked through all the bad wea­ caused in the elections on the ther and laid the ship up for the Lakes. "We in the SIU think that winter, there was alwaj's the pos­ sibility of some Mate or En­ where hard work is found there gineer shipping whom they should also be some hard cash. Thus do our people learn not to monkey with fire. The Mas­ sachusetts was towed out into the stream, and the fire put out be­ By ROBERT DODD fore much damage occurred, but By MAURICE DOLE BUFFALO—At long last, the Wilson fleets, among others, Texas City residents gave the Port of Buffalo is ice-free, and know. They know that we se­ docks a wide berth until every­ ASHTABULA—Here's a sam­ the bosses friends, and stay on the rains have taken it's place. cured the 44-hour week on the thing was under control. ple of those open shop condi­ the beach until the bad weather fall sailing. That happens plenty. Ships are really on the move in ' passenger boats. Now we have The Corpus Christi Hall of the tions existing aboard a number and out of the harbor, and more I the 40-hour week on the sandof unorganized Lakes ships; I see where this phony outfit, SIU has been closed up in ac­ Crewmembers of the SS Frank and more men are coming into ' boats. the Lake Sailors Union, is send­ If dishing out empty words is cordance with recommendations Purnell, Interlake SS Company, the SIU hall. ing letter.s to the Lakes seamen having a program, then we in the of the Agents Conference, and report that the Skipper and They ask about the SIU, sign on all LCA ships. They're just SIU want no program. However, pledge cards and take out books jobs for that port wiU be sent Chief Engineer aboard their ship a small outfit with one contract our actions speak louder than all have nice juicj- steaks served to covering the Cleveland Oliff if they're on rmorganized ves­ the words that any phony outfit from this Hall. them along wfth other choice ships. sels. Otherwise, they're all ears We are doing all in our power food, while the crew has to be to find out more about our cur­ can spill out. They must be getting money Another action note—I guess to abide with the spirit and let­ satisfied with whatever they toss rent gains and program for the for all of their propaganda from that Milwaukee Clipper strike of ter of the Agents' recommenda­ at them. Take it or leave it. Lakes seamen. sources like the Lake Carriers, two days duration, when the SIU tions. This could never happen aboard Whenever mention of the NMU won its demands, shows what a who would give anything to keep Shipping is good here, but an SlU-contracted ship. On SIU comes up, these men all express little direct action will accom­ the SIU off LCA ships. the same thought. As far as they plish. After all other AFL Unions business is slow. We have the vessels, there is no distinction be­ However, Lakes seamen have are concerned, the NMU is fin­ in Milwaukee swung in behind same trouble as other ports in­ tween the crew's mess and the gotten a bellyful of these lousyasmuch as we also have a short­ officer's mess. Everyone eats ished on the Lakes. our solid strike, it didn't take conditions. They're sick and alike, and they get the best pos­ It's only a question of time, the Clipper management long to age of rated men. tired of open shop conditions before the NMU is forced to close see the light of the SIU day. Firemen especially are needed, sible food that money can buy. with no job protection, subject Job security is something else up shop, and move to a more fer­ Lakes seamen sailing Hanna, with some ships being forced to to the bosses' whims. tile territory where their record Wilson, Hui'on, Wyandotte, and ship short of qualified Firemen. which no .seaman aboard an un­ On That's why Lakes seamen are of sellouts, and phony deals is all of tiie other fleets that the If there are any Seafarers organized ship can enjoy. unknown. Though we can't im­ SIU will petition this year will holding this type of rating who these LCA ships, a man can going for the SIU. They want agine where that would be! have the same kind of solid SIU want to ship out of Galveston, it never be sure that he has a job SIU contracts and conditions, be­ can be arranged by just a simple unless he's related or friendly to cause they know that the SIU And the SIU is supposed to support and AFL backing. leads the field when it comes to They know that. Thai's why wire. If a job is open we will one of the bosses. have no program according to Otherwise, you're liable to be wages, overtime, working and the NMU propaganda rag, the they are for the SIU so over­ notify any who communicate fired to make room for one of living conditions. with us. Pilot! Men on the Hanna and whelmingly. Job Insecurity, Two Stew Pots Turning Gt. Lakes Seamen To SIU �THE Page Eight SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 30. 1947 NMUer, Marine Veteran, Gets Raw Deal, Conies To Seafarers For Honest Unionism RAW DEAL FROM NMU By JOHN ARABASZ BALTIMORE—After the war ended, the National Maritime LTnion made a big fuss about the petimi of GIs from Europe and Asia. This move was undoubted­ ly inspired by Joe Stalin because as long as our soldiers were in foreign countries in great num­ bers, this presented a threat to Russia's grab-all policy. Volunteer Organizer When the Isthmian drive first started, an original member of •< -* ... the Seafarers International Un­ ion reported to the New York Hall and asked to see Earl Sheppard, in charge of the campaign. His first words were, "I want to go into the Isthmian fleet and stay there as a volunteer organi­ zer until we win the election." That man was Durwood "Bill" The NMU evn held a phony Story, Bosun, and he did exactly ^ ' : one-day work stoppage for pub­ as he said he would. All told. licity, and the Pilot published Brother Story sailed on seven story after story on what the Isthmian scows, and on each he did a bang-up organizing job in union was doing for returning the good old SIU style. veterans. Now that the bulk of The first Isthmian ship he our men are back in the States, On the left is Lester L. Long, former NMUer, who returned made was the SS Edward Hurley. a fact very satisfying to the com­ from service in the Marines to find that the NMU expected him In .succession followed the Steel to pay dues for the seventeen months he was in the service. munists, the new NMU policy is, Inventor, Steel Trader, John Bar­ DURWOOD STORY He then came to the SIU, where he asked for and obtained a "to heck with the vets." ton Payne, Sea Triton, Sea tripcard. Phoenix, and Citadel Victory. a meeting of six Isthmian crews This new policy is brought out in Calcutta. The six crews met by the story given to me by a he got from the NMU. Long was Brother Volpian's reply to. me Story paid off the last ship on by accident in that port, and fellow who came into the Hall on the SS Eliza Lord, United outlined the poor record of the May 8, and immediately reported when they started comparing to Lindsey Williams, Gulf Area recently and asked for an SIU Fruit Company, which was tor­ NMU in regards to the Port Acconditions, they found that all Permit in return for an NMU pedoed on the way to Murmansk. tack and Vessel Attack bonuses, Organizer. shared the same complaints. In the opinion of Brother Wil­ Book. Of course, I asked for his V/hen the crew returned to Ho- and advised Long to contact the So Story and Whitey Tannereasons, and here is the story he boken they were met by an NMU United Fruit Company direct. liams, the job done by Story was hill, another volunteer on the a perfect example of why the told. Patrolman who told them that Since the NMU does not Steel Artisan, took the initiative an attack bonus was payable, handle the money, the check can Seafarers won Isthmian. On the of calling a mass meeting at the MARINE CORPS VET advice of the organizers. Bill and that they would be notified be sent directly to Long. Kidder Poor Docks to discuss the shipped out on an SIU ship, the His name is Lester L. Long, by mail when and where to col­ That's just about the end of beefs and figure out ways to SS Berea Victory, Waterman Book Number 115413-DK. He lect the money. the story, except that Long will fight for their rights on nonLines, his first contracted ship in joined the NMU in the Port of Long heard nothing further, be shipping out on SIU ships, contract ships. over two years. Norfolk on January 5, 1945, and and so I sent a letter to Joseph and from now on he won't be Out of this meeting came a MASS MEETING was issued his book on January Volpian, SIU Special Services paying his dues to a monej'declaration by the crews that as Representative, asking him to hungry organization like the While on the Citadel Victory, soon as they arrived back in the find out what he could. NMU. Story was instrumental in calling Continental limits of the United States, they would bring pressure to bear on the company to force an end to the deplorable condi­ tions on board Isthmian ships. And just to impress on the company that this was no idle gesture, the group also agreed before it is carried through the would sweai that they wei-e at By E. S. HIGDON to pass the word along to other courts and finally to the U. S. least three months old. Isthmian crews so that they PHILADELPHIA—April show­ Supreme Court, it could give us We're holding the shoes, and it could take similar action. ers in May, winter in the spring plenty of foul weather. i would be a good idea for us all But just passing resolutions and a general reversal of weather Nevertheless, there is some opcheck on matters of this nawas not the full extent of what conditions — that's Philly this timism that this bill will never ture, so we will be in a position went on at the mass meeting. As week. pass the Pennsylvania Senate. All to have something to throw up to What with so much stormy Labor here is watching this move the shipowners when the slop- a result of the pressure which was built up, the two stew-pot anti-labor legislation being hatch­ carefully, and the legislators in chest blow-off comes. system on the Memphis Victory ed in Harrisburg, it's a wonder Harrisburg know that Labor is We started negotiations with was brought to an end, and on the solons haven't tried to pass doing so. the Mathiasen Tanker outfit the other ships overtime was a law against the weather. Some of them are wise enough Monday, and prospects look very more clearly defined. One thing is sure—it'll be a to know that for them to enact, good with every reason for beREAL SIU JOB sunny day for the anti-labor boys such a law as closing all union iog optimistic, LESTER L. LONG That's the kind of job Bill and the NAM if the bill now hiring halls would be political Story did, and that's why Bill SLOWING DOWN 18. He paid his dues from Jan­ pending in the Pennsylvania leg­ suicide for them. was able to bring his ship back uary to September, 1945, during islature passes. Business otherwise has slowed to the States 100 per cent SIU. I v/ill be in Harrisburg Mon­ which month he was accepted by In this bill, there is a limita­ day along with other officials of down a little. Wc had two SIU Even when he finally consent­ the Marine Corps as a volunteer. tion on union initiation fees to the AFL unions here to talk to payoffs in the last weeks, aled to take an SIU ship, he said Long saw service on Okinawa, $25; a requirement for unions these gallant senators. that he hated to do so. Accord­ Iwo Jima, Guam, in China, and to open wide their membership; ing to him, a man can't really ap­ Besides protesting the anti-la­ for a short while was stationed at the abolition of union hiring bor bills wc arc going to inform Hey, blow ABOUT preciate the benefits of sailing Pearl Harbor. In February, 1947, halls; and the requiring of unions them, just in case they have for­ AW OI-D/AGE SIU as much as when he is try­ he was returned to the United to file financial reports with the gotten, that they are elected by PENSIOAI f ing to do a job for the Union States, and on February 28 he State. on unorganized ships. the majority of the people to do went up the NMU Baltimore These proposals are largely ac­ the bidding of the people, and The membership of the SIU Hall to ship out again. countable to Senator A. Evans not the bidding of the chosen can be thankful that men like And so, what happened? Did Kephart (R. Phila.), who intro- few. I'll report later of any de­ Bill Story are around. Men who he get a big "hello" and the wel- j duced such amendments to the velopments. are willing to sacrifice their time, come home he deserved? Did he state labor bills. money, and comforts to push the I had quite a pleasant surprise get a chance to ship out? The bill containing these pro­ the other day when my old friend SIU program. By such action was the Seafar­ The answer to both questions visions has already been passed and shipmate from way back in ers formed, and so did it grow. is "no." He was told that he k'y House and is now coming 1938, Brother Moloney, the old owed dues from September, 1945, before the Pennsylvania Senate. serang, walked into the HaU and though we had 24 ships here in The continuance of s'uch mili­ to February, 1947, and even after registered to ship. transit, with beefs enough to tancy insures the further growth LETTERS OF PROTEST of the SIU. he produced his Marine Corps Brother Moloney told me that keep us all busy. discharge, he was refused a ship­ I have sent letters of protest he had been in the Navy during They've put a lot of spit and to all senators as well as letters the war and was raring to go ping card. polish on the Atlantic City and Long really took off on the to all unions here in Philly urg­ back to sea without a uniform. Delaware Park race tracks near NMU then, and when he walked ing them to do the same. here. The Atlantic City track All applications for SIU POOR SLOPS If this bill passes the Senate out of the HaU, quite a few mem­ opened for business last Monday burial benefits must be mailed bers came up to him and told him and becomes law here—well, Brother Tilley came into the for a 21-day season, while Dela­ to: that they thought he had gotten plain hell will break loose as it Hall the other day with a pair of ware blew the bugle yesterday JOSEPH VOLPIAN will put out of business any un­ shoes that had been purchased and will be riding them hard un­ a dirty deal. Special Services Dept. ion having a hiring hall. by one of our members from his til July 6. Seafarers Intl. Union TORPEDOED ONCE I doubt, whether this law, if ship's slopchest. The shoes were The horse news sounds good, 51 Beaver Street According to Long, however, pa.ssed, will be constitutional. five days old, but believe me, and here's hoping we can report New York 4. N. Y. that wasn't the only dirty deal However, constitutional or not. the way they were cracked you| good shipping news next week. wmms liiii Anti-Labor Bill Now Pending In Pennsylvania Would Ruin The Trade Union Movement In State Attention Agents �Friday, May 30, 1947 THE 1947 Is SlU Year On The Lakes As LSU And NMU Lose Favor By JOE SHIMA TOLEDO—Shipping is a little slow in this Port right now, and it seems as though it might re­ main slow for a short while yet. That is, unless something un­ expected breaks. The vast majority of the Lakes seamen want the SIU. They laugh at the stooge LSU, and they hold their noses when they mention the NMU. SEAFARERS LOG Keep Your Shirt On Reports have been coining in citing dirty deals given seamen by several laundries, which profess to "cater to men of the sea." Roland Velasco of the SS Arch Hopkins reports that Ungar's Laundry of St. John, N. B., picks up laundry aboard ships in that port, with the promise that it will returned by the weekend. The promise is never lived up to. "They don't say in which year it will be returned," says Velasco, warning Seafarers to keep their laundry out of Ungar's hands. Page Nine Union Sfopchest Would Put End To Poor Goods And High Prices By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—For months on end crews have been expre.ssing their dissatisfaction with the slopche.sts placed on the ships. Their complaints have been of shoddy material, non-union goods, high prices and lack of selection. on its me.'-chandise. I'm not suggesting that sea­ men go back to the days when seamen carried everything they needed, but there was a certain pride among seamen in those days in not purchasing anything from the slopchest. They knew that the goods of­ fered were second grade and were being unloaded on the sea­ men. By their boycott they showed that they weren't going to be the fall guys for a lot of junk. 1947 is really an SIU year on And 1948 will be Our old friends, the Lake Car­ the Lakes. riers Association, is back to their even a bigger SIU year as far as old finger tactics. Shipping over organization is concerned. All of these grievances are there is also a little slow, too, We're well on the road to true. The slopchests are a dis­ so I guess it's just the general bringing all Lakes seamen under grace and the crap offered is not trend in the Port of Toledo. the banner and protection of the worth purchasing, but in spite Just saw a new leaflet issued SIU, and 1948 should see that of the known shortcomings of by the NMU in its current at­ job done up typical Seafarers the slopchest too many members tempts to do a little organizing fashion. insist upon depending solely upon the Lakes by riding on the Now that most seamen don't Seafarers coattails. carry everything they need with Every time the SIU goes out them but buy it at sailing time, and gets enough pledge cards on it seems to me that there is one one of the unorganized fleets to method of-getting first rate where repleni.shments could bejin the course of South African I petition the NLRB for an elec­ Dream Ship goous. gotten were Capetown and Dur­ trips. tion, then the NMU tries to ride Hey fellows, here's a ship for ban, and even in those ports the UNION SLOPCHEST At the Purdue Victory's pay­ in on the gravy train by free- you! supply available was below the off, all hands expressed the sat­ loading. li the SIU had in all its ma­ The SS Earl A. Bloomquist, an ship's requirements. Consequent­ It's not working out, because American Pacific freighter, paid ly, the lads aboard the Griffin isfaction with their trip. That is. jor ports a room set aside for Lakes seamen are fed up with off in New York with not one suffered during the last CO days all except a couple of tripcarders, sea.men's gear and so forth, a who appeared to have the wrong man could order what he needed this phony and bankrupt outfit. single hour of overtime in dis­ of the trip. slant on how to conduct them­ eefore signing on. Besides that, both the Well, back to their new leaf­ pute. selves aboard an SIU ship. For CREW COOPERATION Here he could get all his gear let. It says something about an Skipper and the Chief Mate some unknown reason they out of a Union slopchest at a NMU label on every Lakes ves­ were as fine a set of officers as In spite of this .shortcoming, it seemed to think they were mak­ lair price. There would be no should be pointed out, the boys sel. According to the great ma­ we have seen in a long time. ing a sightseeing tour. cheap junk allowed and all jority of Lakes seamen, the NMU The crew reported that no cooperated 100 percent with However, they have learned gociOs would be union made. got a label llieiiiselves last .year. crewmember was logged in the. popular Steward Alfred Baer and And it really stinks—oops, we entire course of the trip, and that the rest of his department, which their lesson and from all indica­ A-notner method for us to short tions thej- will be better men on sheet some of the phony tactics slipped—sticks is the word we the Old Man was cooperative in helper lo east a bad situation. started to use. Well, stink or every sense of the word. There was no trouble among the next voyage. used against seamen would be stick, they've got it anyway. Onl.v one incident turned up at for us to have a building with It took exactly one hour to pay the crewmembers except for the What's that oldie about a rose? off this ship, and it was a clean reported performances of a the payoff. One man had been facilities for a couple of hundred After talking to numerous un­ payoff in more wa.ys than one. couple of well-known characters, filed because the Mate claimed seamen to sleep and rest while organized Lakes seamen, there's Foc'sles, alle<yways, and mess- who tried to make life miserable he couldn't speak English. Now on the beach. only one conclusion to make. rooms were spic and span, and for the rest of the gang. Charges 1 don't, speak Greek, but I under­ Every seaman looks for a de­ This is an SIU year on the Lakes. the new crew will be going against these men are now pend­ stand him perfectly. So—the man cent room at a decent price, but stayed on. ing. aboard a fine vessel. usually some second rate joint The Purdue Victory crew, who at a king's ransom is all that James Purcell In view of the food troubles Jim Drawdy encountered by the Griffin and made a LOG donation of $24 at cen be found. other vessels on the same run, it this payoff, said that Skipper X % % This is a big thing to under­ is advisable that Seafarers take George Kramer was one of the Good Ships take but the lewards in clean heed of the fact so that they will best sailing today. quarters and money saved would NFW YORK—Among the ves­ not experience the same thing Ray Gonzales be beyond estimation. The SIU sels winding up in this port this should look into something like week were two whose payoffs this. It would be a real life were very clean. They were the WASHINGTON—A sensational SS Samuel Griffin, of the Robin saver inasmuch as the majority charge made by Sen. George D. Line and the SS Purdue ^Victory of seamen do not li\-e in the port Aiken (R., Vt.) that foes of la­ a Waterman Steamship Corpora­ they ship from. bor have spent $100,000,000 in a tion vessel, thanks to the men On the waterfront here in the propaganda campaign against who sailed them. big city, shipping is continuing unions has so far brought no The Griffin payoff marked the at a good clip with the Patrol­ denial from employers' organi­ end of a five-month trip, which men hot on the scent of all beefs, zations. included calls at all South Afri­ payoffs and sign-ons. They are Aiken made that charge in a can ports. It was reported that having a busy time of it and its speech on the Senate floor. He a very fine, good Union spirit and a rare day that finds more than named the Nat'l Association of fellowship existed aboard the one Patrolman at the counter on Manufacturers and the Commit­ vessel throughout the trip. the fifth floor. tee for Constitutional Govern­ The author, however, onlv One thing did mar the other­ THE SEA IS WOMAN. By Albert TIP-TOP SHIPS ment, operated by Frank Gan­ wise successful run, however. E. Idell. 321 pp. New York: hints of the labor situation. He nett, chain newspaper publisher, The vessel was stored prior to In this w eek from a trip to Eu­ impresses the reader with the Henry Holt & Co., S2.75. as the main spenders in the its departui-e with food for only fact that something has happen­ rope was the Janeway. Smith 5: A mutiny among the crew, the ed to the former crew and a feel­ Johnson. At the payoff every­ anti-labor drive. 90 days. conflicts between the passengers ing of suspense and tension sur­ thing was shipshape and a good The only places on the run "I should not be surprised if and a hurricane at sea highlight rounds the arrival of the new payoff followed with Patrolman the total amount spent in this the voj-age of the Hawkeye State crew. Goffin handling i h e situation. campaign would amount to at from Los Angeles through the least $100,000,000," he said. It is evident that something is The Iberville. 'Whiterman, also Panama Canal to New York in brewing on the waterfront when went down in short order with The Vermont Senator pointed November, 1921. The recently established the new crew comes aboard wear­ all departments on the ball leav­ out that the NAM expended In the ten days that it takes SIU Hall in 1440 Bleury ing led ri'obons, but what it is ing only the formalities to be about $2,000,000 on a single the ship to make its way through Street, Montreal, Canada is never develops. The smoulder­ ironed out by Patrolman Purcell. month's advertising splurge in the Canal and through the hur­ open for business. Seafarers ing mutinous feeling of the ciew newspapers all over the country. .'inother ship that gave the Pa­ ricane, the author attempts to crews who make that port is not explored enough and only trolmen no trouble was the E. Millions have been spent, also, develop the characters of a score and have beefs requiring the comes forth in a short struggle A. Bloomquist. American-Pacific. he said, on chain letter cam­ of passengers and seveial crewUnion's attention are advised when the crew is denied shore She came in without a beef in paigns, radio commentators and members. to get in touch with Gene leave in Panama. any department. Not a log and on a battery of speakers who A doctor, trying to forget the Markey, SIU representative, Where the author, a formei' have been addressing service not a bit of disputed overtime. recently ended war; a woman at the above address. seaman, is most successful is in clubs throughout the country. The Patrolmen covering the ship missionary, seeking some reality One of the purposes of the his descriptions of the crewmem­ reported that the Skipper, Cap­ Also, he characterized the in her life; a has-been actor; and new Canadian facility is to propaganda of the Committee an TWW crewmember, attempt­ bers. their surroundings and tain Porter, an ex-SUP man, was give the membership greater for Constitutional Government as ing to put a spirit of militancy their hardships. In the few scat­ tops and cooperated 100 percent on the spot representation, "absolutely vicious" and charged into a green crew, are among tered moments when the story at the payoff. and members are urged to that much of it is of a Fascist those thrown together aboard the swings to the foc'sle. the move­ The Evangeline, on her way take advantage of it. ment of the story accelerates. nature, designed to "poison the ship. to New York from Boston, ran Pass this information along minds of our people against the It is mentioned that the book Had Mr. Idell skipped the too aground in the canal at Cape to your Union Brothers working classes of America." is based on some fact and there many subordinate personalities Cod. She made it to New York everywhere, so that all hands actually was a Hawkeye State and concentrated upon the sea­ where she is now in a Jersey "If such activities are.carried can avail themselves of the plying the coastwise trade in men whom he made far m.ore| drydock. After the repairs are far enough the final result will services of the new branch. 1921, the year of the strike and real, the lags in the story would made she will probably pull out be the destruction of democracy I shipowners' lockout. have been much fewer. around June 7th. in America. The Patrolmen Say... 100 Million Was Spent By Labor's Enemies Montreal Hail �THE Page Ten SEAFARERS LOC Friday, Hay 30. 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS 48-Foot Whale Beheaded In Crash With Marquette Victory At Panama PART OF A PRAISEWORTHY CREW The oceanic wanderings of a mammoth whale—who certainly should have known better—came to an abrupt ending recently in an early morning head-on collision with the formidable SS Marquette Victory. The sea beast came off second best in the en­ counter. In fact, he lost his head in the bargain. All was quiet on the mighty HE KNOWS BETTER NOW deep as the Isthmian vessel churned through the waters about a day and a half out of Panama early one April morning. As the situation later developed, the monster mammal, likewise, was cruising serenely in the area. Either he was dozing, or he deliberately contemplated a torpedo-like attack on his manmade counterpart. Or maybe his radar equipment was on the blink. FELT A 'BUMP' Members of the Stewards Department aboard the SS Hibbing Victory, whose crew was lauded recently by the vessel's skipper. Captain Philip G. Beck, as an exemplary body of men. The Bellyrobbers, the skipper said, "are to be complimented on a hard job well done." Commenting on the crew's efficient handling of the ship, At any rate, crewmembers the skipper paid tribute to the breuid of Unionism instilled in aboard the Marquette were startled by "a bump," which they the membership by the SlU. said they felt about 6 a. m. Most Photo was submitted to the LOG by Sam Luttrell. of the crew asleep in the foc'sle were jolted from their dreams. With sleep-swelled eyes they dashed out of their quarters to join those already out on deck scanning the waters alongside in search of the cause for the rude awakening. Wrestling in Mexico is a far cry from the exhibition Caught in the ship's bow was of gymnastics and feigned groans that accompany the the mass of mammal—estimated by the crew to be about 45 feet usual wrestling bout in the U. S., says Duke Himler, hefty in length. It's giant head was young seafarer who recently wound up a six week tour practically knifed clean off by the bow. Efforts to free the life­ of that country. According to Himler, when you crawl into the ring in Mexico, there's^ less hulk were fruitless. tamales and began to yearn for no whispering in your car, you Meanwhile, the. Marquette a whiff of the salt air and an SIU have to wrestle to win — and Victory's Bosun, Seafarer Wil­ ship. that's what he did in 23 of his liam Kumke feverishly snapped 27 bouts. PA'CKS HIS BAG pictures. Himler began his tour of 'grunt So he packed his bag and head­ WHAT A DRAG! and groan' exhibitions early in ed for Laredo, Texas, where he March after paying off the SS For two hours the ship dragged makes his home. Well-known m James Smith in a Gulf port. the blubber-filled carcass of its Texas and the far west, where While aboard the Smith, which victim through the water. Final­ had just returned from Rotter­ ly, two men in a pilot boat suc­ dam, he had served as Ship's ceeded in prying loose the two Delegate. sections of the once-spouting With matches in Mexico City, mammal by means of hooks. Tampico, Vera Cruz and other At home after the Marquette major Mexican cities, the 175Victory payoff in New York May pound light-heavyweight took on 22, Brother Kumke related the some of the top men in the Mexi­ incident to his wife. can wrestling game and more "Just a fish story," Mrs. Kumke than held his own as his list of commented, "and a big one at victories proves. that." One of the four matches drop­ Exactly what I thought, mused ped was lost to Gory Guerrero, the Bosun to himself, and he middleweight champion of Eur­ dashed out with hiff roll of film ope. The meeting with the champ to have it developed. When the was gained after Himler had he has wrestled for years in the prints were ready showing the pinned one of the top men in light heavyweight class, he found decapitated whale afoul of the the Mexican circuit. time during his brief stay at Marquette's bow. Bill Kumke home to indulge in a couple of presented them to his skeptical HAD TOP BILLING matches. mate. Fighting under the name of In addition to fighting his own He glowered as i^he said: Frenchie La Duke, Himler was batt}es, he often finds time dur­ "A fish story all right, but an often billed as the feature attrac­ ing his stops at Laredo to pick honest-to-goodness one for a tion of the day. And day it was, up a little coin as a referee of change." for in Mexico most of the matches championship wrestling matches. were held on Sunday afternoons This stop lie didn't referee any in the large stadiums of the bouks but hurried on to the SIU cities. Galveston Hall to grab the first While in Mexico City, he ship in port. Members of the Seafarers fought in the Coliseo, where, un­ Now aboard the SS Frank Dale are entitled to a weekly pay­ der the hot afternoon sun, erowds as Bosun, he is back in his glory ment from the Union if they of over 30,000 persons turned out getting some good food under his are laid up in a hospital. Be for the matches. belt and the salt air in his lungs. sure to get what i® coming But after touring the arenas of And, who knows, after picking to you: Notify the Union of the land south of the border for up a little weight and a long trip your ward number so that six weeks. Brother Himler, who or two. Brother Himler feels he there will be no delay in your has been a member of the SUP might take another crack at Mex­ receiving the money due you. since 1934, got a little tired of hot ico and the champ of Europe. - Himler Pins 23 Opponents In Mexican Wrestling Tour Momenls after its' early dawn encounter with the SS Mar­ quette Victory, the giant whele is dragged lifelessly alongside under ship's anchor. Crewmembers worked in vain for two hours to distr-Tj-^Ie the blubber-filled carcass. Pried loose of the vessel by men in pilot boat using hooks, the sea monster floats away minus its head, which was severed in collision with the bow. Pictures were taken by William Kumke, the Marquette's Bosun, who was intent on bringing home evidence of this unusual fish story. It was fortunate that X-*-~ he did for he met with skepticism until he produced the indis­ putable camera record. State Dep't 'Wires' Burns Robert Burns, Electrician aboard the SS Plattsburg, wishes he could dash off a verso like the illustrious Scottish poet whose name he bears. He thinks there is sufficient inspiration in a humorous situation which grew out of an experience on a re­ cent trip to South America. or misplaced his seaman's papers. Being a dutiful guy who likes to do things in the correct and proper way. Bob immediately notified the State Department in Washington of the loss. The State Department, which is the dutiful arm of the gov­ ernment and likes to do things I.acking the necessary poetic in a correct and proper way, touch, Bob did the next best wired back to Bob, saying, in thing—passed it on to the SEA'FAKERS LOG. Here's what made effect: Would he please advise Brother Burns throw up his them exactly when he lost his papers, and the actual place of hands and cry "Uncle:" In the town of Las Piedras, loss — there are seven towns Venezuela, recently. Burns lost! named Las Piedras in Venezuela. Hospital Payments �Friday, May 30, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief ALEXANDER G. BELL, (date not given) — Chairman Virgil Mahan; Secretary Ken­ neth E. Laeder. Stewards and Deck Departments reported all in order. Engine Delegate re­ ported one man on board un­ der phony circumstances, other­ wise all in order. New Busi­ ness: Motion to send someone from each department to clean laundry for inspection. Amend­ ment: To cut GI can dpwn there for waste. Carried. Motion car­ ried that any crewmember coming aboard intoxicated at payoff time shall be fined $25. t, X X . FAIRISLE, April 5 — Chair­ man L. Russell; Secretary Wil­ liam Woodruff. No New Busi­ ness. Good and Welfare: List of fines drawn up for offenses such as putting feet on messroom tables. Motion carried that coat hangers and mirrors be placed in all quarters and coathangers be placed in messhall. List of repairs drawn up and added to by suggestions from crew. Delegates reported all okay in their departments. XXX CITADEL VICTORY. April 8. Chairman Victor Velasco; Secretary Harry Monahan. New Business: Discussion concern­ ing the drawing of American money in a foreign port. Motion carried that ship's Delegate see Commissioner pertaining to overcharging on draw. Crew voted for Pantryman to see Captain to have his job changed due to burns on his hand. XXX ROSWELL VICTORY. Mar. 10—Chairman Russell Brinn; Secretary T. E. Carmichael. Suggestion that committee be elected to go ashore and see the American Consul, inform­ ing him of the food situation. Discussion concerning the lack of supplies and upon whom the responsibility for the short­ ages rests. A vote of confi­ dence in the Steward was called. Great majority of the crew upheld him in his work. ROSWELL VICTORY. Mar. 30—Chairman T. E. Maynes; Secretary Thomas Carmichael. Delegates reported minor beefs in all three departments. Much discussion concerning the abili- order to eliminate a two size slop chest—too large and too small. Several points of the contract taken up and clarifi­ cation asked. Report that the Skipper r efused to have the locks on the doors repaired be­ cause it required the payment of overtime. Repair list made up and attached to minutes. ties and actions of the Purser. It was decided that he be de­ nied sailing on any more SIU ships. Discussion concerning cleaning of foc'sles. Repair list made up for presentation to Patrolman upon arrival in U. S. XXX rrhlT U CORINNE. Feb. 12 — Chairman Lukban; Secretary Mulli­ gan. Special Meeting to discuss charges against Chief Electri­ cian for fighting with fellow crewmembers. Charges of stooging for Chief Engineer leveled at Electrician. Various other charges leveled and it was decided to appoint a fiveman committee to investigate his record before recommend­ ing that he be tried. Keep It Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU" ship is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition. it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember thai the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. KYSKA, March 9—Chairman Isaac Blumenberg; Secretary William Austin. New Business: The problem of signing on was discussed and crew was in doubt whether it was necessary to sign on after paying off for­ eign articles or whether we could wait a day or two before sailing on our next voyage be­ cause on the last trip the crewmembers signed on right after they payed off. Discussion on the cigarette ration. XXX WILD RANGER, Jan. 13 — Chairman Shatkovnick; Secre­ tary J. Lukacs. Delegates re­ ported all running smooth in their departments. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried that when at sea. the Steward shall in­ struct his department to d\imp all garbage over the side. Good and Welfare: A heated discus­ sion arose as to whether a man in the Stewards Department had the right to "promote" him­ self from a galley man to Bed­ room Steward. After consider­ able discussion pro and con the Chairman suggested that the question be submitted to the Union for clarification. One minute of silence for union brothers lost at sea. CUT and RUN By HANK XXX SEATRAIN HAVANA. April 16—Chairman A. J. Hall; Sec­ retary P. Jakubcsak. New Busi­ ness: Deck Delegate reported a spider needed on gyro compass for Quartermaster. Water cooler outside of crew messhall needed repairs. Engine Dele­ gate reported more fans needed in crew's quarters. Stewards Delegate reported ice boxes in need of rpairs and wind scoops needed in galley and messhalls. Repair list worked out and sub­ mitted with minutes. XXX WALTER F. PERRY. April 13 — Chair. D. Garrigues; Sec­ retary H. Rosentiel. Delegates from Engine and Stewards De­ partments reported all all right. Deck Delegate reported a few hours of disputed over­ time. Good and Welfare: Mo­ tion carried that the Night Cook and Baker not be allowed to ship in that capacity for a period of three months due to the large number of complaints concerning his work during the trip. All agreed that he was improving and trying his best. List of repairs drawn up and attached to minutes. WeAlS "/OUR SlU — -Ittg 'BADS^^ OF A VHtOH ... UAIION ! If you"i-e tired of sitting around the hall and chewing the Seafaring fat, if you're lonely for the rolling ship and the poetic sea scene, if you're financially anxious to get out before the real hot summer weather hits New York—grab those jobs off the board now—not two weeks from today. Shipping is real good—especially for rated men in the engine department—and it will stay good be­ cause quite a number of ships paid off this week. So straighten up, Brothers, and ship right—you won't be sorry. Oldlimer Yens Nielsen just back from his Far East voyage. With pride and a smile on his face. Brother Nielsen said that his good old shipmate. Brother Hansen, is due to sail in from his Irip—that he will soon be 75-years-old and that in his shipmated opinion Brother Hansen is still the best Seafarer afloat. Happy birthday to you. Brother Hansen and may there be many more salty SIU days ahead for you indeed . . . Well, if Dutch Bolz is anchoring in some port down the coast right now, here's some happy news for him. His shipmate, Pete McCoskey, just smiled into town this week after three beachy months down in Buenos Aires. We have just been humorously informed that Steward Herbert Hutchins just anchored into this rainy town last week with a horse­ shoe around his neck and a four-leaf clover (from New Orleans) in his pocket. We can only ask whether Brother Hutchins is still celebrating a recent case of good luck, or trying to celebrate St. Patricks Day a little late, or prehaps Brother Hutchins is carrying his horseshoe and shamrock for some good luck to come his way soon? Anyway, how was everthing down in New Orleans. Herbert? X X Tommie "Beachie" Murray, Ihe brother who knows and loves ihe islands, just came in with his mustache from a fivemonth trip on a West Coast tanker, paying off in Portland. Maine. Tommie confessed that the crew only got six days of shore leave out of all those months and ports they hit. They got a few days in Liverpool and a few in Beira, Africa. But they weren't allowed to straighten the kinks out of their sea legs in Iran, where the Arabs are blowing up the pipe-lines or in Haifa. Palestine. Tommie says he misses his shipmate. Bob Beliveau; hopes to see him soon and wants him to know his gear is at the company office in Portland, Maine. Tommie, after visiting his parents in his home town, announces that he will soon be in­ vading the land of sunshine and coca-colas, 5- mMmmMrn XXX AdGUST BELMONT. Feb. 9 —(Chairman and Secretary not given.) New Business: Dele­ gates to get a list of the slopchest inventory from Purser in Wne SIU HAS o?em> A NEW MALL IN ^ MOMTRSAL, AT l440 BteuRV S7; THe /AOMTREAL AGENT iS TV GIVE THE MEMBERSHIP IN THAT PORT UNION) RePRESENTrATlON. BE SURE IT) SEE HIM IF MDU HAVE A BEEF. IF NOT, DROP IN TD SAY HELLO". 'Suua-tfiftS.Lu.- 4- i We are informed that Brother John Schupstik is having a bad time with a bad foot. Take it easy, John, and quick recovery . . « Brother Charlie Henry said that he and Jimmy Millican would prob! ably grab a ship together soon. Brother Millican says that his shipmate, "Blackie" Martin shipped out recently out of Norfolk for ; a trip to Europe . . . Brother Levy just came in from a trip to Africa. I And he sure looks happy to be back, too . . . Brother Ray Myers i asked us to tell his friends (including those in Florida) that he has moved from his Baltimore address and now lives at 657 West King J Street, York, Pennsylvania. Brother Ray happily told us that his two shipmates. Jack Pope and Dave Bangs are due to sail into Baltimore soon from their trip. Brother Ray says he wishes the best to all the SIU brothers who anchor av/hile down in Beaulah's Tavern in Baltimore, too . . . The reason for the smile on Brother M. Dellano's face nowadays is because he just climbed aboard th& well-known and welllsailed ship, SS Matrimony to hear for wh^ j the bells loll. Congratulations and steady as she goes! �THE Page Twelve SEAFARERS Friday. May 30. 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS ALL HANDS ARE HAPPY ON THE FRANZ SIGEL Allegheny Victory Victim Of Collision With Tanker The Isthmian Ship SS Allegeheny Victory was hit by the tanker Esso Greenville off Galveston, recently. We nearly turned over when the tanker tore a hole in our starboard side clear through thet No. 5 cargo hold. The whole aft Someone Slipped of the ship from aft deck hot bot­ This 'Mickey' Into tom and fire broke out when the Ye Ed's Mailhag electric cables were torn up in To the Editor: the crash. Some few years ago I made Our position remained danger­ two trips around the world and ous even after the rescue tugs ever since I have been here look­ arrived on the scene. All of the ing after Pa's farm I have want­ crew are safe. ed to ship out again-—somehow For 11 days no one was per­ or other the old farm just doesn't mitted to go ashore. That was seem the same. pretty tough, especially since we I was quite a local hero when could see all the bright lights of I came back from my trip and Galveston. We were unable to everybody kept asking me if it get word to our homes, or to re­ was true about those Chinese ceive any word. Finally, how­ girls. But to tell the truth, I ever, when longshoremen came didn't know myself until the sec­ on board to unload cargo from ond trip, when I had taken a fewthe deck and No. 4 and No. 5 nips of Shanghai alcohol, and holds the Purser woke up, and then I didn't remember anything started to take mail from us. too well. All this did not set too well FIRE IN HOLD with Pa, especially when he On the Sunday after the acci­ heard me calling the mule Kimident, we had a helluva fire m San. Pa got good and sore and the No. 4 hold, which we bat­ wouldn't let me go to the Coast tled for four hours. Fortunately anymore, durn it. So I am still •we had plenty of help from the her on the farm, though my heart longshoremen. It looks like the is on the briny deep. "old girl" is a Jonah. I wish you would send me The skipper put out the order your paper, and in exchange I not to go ashore, stating that it will keep you all informed as to was the strict order of the Coast the local news, although there is Guard. Both the Coast Guard much of this excepting that and the Commissioner, however, things are being born—both ani­ claimed that no such order was mal and human. It is awful cold now and I have given. to go milk, so I will close. If Pa This skipper is a tough old ever lets me go away, do you man. Boys from the previous think I could get me a job? trip said his draw in all ports Elmer Snodgrass was limited to $10. But when we (Ed. nole: Since Pa evident­ hit Savannah he had a draw limit ly finds you such a big help, of only $5.00. When we got back don't you think you'd be ren­ to New York limit of the draw dering a service to all hands by was only $10. In that town ten staying where you are?) bucks wouldn't get you across Winding up a darned good trip were these crewmembers: kneeling, left to "g^t. John. Deck Delegate S. Candella. F. Farthing. G. Smith; Standing, left to right. B Gentes. ^ Asst.. Wilkie. Wetherley. D. Tuggle. H. Smith. G. Liebers. Bosun Simmons. Mason. Walders. Captain ®Captain Bagley deserved a vote of thanks, "for never forgetting that at one time he had sailed in the foc'sle for giving attention to everyone s troubles, whether he be Messboy or Mate." They added that Brothers signing on with Bagley need never worry about being broke or logged unnecessarily. Says Unions Must Combat Repressive Laws To the Editor: The most important threat con­ fronting the unions today are the vicious anti-labor laws. It is im­ portant for every union man to realize what is really meant by such reactionary laws. Take our own Union for ex­ ample; the outlawing of the closed shop would do away with our system of rotary shipping, whereby every man has an equal chance to get a job. On the other hand, under the open shop, men are not required to join the union or ship from the Union hall. The open shop makes it impossible to have an effec­ tive organized union. Instead, it would legalize only disrupted unions where the employers have complete say over working conditions. But this is not all! The vicious Congressmen don't stop with outlawing the closed shop. Their laws ban the only effective wea­ pon the unions have for keeping any conditions—the strike wea­ pon. Seeing what it will mean to every man who belongs to a union if these laws are passed. the street. We have a good crew on here, a swell bunch of fellows, even if we are stuck in one spot. The Allegheny Victory was a clean ship and she still is a clean ship. That speaks very well for the boys of the SIU and the SUP. Here's hoping we see you all in the New York or Baltimore offices in the very near future. We expect to get off here within the next week or 10 days. Stanley "Mike" Clark Chief Electrician Good Mate On Alcoa Cavalier To the Editor: The men aboard the Alcoa Cavalier on her first voyage from Portland to New York are enthusiastic in praise of their Mate, Otty Brown. In a statement issued upon the ship's arrival in New York, March 30, Champ Kelley, SUP Delegate, advised seamen look,ing for a good ship with a good )ziate to sign on the Cavalier with Otty Brown. Signed by 13 crrewmembers Log-A -Rhythms As the sun rose Foundering Dreams By ROBERT G. PATTISON over the horizon clear. He stood on the bow without worry or fear. Eagerly awaiting the horizon's unveiling Of the countries and future to which he was sailing. People were good and life was divine; For the whole world the sun would shine. But he was still young and his heart was true; His conscience had told him just what he should do. % % ^ As the sun goes down over the endless sea. A lonely figure taking away his only means of keeping any kind of decent liv­ ing conditions, important and ef­ fective action is necessary to com­ bat these laws. Organized labor must demon­ strate its determination to fight for its existence. Writing post cards and sending wires to Wash­ ington are not enough. A 24-hour protest general strike of all un­ ions should be called to serve notice on thq union-busters that American labor will never bow down to salve conditions. Stop the slave labor bills by a 24-hour work stoppage! Peter Kordakis you'rO sure to see— With his back to the future and facting aft. Watching the wake of the crew and the draft. The horizons to come he has seen before. But those that have past will be the same no more; For the future looks hopeless and the past a waste— Just bitter memories of youthful haste— Of fine ideals and a faith in right The experience shattered with a crushing might. On any ship you can see them still; To the bow and the wake they're' just grist in the mill— In the mill of life that grinds together Both misery and beauty and hopeless endeavor. You'll see them in barrooms down watertront way. Those resigned wake-watchers of yesterday. This is the glorious life of the sea. Why I keep sailing is far beyond me. �THE SEAFARERS Friday, May 30. 1947 COMING THROUGH THE ICE m„„.. ^ ^ . LOG Page Thixteea Alcoa 'Pilgrims' Plow North Through Ice To Cut Some Canadian Capers In Montreal To the Editor: AT STOPOVER IN PILGRIMAGE Aboard the SS Alcoa Pilgrim ;':;';:::';:=:<''>-:^yft::3 we made a fine run north from Trinidad until we ' hit" the St Lawrence River—and I mean hit Ice conditions were very bad in the Saguenay River, where our port of destination was located namely Port Alfred. We anchored off Red Island which is at the mouth of the river and were marooned there from April 23 until May 5. The ice-breakers had been working there for several days but were not accomplishing much as Enough ice-cubes lo cool drinks for all hands, figured crew­ strong easterly wind was keeping men of the Alcoa Pilgrim, looking ahead to shoreside relaxing as the ice up the river. vessel cut her way through ice-laden Canadian waterways. ONWARD. PILGRIMS Well, we being Pilgrims on a pilgrimage from the "Dustite Mines" to the frozen north, we At the end of the "bauxite trail," crewmembers of the SS didn't seem to mind the change Alcoa Pilgrim made the most of their time ashore in Montreal. from the land of the sunkissed In photos above and below they are seen slaking their thirst babies and the home of rum and To the Editor: deckhand since I wasn't a stooge coca-cola to the fair mademoisel after the run North. les of Port Alfred and Montreal Well Brothers, I have shipped or a company man. So, get in with scotch and soda. We waited out on the Lakes again. But while the drive is on. Strike for the weather to change, and this time it is oh an organized while the iron is hot, as the say­ then too it gave the boys ship—not a phony Lake Carriers ing goes. Better be safe than chance to recuperate before they scow. You can see the differ­ sorry. Join the Seafarers Inter­ charged into the battle of the ence, not only in working condi­ land of ice and snow. national Union now—today. tions, hut the crew is not at your Finally we got the okay that throat for your job or carrying We have been putting LOGs the river was clear to proceed on the Canadian boats as we are tales. For a good part of the way, how­ They surp We get paid overtime, not time trading to Canada. ever, we encountered big sheets off. No work after 5 p. m. on the gobble them up like hotcakes and of ice, which we ploughed run. No chipping scrubbing or thank us. Well, the hash ham­ through. Some of the boys took painting with cluster lights. mer is ringing, so will sign off. a number of "snaps" which came That's a contract, not an agree­ Best of luck to the SIU-SUP. out very good. After being the Baldy McAdoo ment. first ship to enter port we were Str. L. S. Wescoat given a grand reception, which RANK AND FILE amounted to a small banquet for all hands at the Saguenay hotel. You get either a tripcard or Drinks were on the house! a book for your money and their 'Soft Lights complete loading for the islands to illness. Both had to go to the Incidentally, the Alcoa Pioneer, are 90,000 guys behind you in And Sweet Music' hospital. which started to follow us up the —then hit the bauxite trail again. your beefs—not a receipt and a Some of the Brothers would river, was not quite so lucky as The crew is working fast and sellout such as you are offered To the Editor: like to have the New York Hall she hit a reef at the entrance and ferociously for the return to Mon­ in the Lakes Seamens outfit. Our give us a clear picture about pay­ Here in Bermuda, I'm having is now in drydock at Quebec. organization is for and by the ing off under mutual consent, as fun—mild breezes, soft lights, Thanks to our Brothers on the treal. rank and file, one which is out To you boys who sit in the some of them would like to sweet music on the back porch Pioneer, we were received with to. better the conditions on the Halls and worry about having pay off. Remember, the power with Manhattan cocktails, and open arms in Montreal and were rust buckets of the Great Lakes Brother it's a different world welcomed at all the hot spots in dead end runs on the "Dustite of love is greater than anything for the men who sail them. from the hustle and bustle of the and around town. As you can Trail"—you're wrong, for there else when a seamen gets the call. Now you guys who think the United States. is a Paradise and Heaven at each We want to say thanks to see by the pictures, the liquid Lakes Carriers Association will end. The fellows on here are Brother Gene Markey, who rep­ Yes, slow and easy, that's the end of our fun we enjoyed open­ take care of you when things fall looking forward to seeing some resents the SIU here in Mon­ way vacationing here. You'd like ly. off—you'd better open your of the old shipmates, as we make treal. He is doing a good job. OKAY. NOW eyes, or you'll be pn the beach it too. My best wishes to all SIU this run this summer. Lulher Highsmith. We ai'e now having fine We were very sorry to lose two for the season. Believe me, I Brothers. Chief Steward Charles C. Oppenheimer Weather to Halifax, where we of our shipmates in Montreal due know. I couldn't get a job as a SS Alcoa Pilgrim SIU Membership To Bring Security To Lakes Seamen A SEAFARER PUTS IT DOWN IN BLACK AND WHITE TttERE'^S MORE TOAN ONE WAKTO AUNiONMAN NEViEL.STOP ' IS. F OR TWSECtuRiTV^- OF -Au ToO^TMeR vyET CANiV Ber^'u'cKEXi 3!: NXV "DU A Uu W - THE VV/ OoT u s WMepuF /ou MPVIER MAKE A WA&e- UEARM TO Be: A G-oot> GrooT> THAT CAM-r 0e •'N BTATE' N - -AHO AT i THE SAME T.IM^ > Votii ^grcoME: A , <3-003D UNioH tAAM- Good shipmates united in their objectives present an unbeatable combinatioti, says the Seafarer-cartoonist who made this sketch at the SIU's Galveston Hallt Creisomember Refutes Rumors Of SS Gallup's Conditions To the Editor: ed no shortages of food or any other commodity. Speaking for ourselves and the homesteading crewmembers, we wish to give the Steward, Jacob Martin, a vote of thanks for keeping the crew well stuffed and happy. This should put an end to all those rumors and stories about conditions on this ship. Signed by 14 crewmembers Since our faithful ship, the SS John Gallup, is not returning to Philadelphia, the crew wishes to let the boys around the Philly Hall know what took place dur­ ing our recent and enjoyable trip. Outside of a paint job and a few minor differences with the old man, there were no beefs on this very short but pleasant trip. The Gallup proved herself to be A^. O. Hospitalized good and faithful SIU ship. We did alright on overtime Thank Del Norte Men with the deck gang gathering a To the Crew Members of the total of 1694 hours, which breaks Del Norle: down to 154 hours each. Not bad Words are too wooden to ex­ for a five weeks trip. We would have done even better if the press our gratitude for your gen­ weather had been a little nicer. erous and magnificent gift. Aside from the Deck Depart­ Nevertheless, our hearts react ment things were also smooth out to you, in their appreciativein the Stewards and Engine De­ ness, with an inarticulate thanks partments where overtime was for your kind and thoughtful deed. much in evidence. On the important item of food Fraternally yours, there was an abundance with SIU Members plenty for all. No one was dip­ Marine Hospital ping into the stores so we suffer­ New Orleans, La. �THE Page Fourteen SS Lamar's Trip To Palermo Draws Plaudits From Crew To ihe Editor: It is requested that the fol­ lowing information be printed ih the first issue of the LOG that is practicable. This is a testament of the voy­ age of the SS Mirabeau B. La­ mar from Baltimore to Palermo, Sicily, and return under the able command of Captain T. Mikkelson, Waterman Steamship Cor­ poration. When we boarded this vessel, it was found to be in the most deplorable condition po.ssible but due to the efforts of the entire crew from the master to the or­ dinary, we are bringing in a ship that we are justly proud of. She has been given a complete paint job and inside cleaning. Oh yes, she was grey, but is now dressed in the best of Waterman colors. The conduct of the officers to the crewmembers has been ex­ cellent and is worthy of our ap­ preciation. To Captain Mikkelson and Chief Officer Fowler, our profound thanks for a swell trip. To our Bosun—one in a million—W. Floyd, we'll sail with you anytime. To second Officer Rice and Third Officer Briggs— honorable mention. The Deck Department as a whole performed their duties satisfactorily as SIU members should. There are no beefs what­ ever with the officers of this ves­ sel, and we have the Captain and Chief Officer to thank for this circumstance, due to their untir­ ing interest and understanding. To sail with these men again would be a privilege and a plea­ sure. The tripcard men aboard this vessel deeply regret that -they will probably be unable to make another voyage. Wherever she may sail on her next voyage, you may be sure it will be as pleasant a voyage as possible under the leadership on this vessel. R. Kennedy, Ship's Del. I. Philpott, Reporter Plenty Fun But No 'Mazunta,' Is Crew's Shanghai Lament To ihe Editor: We of the SS Newburg are here in Shanghai, China having the most wonderful time in all our glorious sailing days. It is strictly the life of Riley, with the wine, women and song, but with a hard-boiled skipper there isn't much we can do with­ out folding mazuma. SHORT DRAW A dravr has been put out— period. And that was all—period. Threats were made about some of the unlicensed personnel get­ ting fired for incompetency in the Stewards Department, but a.s your roving delegate I haven't as yet heard one beef about this department. To Brother Joe Arras, we would like to quote: "There isn't SEAFARERS Friday. May 30, 1947 LOG PRE-VOYAGE TOAST Let's Have 'Em This is it. Brothers! Right on these pages is a good place to blow your top. If you've got a beef or some suggestions you think will be of benefit to your Union and your Brothers, why not have It printed in the LOG? If you haven't any steam to blow off, there must be something you've found in­ teresting on your trip thai you'd like to pass along for others to read about—char­ acters you meet in the farflung comers of the earth, joints you've found worth seeing and those you feel it advisable for your Brothers to avoid. Why not let all hands profit by your exper­ iences? Maybe you're pretty good at turning out a poem—okay then, let's have it. Pen and ink sketches are welcome, too. If you've got some photographs of your ship, orshipmates or any "shots" taken in the various ports o'call. send them along. We'll return them. Just mail your material to the Editor, Seafarers Log. 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. How about doing it NOWl ^ . - . - —• • • Four of the crew of the SS Steel Mariner, an Isthmian ves­ sel, wished themselves good luck in Baltimore shortly before set­ ting out on voyage. Since photo was taken, the Mariner has re­ turned to the States, and the lads are again toasting their good luck. From left to right the boys are Nick Saroka, AB; Dominic Di Sei, Bosun; Warren Simmons, OS, and John Heena, BU. Unorganized Lakes Seaman Enlists In Union's Drive The following letter was re­ Dear Brother: ceived in the Detroit office by I am on an unorganized ship, the Lakes organizational staff. and would like to join your Although this brother is not an union. There are several other SIU member, his letter deserves men that are interested also. airing on the membership pages The chow is lousy. Oilers do because men like him are the Wipers work, and we work ones who will drive the phonies after 5 p. m. with no'overtime. off the Lakes, and make the Our foc'sles are like clothes Lakes a decent place for seamen closets. to work. The officers get served the Incidentally, we are withhold­ best food restaurant style, ing his name, because he is still whereas the Sailors, Firemen on this unorganized ship, and and Coalpassers have to eat like would have a can tied to his tail hogs in a trough, and carry in quick order if his name were their own dishes to the sink revealed. when they are through eating. We would appreciate it if you would send us some member­ ship applications and union literature in a plain package, as I would get fired if they knew that I was writing to the SIU. anything but time to straighten out the situation." Before hitting this port, we did have a meeting and I am sure the minutes were sent to the hall. We will have another the Bids Brothers first Sunday after leaving this Pay Him A Visit port and I will make it my duty To the Editor: to send those minutes in also. This is a bid to my Union THAT'S ALL Brothers who have been ship­ There isn't much to say now, mates with me to pay me a visit or look forward to, as we are go­ when they're in the neighbor­ ing to the Persian Gulf for the hood of Milford, Conn. I have retired my book as a third time this trip. We really will be looking for the Patrol­ Steward and am now serving in men upon arriving in the States. that capacity in the Milford We wish you all were here in­ Yacht Club. 1 would like to see stead of us, but as long as we some of the Brothers, who would have five months under our like to have a few on me for old times sake. belts we'll put up with the heat Charles McAllister as long as we're here. Milford Yacht Club Milford. Conn. Crew of the SS Newburg To the Editor: HANDLING IT LIKE A BABY Photo taken aboard MV Gadsden, locomotive-carrying vesseL shows an iron horse being swung aboard by means of the ship's own loading equipment. Boyer's Shoe Box Shows Ship Was The SS Elkhorn I guess that 1 should say I have I have a point of correction in regard to the article Btother Louis Goffin had in the May 2 issue of the LOG. The character and the story are both very well described in his article. As it goes, I happened to be on that same voyage. Being quite sure it was not the SS Eglantine, but the S.S Elkhorn, Mississippi Shipping Company, I dug down to the bottom of my bag (shoe box) for the discharge, which reads: SS Elkhorn. Date of en­ try, 1-15-30. Date of discharge, 3-17-30. The skipper was our good friend Captain Fahrenwald, who has since lain down to rest. All who knew him will remember him always. But that, trip which Brother Goffin writes about was a ringdangdo. As soon as the sun went down the ship was haunted, ac­ cording to some of the boys who still had some of that European gin left in their systems. Percy Boyer New Orleans (Ed. note:-Boyer is right. The ship was the Elkhorn. But the error was not Brother Cof­ fin's. The error was typo­ graphical.) (Editor's note: The member­ ship applications and literature were sent to the brother, and he has our best wishes to do a job on this unorganized Lakes scow.) Good Deal One of the most difficult tasks in connection with writ­ ing is finding a spot for pub­ lication. The task, however, has been made easier for Sea­ farers who have written—or are about to write—stories or articles with a salt water tang. An arrangement has been made with a reputable agency of authors' represen­ tatives, who will read your material without any charge. If the stuff has possibilities it will be brought to the at­ tention of publishers for pos­ sible sale. Send your manuscripts— typewritten, of course — to Carl Cowl, c/o Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y, Enclose a stamped envelope, addressed to your permanent residence to in­ sure safe return in case script is not up to snuff. �.V, r Friday/ May 30, 1947 MONEY DUE Smith & Johnson THE SEAFARERS Page Fifteen LOG PERSONALS Shipboard Treatment Of VD Poses Multitude Of Dangers E. H. COWAN Your parents are anxious for you to get in touch with them at once. There is no need to go any (Coufinued from Page 4) further into the dangers that are 4. 4. 60 BEAVER STREET, NEW YORK did not dissolve bqt lodged in * PAUL P. E. GONZALEZ posed by the drug. It should be the kidneys. A large amount of Tarling, Stanley 5.56 A communication from Pratt MV COASTAL DEFENDER the policy of anyone who feels water will not counteract any 55.55 & Pomars, Associates, Inc., 45 that he is in need of treatment Carolan, John $ 18.87 Wood, Carl C overdose of the drug. 4. 4- 4. West 34th Street, New York, re­ to go to a doctor who knov/s the Czajkovvski, Walter 2.40 In some cases where penicilhn SS EWARD NICKELS quests that you get in touch with use of the drugs and has the Dailey, John J 1-60 or sulfa was used in insufficient 2.16 them immediatel.y facilities for making a diagnosis. Dolan, LeRoy 13.68 Bona, Frank C quantity, the affected men think Holifield, Louis M 31.68 4 4 4. The average time it takes for Hanson, Royal 3.20 they are cured because the sore JAMES KETCHUM 14-4Kering, Newell 72 a ship to return to the U.S. is The National Housing Agency, or discharge disappears. SS ELOY ALFARO Mathews, Oscar 1.44 three weeks, and most ships As a result, the real effects of $ 23.01 Vermont Avenue and K St., N.W,. Pockey, Anthon 66.33 Abel, William J touch some port within a month. the disease are not noticed until 3.27 Washington, D. C., is trying to Reck, Warren 05 Belhke, Louis H later when the patients suffer 31.06 get in touch with you. Sampson, Emory 1-44 Bourgean, Kenneth glandular trouble, paralysis, 4 4 4 Cottle, Carlton R 1.44 S. i it rheumatism and even insanity. BRUCE E. McNElL Markarian, Edw 28.56 C3 EWD. K. COLLINS Sometimes when a patient has Mrs. E. McNeil, 20—39th Place, McNichols, Thomas 19.70 .21 not been examined as to wheth­ Andry, I',o:;er J $ Practles, Anthony J 36.52 Long Beach, Calif., requests that .27 er he can stand treatment, a Fuchs, William you get in touch with her. Plaskenoke, Samuel 1.37 full dosage is given and the man Howard, Andrew 1-37 Price, Charlie H 4 4 4 7.46 suffers therapeutic shock and Kundikoff, Peter #. 55 Saravia, Jose CLARENCE THORPE Martin, Glois 1-37 Seleskie, Leo It is important that you get death. 3.00 These examples are not given Merritt, Cecil 6.88 Skowronek, Louis in touch with Miss Caroline 1.19 as a sex lecture to urge abstainMoore, Gordon 1-37 Sweet, Russell 8.18 Friend, 109 South Flam Avenue, ance, but are given to point up Sparks, Harvey W 39 Van Reenan, James L 4.82 Giensboio, N. C., immediately. • Urickel, V. P 28.95 White, Lewis A the dangers of administering the 4 4 4 7.46 Wilson, Alva C 48 drugs aboard a ship. QUENTIN WORRELL 4- 4. 4. Thi.s length of time is not great Another thing pertaining to Mildred Worrell, 1543 O. St., i 4- it SS FITZHUGH LEE enough for a venereal disease to room 301, Lincoln, Nebr., is an.x- shipboaid treatment: If a man SS EDW. G. JANEWAY 4.82 Blais, Vincent N develop into a secondary stage. approaches the Purser with a ious to hear from you. 1.37 Dauphin, Oliver J $ 37.17 Cavanagh. Desmond WAIT FOR DOCTOR lesion which he thinks is a ven­ 16.00 DePaz, Philip 7.58 Gimpaya, Restitute, G. ereal disease, the Piu'ser will EARL WALLACE The be:,;t method to handle any 10.00 Drew, Robert J 3.98 Hazen, George F Your mother is anxious for you i give treatment on the assump- suspected infection is to wait 8.26 Geldert, John 1.37 Hessebrode, Homer A. . to contact her immediately. Hention that the man is right. out the time until you hit port 10.46 Joff. John Wm .21 Lesley, Silas W Assumptions mean nothing. and then see a doctor. addi-ess is 316 Columbus Drive, 2.06 40.09 Konpfick, Chnrles .T. Sigiel, Stanley Even a doctor cannot look at a Pascagoula, Miss. It will pay to realize that you Lakkonen, Toivo 32.53 4- t sore or a discharge and deter­ are receiving first rate treatment Millner, John L 79 SS EDWIN T. MEREDITH mine if the man has a venereal and that the dangers of compli­ Ramos, Joe 2.23 disease. The sore may be either cations are small. Acebedo, Gilbert .? 27.78 Vogel, Edward 1.37 a chancroid or chancre, and the Armstrong, Ralph 1.28 Ward, Wm. L Depending on a Purser for a : 28.26 Books, permits and tripcards former is not syphilis. cure is a bad policy, and one Autry, Ollie S 5.56 Wheeler, Harold 11.96 for the following Seafarers have The lesion can also be scabies that may lead to regret later. Laychak, Eugene G 33.33 been forwarded from Mobile or a rash from sweaty under­ The only sure way is to see a Meisnex, Walter 77 SS FRANK C. EMERSON to the New York Hall. Thoy wear. The only positive method specialist and learn whether you Moran, William 1.28 Bishop, Lorenzo -S 8.12 can be secured by writing or of determining a disease is by Pagazzi, Emilio 13.98 have a disease and be treated Carrier, Charles H 8.52 calling at the 6th Floor, 51 miscroscopic examination. accordingly. Roberts, Carlton A 16.53 Cunningham, Robert S 18.47 Beaver Street, New York, N.Y. If a Purser begins treatment Simmons, M. A 11.81 Better yet. use the sanitubes Davis, Maurice 2.27 on the man with penicillin, not fuimished on most of our con­ Full Books Hall, Z. B 1.21 knowing if he has the disease or tracted ships and the pi'oblem of Highham, Thomas 10.42 George Massengill, William R. not, it makes it very difficult Jacobs, R. B 10.79 Miller, Del Mar Clyde Breas- later for a doctor to determine treatment will be one that will Kane. Leon ' 2.40 hears, Willie S. Harper, Harry if the man has the disease or not seldom arise. 9.60 M. Fisher Jr., George Caruso, for penicillin hides the usual ASHTABULA 1027 WoBt Fifth St. McIIenan, Theodore Phone 5523 McKcnzie, Alick M 14 R. E. Poole, Thomas Melvin symptoms. BALTIMORE 14 Noith Gay St. McKenzic, Harry 4.98 Countny, D. Douglas. J. R. Pace, Calvert 4539 NO DIAGNOSIS Nickl, Alphonse 9.20 Mark Stoll, Samuel H. Tillman, The Baltimore Branch of the BOSTON 276 State St. 2.72 Charles P. Tuck. Milton R. Another thing that should be SIU is holding checks and vouch­ Boudoin 4455 O'Dohertyi T 76.90 Williams, William E. Woodcock, of concern to all is the fact that ers for the following men. All BUFFALO 10 Exchanse St. Passman, Segrist, G Cleveland 7391 Pcmberton, Raymond C. .. 1.20 Cleveland W. Manning, James a Purser or a "foc'sle doctor," men listed here are urged to CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Snediker, Clarence 26.84 A. Morrow, Frank C. Benson. has no means of making a prop­ send for or pick up their checks Superior 5175 Varley, James J 3.27 er diagnosis and therefore can­ as soon as possible. Charles Henry Murray, Ed­ CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Williams, Henry 5.67 not prescribe the proper dosage. ward Morris, Watt Jordan, James Main 0147 Checks:—Oliver Headley, Ran­ The odds in this case are that dolph Browder, Donald Creamer, DETROIT 1038 Third St. Edward King, A. M. Lammon, 4. 4- 4. Cadillac 6857 Bobby Ray Bryan, Sam D. Buck­ the individual will receive im­ James Ellers, Raymond Frye, SS JOHN A. DONALD DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. 1.44 ley, ' C. B. Folz, Willia mA. proper treatment, which is worse Roy R. Kerr. Stanley Langman, Melrose 4110 Biggerstaff, John GALVESTON 308Vz—23rd St. Evans, Zollie 11.72 Curry, John E. Swankey, Rich­ than no treatment at all aboard Daniel Lippy, Robert Littleton Phone 2-8448 Malmstrom, Eric and Lovell McNabb. 24.95 ard Rocha, John W. Davis, ship. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. There is also the danger of be­ Joseph H. Dinkins, Jr., Rudolph Checks are also being held for SS JAMES M. GILLIS Phone 58777 coming sensitive to penicillin af­ Dorsey Paugh, Thomas Teears, Davis, W. Thaggard. JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Faria, John B $ 2.67 L. W. Tharp. Ranson H. Wil­ ter taking the drug. The danger John A. Thaler, Russell Wright, Phone 5-5919 Hanover, E 85 son, William E. Williams, R. J. of this is that in a subsequent Jacob Otreba, Bird Kirkpatrick, MARCUS HOOK 1 Vi W. 8th St. 6.10 Chester 5-3110 Morris. Harvey W McCormack, James H. McDon­ illness the patient cannot be John Lopez, Stanley Jandora and 1.80 MILWAUKEE 633 South 2nd St. Nelson, Paul ald, E. Penderson, P. Harrell, treated with penicillin. J. R. Best. MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. 4. 4- 4. Ray Glennen, Franklin Lawshee, Vouchers are waiting for Mi­ Phone 2-1754 SS JOHN GALLUP John H. Foy, Walter S. Lind. chael Pugzczewski, David C. MONTREAL 1440 Bleury St. NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. Akers, James $ 11.38 Bangs, Arthur Wolch, John La Magnolia 6112-6113 Bonet, Victor 0 Pro-books: 92 Foe, William Rajski. Thomas WALLACE D. HAND NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. DeSmet, Frans 2.42 Lyons and J. H. Clark. Book No. 23163 Robert J. Holbrook, William HAnover 2-278^ 1.42 Connell, Irving Reynolds Deakle, Also William T. Peters, John When in New York please NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Gillespie, Hector 69 Thomas Blackstock, Samuel M. come to headquarters office on'P- Fee, John P. Martin. Clifton Phone 4-1083 Gliddon, Joseph L PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Jansson, Geir 89 Brodie, Thomas E. Gilliland, Joe the 6th floor and bring your Ensey. Thomas Lyons and Mar­ Lombard 3-7651 Korecki, Paul 69 Caddell, Robert C. Little, D. C. book and receipts. tin Tuomala. PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. Loftsson, Helgi 39 Brookins Jr., R. F. Behringer, Beacon 4336 4 4 4 4 4 4 15.33 T. C. Kelley, Ellis L. McDonald. Being held at^the Philadelphia RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. McCurdy, H. C Will the holder of Great Lakes Phone 2509 Rauk, Arkadi 5.33 District receipt No. 1743 issued,-Hall are the passports, discharges SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. Vid, Filipic 89 Permits: by C. Kimball at Mobile on April tind p.npers of the men listed beDouglas 5475 - 8363 Wigg, Boro 3.57 10. 1947, please get in touch with [low. The Agent at Philadelphia Charles A. Case, H. W. Reese, SAN JUAN, P. R. ..252 Ponce de Leon San Juan 2-5996 4* 4- 4* Melvin Locker, James H. Slay, the Great Lakes Headquarters at is anxious for these papers to be SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 1038 Third Street, Detroit 26. sent for or picked up. SS JAMES M. PORTER Donald E. Walters. Phone S-1728 Michigan. Seamen s passports: James Barasch, Dave $ 1.42 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Tripcards: Malfara, Edward Savio, Robert 4 4 4 8.53 Main 0290 Callahan, William A wallet containing personal ef- ; G. Penders. Charles Zimmerson, Lester J. TAMPA ....1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Golden, John J 1.07 Phone M-1323 fects, discharges and seamen's Certificates of Discharge: Toiiy Harvey, L. J 2.88 Sperier. William E. L. Thomas, TOLEDO 615 Summit St. papers has been lost by George J. j Mastantano, Robert G. Penders\ Jeter, Harold 1.07 Buck B. McGrew, SUP, John WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Smith. The wallet was lost either Peter Korkimilis, Woodrow Wqlr 90.60 Calhoun Drake, Carl McLaugh­ Terminal 4-3131 Krowl, R. A ford and El Almirante. aboard the Robin Locksley or be­ 602 Boughton St. Rani, Jan 2.13 lin. VICTORIA, B.C. Garden 8331 Stanford, R. W tween Baltimore and New York. Certificates of identification; 4.11 .144 W. Hastings St. "d VANCOUVER Peter Kurkimilis, James J. Ryan Receipts: If found, forward to 106'LStegStanley, Paul J : 2.82 PaciRc 7824 and Edward Savio. man Street, Jersey City, N. J. H. S. Curry, O. J. Cochran. -'Toone, Eddie J. 2.58 Attention Members! SlU HALLS NOTICE! NOTICE! �Page Sixteen r THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 30, 1947 nI LAKEit^ENj i I J 1 fi I I I I I I I u^OWANllW no pennies -from heaven But t|ou.it«, can havetheS.ecurjtc|, the, ui^matched cond ttons , -{tatmi!itant, ci€/n\ocmtic unionism of the Seafarers Interncftona/ Union gets -for rte members. 1 I I 1 I I I. In 1942-the SlUaion the 40hour ojeek -for -fitoutand laq up.wi+htime anda hdl-f" -for overtlrne. -Gind held qains-throuqh •the u)ar. In April, 1947, +he SiO uuonthe 44-hour week on' passen qer ships. In Mogi '947/ -the SIU won the40-houra)^k on sandboots. Join the Seotfdrers International Uniori and get for cjourseif ... UtohesX c(»iaiti(si$ (mtbe Oreat LoKes! \ I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1J � 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 May 30, 1947 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. IX, No. 22 Description An account of the resource Headlines: GREEN SEES WAGE PERIL IN SLAVE BILL SS NORTHWIND CREWMEN WIN SIU CONTRACT SEAFARERS LOSES LIFE IN NEWHALL HILLS BLAST THREE TEXAS HALLS ARE CLOSED; GALVESTON WILL SERVICE AREA CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE BETWEEN MATHIASEN AND SEAFARERS NON-UNION UNIONISTS TEXAS BRANCHES MERGE, DRIVE ON PERFORMERS BELL WORKERS DID NOT LOSE THEIR STRIKE FAILURE TO GET DISCHARGES FROM HOSPITALS DUE TO MISUNDERSTANDING OF RULES UNIONS APPLY FOR CLEVELAND MTC CHARTER MR. DOOLEY ON THE OPEN SHOP PROPELLERLESS GALBRAITH HAS HECTIC NARROW ESCAPES AH, THE GOOD OLD BATHLESS DAYS SAILING ON A FOREIGN FLAG SHIP STEAMBOAT LOWDOWN; NOBODY BELIEVES HIS YARNS SAN JUAN SIGNS SHOREGANG PACT GIVING SIU TOP WAGES, HOLIDAYS GALVESTON CALLS FOR FIREMEN, OTHER RATINGS JOB INSECURITY, TWO STEW POTS TURNING GT. LAKES SEAMEN TO SIU SAYS LAKES SEAMEN ARE FED UP WITH THE PHONY PROMISES OF NMU NMUER, MARINE VETERAN, GETS RAW DEAL, COMES TO SEAFARERS FOR HONEST UNIONISM ANTI-LABOR BILL NOW PENDING IN PENNSYLVANIA WOULD RUIN THE TRADE UNION MOVEMENT IN STATE 1947 IS SIU YEAR ON THE LAKES AS LSU AND NMU LOSE FAVOR 100 MILLION WAS SPENT BY LABOR'S ENEMIES 48-FOOT WHALE BEHEADED IN CRASH WITH MARQUETTE VICTORY AT PANAMA HIMLER PINS 23 OPPONENTS IN MEXICAN WRESTLING TOUR Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/30/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/92c07463f14287b9a63efd61dacd219d.PDF 60c5ff48653cd7911fd51c27e1529b7f PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY, MAY 23. 1947 START OF A SUCCESSFUL ACTION No. 21 Seafarers Wins First 40 Hour Week On Lakes DETROIT, May 20—SIU Great Lakes Secre­ tary-Treasurer Fred Farnen today announced the completion of an agreement with the Great Lakes sandboat operators providing for the first 40-hour week ever negotiated by any union on the Great Lakes. The new agreement, covering the unlicensed personnel of all sandboats on the Great Lakes, pro­ vides for a 40-hour week at the same basic rate as 1946, but with 16 hours week-end overtime payable at $1 i)er hour. SIU pickels in front of the Milwaukee Clipper office in Milwaukee proved to the company that the Union meant business. So, in short order, the company came to terms. In the group are Deck Delegate Joe Jarvis; John Lind; Engine Delegate John Josefek: Ed Shilbauer; Paul Kelly: Emil Schroeder; Harry Lullins; Stewards Delegate Harry Breen; Milwaukee ILA President John Brzek. third from left; and SIU Chicago Agent Herb Jansen. second from left. Canadian Vessel Slave Ship; Then SIU Steps In By WILLIAM T. McLAUGHLIN .JACKSONVILLE —Hired from anywhere ex­ cept a union hall, and forced to work 14 hours a day, the unlicensed seamen of the SS New Northland, Seaway Lines Limited, finally reached the limit of their endurance last month and came to the SIU for help. quit. This high rate of turn­ It is now history how the Can­ adian District of the Seafarers organized this crew, and by the use of job action obtained a straight $30.00 per month raise across the board. But this raise, and the interim 30-day agreement which went into effect at that time, has not solved the entire problem on the New Northwind. Working and living conditions have not im­ proved, and the heads of Depart­ ments continue to act like petty dictators. One in particular, the Chief Steward, has frequently allowed the ship to sail shorthanded in his Department, and then has forced the other men to do extra work without extra pay. This has resulted in workdays of 14 hours for most of the men in the Stewards Department. Montreal Hall The recently established SIU Hall in 1440 Bleury Street. Montreal. Canada is open for business. Seafarers crews who ma.ke that port and have beefs requiring the Union's attention are advised to get in touch with Gene Markey. SIU representative, at the above address. One of the purposes of the new Canadian facility is to give the membership greater on - the - spot representation, and members are urged to take advantage of it. Pass this information along to your Union Brothers everywhere, so that all hands can avail themselves of the services of the new branch. over is not seen on organized ships, where the workers are pro­ tected by union contracts. Right now we are engaged in negotiations with the company. So far, we have covered every­ thing in a standard SIU agree­ ment, with the execption of wages, closed shop, overtime rates, and whether or not the' Chief Steward should be repre­ sented by the Union. I The company is very strenu­ ously opposing us on all these points. We, on the other hand, are not going to waste much time Nine former Great Lakes arguing with these people since the entire crow is behind our freighters, taken over by the drive, and the New Northwind, Army during the war and con­ a floating palace for passengers, verted to deep sea use, have re­ cannot sail unless the unlicensed cently been purchased from the personnel does the work in the Maritime Commission by the three Departments. Overlakes Freighting Corpora­ The legal adviser for the com­ tion, an SIU contracted company. pany has been present during MANY LEAVE JOBS He came These vessels can be used in In the six months during which all the meetings. which the New Northwind has straight from a case where he Lakes trade, or for off-shore voy­ ages. been in operation, 270 men have (Continued on 'Page 6) Overlakes Purchases Nine Frelghers For Lakes,Off-ShoreRuns In addition, all penalty^ #•### wmt • # overtime will be paid at the rate of $1.25 hourly. Meeting in Cleveland, last Thursday, May 15, the SIU was represented by Secre­ tary-Treasurer Farnen, Chi­ As the Isthfnian election goes cago Agent Herb Jansen and Cleveland Agent Stanley into its final round, the SIU last Wares. week filed a brief before the Na­ SIU Flies Brief Before NLRB On kthmian Case The operators were represented by E. Florsheim of Construction Aggregates, L. Buethal of Kelly Island Lime and Transport Com­ pany, Joseph St. John of Erie Sand and Gravel, and Joseph Martin of the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company. MARTIN BREAKS ICE After considerable discussion and getting nowhere, the solid front of the sandboat operators was broken by Mr. Martin of the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company. Martin agreed to go (Continued on Page 14) tional Labor Relations Board, re­ futing all charges of collusion made by the NMU. (Full text of the brief starts on page 7.) The SIU was adjudged winner of the election held to determine a bargaining agent for the unli­ censed Isthmian seamen, but the NMU has stalled since then, and hearings were held in New York to clarify the situation. A reading of the brief will serve to prove that the NMU's claims were unfounded and un­ substantiated. HLRB Announces Meeting Date On San Oil Election Petition PHILADELPHIA, May 21—In an effort to bring together the interested parties in the Sun Oil bargaining petition, the National Labor Relations Board, Fourth Region, has scheduled a meeting for Friday, May 23, between rep­ resentatives of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union, the National Maritime Union, CIO, and the Sun Oil Company. A petition requesting a bargain­ ing election in the tankers op­ erated by Sun Oil was filed by the SIU on May 12. To date, the company has not replied. The unlicensed personnel of the Sun Oil fleet in the Deck, Engine, and Stewards Departments, have shown a preference for the SIU in the manner in which they have signed pledge cards since the SIU Hall opened in Marcus Hook last summer. SIU organizers have been work­ ing in that area, and their reports indicate that an election would bring the Union out on top by a large majority. Since the start of the organiz­ ing di'ive, the company has re­ sorted to many dodges to stop the campaign. Intimidation was one of the methods, and Sun Oil police tried their best to prevent SIU organizers from speaking to em­ ployes of the company. All this, however, failed, and right now the Union has signed cards from enough of the unli­ censed Sun Oil seamen to be qualified as the bargaining agent. �Page Two THE S E AF A REHS LOG Friday. May 23. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by (he SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAl. VmON OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American -Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL - -- -- -- -- First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER - -- Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK ----------- Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. P. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEiN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 10.38 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Another Try At It A number of articles have been written lately about the Army's new conscription system, which this time is being sold to the public as Universal Military Training, or UMT. Most of the people of the United States do not want military conscription. They have said so, emphatically, in letters to their representatives. But the Brass Hats need a large army so that they maintain their wartime inflated ranks, and if they can't do it one way, they are prepared with an alternate measure. A small training unit of 664 young boys, 17 and 18, has been undergoing training at Fort Knox, in what ob­ servers call a program "to convince Congress and mother .and dad that a year under military guardianship is just These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, the thing for a growing boy." as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging The Army makes cfaims that real democracy flour­ heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ishes under universal military training, that the boys who ing to them. have taken the training are in favor of it, and that a large NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL A. BUCHENHORNER army is necessary to maintain the peace of the world. WM. KEMMERER WM. REEVES All of the arguments are false. If leal democracy C. PEDERSEN J. HARRISON WALTER TAYLOR goes hand in hand with military training, then Germany, G. CARUSO PEDRO GANZALES Japan and Russia must have been the most democratic P. STOFFEL PETER LOPEZ countries in the world since all had compulsory military A. SANDY SALVATORE PRESTO service. R. CHRISTIAN HARRISON GREEN LORENZO BRIGIDA Perhaps it is true that the first group of UMTees en­ A. R. GUIDRY CHARLES SIMMONS joyed their training, but the point must be made that these J. AMAYA H. DAUGHERTY THOMAS PHELPS boys were volunteers, and no experiment based on willing P. La Cicero MANUEL ROMERO volunteers is typical of a system which relies on compulsion. R. WRIGHT EDWARD CAIN, Jr. GEORGE WARFIELD As far as the third argument is concerned, competent G. GREY JOHN WEBB observers, including the Emergency Committee of Atomic H. HAMOND C. CASE JAMES McMAHON Scientists, have stated. Atom bombs can be made cheaply F. HAMON 4. 4. and will become more destructive ... no military defense J. O'NEILL SAN FRANCISCO HOSP. can be expected and preparedness is futile ... if another W. BROSE AARON McALPIN war breaks out, atom bombs will surely destrov civiliza­ C. MASON J. HODO A. WALTERS tion." JOHN KREWSEN 4. 4 4. Organized labor, church groups, and the inarticulate 4. s. BRIGHTON HOSPITAL NEPONSET HOSPITAL masses of American people are dead set against compul­ D. KREWSKI sory military training in peacetime, no matter how art­ HUGH BURKE S. WILUSZ (SUP) J. S. COMPBELL fully the Army may disguise its real objectives. E. JOHNSTON LINDEN CLARK Only the men who make a career of blind discipline JOHN T. EDWARDS H. SWIM P. MADIGAN (SUP) and reliance on military might, the Regular Army of­ J. FIGUEROA E. MOFIENE E. FERRER ficers, are in favor of the program. C. WALSH J. R. HANCHBY But, unless the people get busy, and make their voices E. DELLAMANO C. LARSON heard now, the few Brass Hats will have a lot to say L. L. LEWIS D. BURLISON (SUP) about the training of our young men in the years to come. L. TORRES J. MORRISON Men Now In The Marine Nesiiitals ' 1:1 Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on Sth 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.) P. KOGOY J. RUBERY J. MINNAHAN W. PARIS 4 4 4 STATEN ISLAND HOSP. H. R. BELCHER E. E. CASEY V. PLACEY R. G. MOSSELLER E. CARRARAS M. BAUCSKI D. NELSON G. H. STEVENSON P. AMATO J. A. DYKES E. B. HOLMES C. A. MILLER H. SELBY W. R. BLOOM J. MOLINO F. NAGY J. BURGOS N. NEILSON 4 4 4 ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL M. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. MCDONALD c. RASMUSSEN B. HOFFMAN J. KOSLUSKY �THE Friday, May 23, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Paye Three Contract Clarifications continuing to spring up, more seamen's clubs and benefits for There has been quite a bit of seamen in the last few months misunderstanding on different than there are red pencil marks sections of this agrement beon an Alcoa overtime sheet. tv/eon the Union and the com­ One of the latest which will panies. bear inve.stigation is the Mer­ Since the last regular meeting chant Seamen's Anchorage. This there has been a meeting with outfit is starting in New York the operators for a couple of and their address is South Ferry, clarifications. The companies, in By J. P. SHULER, Secretary-Treasurer Slip 3, New York 4, New York. some instances, have been tryifig They offer all the "luxuries" to interpret "straight time hours" more and a seaman or seamen ing articles in New Orleans are ment to present to the member­ and "benefits" that are offered ship for action. in the agreement in the case of sign the same articles in the entitled to no transportation. by the other phony organizations loading stores to mean that when Port of Baltimore, although they COASTV/ISE ARTICLES that have popped up in the past. Shipping stores came aboard after 5 p.m. "3. If a man signs articles in originated in the Port of New or befoie 8 a.m. they can be Shipping has been very good York. if the ship pays off in an New York and proceeds to a loaded by members of the Eng­ in most ports; especially in the Port south of Cape Hatteras, ine Dept. or the Deck Dept. on area other that the area in which say the port of Savannah,- where Engine and Deck Departments watch, and such time would be the Ports of New York and Bal­ coastwise articles are terminated and there have been a number of classed as straight time hours. timore are located, the men and foreign articles signed, the permit cards issued in these two In other words, if stores came signing on in the Port of New men who signed on coastwise departments for rated men. aboard between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The membership should realize articles in New York will be en the regular day men loaded them York will be paid transportation titled to transportation back to that the more permits issued, on straight time hours; but if back to the Port of New York the Port of New York. If the the harder it will be to ship and the men signing on in Bal­ seamen payoff the foreign art­ when shipping falls off to nor­ timore will be paid transporta- icles in an area other than the mal. Members should take the WOIO-AIOMORC / tion back to the Port of Balti- area in which Savannah is lo- jobs when they come up on the more. cated, they shall be entitled to board, instead of letting them „ ,. • • transportation back to the Port be filled by men who have to be 2. If a ship signs on in the . „ , ,, . , I This outfit is spearheaded by of Savannah, regardless of where issued permits. Mrs. Brown, formerly attached In our agreements with all Port of New York and proceeds ^ j^ey signed the coastwise art!to the United Seamen's Service. the companies, there is a payoff to a port in another area, say i ides. Hov/ever, if the ship pays The membership should be ad­ clause which requires every man the Port of New Orleans, and ^ off the foreign articles in the vised that any "club" or bene­ to give 24 hours' notice before seamen signed on these articles * area in which Savannah is lo­ fit" for the seamen who claim paying off, as well as a clause in the Port of New Orleans al-j cated, no member of the crew they are endorsed by the SIU which calls for the company to though they originated in the shall be entitled to transportaare misrepresenting the facts as give 24 hours' notice before dis­ Port of New York, and the ship tion who signed the foreign artthe membership is well aware charging a man. pays off in an area other than ides in the area in which Savanof the fact that the SIU is a This clause should be lived up the area in which New York is nah is located, they came aboard after 5 p.m. trade union and is only inter­ to by the membership not only SMITH & JOHNSON and before 8 a.m. ,the 4-8 or located or the area in which for the fact that it gives the ested in securing jobs, wages New Orleans is located, the men By: F. E. Fasick the 8-12 Engine watch and gang­ company a chance to call the and conditions for its member­ By: L. A. Andersen way watch were expected to who signed on in New York hall for replacements, but be­ ship and is not interested in Attest; M. V. Cherbonnier load tlxem on straight time shall be paid transportation back cause of the fact that it gives any clubs, parties or politics. to the Port of New York and the hours. the Union time enough to fill men who signed on in New Or- SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL Organizing Activities Therefore, the following clari­ ^ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA their jobs with Union men in­ fication has been agreed to and leans will be paid transportation stead of men shipping off the By: J. P. Shuler The Union has received its it is recommended that the mem­ back to the port of New Orleans. docks or sailing short-handed. By: J. Algina final certification on the MathWhere the ship pays off in a bership accept same: Attest: L. A. Parks iasen Tankers, Inc., and are "The 'straight time hours' as port in the area where New Rackets meeting with the operators in The wages and working conYork is located, the men signing referred to in paragraph (b) are As fast as the membership Philadelphia on May 20 for articles in New York are entitled ditions are still being negotiatdefined to mean the regular to no transportation; and in like ed with the Moran Towing and catches on to one racket and negotiations. straight time hours of work as manner, if the ship pays off in a Transportation Company and by kicks it over, it seems as if an-1 The Organizers have petition­ specified for day workers." port in the area in which New the next regular meeting, we other one pops up in its place. ed the National Labor Relations Another beef that has been There has been, and are still Orleans is located, the men sign- should have completed an agree­ {Continued on Page IS) giving us quite a bit of trouble i is the transportation rider beef. In some instances the company has contended that if a man makes a coastwise voyage from a port in one area to a port in another area, for instance, fropr New Orleans to Savannah, and pays off coastwise articles in Savannah and signs on foreign articles in Savannah and the ship was to return to New Or­ leans, the man would not be en­ titled to transportation back to Savannah, inasmuch as he orig­ inally joined the ship in New Orleans. The following clarification has been agreed upon and it is rec­ ommended for acceptance as it is believed it will clear this matter up: CLARIFICATION NO. 1 "It is hereby mutually agreed this 16th day of May, 1947, by and between Smith and Johnson and the Seafarers International Union of North America that the term "Port of Engagement" ap­ pearing in Article 2, Section 12, of the Agreement between the parties, dated October 23, 1946, shall be interpreted to mean the port where Articles were actually signed by the individual members of the unlicensed per­ sonnel; and it is further agreed that the insertion of the Rider contained in said Section 12 will not be placed on the articles, but will be dealt with by col­ lective bargaining. "To clarify the above the fol­ lowing examples are given: FOREIGN ARTICLES "1. If a ship si.gus articles in the Port of New York and then proceeds to the Port of Balti- Payoff Performers Disrupt The Union Machinery And Jeopardiie Efforts Of Entire Membership By JOSEPH VOLPIAN hands are present to square away the beefs concerning them all. Consequently, it is a prime ob­ ligation of each member to be there. Of course, there are a few circumstances when absence is excusable. But we find that most of the guys who miss the payoff have no valid reason (though they usually think it can be condoned by saying they were drunk). The guy who fails to show up is gen­ erally either a freeloader trying to avoid payment of his Union dues, or a "deadbeat" who is heavily in debt to his shipmates and is intent on beating them out of their money. ext step in the technique of the 'payoff performer" is to lay low for a couple of days, then soft-shoe it into the Shipping Commissioner's office to sign clear. Then, on to the company office to collect his money in a solo payoff. He discharges his obligations to his shipmates by promptly forgetting them. This left-handed pitch doesn't end at this point. Special Services Representative Unionism implies cooperative, joint effort by a group of work­ ers bound together to attain cer­ tain objectives beneficial to all. In the Seafarers we have risen to our strong position in the mari­ time industry because of our uni­ fied action and adherence to the principles of good unionism. Each individual member's acceptance of his obligations to the Union as a whole has contributed im­ measurably to the smooth, effec­ tive operation of our apparatus. Occasionally, however, per­ formers crop up to disrupt the functioning of the Union ma­ chinery. In this instance, we are concerned with the variety of performer whose unwillingness to cooperate with his Brothers is evidenced at the payoff. In short, the guy who operates on the "to-hell-with-everybody-else" theory. The member.ship goes througl a great deal of trouble to main­ tain Patrolmen, whose jobs in addition to protecting the rights SNARLS UNION WORK of the membership and settling Several days later, this type beefs, are to effect satisfactory of "rugged i.ndividualist" comes payoffs. up to the Union Hall to settle his THE EFFICIENT WAY beefs, necessitating wholly un­ The most efficient way to warranted, repetitious activity make a payoff is to do so when which should have been finish­ all hands are present—when all ed with at the group payoff. Thus, a sepai'ate staff of men is to handle payoffs, they are hard i-equired to handle the work in­ put to discharge their regular volved in digging into the files load of work on schedule. They and searching for data that al­ I find that their functioning is disready has been disposed of. In I rupted and their schedules other words, the work incidental • thrown out of kilter by the speto the payoff has to be gone ' cial requests of these perform­ over for the second time simply ers, since large sections of their because one guy thinks only of staffs have to be diverted to the himself. I handling of the "individual at­ He takes up time with the Pa­ tention" cases. The consequences trolmen, preventing them from of these actions should be ob­ devoting proper attention to pay­ vious. offs and beefs of a legitimate na­ ture and disrupting the normally RELATIONS JEOPARDIZED smooth and efficient operation of The relationship between the the Union machinery. Union and the Shipping Com­ Besides the brushoff of his own missioners is, therefore, jeopar­ shipboard Brothers, the type of dized, since the harried Commis­ performer in question, therefore, sioners develop a resentful, an­ commits a distinct injury to each tagonistic attitude toward all and every member of the Union seamen. by belaying the organization Human decency and a sense of which all hands have labored so what is right and proper should vigorously to build up to its pres­ impel these solo performers to cast aside their claims for indi­ ent position of strength. For example, we now have ex­ vidual attention and, instead, cellent relations with the Ship­ share the obligations and responping Commission in New York, siiblities of good Union men, based on a spirit of cooperation just as they reap the benefits. Cooperation is the keystone of and fair dealing. But perform­ ers who absent themselves in­ union structure. Therefore, when excusably from a payoff only to you join a Union, you abide by make an appearance at the Com­ the rules which you and your missioner's office several days Brothers have devised to allow later are gnawing at the roots a maximum of accomplishment of these good relations. for aU concerned. You should Shipping Commissioners, too, act, then, as part of the unit and are human. With the limited not as an individual entirely in­ staffs the government allows them dependent of it. • 11 �Page Four THE SEAFAREHS LOG Lakes Seamen Have One Question: When Will The SlU Represent Us Friday. May 23. 1947 Volunteer (kganiiers pite any and all of the phony will vote for the SIU to repre­ propaganda and empty promises sent them by a better than 95 DETROIT — During the past that the desperate NMUers are percent vote. We seriously doubt Although the first Isthmian week, I've been in constant con­ tossing in the general direction that the NMU will even get one ship he ever sailed on, the Cape measly vote off the Wyandotte Sandy, took him on a trip tact with men from the Wyan­ of the Huron seamen. around the world, Robert Peak, ships. dotte, Huron, Wilson and Hanna WYANDOTTE AB, still doesn't have any love That's how confident wo are fleets, as well as from some for Isthm.ian. As for Wyandotte, the crew- that the Wyandotte crews will •other unorganized companies. "After sailing on organized members of these ships arc also vote for the SIU in a solid body. ships," said Bob, "these unor­ There's one thing in common lined up better than 95 percent SIU STRENGTH ganized ships are like a bad ^ with all of these unorganized on SIU pledge card.s. More than dream. Lakes seamen that I've noticed. 30 percent of the Wyandotte sea­ Here's the answer to several "Overtime is practically un­ That is, they are vitally inter­ men are members of the SIU, questions from Huron and Wy­ ested in the Seafarers contracts and have taken out SIU books. andotte seamen. Some of these heard of," he went on, "but that didn't bother us since the and gains, and the SIU program Needless to say, despite cer­ seamen want to know about the Chief Mate was a very good on the Lakes. tain scurrilous stories typical of SIU's strength and affiliations. worker and painted most of the , There's one constant query the Despite the fact that both Wyan­ NMU, these Wyandotte ' from the vast majority of these brothers are so solidly for the dotte and Huron are sold on the ship himself." Brother Peak signed on De­ men. They all want to know SIU that no organizer need even SIU solely on our program for cember 10. and paid off in New'"When is the election going to to contact the boats. Wyandotte the seamen, we'll give you the York on May 2. In between be held aboard our ships?" men themselves make certain score on our strength. those dates, he went through the First, the SIU is made up of In addition, they all want to that every replacement signs an Panama Canal, called at Hono­ know, "How long after we vote SIU pledge cards and takes out 91,000 seamen and affiliated lulu, Manila, Cebu, Singapore, ROBERT PEAK trades. for the SIU in the election will an SIU book. and some other Far Eastern it take before wo have a con­ Second, the SIU is affiliated profits right and left. I under­ When the NMU was given one ports. tract giving us the same con­ week in which to prove that it with the powerful AFL Maritime stand that those fellows made It was all exciting, but it tracts and conditions that SIU had the necessary 10 percent to Trades Department which is profits that totalled 18 billion would have been better on an members now have?" dollars during the war." intervene, they failed so miser­ made up of Seamen, Longshore­ organized ship. From their experiences on un­ Well, I've answered both of ably that they didn't have a leg men, Tugmen, Licensed Deck Of­ SIU ALL THE WAY ficers, Radio Operators, anc organized ships, Simmons and these questions so often that I to stand on. Teamsters. In all, a total of more According to Bob, the major­ Hughes are convinced of the ne­ think I can do it in my sleep. What did these slimy individ­ than 200,000 workers in the mar­ ity of the men aboard the Cape cessity of a strong union of sea­ So, here goes once again, for uals do? They preferred charges Sandj' were for the SIU. The men. itime industry. the information of all Brothers of unfair labor practices, stating main topic of conversation was NEED FOR UNION aboard the unorganized Lakes that the SIU was given pref­ Third, the SIU is affiliated the fact that the NMU has play­ "You've got no rights unless vessels. erence in contacting the Wyan­ with the powerful American ed the company's game by stall­ you have a union behind you," Federation of Labor which is Elections will be held aboard dotte seamen. What a laugh! ing certification of the SIU as said Hughes. "There's no such composed of some eight million your ship just as fast as the The company doesn't want any bargaining agent for the unli­ thing as job security—you can affiliated workers. hearings are held by the Na­ union on their ships, and cer­ censed personnel. be fired at the drop of a hat. On tional Labor Relations Board, tainly not the militant SIU. Fourth, the SIU is affiliated "It will be a long time before the Bidwell, they had Firemen and the election date and stip­ Wyandotte seamen are the with the International Transport the NMU lives this down," said and Oilers doing each other's ulations established. ones who are keeping these ships Workers Federation, a world­ Bob. "The men now know that and Wipers work." The SIU has already petition­ solid, and despite the attempts wide organization composed of NMU is nothing more than a It's because of just tkis sort of ed for elections on the Huron, of the NMU to temporarily hold millions of workers in the mar­ phony outfit, and what it can't situation that men like Robert Wyandotte, Hanna and Wilson Wyandotte seamen from voting itime and transportation trades. control, it tries to wreck." Peak, LeRoy Hughes, and Jack boats. Last week, we petitioned choice, the election will be held No sooner had Brother Robert Simmons sail on unorganized Those are the answers to the for elections in three additional for the SIU as the Union of their questions about the strength and Peak finished his story, then in ships so as to pass along the companies. We'll give all of the shortly. All the phony charges, affiliations of the SIU. However, walked two more young fellows, Union message. details about these companies lies, and filthy propaganda that remember the SIU is an auton­ fresh off Isthmian's Marine Star. Both Simmons and Hughes just as soon as the first NLRB the NMU can toss at us won't omous organization which runs Both sail in the Black Gang, as claim that conditions on I.sthhearings are held. make one iota of difference. its business free from outside Oilers. LeRoy Hughes has been mian are just like on unorgan­ On the Wyandotte ships, too, interference. These Brothers and sailing for about two years, most ized tankers. The only way to SIP PETITIONED we are willing to stake our affiliates back us up when we of the time on the Bidwell. Sun remedy the situation is the meth­ When I say that the SIU pet­ :-eputation that these seamen need their assistance. Oil Company. od all Seafarers agree on—or­ itioned for these elections, I Jack Simmons also comes from ganization into the SIU. mean just that. Neither the NMU the tankers, having put in some "That's the ticket, because the nor any other outfit on the Lakes time as a volunteer organizer companies won't give anything petitioned for any elections, be­ on Los Angeles tankers. away unless they have to," said cause they couldn't muster Both sailed during the war, Simmons. 'Tt takes pressure •enough pledge cards! and although neither wanted to from a lot of people to force However, the NMU and the talk about his war experiences, the companies to treat us de­ LSU have intervened in some of it came out that they had gone cently. On organized ships, we By MAURICE DOLE these elections. To intervene, through what other merchant are treated like men, and on both of the.se outfits, or either seamen faced in delivering the unorganized ships we are put­ ASHTABULA — Everything is week for iitout and layup to the one, has to prove that they have goods. ting up a fight for the .same de­ running smoothly in port with Lakes back in 1942, and with a minimum of 10 percent of the "If it wasn't for the Union dur­ cent treatment. That should be time-and-one-half for overtime, crewmembers signed up on more and more of the unorganiz­ ing the war, we would have been enough to convince seamen to too? pledge cards. To date, neither ed Lakes seamen dropping in on doing the work for little pay come into the Union." Who broke the 56 hour week while the operators would have outfit has proved this on any us and inquiring about the SIU That it does. Brother. Seamen on the Lakes passenger ships, been piling up all the money," contracts and conditions, and all of the fleets that tiie SIU has know the record of achievements about membership In the Seafar­ and won the 44 hour week for said Simmons. "As it was, the of the SIU, and they continue to petitioned. the first time? shipowners begrudged us the lit­ flock into the SIU, along the In the case of the Huron ers International Union, SIU'Who broke the 44/48 hour tle we earned, and they made Transportation Company, the AFL. Lakes, and in the tanker field. When these guests drop in on week on the sandboats, and NMU tried to intervene, but brought the first 40 hour week -couldn't prove that they rep­ us, v/e answer all of their ques­ during sailing season to the resented anyone on either the tions gladly and give them all Lakes? Boardmen or the Crapo. How­ possible assistance. There's only one answer to ever, the SIU agreed to have the Our SIU halls are always open these questions. The Seafarers NMU on the ballot because we to the unorganized Lakes seamen International Union —: AFL won have nothing to fear from this for their service and conveni­ all of these gains on the Lakes. bankrupt outfit. ence, and v/e welcome their The SIU leads the parade Huron seamen, themselves, questions. Drop in any time, and when it comes to contracts, con­ laugh at the NMU. Now, with try us out. ditions and wages. And the SIU the date of election upon us — Membership in the SIU brings will always lead the parade! between May 15 and June 11 — a lot of benefits that no other or­ We, in the SIU-AFL, lead, and the SIU can prove its claims that ganization on the Lakes can others follow. the vast majority of Huron sea­ bring you. In the SIU, you havejob security, job protection, com­ men favor the SIU, and want SIU contracts and conditions. petent imion representation and This election will tell the story. ^ the best contracts with the best The SIU has over .95 percent; conditions on the Lakes. Make sure the name .of of the ^luron gearnen .signed UPIJ That's mo idle boast. Look at your ship is on the repair on SIU pledge .cards, and I'xp; the record. That's all we ;ask lists and minutes before sub­ willing to bet my bottom dollar you to do. Check the record, mitting theni io the boaording that the SIU wins this election then .choose—the SIU! Patrolman. by better than 75 percept, desr: Who hrought jthe first 40 hour LEROy HUGHES .JACK SJMMQNS By PAUL WARREN Lakes Seamen Visit SIU Halls, Get Their Questions Answered NOTICE! �Friday. May 23. 1947 THE SEAFARERS Page Firm LOG The Only Beefs in San Juan Are The Eating Kind Plenty Of Jobs For Seafarers In California By SALVADOR COLLS By E. H. TEAGUE PUERTO RICO—This port is still the paradise spot of the world, and if that is hard to be­ lieve, practically every • Seafarer down here will back up that statement. Take this as an instance. A certain part of town is off limits for the military boys, and the girls there ai*e so lonesome that they are v/illing to buy beers for the merchant seamen, and even put them up for the night. That's real hospitality, and our boys are sure appreciative. We've had a lot of shipping the past fev/ weeks—so much, in fact, that we had to pull three members out of the clink to dis­ patch as replacements. Our need for men in all ra­ tings is still severe, and even unrated men, such as Messmen, are hard to obtain. LITTLE SHOREGANG WORK Shoregang work is pretty slow this week, but should pick up within the next little while. We only have two ships in port, and the situation is okay even with such a small number of vessels. The two longshoremen's unions got together at last and are ne­ gotiating. I spoke to the presi­ dents of both organizations, and it seemed that the trouble was that each thought the other was wailing to strikebreak. It's all squared away now, and they are both working in har­ mony. I am also trying to form a Maritime Trades Council, but without any results as yet. I have not given up the idea since I am sure that the others will come around soon. We have a man working in Fajardo trying to organise two tugs that run out of that port. He is concentrating on getting the crewmembers to sign pledge cards, and after that we will move in. ... •iiiiM Be CareBil To Put Signature Ott Right Line When Signing On NO NEWS?? By JOE ALGINA Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ NEW YORK—Ah yes, there's good news this week. New York is still in the running for the hottest shipping along the coast with no sign of us having to take a back seat to any other port for fast shipping. We're averaging 40 to 50 ships a week with a good flood of tank­ ers in to take crews. Of course, the Patrolmen have been right there on the piers to greet the ships "and handle all beefs. Two ships that hit port in a manner pleasing to the heart of a Patrolman were the John Gal­ lup, Smith & Johnson, and the T. Meadows, Pacific Tankers. Both ships paid off in fine style with the Stewards Departments on both ships in tip top shape. The Alcoa vessel. Loop Knot was in this week, and as usual the ship had quite a few beefs aboard. Patrolmen Goffin and Gonzales handled the payoff and once more put things in order. LAST TRIP The Orbis. Bernstein Steam­ ship Corp., will be leaving New York in a few days for her last trip under the SIU banner. She will make a trip to South America and then be sold to a foreign company. Bernstein Steamship Corp. intends to re­ place her with another ship, so there will be no loss to us. It doesn't seem necessary that 1 should mention this, but one Brother caused himself a bit of trouble over it, so I'll pass along a word of caution. When you are signing ship's articles, make sure you sign j'our Tampa Ship Chandlers Discover That Seafarers Has Long Memory By SONNY SIMMONS TAMPA—The SS Mandan Vic­ placements, and we are hard put tory, Waterman, hit this port last to furnish them. week, and if the Deck Delegate Rated men, of course, are the had not been on the ball, the ship hardest, but even the unrated chandlers would have been able men don't have much' trouble to pull a fast one on the Union. shipping out of here. That's an The Port Captain ordered invitation to come down to Tam­ stores, but when they were de­ pa where you can practically livered, the Delegate called the pick your ship and your run. hall immediately and we disThe National Association of patclied a Patrolman to see what Manufacturers is now running was cooking. full page advertisements in both The crew took the position that the local papers. They are real­ the ship would not be moved ly going all out to build up -enunless the stores were taken off, timent against the closed shop and after a lot of bickering, that's and industry-wide bargaining. exactly what happened. They have plenty of help here By the time the Mandan Vic­ from the American Legion, At­ tory headed out, the docks look­ torney General Tom Watson, and ed like an open warehouse, with Tampa's Mayor Hixon. Labor is stores piled all over the place. really on the defensive, because Again we want to notify all these others are prepared to Stewards that we are not on spend a fortune condemning la­ any better terms with the ship bor in the eyes of the public. chandlers in Tampa than we By the time, you read this were on the day our strike end­ column, the SS Florida will have ed. They did their best to break come in to Miami and gone out our strike, and we won't forget again. The Patrolman who makes that. the ship claims that there are JOBS A-PLENTY few beefs, and those are all minor We are still getting more jobs ones. That's what comes of hav­ than we have men to fill them. ing very good Delegates on a Day after day we get call for re­ ship. name on the proper line next to the rating you will be working. If you do as this Brother did and sign on the wrong line you may be working as a Chief Cook, but at the payoff'find yourself paid off as Second Cook. Another thing to remember, this time at the payoff, is to make sure you have all your overtime in to the head of your depart­ ment. Don't leave one port after the payoff and go to another port expecting Patrolmen there to know about your overtime. The payoff is the place to square it away. SAILING TIME Lately there have been mount­ ing complaints over the lack of a sailing board on ships, and on ships where a sailing board is "MVS05M! isieweo" OA) AS ing ports: JACKSONVILLE MARCUS HOOK MILWAUKEE CORPUS CHRISTI DULUTH MOBILE NORFOLK HOUSTON CHICAGO MONTRAEL NEW ORLEANS PORT ARTHUR TOLEDO The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due, etc., is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. SAN FRANCISCO — Shipping is so good on the Gold Coast that we have been able to ship anyone who registered in the Deck and Engine Departments. That can be taken as an invita­ tion to any Seafarer who reads this column. Come on out here, fellows, and sunny California will greet you with a job. We are still checking Isthmian ships as they come into this port, and we are glad to report that volunteer SIU o r g a n i z ers are continuing to do a cracker-jack job. Some day soon we will be of­ ficially certified as the bargain­ ing agent for Isthmian unlicens­ ed seamen, a'fid when that hap­ pens, it will be the volunteers who deserve the lion's share of the credit. Right now we have three members in the Marine Hospital out here, and they would all like to hear from their old bud­ dies and shipmates. Their names are Aaron McAlpin, J. Hodo, and John Krewsen. That's ahniit all we have to re­ port this week except that what­ ever ships come in are being squared away in regular SIU" style—at the point of produc­ tion. Through long and bitter experience we have found that to be the best way. Prospects Point To No Let Up In Boston Shipping And Business By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON—Business and ship­ present the sailing of the ship ping picked up considerably this ahead of the time posted. week, especially the latter. All Manj*- of the men complaining kinds of jobs were on the board have been left ashore when the throughout the week, with a ship sailed before its scheduled great deal of trouble getting time. rated men. Every member should check Plentj'' of Permits were issued the .sailing time when he goes off of a necessity, and jobs also the ship, and if no board is up he wei'e phoned into the New York should see to it that the Captain Hall. And it doesn't appear that has one put up. there will be any let-up in ship­ The Delegates should be es­ ping for a while. pecially watchful for this. If thoy Always we can be assured of find a Skipper sailing ahead of a real headache round here. This time, they should make a note week it was the SS Joseph B. of it and let the Patrolman know Eastman (Calmar). about it at the payoff. A West Coast crew brought We are taking up this com­ her over here with a load of plaint with the companies to see lumber. All hands were under that they post the sailing time the impression that their trans­ and leave only on the hour post­ portation back to the West Coast ed. was assured and that Boston Here's the latest dope on the would be the final port of dis­ payment of the retroactive pay charge. covering our six percent in­ Well, the shooting pains to the crease: skull started when it was learn­ MONEY DUE ed that the Rider did not pro­ Waterman: All checks will be vide for transportation. The ci-pw ready in about one month and was up in arms and demanding will be mailed. Robin Line: to get paid off. whether with Checks should be ready in about transportation or none. 12 days and will be mailed. East­ POOR BALTIMORE ern: Write to 40 Central Street, Boston, Mass. for checks. Final wind-up was that she Smith & Johnson: Now paying would proceed from here to Bal­ the money at their offices. Am­ timore with part of the cargo— erican Range: Money due will be and Baltimore would be the ready in about 10 days. Moran: final port of discharge. Checks will be ready in one In a way we can't help but month. Bernstein Steamship feel sorry for our brother offi­ Corp: Now paying at their of­ cials in Baltimore, because after fices. having this scow around here When the rest of the compan­ for nearly a week, we know she ies get ready to pay this money, is not going to be a Patrolman's I'll pass the word along, so watch holiday. We had four tankers in during this column for the information. the week (SS Klamath Falls and SS Piatt Park in Portland; the SS Midway Hills in Providence; and the SS Cannon Beach in Boston). Also pajdng off here was the SS Antinious (Waterman). Crewing up were the SS Robert Fulton and the P-T Navigator (both Pope & Talbot), and the Yarmouth and Evangeline. Nat­ urally. with all this stuff around the port, everybody can take it easy! During the corning week the Eva should be fully crewed up and ready to start her run on the 28th. The Yarmouth also figures to be readj- to start on the 29th. Right now this place is too busj' to concentrate on this writ­ ing effort, so we'll sign off until next week, when the excursion boats will start to provide a little diversion. On Overtime To insure payment, all claims for overtime must be turned in to the heads of de­ partments no later than 72 hours following the comple­ tion of the overtime work. As soon as the penalty work 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. �THE Page Six Pennsylvania Bills Are Designed To Put The AFL Out Of Business By EDDIE HIGDON SEAFARERS LOG Canadian Seamen Members of the SIU have a long record of supporting other unions in a just beef. For this reason, all Seafarers are urged not to purchase the Vancouver Daily Province, a scab newspaper, set up and printed by non-union labor. Friday, May 23, 1947 Galveston Branch Settles Beef On Newly Signed Canadian Ship By RAY SWEENEY Although all the military big GALVESTON—The SS Dom­ PHILADELPHIA—Not only is inican Victory, of the India labor taking a shellacking in shots are worrying about an inSteamship Company, one of the "Washington, but now the law­ |vasion by a foreign power, we .six vessels covered by the re­ makers of the various states here in Philly actually expericently signed contract with the want to get into the act. Penn­ .enced just that last week, Canadian District of the SIU, sylvania, which is a Republican i The Greek freighter, Evanthia. The Vancouver. B. C.. left hc.'-e May 10 for Calcutta, stronghold, is trying to cook up was anchored south of League SIU Branch is supporting the India, after settlement of com­ a bill to outlaw the Union Hir­ Island, and a half dozen seamen International Typographers I aboard her decided that they plicated dispute which delayed ing Hall in the state. Union. AFL. both morally the sailing. There is a lot of controversy liked America better than they and physically in their eight Under terms of the settlement about the measure, and one State liked Greece with its present month old strike. economic and political condi­ the Captain, whose reversal of a Senator claimed that it is de­ When in Vancouver show promise made to the crew pre­ tions. signed "to put the American your contempt for the scabs cipitated the controversary, was Federation of Labor out of busi­ I SMART MEN by refusing to buy a news­ replaced. ness." -A. barge of the Atlantic Re­ paper put out by strikebreak­ The dispute arose shortly after He further stated that "it fining Company had gone out to ers. This will help the ITU tlic vessel left New York, whore relates not only to the Halls of members to win their strike refuel the vessel, and when it the Master had agreed to the longshoremen, but also to places for better wages and condi­ was ready to return to the pier, crew's request that their quar­ where bricklayers, carpenters, six seamen jumped aboard and tions. ters, messroom and toilets be truck drivers and other craft painted. unionists are hired. It is the most drastic piece of anti-labor legislation I have seen thus far in the Senate." Not all the legislators are antilabor. but the ones that are pro-labor are outnumbered. It's funny that the men in Washing­ By PAUL GONSORCHIK ton and in the State Legislatures are elected by the people, and (Editor's note: To clear up arising over the Shipping Rules, then when they take office, they misunderstandings and misin­ I there is another matter which is represent only the big shots. terpretations of the Shipping ta.ving the sanity of Dispatchers. We of the Philadelphia Branch It pertains to the collection of Rules, a short series of articles of the 3IU sent out 300 letters concerning the Rules that come assessments when dues are col­ protesting passage of the recent in for the most discussion and lected by the Patrolmen. If all wouldn't leave. The Captain sig­ anti-labor measure in Congress, trouble has been prepared by assessments were collected along namely the Taft-Hartley Bill. It naled ashore and a boatload of Paul Gonsorchik, Chief Dis­ with the dues, there would be policemen came out to reconis a smart thing for us to let patcher of the New York much less squawking all around. noiter. To give you an idea of what I our lawmakers know how we Branch.) They persuaded the crewmemmean: a Patrolman will collect feel about the laws which regu­ bers to go back aboard, remind­ NEW YORK —Here in New six or eight .months dues in ad­ late our working conditions and ing them that when Greece gets York we are experiencing a situa­ vance at the payoff, but will fail the way we earn our livelihood. that big loan from Uncle'Sam, tion whereby members have been to collect the 1946-47 assessments. QUICK SETTLEMENT things might pick up in the old taking jobs but failing to report When the member comes to Last week we had one SIU country. to the ship. register for shipping he finds payoff, and two for the SUP. One last word about the poli­ Others have been reporting to that he is in arrears. An argu­ About 15 ships in transit hit this ticians. Those birds promise la­ the ship only to pile off at the ment always follows to the ef­ port, and most of them had bor the world during a cam­ last minute forcing the ship to fect that the last Patrolman colminor beefs. These were settled paign, but after they are elect­ sail shorthanded. ' lected everything and he is in right then and there, at the ed, they go down the line and Quite a few members who have good standing. point of production. pass laws to hog tie the very done this are finding to their I When the Dispatcher points It looks like Calmar is running people who are responsible for sorrow that it would have been out that the Patrolman failed to steady on that West Coast run. giving them their seats. easier to make the trip than to collect the assessments, there is The Calmar and the Yorkmar This will continue unless the face charges before a trial com­ , plenty of justifiable griping, as were in recently . . . one west­ right steps are taken by labor mittee. I the member has to register in It is good unionism when mem­ bad standing. bound and the other eastbound. to educate itself. bers report these members as If we could have a little more having walked off, for it gives cooperation from both the Pa­ the Dispatcher a chance to re­ trolman and the members to sec place the member. Unfortunate­ that these assessments are collect­ ly, replacements cannot always ed, there, would be far fewer be secured on short notice. gray-haired dispatchers. BREAKING RULES By SPENCER FOLEY When you walk off a .ship a ALPENA — This is really a With the election date estab­ few hours before sailing time and swell town, and the people are lished sometime between May 15 cause the ship to be delayed, or the most friendly and coopera­ and June II, Huron seamen fail to report to the ship after being assigned without notifying won't have long to wait. tive that I've ever met. the Dispatcher, you are break­ CONVEYORMEN ing rules laid down by your They really take to the SIU Infractions Of Shipping Rules Put Union, Memhership On Spot Wyandotte And Huron Crewmen For Seafarers Almost To A Man up here, our program for the Lakes seamen, and want to help in any way possible to make the Huron and Wyandotte ships go SIU. So far, the four Wyandotte ves­ sels—the SS Alpena, SS Conneaut, SS Huron, and the SS Wyandotte—are all for the SIU. We have approximately 95 per­ cent of the crewmembers signed up on SIU pledge cards. Quite a few of the men have also taken out SIU membership books. The two Huron ships—the SS Crapo and the SS Boardman— are also lined up almost to a man for the SIU. Now that the election starting date has passed, they're all marking time until both vessels dock at Detroit wlhere the crew­ men can register their selection of the SIU as the Union of their choice. Several questions concerning brother members. I'm sure the crewmembers the Conveyormen on Huron and Wyandotte ships have ari.sen. It who have to take on your share was pointed out that in order to of the work would give you very expedite the election on the two little sympathy; instead, they'd Huron ships, the Chief Convey­ love to put you in the "99 Year ormen were excluded. All par- Club." tics concerned in any way with' On another matter. The ma­ the election — NMU, company,' jority of the members do not and SIU—agreed to their exclu­ know that an acting AB can make only one trip. An acting sion. AB must sign off after the trip However, this does not mean and return to the hall for rethat the Conveyormen cannot be, included in the same bargaining, regi.stration. He cannot stay unit with the unlicensed person­ aboard merely by returning to his grade of OS. nel at some later date. If you are dispatched from the Anytime after the election hall as an OS, a Mate cannot when the Conveyormen signify 1 force you to take a job as acting their desire to join the SIU and' AB. You have been assigned as have us bargain for them, we' an OS and that's your job. will petition to have then includ­ All acting AB jobs come from ed in the bargaining unit. the hall because, as I mentioned These men are more than wel­ a few weeks ago, there is no pro­ come into the SIU. We will be motion aboard ship for an Or­ proud to have them with us af­ dinary Seaman, Wiper or Messter the election for other person­ man. nel is completed. Aside from the many troubles SiU Steps In To Straighten Out Northwind (Continued from Page 1) represented the Florida Railwa.y Commission, and at the start he was very confident about how he would handle us. He has, however, repeatedly admitted that he has learned a lot, and we are puzzled as to why the company has allowed him the privilege of learning at its expense. It will assuredly not be at the Union's expense. The only solution to conditions such as exi.st in this company is an SIU contract. The fight for decent wages and good working conditions is the main issue; to win we have to stay right in there, on the job and at the ne­ gotiating table. If "cease work" is forced on us, let us hit the bricks as part of the fight for a decent contract that will be the final answer to the company, dime - a - dozen stooges, and eighteenth century conditions. The Master reportedly stated that the men could paint their own quarters on the way to Gal­ veston. Once out of New York,, however, he refused to keep his promise. . When the ship arrived in this port. Brother Cummings covered it. The same beef over the painting came up again, and the Master made the same promise —that painting could be done when the vessel left Galveston. NERVOUS SKIPPER On the basis of the Master's previous renege, the crew re­ jected his second promise, de­ manding that the quarters be painted before the ship sailed. The Captain's "nervous" con­ dition being such that he wms entirely unpredictable, the crew contended that his word meant absolutely nothing. The morning of May 8, shoreside painters went aboard the ship with instructions to paint until midnight only. Meanwhile, the crew had been sent ashore, and were paid lodging and sub­ sistence money. With the painting deadline over, the Master told one of the painters to return to paint the mcssrooms. The painters' foreman replied that any further painting would have to be ordered by the com­ pany. The company, however, refused to have any more paint­ ing done. At noon the next day. Port Agent D. L. Parker and I cover­ ed the ship. The crew remained firm, repeating they would not sail until the paint job was completed. The Company agent, mean­ while, searched for inducements to have the men sail. I advised him to order the messrooms painted and that the men would then take the vessel out. CREW THREATENED He mentioned the possibility of having immigration officers place the men ashore in jail, the.ri returning them aboard when the ship got in the stream. Refusing to listen to this talk, I strongly advised him against any such action, telling him wc would not stand for it. This threat was never again mention­ ed. Following a visit with the crew aboard the ship the morn­ ing of May 10, Brother Parker and I told the company to re­ place the Skipper and the vessel would sail . The Agent capitulated to the Union's demands and at 7 P.M. the Dominican Victory was Cal­ cutta-bound. The Captain, who was re­ moved, was sent to the hospital, where he was found to be a "nervous wreck." He's now on his way back to Canada. Here's hoping he stays there. �Page SevezL THE SEAFARERS LOG Fridax- May 23. 1947 SlU Presets Istbmiaii Brief To NLRB Docket No. 2-R-6030 .. ^ J • .u The Isthmian Steamship Company is engaged in the Sr8rvisek"Tni"ntaJnrrts%rLiX oi busi- 3. That at all times prior and subsequent to the date of hearing and the date of the commencement of the employer interfered with its em- bargainine c) No proof has been submitted by the Intervenor ni 71 Rrnadwav in New York City and all its of- aiding and assisting the Seafarers Interna- that the Company discouraged membership in the Sees at he abte "Address Sf iShLan" stLX Crmpaiy Will hereinafter be designated in this brief as The ^ompanj" The SeTrrers Lternational Union of North America ine oediarers imcixidiiuiiai is a labor union comprised of unlicensed sea-going personnel, with its main office at 51 Beaver Street, New York City and will hereinafter be designated as the '"Petitioner" The NTTional Maritime Union is a union comprised , ,. J ;tc main nffirp of unlicensed sea-going P ® at 346 West 17th Street, New York City and will hereinafter be designated as the "Intervenor". Both the Petitioner and the Intervenor were desirous of representing the unlicensed seamen of the Company's fleet and therefore had originated an organizing drive to unionize the men "irthTmonthTif October 1945, the Petitioner having obtained a majority of pledge cards from the Company's employees did on or about the early part of November 1945 file "a petition for investigation and certification of representatives, pursuant to Section 9 (C) of the National Labor Relations Act wherein it sought to be designated as the bargaining 'agent for this personnel. The Intervenor, after the petition had been duly filed, then presented'itself at the National Labor Relations Board's offices at 120 Wall Street, New York City, and asked to be made a party to the proceeding, but it never alleged that it represented a majority of the employees. The request was granted and after a hearing, an election was ordered by the Board within thirty days from March 19. 1946, which order set March 18th, as the eligibility date for all voters. fT' """J' 1 ^ members of the Seafarers Internationa Union of 1 ^ 'T """f; discouraged memberthe National Maritime Union of America, and influenced its employees to cast their votes in favor of Seafarers International Union and against the Maritime Union. . . . That the employer, prior and -after the commenment of the election herein, and during all the times that the Conflicting claims of the two union were known to it discharged members of the National Marimscnarged members ot tne National Man t™® Union from their employment, with a view to^ard influencing its employees' choice of collective bargaining agent, and did, in fact, by doing so, influence 'ts employees' choice of collective bargaining agent thereby made a free choice of collective barSBining agent impossible. 5. That the employer did, both before and after the commencement of the election, during all times that the conflicting claims of the two unions were known to it, by and through its supervisory officials, made known its preference for the Seafarers' International Union of North America, by encouraging applicants for employment to become members of the Seafarers' International Union of North America, and at the same time, denied available employment to members "I tbe National Maritime Union, and thereby interfered its employees' free choice of collective bargainagent, and coerced them into supporting the Seafarers' International Union. That the employer did, prior to the commencement of the election herein, but after such time as it was well aware of the conflict claims of the two unions, established a policy of denying employment to mem- Intervenor has failed to prove a prima facie case . tantiatine its obiections substantiating objections. ^ 7 he Intervenor throughout tne Hearing referred to a nationwide pattern of the Company in the hiring and fnmg of its personnel. This so called^pattern is alleged to have taken the form of hiring only Petitioner's members and refusing employnient to Intervenor's members in all Ports the vessels touched and in coercing its employees to vote for the Petitioner, none of which was proved by the Intervenor. Much evidence was admitted at the Hearing by the Hearing Officer on Intervenor's assurance that such a pattern would be established after all the evidence was in at the conclusion of the trial. Relying on that assurance, much inadmissable evidence was admitted by the Hearing Officer, who. of course, was in no position to weigh the value of the testimony until after the conclusion of the Hearing. The Intervenor conspicuously failed to live up to its assurances to the Hearing Officer. order properly to evaluate the testimony and the sufficiency of the proof of the alleged pattern, it must be viewed again.st all the e.v;lernal facts surrounding the election. On Anril 18th 1846 tho Board amended its originalof the National Marit.nre Union and of giving prelun /ipiiJ mm, lu-io, inc Duaiu cmienucu ixa uidgx erence of employment to the Seafarers International order directing election, by extending the voting period to October 18th, 1946. On October 17th, 1946, at the // /y ^ f 1 request of the Intervenor, the Board extended the votff1 » Ti/ilSP I ing period another month, namely to November 18th, W J VUAJU f 1946, retaining, however, the original eligibility date. x vl ' } f The ves<.Pls were voted neriodicallv from about f .llflO \_ ^^ P March 29 1946, to about November 19th, 1946 and on I til" JrlAxjV November 18th and 19th, the votes were counted, with V^-'TrW f \ ' ' " ^ approximately irv IQ a r "me months. Boilloting look place in some 18 diflocated throughout the coastal area of Uawaii. Of 2,646 men eligible to vote, 2,309 actually cast their ballots. All the events Intervcnor relied upon to show the alleged pattern, could sufficient number of eligible ^'otes to change the outcome of the election, even if ^^'kat it claims is true, which Petitioner vehemently Voting Extended the following results: Approximate number of eligible voters Void R-illots lolls Cas foil's IU 2689 23 957 vTtes cast foi- N M U 724 laiel cast for No-union 64 Totes ° 1705 TrTonT rh.iint".. 502 Cnflllcn^tcl udllots , , J r^v, 11 ,1 ixaimic 9947 Valid votes and Challenged hallots ...2247 On Januap 9th, 1947, the challenged votes, on the consent of both the Petitioner and Intervenor, were opened and counted, with the following results. Approxirnate number of eligible voters 2646 Void Ballots. Votes cast for bJ.U I so Votes cast for Votes cast for No-union ^^09 cTn ^°T^b 11 t 171 a enge a os . TI "rf T m t ^ n tv nf thp valiH ere ore cer ' ® ^ votes had been cast for the S.I.U. ^ ,v T t On January 14th, 1947, the Intervenor filed objections , 1. . to the conduct affecting the results of the election, as follows°ThTNational Maritime Union of America, CIO, the Intervenor herein, herewith objects to the conduct of the election and to conduct affecting the results of election on the following grounds: 1. That prior to, and following the date of the hearing on the petiti'on herein, and while the employer was well aware that the petitioner and intervenor had both made claim to represent the majority of the employees in the collective bargaining unit, the employer aided and assisted the petitioner. Seafarers' International Union of North America, AFL, by entering into an agreement with said petitioner, whereby petitioner would be permitted to furnish crew members for the employer's vessels, and that the employer would deny such employment to the members of the National Maritime Union for the purpose of insuring that petitioner obtain a majorty of the votes cast in said election and thus be certified as collective bargaining agent. 2. That the employer did, prior and subsequent to the date of hearing, and prior and subsequent to the commencement of the election, discriminate against members of the National Maritime Union and give preferential treatment to the members of the Seafarers' International Union of North America with respect to employment on the employer's vessels, and in so doing, aided and assisted the Seafarers International Union, in violation of Section 8 (2) of the Act. ""f b) The Intervenor has failed to prove discrimination against its' members or preferential treatment to Petitioners members. """""" introduced whereby the Com­ p^^^ employees were influenced to cast their votes Petitioner, ^ , " submitted that any of the alleged acts of the Company had any bearing on the outcome of the election. Point II rr,r.r,tinet •Roimfirarr inmr- mi r.ra Union, and that said policy was made known to its emnlovees and prospective employees all for the purpose pmjees ana prospective employees, ail 101 me purpose influencing the results of the election and for the in ' cnitP nf thoucnnHc nf , ! thoumnds of x oters and thousands of episodes, Intervenor relies on a scant handful alleged incidents, many of which are utterly pre- Seafarers International Union, and that said policy 'P influence the results of the election anc employees into voting for the Seafarers TritPT^nAtinnjil TTiiiriTi fnteinational union. ^ conduct of the gj^pioyer as hereinbefore set forth, the members of the appropriate bargaining unit were in fact denied a free choice of collective bargaining agent and the results election reflect the force of the empluyer's interference with said election, and that in consequence, election was not conducted in such a manner as to insure a true expression of the wishes of the cmployees as to the choice of collective bargaining agent. ^ careful reading of the above objections, will disclose that they are repetitious, capricious and all encompasslng in the hope that they might be able to in some fashion prove something of which they have no .U U- 4knowledge or proof. In essence, these-objections can " ^ ^ . mean only that the Elmployer, 1) entered into an / . ^ agreement with Petitioner to man the vessels, 2) dis®""^i"^ed afiamst th^e members of the National ManT?'• discharged members of the National Union. None of these allegations were proved at the hearing. Based on these objections, the New York Regional Director rendered his report, wherein he recommended I^at the usual exparte investigation should not be conducted but that a formal hearing on objections be held soon as possible. Pursuant to the Regional Direc^ report, the Board directed that a hearing be held the Intervenor's objections. Accordingly, the hearing commenced on or about March 19th, 1947, betore Arthur Leff, Hearing Officer, at the local offices ®t the National Labor Relations Board, at 120 Wall Street, New York City. At' this hearing, the Ccunpany, Intervenor and the Petitioner were present and were represented by counsel. Pninf T x Oini; 1 The Intervenor has the burden of establishing the validity of its objections by a fair preponderance of the evidence, which it failed to do, for the following reasons: a) No proof has been submitted of either a written or oral agreement between the Company and the Petitioner whereby the Company agreed to hire Petitioner's members to man its vessels. hereinafter be ,hown) and even of this handful, one-half of them aloccurred, after March 18th. 1946, the eligibility ^y this Board. -*--*•* « . In evaluating Intervenor s testimony. Petitioner points out that twelve (to wit, James E. Owens, Edmund P. Halloran, Robert Martin, Charles S. Slater, William A. Frothingham, Willis H. Kirkland. Michael J. Preston. Max Winter, Gilbert VJ. Kokol, Enid Conner, James Almada and Dale Wear) of the 27 witnesses produced by Intervenor testified to alleged incidents which took place after March ISth. 1946. the eligiblity date. Assuming, but emphatically not admitting, that the Company did discriminate against the Intervenor after March 18th. 1946, and did ma.n its vessels with Petitioner's members, the results of the election could not be altered because only those men who were actually employed on or before March 18th. 1946 were eligible m to vote. __ Hparsav xictii&rf.v Qf the remaining 15 witnesses. Goldin testified to aHeged practices in the Recruitment and Manning Division of the War Shipping Administration. His testimony was based solely on hearsay and conjecture and there was no attempt to prove any discriminatory practices by the Company. Witnesses Chonder and Martin were organizers for the Inter venor in the Gulf Area and naturally their testimony would be highly colored because the loss of the election reflects upon their abilitv and if perchance a new election were ordered, thej- then could have two bites of the cherry instead of the one to which alone they are entitled. The testimony of Martin concerns itself solely with ^n incident which took place in the latter part of May or the beginning of June 1946 in the Port of Savannah after the SS "Samuel Mclntyre," about wliici* vessel he testified, had voted. It was proved by the Petitioner and also admitted by this witness, that Ihe SS "Samuel Mclntyre" had been turned over to the South Atlantic Steamship Company with which the Petitioner had a contract and therefore any men that were hired to serve aboard this vessel, would of necessity have to be employed through the Petitioner's Union and all men would therefore have to be mem"^^s of the SIU. Nothing that allegedly transpired (Continued o?t Page 8) �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 23. 1947 Seafarers Gives Lie To NMU's Flimsy Charge Of Coiiusion (Continued from Page 7) after the vessel voted, could change the outcome of the election. Witness Chonder's testimony is based solely on hear­ say, is contradictory and evasive as to dates and names. He doesn't testify to even one act of discrimination by the Company. He testified that on two occasions, he had telephone conversations with Mr. Wright, but Pe­ titioner has proved that no Mr. Wright was ever sta• tioned in New Ofleans either as personnel man or in any other capacity. He contradicts Intervenor's witness Reyes testimony on several important parts. He char­ acterizes Reyes as a "Phony." The testimony of witness Conner, presumably the "big gun" of Intervenor's case upon which they de­ pend to overthrow the election, concerned itself only with the period between August and November 1946, long after the eligibility date. A careful reading of her testimony will disclose that she had been well schooled as to what to say and how to act. She mentions names of persons with whom she alleges to have had conversations and even gives the Intem'enor's organizer, as "phony." Certainly this man's testimony should not be given an credence in view of his own fellow unionist's opinion of him. Reyes was not prohibited from voting and actually did cast his vote, and assuming that discrimination was practiced, which Petitioner denies, this witness did exercise his prerogative of voting and he had a voice in the election. Reyes voted as he saw fit and cer­ tainly there is no evidence of coercion by the Company to influence his %'otc. "Witness Rovane testified to an incident which oc­ curred" on board the SS "William D. Hoard" on which he was not an employee and his testimony is based solely on unreliable hearsay which proves nothing. Witness Almada was employed aboard the SS "Sea Fiddler" while he was a non-union member. He does not allege that when he got his job, he, was discrimin­ ated against. He voted in the election aboard this ship and there is no evidence of coercion or duress. He was not re-hired and shortly thereafter joined Inter­ venor's Union. Through Own Efforts Witness Kapilowitz served on two vessels. He obtain­ ed these positions apparently through his own efforts. He seeks by hearsay to show discriminatory practices which in fact did not exist. Witness Watkins likewise obtained a position aboard a Company vessel through his own efforts and was not discharged against his will, but quit of his own exact dates of such conversations, knowing full well accord. He attempts to show discriminatory practices that these people to whom she referred were beyond and his evidence is based solely on hearsay. the reach of Petitioner as they were employed by the Witness Jamieson testified that he attempted to get Company in their San Francisco office. She did men­ a position at the New Orleans office. He denied Union tion Mr. Turner and Mr. Banks, who were affiliated affiliation when asked by the personnel man and he with Petitioner and these witnesses were brought in to alleges that he was told that men were hired only testify. On direct examination, she was exceedingly through the SIU. It is perfectly safe for the witness to glib, remarkably remembering detailed names and testify in this fashion because no one appears to know dates. However, on ci'oss-examination, when she was the whereabouts of Mr. Bayerlin, the personnel man required to answer questions upon which she could not he referred to. have been previously advised, she faltered, her mem­ Testimony of this kind is of no value whatsoever, in­ ory was poor as to dates and even as to the applica­ deed it is a surprise to Petitioner that the Intervenor tion which she herself filled out for employment. To did not atttempt to introduce at least 1,000 witnesses say the least, she was evasive. She herself admitted to testify that they spoke to some one and were refused upon cross-examination, to having been employed by a job. This type of testimony could be manufactured the Intervener in its Portland, Oregon office. Her at will by any one. There is no proof other than this husband is a member of Intervenor's Union. She did man's own word, that he actually did apply and did not volunteer the information that her husband was have this alleged conversation. a paid organizer for the Union, but finally admitted Witness Halpern obtained employment aboard the it upon cross-examination. She herself admits to plac­ SS "Sea Fiddler" at San Pedro, California, through his ing at least one seaman belonging to Intervenor on a own efforts. In his zealousne.ss to aid the cause of the ship. There is no way of telling how many of Inter­ Intervenor, he alleges he was fired for Union acti­ venor's members she actually did have employed vities. On cross-examination, it appears that the soaboard the Company's vessels. She te.stified that of 150 called discriminatory practice was the ordering by the men who obtained jobs between the months of August chief engineer to have him wear his shirt while in the and November 1946, only 76 of these men belonged to engine room, which order he disobeyed and was there­ the SIU. It is not beyond the realm of possibility that fore discharged for cause. There is no testimony to here estimate of 76 men is greatly exaggerated. How­ prove discrimination whatsoever. ever, she did admit that the balance of the persons em­ ployed, belonged to Intervenor's Union or other Unions. No Coercion She admitted that she was biased in wanting to see the Witness Klopot obtained his job aboard the SS Intervenor successful in this proceeding and we re­ "Alamo Victory" through his own efforts. He attempts spectfully urge that she colored her testimony to try lo to show that there was discrimination in hiring re­ bring about this result. placements for this ship. Upon cross-examination he admitted that the replacements that were hired were False Testimony members not only of Petitioner's Union but also of the "Witness Reyes' testimony in Petitioner's opinion is Intervenor's Union and the Marine Fireman's Union likewise fabricated out of whole cloth. He testified and independent seamen. This witness definitely did that he was not re-hired by the Company because his not prove any discrimination. picture appeared along with that of other seamen in an V/itness Flook obtained employment aboard the SS issue of the "Pilot." The inference that Intervenor "David Dudley Field" through his own efforts. He tries to draw is that no one who appeared in the pic­ voted in the election held on this ship. He doesn't ture was re-hired by the Company. However, Inter­ allege coercion in the casting of his ballot. He then venor's own witness Chonder, admitted that at least obtained employment aboard the SS "Ocean Tele­ two of the persons who appeared in the picture, were graph" after the eligibility date. He missed the ship re-hired aboard the same vessel. It therefore follows at Hong Kong and was repatriated to the United States. that the persons who appeared on the picture, were He even brought in a card showing that he was not not discriminated against otherwise these two men to be re-hired, blaming the attitude of the Company mentioned bj' witness Chonder, would not have been on his Union activities and not on the fact that he re-hired, as Reyes wants this Board to believe. In di­ missed the vessel. The card that was introduced was rect contravention to Reyes' own testimony, he was sub­ stolen by the witness from the Company files and there sequently re-hired in Galveston aboard the SS "Nor­ was no reference thereon as to why he was not re­ man E. Mack." Reyes admitted that when he went hired. It therefore is reasonable to suppose that he aboard this vessel, he met the Captain under whom was not to be re-hired because he missed the vessel. he had served previously. It is certain if the Com­ Seamen who fail to join their vessels in a foreign port, pany did not want to re-hire Reyes, the Captain would disrupt the work of the crew and are very seldom have known about it and would not have permitted re-hired even on contract ships. him upon the ship. The witness tried to show that the Witness Kamelhar testified that he was employed Petitioner placed him on this vessel without consult­ aboard the SS "Baton Rouge Victory" through his own ing the Company. That is completely untrue. It was efforts. He also was employed aboard the SS "Sea Tri­ the usual custom for seamen to apply at the Company ton," again without assistance from any one. He al­ offices for jobs, as shown by Reyes' own testimony leges that the Petitioner supplied at least 20 men for that he alv/ays procured his positions by applying to the former vessel and the penson he saw with these the Company offices. The Petitioner has introduced 20 men at the Company office was Bill Higgs, allegedly evidence that Reyes obtained employment through an Petitioner's agent. He doesn't know of his own know­ independent shipping office with which the Petitioner ledge, where these 20 men came from. His description had no connection. of Mr. Higgs is defective. He assumed that these 20 "We have to judge the witness' credibility by his repu­ men were supplied by Petitioner and as a matter of tation amongst the persons with whom he associated. fact, the results of the election of the SS "Baton Rouge This witness is characterized by witness Chonder, the Victory" will show that the Petitioner lost the election by a vote of 14 to 21 in favor of the Intervenor. Mr. Higgs testified he was last in Norfolk, Virginia in 1944 long before this alleged incident. This definitely shows that this witness is in error and his testimony is based solely on guesses and assumptions. The testimony of witness Trenhath .should not be given the dignity of comment because this person ap­ parently appeared to bo a mental case. His testimony was confusing and in the writer's opinion, a figment of this man's lurid imagination. His entire attitude on the witness stand was a disgrace and he had to be reprimanded repeatedly by the Hearing Officer to ob­ serve some decorum. In the face of this scarcity of anything approaching valid proof, the Petitioner was hard put to meet any­ thing as intangible as the Inteiwenor's case. Petitioner made available and brought to the Hearing to tes­ tify, all persons mentioned by Intervenor's witnesses as having had anything to do with the organizational drive on behalf of the Petitioner. Petitioner has shown by its' testimony that there is no foundation of fact to the Intervenor's objections and it even produced some of Intervenor's own members that they obtained jobs '&t6An>,oie i2€D HAIR .... without the aid or assistance of any one and in some instances they were hired even though they admitted belonging to the National Maritime Unon. Intervenor made qute a fuss about a Mr. Wright, who was supposedly employed in the personnel de­ partment of the Company in its New Orleans office. Petitioner has proved not only by its own witnesses but by the Intervenor's witnesses that Mr. Wright never was employed as a personnel man in the New Orleans office. During the course of the Hearing, Intervenor's coun­ sel repeatedly attempted to have the Petitioner sub­ poena the Company employees. Counsel for the Peti­ tioner on several occasions requested the Company to submit its employees to testify but with no success. ..Certainly if the Company favored Petitioner, it would have cooperated to at least this extent. Burden of Proof The burden of proving its allegations as set forth in the objections, rests on Intervenor who alleges them and it was at liberty to subpoena the Company emploj'ees as it had nothing to lose by this procedure. However, Intervenor's counsel tried to shift the bur­ den of not proving its (the Intervenor) case to the Petitioner. Petitioner feels very strongly that the bur­ den of proof had not been met by the Intervenor and therefore the Petitioner was under no legal duty to at­ tempt to rebut issues not sufficiently established by the Intervenor. The Company witnesses were equally available to the Intervenor who has the primary duty of coming forward to establish the validity of its ob­ jections. The witnesses Petitioner did produce definite­ ly showed that there was no collusion or agreement to discriminate against the Intervenoj'. They were truth­ ful and hone.st. It is true that they all were or at the present time are employees of the Petitioner, but thc^' were the only persons mentioned by the Intrvenor in its direct case. Both Unions adopted the same normal practice of flooding the Company hiring halls with men and get­ ting organizers aboard ships to urge seamen to vote for their respective Unions, and the fact that the Pe­ titioner was more successful in its efforts than the Intervenor, is, of course, no reason to order a new election. There has beerj no evidence .submitted that the Company knowingly permitted Petitioner's organ­ izers to go aboard a ship and refused permission to the Intervenor's organizers. On the contrary, organizers from both Unions were formally prohibited from goin.g aboard these ships. It is our contention that Intervenor's objections were not proved. The first paragraph of these objec­ tions states, "the employer aided and assisted the Pe­ titioner, Seafarers' International Union of North Amer­ ica, AFL, by entering into an agreement with said Pe­ titioner, whereby petitioner would be permitted to furnish crewmembers for the employer's vessels, and the employer would deny such employment to the members of the National Maritime Union for the pur­ pose of insuring that petitioner obtain a majority of the votes cast in said election and thus be certified as collective bargaining agent." The record contains not an iota of evidence, direct or circumstantial, of any such agreement. The second paragraph alleg«s that the employer did "discriminate against members of the National Mari­ time Union and give preferential treatment to the (Continued on Page 9) �Friday. May 23, 1947 THE SEAFARERS Page Nine LOG Asks SlU CertWtution As Collettive Bargainmg Agent (CoutiunrJ from Page 8) members of the Seafarers' International Union of North America, and in so doing, aided and assisted the Seafarers' International Union. No proof has been submitted either directly or in­ directly in support of this allegation. The third paragraph alleges that "the employer in­ terfered with its employees' freedom of choice of col­ lective bargaining agent by aiding and assisting the Seafarers' Internatonal Union, and in giving prefer­ ence of employment to the members of the Seafarers' International Union of North America, and by so doing, discouraged membership in the National Maritime Union of America, and influenced its employees to cast their votes in favor of the Seafarers' International Un­ ion and against the National Maritime Union." There is not one bit of credible evidence to support this allegation. No Credible Witness The fourth paragraph alleges that the Company "discharged members of the National Maritime Union from their employment, with a view toward influenc­ ing its employees' choice of collective bargaining agent, and did, in fact, by so doing, influence its employees' choice of collective bargaining agent and thereby made a free choice of collective bargaining agent impos­ sible." The Intervener has failed to introduce even one credible witness to testify that he was discharged be­ cause he was a member of the National Maritime Union. The fifth paragraph alleges that the Company "made known its preference for the Seafarers' International Union of North America by encouraging applicants for employment, to become members of the Seafarers' International Union of North America, and at the same time, denied available employment to members of the National Maritime Union, and "thereby interfered with its employees' free choice of collective bargaining agent, and coerced them into supporting the Seafarers' International Union." No evidence has been adduced to show that even one seaman was encouraged to join the Seafarers Inteimational Union nor is there a shred of evidence to show that even one employee was coerced into supporting the Petitioner. The sixtli paragraph alleges that the Company "es­ tablished a policy of denying employment to members of the National Maritime Union and of giving prefer­ ence of employment to the Seafarers' International Union, and that said policy was made known to its employees and prospective employees, all for the pur­ pose of influencing the results of the election and for the purpose of coercing its employees to cast their votes for the Seafarers' International Union, and that said policy did, in fact, influence the results of the elec­ tion and did coerce the employees into voting for the Seafarers' International Union." No proof of any such policy as referred to in this paragraph has been offered in evidence. There has been no competent proof to show that any applicant was denied employment because he was a member of the National Maritime Union. There has not been one instance introduced into ^evidence whereby any em­ ployee was influenced or coerced into voting for the Petitioner. On the contrary, by Intervener's own wit­ nesses, it has been established that Intervener's men did obtain employment with the Company, even though they belonged to the National Maritime Union and in one instance when replacements were sent aboard a vessel, members of all Unions were hired and in another instance, out of 150 men who were emploj'ed in the San Francisco'office, at least 74 men did not belong to the Seafarers' International Union as testi­ fied to by Intervenor's own witnesses. The seventh paragraph alleges that "as the result of the acts and conduct of the employer as herein­ before set forth, the members of the appropriate bar­ gaining unit were in fact denied a free choice of col­ lective bargaining agent and the lesults of said elec­ tion reflect the force of the employer's interference with said election, and that in consequence, said elec­ tion was not conducted in such a manner as to insure a true expression of the wishes of the employees as to the choice of collective bargaining agent." There has been not even a scintilla of evidence in­ troduced showing that any of the employees were denied a free choice of collective bargaining agent and that no force, duress or coercion were used in in­ fluencing its employees in their votes. Petitioner firmly urges that the Intervener has failed to establish even a prima facie case in support of its alleg; iions. Petitioner attempted to introduce a column written by Joseph Curran, President of the Intervenor's Union and published in the "Pilot," during the hearing. This was marked Petitioner's Exhibit 5 for Identification. In this column Mr. Curran, the President, who is the head of the Union and is familiar with all its activities, went to great lengths to explain to the membership why Intervener lost the election. We respectfully sub­ mit that the Hearing Officer was in error when he de­ nied its admission into evidence. The column was not based on hearsay because we have to presume that the President of the Organization knew its business and was writing about facts. His column could not pos­ sibly be called capricious or hearsay and, in any case, should have been admitted as an admission against interest. It clearly shows that the organizers instead of concentrating on the job for which they were being paid, worked on organizing the Union for the benefit of the Communist party and did not devote their time, attention and efforts to unionizing the Company ves­ sels. It is Petitioner's contention as proved by the above column, that these objections were filed merely as an after-thought in an attempt to grasp a straw hoping thereby to show to its membership that the election was lost not because of its organizers' fault but at­ tempts to shift the blame to the Company on the ground of discrimination. According to this article. some discriminatory practices in this Port but with no success. In the Port of Houston, Texas, one vessel voted on May 22nd, 1946, which the Intervenor won. In the Port of Galveston, two vessels voted between April 5th, 1946 and May 9th, 1946, each Union taking one. In Honolulu two ships voted between August 2, 1946 and August 3rd, 1946. Intervenor won both. In the Port of Los Angeles, four vessels voted be­ tween April 2nd, 1946 and April 12, 1946, the Petitioner winning two vessels and the Intervenor winning two vessels. In the Port of Seattle, three ships voted between April 3rd, 1946 and July 24, 1946, the Petitioner win­ ning the election on one vessel and the Intervenor win­ ning the other two. A careful study of the above tabulation fails to dis­ close a National pattern of discrimination or collusion. Out of 2,246 persons eligible to vote. Petitioner re­ ceived approximately 54 percent of the total vote cast. Certainly this percentage doesn't prove collusion or discrimination because if there were collusion, the per­ centage would be much greater in favor of the Peti­ tioner. Dog in the Manger Mr. Curran stated that thousands of dollars were spent in attempting to win the election. Inasmuch as the election was lost. Intervener is attempting to show some excuse for such loss and hence these objections were filed. It is respectfully submitted by Petitioner that this Exhibit should be allowed in evidence. At the opening of the Hearing, Intel venoi alleged that it was going to prove a pattern of discrimination in every port where the Company hired men. Out of thousands of persons who were employed on the Com­ pany vessels from about October 1945 to November 30, 1946, the Intervener has. only produced 27 witnesses. If the discrimination was nationwide and of such scope so as to affect the election, certainly there would liter­ ally have been hundreds of witnesses to testify to such discriminatory practices. A tabulation of the time and ports where the ships voted, show the following: In the Port, of New York, 23 ships voted between April 2nd 1946 and August 28, 1946. Of these. Peti­ tioner won 17. There has been no evidence submitted by the Intervener that discriminatory practices were prevelant in the J'ort of New York. In the Port of Baltimore, 8 ships voted between April 3rd and June 12th, ^1946. Of these, the Petitioner won six. There has been no factual proof of discrimination in the Port of Baltimore. In the Port of San Francisco, 10 ships voted between March 30th, 1946 and June 18th, 1946. Of these the Petitioner won four ships. This Port -was supposed to be one where di.scrimination was rampant. Results prove differently. In the Port of Boston, 7 ships voted between April 5, 1946 and August 16, 1946, of which Petitioner won six ships. The Port of Boston was not even mentioned in- the testimony. In the Port of Norfolk, three ships voted between April 12, 1946 and May 15th, 1946, the Inlervenor win­ ning all three. Intervener did not prove any discrimina­ tory practices in this Poid either. In the Port .of Philadelphia, five ships voted between April 5, 1946 and August 8, 1946, of which Petitioner won all ships. There has not been any mention of discriminatory practices in Philadelphia. In the Port of Savannah, three ships voted between May 4th, 1946 and November 17, 1946, of which the Intervenor won two. This is the Port where Inter\erior attempted to show discriminatory practices in hiring of seamen aboard the SS "Samuel Mclntyre." Inter\ enor won this vessel by 27-1. In the Port of Charleston, two vessels voted between March 29th, 1946 and April 28, 1946, of which Peti­ tioner won one and Intervenor won one. There has been no evidence whatsoever as to discriminatory prac­ tices in Charleston. In the Port of Pensacola, Florida, four ships voted, of which Petitioner won three. There has been no mention of discriminatory practices in this Port. In the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina, one ves­ sel was voted on April 9th, 1946, which Petitioner won. There has been no mention of discriminatory practices in this Port. In the Port of Wilmington, California, one vessel voted and both Unions were tied in the outcome of the elf ction. There is no mention of discriminatory prac­ tices in this Port. In the Port of Mobile, Alabama, one vessel voted on March 29th, 1946, which the Petitioner won. There has been no mention of discriminatory practices in this Port. In the Port of New Orleans, seven vessels voted be­ tween March' 29th, 1946, and July 20, 1946. Petitioner won six vessels. Intervenor has attempted to show The only "pattern" that can be spelled out from both the evidence adduced by the Intervenor and the analy­ sis of the voting by ports would appear to be the in­ ability of the Intervenor to garner a sufficient number of seamen to vote for it rather than for the Petitioner. Approximately one and one-half years has elapsed since the filing of the petition by the Petitioner and much money and effort were spent by both Unions in trying to organize the unlicensed personnel of the Company. Inasmuch as the Intervenor has lost the election, it is now assuming a dog-in-the-manger atti­ tude; if the Intervenor cannot represent the employees, it doesn't want any one to represent them. It is trying to pursue the same tactics in this case as it did in the Esso Tankers election, knowing full well that the Board is suffering from a lack of money and man power and it is the Intervenor's fervent desire to ham­ string the certification as much as possible knowing that if a new election were ordered, it would take at least two or three years. We sincerely and urgently call upon this Board to dispose of this matter at the very earliest moment po.ssible by dismissing the objections filed by Intervenor. We cannot over-emphasize the insubstantiality and vagueness of either the objections themselves or the proof adduced in their support. Nor can we over­ emphasize the uniqueness of elections in the mari­ time industry. Past experience in such elections has been such as unfortunately to encourage dilatory tactics such as those employed by Intervenor here. It is in the very nature of such elections that they consume ex­ tensive periods of time in their preparation, conduct and subsequent inve.sligation, and losing unions would seek to exploit that circumstance by abusing the Board's normal procedures in the hope that before the Board could determine the issue loo much time would have elapsed to make a certificate effective or desirable. There is another aspect of labor relations in the mari­ time industry which adds to their uniqueness and which, we submit, should weigh heavily in the Board's decision in like the instant one. We refer to the fact commonly known and judicially noticeable that the usual Ameri­ can seaman is not easily "coerced" by anything his employer does or seeks to do. This is true for two rea­ sons: First, the industry attracts bold and vigorous spirits; the American seaman is not easily bulldozed or intimidated. Second, the seaman is not tied to one cjnployer in the same manner or to the same degree as is the average emploj-ee in the great preponderance of other industries. Indeed, the universal, general prac­ tice is to ship out on different vessels under different ownership or management, and the record in this case I'eflects that practice. It is a rare exception for any seaman to sign up with the same ship after he had completed a voyage. And this circumstance, which greatly minimizes the coercive power of maritime em­ ployers over maritime employees, is entitled to even more than usual weight in this case because during the period of the instant election there was a con­ spicuous dearth of manpower in the American maritime industry which gave to the seamen that much more resistance to any offensive employer action and which gave to the employer that much less opportunity to attempt such action. THEREFORE, your Petitioner respectfully prays, that the objections interposed by the Intervenor, be dis­ missed and that the Petitioner be certified as the collecti\-e bargaining agent for the unlicensed personnel of the Company. Respectfully submitted, BENJAMIN B. STERLING and HENRY KAISER (of Counsel) Attorneys for SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA �Fada%.,MeiX 23. 19« Pag» Taw SHIPS'MimnES AMD NEWS THEY WERE PAID GLOWING TRIBUTE vr,v-:>;r-^y:. •" ^••V.v -V,' r^s-vVx SS Dixon Sign-On Delayed 24 Hour& As Baltimore Port Steward Crosses Crew You may be able to fool the crew of the SS Ben Dixon once —but don't try it a second time. A guy who made a second try failed and caused a 24-hour delay in. the sign-on aboard the vessel in Baltimore last week. In the center of the situation was the Bull line Port Steward in Baltimore. Prior to the Dixon's last trip, he promised the crew he would bring ,a much-needed percolator aboard. The crew graciously accepted his word. But the vessel sailed without the coffee-makcr and on the voy­ age to Puerto Rico and return the crewmembers brewed a thorough disgust for the Port Steward's promises. At the sign-on last week, the Port Steward tried his oncesuccessful stunt again. He prom ised to provide the percolator and a toaster after the sign-on. Deck Gang of Hibbing Viciory made "a clean ship out of a dirly one. in first row is Sam Luttrell who submitted pholos to LOG. Man. fourth from left Hibbing Victory Crew Wins Praise; Commended For Good Unionism NIX ON THAT "The dickens with that stuff,' said the Dixon men, while they refused to sign-on until the needed items showed up. Even the shipping commission­ er and the doctor showed signs of irritation over the Port Stew­ ard's delaying tactics. Mean­ while, the crew stuck to its guns. No percolator, no sign-on, they maintained. Eventually the Steward ful­ filled his promise. But as Julio Evans, the Dixon's Deck Dele­ gate pointed out, it would have been cheaper for him had he been a man of his word. "Because we couldn't take the Port Steward at his word," Dix­ on said, "the incident cost the company half a day off for the whole crew next day—plus the percolator and toaster." PORTUGUESE GALLEON STILL SERVES Citing their "excellent work" and demonstrations of "good Unionism," the Skipper of the SS Hibbing Victory paid glowing tribute to the crack Seafarers ^crew which manned the Robin line vessel on the South African voyage. The skipper, Cap­ tain Philip G. Beck, revealed his recognition of the crew's merits in a letter "to all un­ licensed personnel aboard" prior to the payoff in Baltimore last The Hibbing Victory complet' ed her trip a model of cleanli­ ness, thanks to the conscientious efforts of her capable crew, who take seriously the words "an SIU ship is a clean ship." Capt. Beck's letter, addressed to "all unlicensed personnel aboard" the Hibbing Victory, fol­ lows: "I take pleasure in commend­ ing all of you for your excellent behavior on this past voyage to South and East and Southwest Africa. "Your work aboard ship has been excellent. The minor socalled beefs were settled in a friendly manner. This all goes to show that you SIU seamen have learned to keep discipline among yourselves. That is good Unionism. "The Stewards Department are to be complimented on a hard job well done and the Deck and Engine Departments are to be complimented also—the Deck De­ partment for making a clean ship out of a very dirty one and the engine men for breaking all speed records from New York to Capetown as well as making the best speed on the African Coast ever heard of, and for keeping the ship running without breakdowns. "Keep up the good work, keep yoin: Union well-thought of, and good luck and many safe and pleasant voyages is the sincere wish of your Skipper. Philip G. Beck, Master SS Hibbing Victory,"' Some of the Black Gang, which set speed record- on African Coast. Ancienl conditions prevail in waters off Portugal. where galleons such as the one above still are in service, according to Seafarer Ray Durbin. Deck Maintenance aboard SS James Dun­ can of the Waterman line. Brother Duncan took picture in Lis­ bon to add to his collection but he wished for a glimpse of the foe'sle to compare to modern standards gained by the SIU. Anti-Labor Bill Denounced Aware that Labor's only pro­ tective weapon—the strike—will be destroyed if the anti-labor legislation now before Congress is passed, the crewmembers of the F. Marion Crawfbrd over­ whelmingly adopted a resolution calling for a joint AFL-GIO 24hour mass protest strike. Meeting at s'ea, the crew gath­ ered 29 signatures to the resolu­ tion- which reads: "In regards tp the vicious antilabor bill that has just recently been passed in the House and Senate and shortly will go to the President for his okay, we the crew of the SS F. Marion Crawford; seeing that our only weapon for protecting our unions —the strike weapon—is going to be taken away, suggest that the SIU get together with all the unions, AFL and CIO, for a 24 hour mass protest strike to stop the passage of this vicious bill." Brother Seeks Lost Papers To the Ediioz: 1 lost my seamen's wallet, con­ taining my Union receipts, dis­ charges and some personal pic­ tures, the latter part of March aboard the SS Cape San Diego. If any Brother should come across this material, I would like for him to forward them to me at the address below. Erwin Cartwright Stuart, Oklahoma •' �Friday, May 23. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief EL MORRO (Date nol given) Chairman Connelly; Secretary Huddleslon. Crew agreed not to pay off until the Patrolman is on board. Motion carried to have delegates make a list of all needs ^d be turned over to the men staying on. Motion carried to have present Pur­ ser replaced. It was agreed that the pumpman will tzike the dog. Repair list of all three departments attached to min­ utes. S. 4. 3^ FAIRISLE, April 27—Chair­ man Russell: Secretary Willis Woodruff. New Business: Mo­ tion carried that crew buy as little as possible from slopchest. Suggestion that slopchest list be turned over to Patrolman and have it investigated. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that all thermostats be replaced so water in showers and heads can be regulated. Suggestion that all wash water tanks be thoroughly cleaned before ship leaves port again. Suggestion that all overtime sheets of all departments be copied and put on messroom bulletin board so the overtime may be divided equally as near as possible. 5- i S. BENJAMIN WILLIAMS, March 23—Chairman A. Melendez; Secretary S. Furtado. New Business: Motion carried to ac­ cept delegates' reports. Motion carried to have a washing ma­ chine placed aboard. Motion carried to have dogs put on portholes where necessary. Mo­ tion carried to have chairs put in each foc'sle. Motion carried to have a committee see Master on having chairs or benches put in foc'sles. t t 1 BENJAMIN WILLIAMS. April 20—Chairman Martin Rubio; Secretary Juan Ramon Olive. Deck, Steward and En­ gine Delegates reported all okay in their departments. De­ cision to check with port Pa­ trolman about overtime for the Night Cook and Baker for mak­ ing fire in galley. Extra meals to be charged for the Pilot staying aboard aftev the ship had left port. Good and Wel­ fare: Vote of thanks to the Steward Department for the good chow and harmony aboard. / Ybu CAH'PaOMOlX WgARTH€'BM3SC'/ CITY OF ALMA, April 13— —Chairman Red Sully; Secre­ tary F. Barth. Delegates report­ ed all in order in their depart­ ments. Good and Welfare: Suggestion to have a cold sup­ per at least once a week and give the cooks a break. Dele­ gates to give a draw list to the Captain so crew can get money in San Pedro. Steward to get ice cream and limes in Panama. Messmen to make coffee at ten o'clock. Deck and Engine Departments alternate making it in the afternoon. One minute of silence for brothers lost at sea. 4. 3, S. SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY, April 17—Chairman Eddie Mil­ ler; Secretary George Swift. Meeting called to discuss the competency of Chief Steward. After much discussion a vote was taken and the Steward was upheld with majority of crew feeling he was performing his job satisfactorily. ^ X % ALCOA PILGRIM, April 11 —Chairman C. Matheny; Sec­ retary V. A. Lawsin. New Business: Motion carried that all sanitary men get together about cleanliness of laundry. Motion carried that reforms and action be taken concerning re­ ports of conclusion of voyage 18. Black Gang Delegate re­ ported some disputed overtime and crew's quarters need paint­ ing. Stewards Department Delegate suggested that Pa­ trolman be seen about clean­ ing galley and using spray guns instead of paint brushes. WARRIOR POINT. March 3 —Chairman James F. Byrne; Secretary James Gamble. Good and Welfare: Suggestions con­ cerning the improvement of salads and more variety. Also suggested that an inventory of of the Steward's storeroom be made for the purpose of better­ ing the menus. Member of the Engine Department asked for more soap and towels for his department considering the dirtier work done below. Stew­ ard promised to take care of the matter. One minute of si­ lence for brothers lost at sea. 4 4 4 ALCOA PILGRIM, March 2 —Chairman Eric Gronberg; Secretary L. W. Highsmith. New Business: Election of dele­ gates taken care of. Motion made to protest sailing out of New York on nine months ar­ ticles without six months stores. Motion carried to contact Mo­ bile visiting Patrolman and see why there is no report of his visit to the Mobile Marine Hos­ pital. Motion carried to write Mobile Agent to have him rep­ rimand Patrolman supposed to visit the Hospital for not com­ municating with the SEAFAR­ ERS LOG. Repair list made and attached. 4 4 4 F. MARION CRAWFORD, Jan. 6—(Chairman not given) Secretary J. G. Brady. Repair list made up with proviso that all be taken care of before new crew signs aboard. Motion car­ ried that all stores be checked by Steward for his okay and his decision be final. Motion carried that an electric iron and three extra cords be placed aboard for crew's use. Motion carried that hospital and first aid supplies be checked and re­ placements be put aboard. Mo­ tion carried that cups, silver­ ware, glasses, etc., be checked by the Steward and a sufficient supply be put aboard before sailing. Good Deal 4 4 4 MOLINA VICTORY, Jan. 29 —Chairman Molina; Secretary Curtis. New Business: Several members spoke about the food situation claiming that half of the time the food is not cook­ ed the proper way. They think that the Chief Cook is not fit for the job. The Steward prom­ ised better food and coopera­ tion in the future. Motion car­ ried to give the Chief Cook another try at cooking and if it is not improved the Depart­ ment Delegates will notify the Steward so he can put a com­ petent man on the job. Mo­ tion carried to recognize Stew­ ards Department Delegate as the only representative for the benefit of the Stewards De­ partment. Steward asked crew's cooperation in returning their dirty linen for clean. Crewmembers promised their cooperation in the matter. One of the most difficult tasks in connection with writ­ ing is finding a spot for pub­ lication. The task, however, has been made easier for Sea­ farers who have written—or are about to write—stories or articles with a salt water tang. An arrangement has been made with a reputable agency of authors' represen­ tatives, who will read your material without any charge. If the stuff has possibilities it will be brought to the at­ tention of publishers for pos­ sible sale. Send your manuscripts— typewritten, of course — to Carl Cowl, c/o Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. Enclose a stamped envelope, addressed to your permanent residence to in­ sure safe return in case script is nol up to snuff. 1: i SHI1^ING^OL€3! By he shippmq riiles C4;ere draujti up and,adofted ITU the ruentbearsliip provide an ord&rl-q and.fair job procedure. Learn titem and save (yourself a possible beef-. CUT and RUN By HANK Jobs, jobs and more jobs. Our New York Hall is lull of thejn up on that board and down there in Tampa, Florida, shipping is real good, too. Well, with shipping so eas\' it means you brothers don't have to knock yourselves out waiting a few weeks and hope­ lessly dreaming of getting out soon. It's better, indeed, to be on some ship going somewhere then it is to be in the hall going nowwhere—just waiting for those miracle trips to come up on the board. All you have to do is grab those jobs, brothers, and get all that waiting and wishing and moaning over with. And don't forget to take a few small bundles of LOGS with you for distribution in those foreign ports to other SIU ships hungry for the latest LOGS, those unorganized ships (including tankers) and to the favorite bars. 4 4 4 There's anoiher important thing to remember. Don't foul up the ships and the other brothers who really want to sail the ships. If you grab a ship, stay on her—don't run off the ship a few days later or just before she sails. A ship, no matter hov/ old or how new she looks, will be your home—the kind of a home you want it to be—if you make it that way. But some guys have the regrettable and jidiculous habit of exploding their thinking machines over the smallest things or they just have a permanent hate of work, cleanliness, etc. Your jobs can only be done one way—the right way. There's no sense and no reason for violent arguments, passing the work to the other guy, getting gassed up and making a big racket aboard ship, and a lot of other things which foul up a ship—by a few independent brothers. 4 4 5About a week and a half ago, Brother Abe Rappaport, the electrician, came in smoking a cigar and confessing, amongst other things, that he had recently finished 22 round trips on the SS Florida . . . Steward Jack Rankins sailed out of New York re­ cently . . . Brother H. Monahan and Brother Henry Murranka just came in from a trip of voluntary organizing those unorganized seamen. Good work, fellas . . . Joseph De George, the mustached Beau Brummell, said that his shipmate, oldtimer Chuck Allan just shipped out recently. With these rainy days anyone's liable to do anything . . . Brother Herbert Braunstein and Brother "Chink" Leon White just grabbed a few bundles of LOGS and shipped oat on a tanker for quite a long trip. Bon oi-ganizing, brothers—and thanks for promising us a letter or two while you're hitting those ports . . . Electrician E. Edginton and his mustache just came in from a trip. And he's ready to go out on another one, as usual . . . To Brother Monte Blue up in Sparta, Illinois; how about writing in immediately to the fourth floor baggage room telling them what you want done with your forgotten baggage . . . Brother Raymond Sparrow, who has a fine way of speaking, like an experienced orator, was in town not so long ago ... A few brothers still in town: Mike Gottschalk, Marshall Dodge, Bosun Bera Smylej; Bosun Sal 'Volpi . . . Norman "Ozzie" Okray just shipped after sweating out a few hospitalized days. 4 4 4 ODD STREETS AND TOWNS SOME SEAFARE'S LIVE IN: Wade Taiom—in ihe fown of Slamps . . . Jim Moras—in Beelhoven Street . . . Eugene T, Jackman—in the town of Marmaduke . . . William Holland—in the town of Bagdad . . . Chester G. Startz—in the town of Mystic . . . Matthew Bruno —in Alabama Avenue . . . Manley E. Johnson—in the town of Sweet Street . . . Clark D. Brown—in New York Avenue . . Fletcher Shiaalut—in Hope Road in the town of Stamps . . . Paul Kent—in the town of Frostproof . . . Samuel Parsons—in the town of Halcyondale . . . Jordan Gerson—on Oriental Avenue . . . George Velich—in Utopian Place. �THE Page Twelve SEAFARERS Friday. May 23. 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHV Three Shoreside Workers Killed In Two Mishaps Aboard War field To the Editor; Bad luck appears to be hang­ ing over the SS Charles Warfield. While we were in the new­ ly-opened port of Amuay Bay, Venezuela, two longshoremen •were killed and another was ser­ iously injured when the No. 2 port boom fell on them. The Warfield was the first SIU ship to make that port. In Baltimore, a shipyard work­ er was killed when he fell through the covers on the No. 4 hatch and plunged into the lower hold. Wears Crown Log -A' Rhythms I'Blood' On The Marina the usual bauxite run. Since we were only supposed to be out for 60 days, we were stored accord­ ingly. But the voyage is ap­ proaching the 90-day mark, and the chow supply is almost nil. Blame for this situation can be laid to the head man at Alcoa's commissary department. By JULIO BERNARD right on all points and in the coming year I anticipate remark­ able progress- in the maritime field. Well, other than the fact that all hands are glad that the trip is approaching the end, we have nothing to sing about. So will ring "Finished with engines." E. L. DeParlier It was he who gave orders that Chief Steward all Gulf ships be stowed for only SS Charles Warfield a 60-day period. I know of nu­ merous instances where that per­ iod expired before the ships start­ Seafco'ers Log ed the return to the states. The Marina is a slave ship. How else can be defined The sad shape of things. With a skipper unrefined. The Captain is old K , No doubt a Bull line pet. The crew gave him a better name— One he can't forget. We call him And if you He's lacking His manner Has Folks Agog 4-MONTH SUPPLY HOMEWARD-BOUND All ships on the Alcoa bauxite The old Warfield is approach­ run should be required to carry ing the home stretch. We are stores sufficient for at least three months. A supply to last four months would even be more like BAUXi'FC it. It is the crews who suffer most by this policy, -while the Alcoa outfit profits by it. To the Editor: I brought" a LOG home with me. and the folks made such a fuss about it that I've either got to send it home whenever and wherever I hit port, or have you send it to them, I will certainly appreciate it if you will mail the LOG to my No question but that the prac­ home. tice of storing a ship with an in­ Paul Wilkins sufficient amount of stores for Odessa, Texas the voyage is no good. Have read some fair./ recent editions of the_ LOG; and wish to remark on the Agent's Con­ ference agenda. It is strictly all now stopping off in Port of Spain, and the bauxite is four inches thick on the decks. We are Mobile-bound after three months on To the Editor: the "bauxite trail" and all hands Well, here we are in Port Said, are plenty glad to be heading waiting for a pilot. This trip home. This trip has been longer than sure has started out with a bang. We no sooner left Galveston, UNIONISM LEARNED when this skipper started being the Lord Almighty. (Ed. note: Okay. Brother Wilkins. you can relax. The LOG wiM be rolling to^ your home shortly.) Aptly named is Thomas W. Enough of this old phony. King, whose prowess as a He doesn't rate the space. bridge player proves that all is His place is in the "Register." not luck in card competition. Barred from the human race. Brother King has successfully Instead, a word of lusty praise defended his title as the sea For a Carpenter on the scow— going champ against all com­ A top-notch Union Brother. ers. In a record contest aboard Old "Chips'* deserves a bow. the SS Bessemer Victory he topped three other enthusiasts I'm not to good at poetry. by a comfortable margin. King My rhymes and rhythm poor. rarely makes a voyage without But if you take the old Marina; being called upon to make good Leave the Skipper on the shore. his boast that he can take any and all -when it comes to bridge. ALL'S 'COPASETIC Thus far, his scores show he's AT COPACABANA, not talking through his hat. BROTHERS SAY Awaits SIU Contract To Cleanse Isthmian IN SIU SERVES HIM WELL NOW the work done, but will not turn men to. Instead; he has given orders to the Bosun to have our heads and all the sanitbry work done just twice a week—on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This edict has made a situation which is extremel.v difficult- and unsanitary. He also ordered the crew's Messman, who is a food handler, to do sanitary work in his department, twice a week—and keep waiting on us at the same time. HE'S DIFFERENT But his own head and showers, the skipper ruled, are to be cleaned every day. It sure burns mc up to have to sail under men like this. Captain Blood, want the truth. in all virtues. is quite uncouth. Before Master's licenses are is­ sued to people like this skipper, it should first be determined -what kind of pigpens they were brought up in. I have been sailing for 13 years but this is the first time I have seen orders from arty Master call­ ing for sanitary work to be done twice a week instead- of every day. I wil sure be glad, when under the SIU banner we can show men like these how to keep and live clean aboard ship and still get the work done. After fighting the finky cock­ roaches that stayed aboard this Isthmian ship, the SS James D. To the Editor: Trask, we are now using every I was a member of the SIU for contraption known in medical over a year, and I enjoyed being history in an effort to keep our a part of the organization very health. much. The principles of good The .skipper has disputed most unionism I learned then have William G. Lindelof of our overtime in all depart­ helped- me considerably in the SS James D. Trask ments—even his own officers, union I now belong to. Porf Said. Egypt from First Mate down. He wants Due to the death of my father, I had to quit sailing but I will TANKER WHOSE SURVIVORS WERE SAVED BY SEAFARERS always remember the time I spent at sea in SIU ships. En­ closed you will find a contribu­ tion for the SEAFARERS LOG, which I enjoy very much. I would appreciate it if you would send it to my home to better en­ able me to keep in touch with my former shipmates. Last September, the shipping companies and the SIU signed a new contract calling for retroac­ tive payment of all increases. I wonder if you could inform me if' the Calmar Steamship Corpor­ ation signed this agreement; if so where must I bring my claim and what proof must I have to obtain it? Donald Dean Boston, Mass. (Ed. Note: Retroactive pay claims should be presented at Calmar office at 25 Broadway. New York City. Thanks for the Half of the SS Fort- Dearborn as it* was being towed- last- month to Honolulu. Formerly an contribution. A receipt for SUP ship, it was torn in two by Heavy weather 110- miles northeast of Hawaii on- March- 12; same- is already in- the mail, SUP ctewmembera of the SS General Gordon and- SS St. John's Victory raced to the scene, and you ha-ve- bean placed on and effected a-daring rescue of ten men stranded on the bow sectioni THwe of the rescue* ves*sals' small- boats were lost in the attempt. the LOG mailing list). To the Editor: When we arrived down here in Puerta La Cruz, the guy who runs the Copacabana came down to the ship and gave each of us a card. He said, we would have a good time at his bar. Well, he sure lived up to his word—pleasant feminine com­ pany, inexpensive beer and no clips. When some of the boys got feeling good, he took six of them back to the ship in his own car, and didn't charge them a cent. The owner of the place, Joe Torrie, is a real good joe—and he ha.s the best place we have come across outside of the States. He is a former seamen, who sail­ ed on American ships and says he was SIU. His place is right outside the dock gates. All the boys are sure to get a square deal here and have a good time, too. Torrie would like the LOG to be sent to the Copacabana; he'll make sure the boys get them. Trevor Lillle Frank Glauer C. A. Lester (Ed. note:—The Copacabana in Puerta La Cruz. Venezuela, has been placed on the LOG mailing list.) His Heart Belongs To The LOG To the Editor: I am in the old country, visit­ ing my folks. All is Well, but I miss the old LOG. I would like very much to know what goes on in the Union and to hear about the member­ ship and their doings. So if it isn't too much trohble perhaps the LOG- could be sent to me here. Einar Blakstad, Trondheinii' Norway �JFriday, May 23, 1347 THE SEAFARERS LOG A SEAFARER LENSMAN CATCHES LeHAVRE SCENE ; v 'T James F. Byrne, Sleward aboard the SS Warrior Point snapped this "shot" of the He de France, the former German liner Europa, as she lay partially submerged in Le Havre, France. In a heavy gale last January the vessel broke loose from her moorings and smashed into the sunken wreckage of the French liner Paris. Seafarer Crew Has Union Savvy; Makes LaSalle First-Rate Ship To the Editor: same contract we shove in the company s face each and every Very often we read about day. bucko mates and tough skippers. That is why I am taking time out KEEP OUR SHIPS to boost two guys who don't Now, more than ever before, come under these categories. we have lo keep our- ships. And The Old Man is a pretty good the example on this ship is just skate, who has no use for the what the cornpan:^ thro.ws up at the men whom we send to ne­ gotiate new contracts for us. Time and again, the doings of the performers and gashounds come back to the Union. It seems that I have wander­ ed from the main point, which was to tell you that we now have this La Salle running as an ex­ emplary Union ship. So if any­ one piles off here when we get in, my advice is for you to get on. The Steward is Walter SanCoast Guard and respects a Union man. As for the Mate, we think he is one helluva swell guy. This opinion comes fi'om all hands. To begin with, the Mate had a tough break because none of the first crew aboard this ship, SS La Salle, wanted to do any work. Too much time in the gin mills ashore and no time on the ship. Our Union fought hard for the good conditions we have on SlU-contrac^ed ships, and one thing we have to remember is that we, too, sign a contract at the same time. It's the very tos, one of the guys who worked hard during the strike to give you fellows the good chow in the New York Hall. On here it's even better. The La Salle's Chief Cook is Victor Johnson, a guy whose spices and different con­ coctions should be called to the attention of Frenchy Michelet and Jimmie Stewart. We have a few things that need attention when we get in, which is always the story with these reconverted ships. The Mate and the Old Man promise their full cooperation in straightening out things. So from here on in, it looks like smooth sailing with a fine bunch of Union men. Bob Flaherty SS La Salle, At Sea Strict Measures Advocated To Curb Union's Performers To the Editor: It's a strict measure, but some­ We all know that the Seatrain thing has to be done to correct New Orleans is not a Del Norte those practices. or a Del Sud nor an Alcoa Clip­ Strangely enough, some of the per with air conditioning, but performers have just become full 'oy God she is an SIU ship and book members, yet they start has the right to be treated as right off by giving the Union a such. black eye. However, some of the fellows DON'T UNDERSTAND dispatched to the New Orleans They don't seem to appreciate don't seem to realize this. Some the hardships the oldtimers had of them come aboard, take a to put up with to gain the bene­ look around, turn up their noses fits now enjoyed on all SIU and go back to the Hall. Others, who do sign on, go around bragging that they are lAWT \ only aboard for a tropical cruise GOMNA to the "Land of sunshine, beau­ tiful women and Bacardi," and have no intention of fulfilling their duties, the contract, or the established working rules. This they demonstrate when the ship hits the islands. Some­ times the ship is held up from sailing for two or three hours, oecause these good-time boys are too gassed up or too busy with the "ladies of the water­ ships. Some of these fellows front" to make the ship. have never heard of the battles SERIOUS ABUSE the SIU fought in the past. Last trip the Seatrain New These men have been handed Orleans was held up at Havana their books on a silver platter for three hours, and this trip without having to undergo the two men were missing at sailing sufferings many of us have time. borne. This abuse has become so se­ Here's hoping these men wake rious that the crewmembers have up to the fact that the SIU is decided to atterppt some correc­ not a social club or a protective tive measures. association guaranteeing each We have gone on record to member the right to raise hell fine any man $50.00 who, aboard ship. through his own fault, delays Here's hoping they realize the the ship or misses it. SIU is a union and the contracts Such men must pay through we have are to be observed and the nose for their caprices. In not disregarded at will. addition to the fine, we decided Adolfo Capote. that their names and book num­ New Orleans, La. bers will be turned over to the Agent upon arrival in New Or­ leans. Uniform Contract Should Be Considered By Negotiating Committee, Says Brother To the Editor: The idea of uniform contracts for freighters, tankers and pas­ senger ships would seem to me very much in order at the pres­ ent time. I, therefore, offer the suggestion of uniform contracts for consideration of the member­ ship and the committees who will do the negotiating for our next contracts. My purpose in suggesting uni­ form contracts is to enable our to give better service, MISSOURI HOSPITAL Patrolmen and at the same time, to have SHOWS SEAFARER a clearer understanding of the contracts among the membership. IT CAN BE DONE If contracts vary with each com­ To the Editor: pany, the variations often lead to many blind alley beefs. One U.S. Marine Hospital, at least, is making a record for de­ 'SAUCE FOR THE GOOSE . . cent satisfactory treatment of What may be overtime in one seamen. I refer to the institu­ company may not be so in an­ tion in Kirkwood, Mo., a suburb other outfit. Often, I have seen of St. Louis, and where I was re­ Patrolmen at their wit's end try­ cently a patient. ing to explain to some member, I have been in other Marine for example, that coaling the gal­ hospitals but none have ever ley is overtime in most compan­ compared with this one, headed ies but is not overtime in the by Dr. James Elliot. The doctors Calmar line. And just as often, and staff were tops. The food I have heard the comeback, "Why was good, and served in abund­ the hell is it our contracts are ance—more was available than not all the same?" any person could eat. In fact, Vai-iations in contracts are a you ai-e treated as though you leftover from .the days when the were in your own home. SIU was .a struggling organiza­ This observation is based on tion. Since that time, it .has my two months of confinement grown in strength and to ma­ ?tt .this .hpspitah turity. When .our Union goes to L. G. Wado, Ch. Cook bargain for us it meets with an Page Thirteen attitude that is uniform with all the enemies of labor, when they shipping companies—hostilitj'. tried to get an amendment tack­ ed onto the labor bill in Con­ UNITED ACTION WINS gress to prohibit industry-wide Likewise, it is only the uni­ bargaining. form fight of our Union that It is the position of the SIU compels them to see things our that a seaman's work is stand­ way. If our enemies can isolate ard, regardless of the company our action by piecemeal con­ or the place where he is em­ tracts, full of vai-iations, we are ployed. Since this is so, all com­ vulnerable to attack from many panies should be compelled to directions. have the same contracts with When labor is unified by ac­ the highest possible standards— tion and conditions, it is strong. SIU style. This was well demonstrated bv W, J. Brady Let's Have 'Em This is it. Brothers! Right on these pages is a good place to blow your top. If you've got a beef or some suggestions you think will be of benefit to your Union and your Brothers, why not have it printed in the LOG? If you haven't any steam to blow off. there must be something you've found in­ teresting on your trip tha4 you'd like to pass along for others to read about—char­ acters you meet in the farflung corners of the earth, joints you've found worth CARGO OPERATION IN CAPETOWN The SS Robin Tuxford as she was being unloaded in CapeJown» South Africa recently. Seafarer Joseph TortisL a crewmember. made the photo. seeing and those you feel it advisable for your Brothers to avoid. Why not let all hands profit by your exper­ iences? Maybe you're pretty good at turning out a poem—okay then, lei's have it. Pen and ink sketches are welcome, too. If you've got some photographs of your ship, or shipmates or any "shots" taken in the various ports o'call. send them along. We'll return them. Just mail your material to the Editor. Seafarers Log. 51 Beaver Street. New York 4. N. Y. How about doing it NOW! • I �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS Friday. May 23, 1947 LOG SiU Wins 40 Hour Week On Lakes Sandboats (Coiifitincd from Page 1) along with the Seafai'ers' mini­ mum demands, and stated that he would sign a memorandum agreement to that effect with the SIU. The other operators refused to go along with Martin, and so the meeting broke up, with sched­ uled meetings for this week with the Lake Erie operators and later with the Chicago operators. Today, the entire business was settled when Mi". Florsheim, at­ torney representing the combined operators, agreed to go along on th same agreement as the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Com­ pany had already agreed to. This means that, with the ex­ ception of the historic differen­ tial between the Chicago area It has always been the conten­ and the Lake Erie area, all sand- tion of the Seafarers that politi­ boat opez-ators will pay the same cal activities have little, if any, wage scale, overtime, etc. during place in the Union. 1947. "Little," in this sense, means NEW SANDBOAT SCALE that thei-e is no objection, on Under the terms of the new either a local or national scale, to agreement, the sandboat pay a union approving or condemn­ scale will be as follows; ing the position of politicians and By JOE GRIMES "reward its friends." The Gompeis era was the competitive period of American his­ tory, when newsboys became financier's; grocery clei'ks, chainstore magnates; messboys, steamshipowners (there's an old story about Captain Matson starting his cai'eer with a sack full of butter taken off a three ziiast schooner); when the country was growing, and millionaires were the product of the times rather than the scions of wealth and power. polished machine politician today. LESSER EVIL In its dealings with politics and politicians, labor has always had to accept the lesser evil, in the fozm Of supporting those who would hand out crumbs of repzesentation in returiz for loaves of All 16 Hours political groups on matters persupport. Penalty \taining to labor. Lake Erie Week-end Chicago There are tho.se, and unfor­ Overtime Overtime Scale Scale Rating This in no sense commits the tunately some of thezzi arc found $1.25 hr. union to a blind adherence to $1.00 hr. $221.00 .$226.00 in the z'anks of the Seafarers, who 1.25 hr. any candidate or political party, 1.00 hr. 218.00 223.00 znaintain that the solution of la­ 1.25 hr. and definitely does not in any 1.00 hr. 171.00 176.00 bors problems lies in the forma­ 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. way obligate the individual mem­ 218.00 223.00 Political candidates were elect­ tion of a "labor party," or the 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. ber. 218.00 223.00 adoption of the minor league left 1.25 hr. 1.00 hr. Whether he voted or not, and ed by oratory, torchlight parades parties (i. e.: Socialists, Com­ 218.00 223.00 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. whom he voted for i-emains his and baby kissing. They wooed munists, Trotskyites, etc.). 171.00 176.00 labor and, to a degree, gave la­ 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. pei'sonal business. 171.00 176.00 This is puie hokuzn, and the 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. Samuel Gompei's, who more bor I'epresentation. 237.50 242.00 adoption of such a policy would 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. than any other individual, guided They did it because they had 237.50 242.00 serve only to weaken labor. 1.00 hr, • 237,.50 1.25 hr. the AFL thi'ough its hardest to. Basically the peanut politi­ 242.00 France had its "popular frozzt' 277.50 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. years and became the guiding cian at the beginning of this cen­ 281.00 Stcwarc and its left wing deputies becazzre 1.00 hr. 1.25 hr. spirit of its policy and program, tury had no more love for labor 210.00 215.00 right wing imperialists over 1.00 hr. 171.00 1.25 hr. called upon organized labor to than the well-groomed, highly 176.00 night. With an appro.ximate week-end England has a so-called labor ovei'time payment of $70 month­ govei-nnzent who celebz'ated their ly, the actual pay of each rating "labor" victory with a znore ruth­ will bo the basic monthly scale less supression of labor than the plus $70, plus all penalty over­ Chuz'chill "aristocrat" govern­ time worked during the month ment ever daz'ed. at $1.25 per hour. The Russian communist gov­ This means that the monthly ernment simply shoots strikers, pay on the sandboats will range By PAUL PARSONS communism but they give you unworthy of our Bz'otherhood. jails any who disagree and calls from a maximum monthly take nothing in, return and later it a day. We have built our Uzzion for Ever since the communist home of $350 to a minimum of laugh at your stupidity. the working men of the seven Eugene V. Debs was a great $240 plus all penalty overtime revolution in Russia, we have Many organizations that wei'e seas, and we have denounced labor leader but, albeit, a failure witnessed the rise of a lai'ge worked. formerly clean of communism any kind of policies except those as a politician. Norman Thoznas, number of organizations which ai-e now commie-dominated, and that benefit the members. Eaz'l Bz'owder, William Z. Foster, SIU FIRST AGAIN are known to be communistuse the old line system of can­ and the other also-ran left wing When and if a majority of the In making his announcement dominated, and which are only vassing membez'ship. And where­ Presidential candidates kept runmembers want disruption with of the latest SIU victory for the interested in fimd raising for as the books of oldtime world nizig year after year but never politics by the communists, then Lakes seamen. Brother Farnen the Party and not in the wel­ worker oi'ganizations were clos­ the Union will be ruined 9s is got anywhere. stated, "Once again the SIU leads fare of the specific oranizations ed to protect the membership They haven't any merchandise the NMU. the field in bringing the best they control. against Stalinites, they are now to trade with and, like the false We stand together, I am sure, It is, of coui'se, more bene­ wages, houi's, conditions and con­ found to be open to anyone at to denounce any of these and prophets, "can only lead the ficial to the Party if the commies tracts to the Lakes seamen. low prices, leaving the oldtimers to insure the protection of the blind to destruction." infiltrate world worker organiza­ out in the cold. "Back in 1942, the SIU won The main political parties meznbezs from any set that tions and not just local ones— the 40-hour week for all fit-out (Democrats and Republicans) I wish to reznind the member­ wants to dictate its own poli­ but they also disrupt local ones. and layup woi'k, with payment have the merchandise, but only ship that many of these phony cies to the Union on ship or They successfully infiltrate al of time-and-one-half for all over­ hand out the second rate stuff to fraternities and organizations ashore. When a member is ob­ organizations, fraternities, lodges time work. the workei's. are turned around to look as if ligated in the SIU he pledges and unions where there is a lax It's the old questiozi of being they ai'c unions that have con­ himself to uphold it and its "Throughout the war, the SIU screening of members before between "the Devil and the deep tracts. continued to lead in gaining the they become obligated. membez'ship above all others. blue sea" when unions mix in Whenever you meet one of best possible wages, working and I am suz;e when anyone joins Usually after disrupting and politics. their membez's ask him what living conditions. any other organization, it is the dominating any of these bodies, contracts his organization has same. It is an evident fact that WHAT IS A PARTY? "In April of 1947, the SIU they immediately switch its polwith any._company to earn one cannot serve two masters Technically a political party is broke the 56-hour week on the I icy to the old commie line, and money, or whether he just wish­ and, thezefoze, if any member grouping of persons believing passenger vessels, and now these start to attack workers' unions es to obtain your money for of our Union holds any dual or­ in certain policies, who band to­ Seafarers enjoy a 44-hour week. |sL,ch as ours that stand in their membership to nothing that rep­ ganizational card, his book "Now, in May of 1947, the SIU patth of woi'ld conquest by self resents nothizig but yells down should be pulled fz'om our gether to elect representatives and form a government to their established the first 40-hour week imposed united serfdom and everything and has nothing Union. liking. on the Lakes for the sandboats.' dictatorship. to back itself with. Brothez's, as long as you sail In the case of the Republican The SIU won't rest," continued | We membei's of the SIU have It is my fizm belief that any on our contracted ships, you aze and Democrat parties, the case is Fai'nen, "until we have the. 40-^ fought the commies with every lodge, etc., that is communist- under the flag of the SIU, and that actually the parties are lead­ hour week for all Lakes vessels—I honest weapon available, be- dominated should be blacklisted if anyone on that cez'tain ship ership groups who sell an idea. sandboats, bulk freighters, tank-; cause they stand for termite tac- until it washes its own dirty belongs to any of these sets | cash in with political jobs and ers, and passenger ships on the tics of deteriorating the soul linen and cleanses itself of Com­ znentiozied, advise him to eithei-1 patronage, serving those who Lakes. and mind of the working man. munism, and any of its members denounce them or turn in his have and who put up the dough "That's our goal, and nothing We, of course, are one of on our ships should be thrown book. to operate their political ma­ can stop us from achieving it, their main tai-gets, because we off, or turn in their other books We sail with the Seafarers In­ chines. plus the best wages, and contracts have been the greatest bulwark or cards. ternational Union and not any The Fascist and neo-fascist that we have always enjoyed.' against communism among sea­ Any member of the SIU who other, and we will not tolerate gz-oups (Gerald L. K. Smith, etc.) farers the world over. does not uphold' the SIU on or accept any policies of decad­ exist on racial and z-eligious Therefore, we have to keep contracted ships and tries to re- ent would-be worker's ozgani- hatred, and use political cam­ our eyes open all the time, be­ place contracted policies for zations pretending to repz'osent paigns as a means of spreading cause when they are defeated those of his own should imme­ men they actually fleece and their hatred and cashing in they only tiy another angle, such diately have his book pulled re­ cheat. through donations from moneyed All applications for SIU as having you join some lodge gardless of what the policy is. There is no use of further ex­ bigots. burial benefits must be mailed or fraternity for small dues and The members of this Union pense to the members when they The Socialists, Comznunists, to: large promises that never mater­ have voted democratically for have the best with our own dues. etc., have created religions and JOSEPH VOLPIAN ialize. the policy that now carries, and We will continue to stand fast demand blind unquestioning ac­ Special Services Dept. I would like to call on every any individual or group disrup­ against all attempts at disrup­ ceptance of their creeds, different Seafarers Intl. Union member to watch for these men ting that policy, whether they tion and shall protect our mem­ though they may be. 51 Beaver Street everywhere and unhesitatingly be Commies, Trotskyites, So­ All of them profess Karl Marx bers so that we may progress New York 4. N. Y, denounce them, because they cialists, IWWs, Democrats or Re­ ever forward together in the fu­ as their Patron Saint but from £3 not only take your fees for publicans should be classed as ture, as we have in the past. {Continued on Page IJ) Beware Of Misleading Ideologies, Is Brother's Warning To Seafarers Attention Agents �Friday. May TIS. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Filieen Headquarters Reports To Membership If All Ships Delegates should It was also recommended in Branch be transferred to the (Continued from Page 3) . sailed, or the ship should be check the shipping cards of, all 'Gonterence that Port .ot 'of Galveston, ^ . . e bought back to a port where the Agents • •Gonterence t^aiveston, where wnere they iney members shipping on SIU ships Board foi a hearing m Sun Oil gjy the when situations like this arise, will work under the supervision Tankers and this hearing Secretary-Treasurer of the Galveston Agent, and that and if they do not have a ship­ ^heduled in Philadelphia for previously gone on rec-1 bring these actions before the the Port of Houston be covered ping card from the Union Hall, they should not be allowed to ^ c u ord not to pull any job actions j membership. This is now being from Galveston. The Organizing Staff has gone . ^ ^^ • ,i • .u '.i ship aboard an SIU vessel. This leaves one branch in the , iu ™ in foreign ports, especially m the done, down the line with the economy ^ . Along with the economy pro­ A recommendation was ac­ Te.xas area. However, it puts program and has reduced its Or- i ° pain. gram, the Headquarters Offices ganizing staff accordingly. This Another beef that is coming cepted at the last meeting by the four elected officials in the Port has further reduced its staff has been done with the thought "P regular from all ports is 'the membership in all ports to close of Galveston where all ports since the last meeting. the Branch of Poi't Arthur. This can be covered from that port in mind that the Isthmian Drive authorization of overtime. Inasmuch as the closing of the In a number of instances. is being done and the elected is practically over and that all . in Texas Ports involves the organi­ Branch Officials must cooperate members of the unlicensed per- Agent of that port will be zational drive in those Ports, in every manner with the Or- sonncl have bought in overtime transferred to the Port of New Paul Hall, Director of Organi­ ganizers in order to keep up vvhich they claim was authorized Orleans where he will replace zation, has been instructed to the efficiency of this Staff in by the Heads of the Departments on appointed official. meet me in the Port of Galves­ Jack Parker, Galveston Agent, future organizing activities. | and which the Heads of the ton where we will attend the recommends that the sub-branch It is to be pointed out to all Departments deny authorizing, regular meeting in that Port and make a survey and work out officials that a heavy organiza-1 This develops into an argu- of Corpus Christi be closed and that that area be covered by plans so that the organizational tional drive is still underway ment between the Union and the the Galveston Branch. drive will not be hampered in and to insure the best results, operators as to who is telling Charles Haymond, Houston the Texas area. they are instructed to cooperate the truth and often when it is Agent, has recommended that and to accept as part of their in the Stewards Department, regular duties all organizing act-, there is an argument between the Port of Houston be closed. ivities in their respective ports, two SIU members. Upon the strength of the rec­ At other times, it may bring ommendations from the respec­ with the same efficiency and a Tops In The Bridge Beefs about a dispute between one tive ports listed above, it is hell of a lot less expense. The Manrope Knot, an Alcoa another. Therefore, hereby recommended that in­ NEW YORK—In my day I've All members making ships in ship, was anchored out from the •recommended that every asmuch as there is no elected the Texas Ports must be shipped payed off and signed on a lot of loading berth in the Port of niember in the unlicensed per- official in the Port of Corpus j through the Galveston Hall. It ship.s. In the course of this I've Spain, Trinidad, for 1.5 days. The sonnel request a slip authoriz- Christi, that that Port be closed tj; tiierefore recommended that ran across all kinds of skippers, crew refused to move this ship I overtime at the time he immediately. any man who ships on a ship in if I to choose one who I makes it, as per the agreement. It is further recomended that any Te.xas Port who has not thought was tops I have my seuntil such a time as the com­ the Houston Branch be closed shipped through the Union Hall, Section all ready. pany pulled the Skipper off. Canadian District at least temporally and that the in Galveston be classed as a fink He is Gus Anderson, Master of It is evident that this old man the SS Robert Stuart, South At­ The Canadian District of the two elected officials from that, and dealt with as such. is a buckaroo Skipper. The en­ lantic Steamship Company. Cap­ tire crew of the ship, including SIU has offices in Monti-eal, tain Anderson is a real oldtimer, all officei's, are in favor of get­ Canada. All Seafarers arc urged having sailed the seas for about to contact Gene Markey at 1440 ting him off the ship. 40 years, and during the long However, the crew should Bleury Street, and give him any time I've known him I've never have taken their beef up in the heard of him giving anyone a Port of Mobile before the ship hard time. And I've never heard of any of his crews saying a bad word about him. He is probably one of the best known skippers in maritime, as ASHTABULA 1027 We.st Fifth St. "It's Tommy this and Tommy {Continued From Page 14} it seems that every oldtimer in Phone 5523 that. BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. him on they follow different the business has sailed with him And chuck his out, the brute, Calvert 4539 paths—for exam.ple, the Com­ at one time or another and they • But he's 'Saviour of his coun­ BOSTON 276 State St. munists that of Russian National­ all go to bat for him. Boudoin 4455 try,' ism and the Socialists that of BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. When the guns begin to GOOD UNION MAN wishful international dreaming. Cleveland 7391 shoot." Captain Anderson is a good CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. That there can be no possibility And the same applies to labor. union man himself in the MM&P, Superior 5175 of any combination of these CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. aid that you can in his efforts When the wheels stop turning,'and always give 100 per cent co­ forming a labor party is shown Main 0147 to organize the Canadian Sea­ in answer for an application for' fields remain unfilled, and operation to the Patrolmen at CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. production ceases, and hell can't the payoffs doing whatever he Corpus Christi 3-1509 men on the East coast. membership in the Socialist Since he has been there, some party: a question as to v/hat hap­ ' stop labor from getting what it can to insure an easy time for all. DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 of the men from a couple of wants. I handled a payoff of the Stuart pens to one who disagrees in the DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. ships have been gassed up and The left wing politicians call the other day and Captain An­ j Communists, and a question as — Melrose 4110 the acceptance of trade union this a political general strike, derson was right there helping GALVESTON 308'/a—23rd St. have been giving him a bad time and a prelude to revolution and out wherever he could. He told Phone 2-8448 instead of cooperating with him. policy to a Trotskyite. the seizure of power. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. me the crew on the Stuart was The Hall in Montreal will be The Socialist replied, I cannot Phone 58777 The right wingers call it an­ the best he had ever had. very beneficial to the Seafarers accept your application for mem- archy. insurrection and a lot of HOUSTON 1515 75th St. Not one of the crew was ab­ because you disagree Wentwarth 3-3809 as a whole and representation bership other things. sent and all were sober. The JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. will be given to SIU contracted ^j^h the Socialist Partv. The workingman who has been delegates had all overtime sheets Phone 5-5919 ships hitting that port. The Communist said. There; on :picketlines calls it damn good , typed up and everything was •MARCUS HOOK 1 >/s W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 can be no disagreement among common sense, economic action in readv for the smooth payoff that Economy Program MILWAUKEE 633 South 2nd St. Communists, party discipline is •defense of his inalienable rights, followed. MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Most of the ports have been paramount. | America and the American I guess he set an example for Phopj 2-1754 following the economy .program And the Trotskyite stated. If system is a hell of a lot better the crew, as the ship was one of MONTREAL 1440 bleury St. out at the last Agents' the union were to adopt a posi- Ihan anything thus far estabNEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. laid the cleanest, and easiest I've ever Magnolia 6112-6113 Conference and which was ac­ tion contrary to my tenets I lished. handled. If the Maritime indus•NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. cepted by the membership. would lie forced to give up my| Pie in the sky dreams are all ti-y had more Captain Andersons HAnover 2-2784 However, the Port of Boston union membership. • right for the dreamy-eyed spitoon' the life of a seaman would be NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Phone 4-1083 seems to nonconcur with every Thus none of the three repre- philosophers or the patronizing the best. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. recommendation in reference to sentaive left wing groups make iritellectual, but workingmen 3 Jimmy Sheehan Lombard 3-7651 cutting expenses in that par­ any pretense of democracy. j standards are measured in terms , PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. ticular port. They have gone m • • xu o • 1- X X of bigger and better pork chops. Phone 2-8532 To join the Socialist party one ^ x i1 i , „ , , . .more comfortable homes, better PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. on record at several meetings mu.st agree ,beforehand to theiri _ conditions and the opportunity t:i Beacon 4336 there to put on additional help. philosophy. RICHMOND. Calif 257 5th St. However, Headquarters has live an all around bettor life. DOMINIC ZAPPIA Phone 2599 To be a Communist you must These things can all bo obtainnever been directly contacted SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. Your mother has recently' un­ cease to think when told you are by the judicious use of labor's Douglas 5475-8363 from that port in regards to put­ dergone an operation and your power through the medium of SAN JUAN. P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon ting on additional men. parents are very anxious to hear San Juan 2-5996 In a question as to union policy his democratic trade unions, It is pointed out that the from you. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. versus Trotskyism, the political Anything from a job action to Agents Conference went on recPhone 8-1728 J. i- J. number of belief comes first regardless of a general strike can take place SEATTLE -86 Seneca St. oi'd that, when a CHARLES J. BROWN. JR. what union membership decides. within the existing U. S. form of Main 0290 ships are paying off or traffic government. Your father has a very import­ TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. is heavy in a particular port, ECONOMIC ACTION iPhone M-1323 These actions give labor rep­ ant message for you. temporary men be put on ac­ TOLEDO eiS Summit St. resentation and win labor bat­ Its the old story of being wash­ 4- i i WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. cordingly. tles. Economic action is educa­ N. J. WUCHINA ed in the blood of the lamb, tak­ However, in the Port of Bos­ Terminal 4-3131 A letter from your wife re­ VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. ton, they still have more men ing the sawdust trail and letting tional rather than revolutionary, Garden 8331 education for the legislator in quests that you get in touch with on the payroll than was rec- faith do the rest. VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. "Washington as well as the work­ her immediately to sign some Kipling, in his famous soldier commended by the Agents ConPacific 7824 er on the job. very important papers. poem "Tommy" wrote, fei'ence. The Patrolman Says: SIU HALLS PERSONALS IS �Page Sixleen THE SEAFARERS Friday. May 23. 1947 LOG LAKHS'SEAMEN! NJUO 'rv '.^1 vc- COMPAMYW/MWAIH) OHFIT A VNION COHTSai£S> BYARJUTICALPAiaYf h-; « \' o A free democratic uwion tHct has qottg4^ fhe AmeK/caii seaimeKt ffi hiqhest ooacjes and bestconc/ito m the historti op ooorld mar/'tim* xlOIN tk SEAF/initS am.(MIM ... and qet for qourselveo the conditions, job securitq and represenitrhon thdteMerq SlU contract quaranl^s. •, � 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 May 23, 1947 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. IX, No. 21 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SEAFARERS WINS FIRST 40 HOUR WEEK ON LAKES SIU FILES BRIEF BEFORE NLRB ON ISTHMIAN CASE CANADIAN VESSEL SLAVE SHIP; THEN SIU STEPS IN NLRB ANNOUNCES MEETING DATE ON SUN OIL ELECTION PETITION OVERLAKES PURCHASES NINE FREIGHERS FOR LAKES, OFF-SHORE RUNS ANOTHER TRY AT IT PAYOFF PERFORMERS DISRUPT THE UNION MACHINERY AND JEOPARDIZE EFFORTS OF ENTIRE MEMBERSHIP LAKES SEAMEN HAVE ONE QUESTION: WHEN WILL THE SIU REPRESENT US LAKES SEAMEN VISIT SIU HALLS, GET THEIR QUESTIONS ANSWERED THE ONLY BEEFS IN SAN JUAN ARE THE EATING KIND PLENTY OF JOBS FOR SEAFARERS IN CALIFORNIA PROSPECTS POINT TO NO LET UP IN BOSTON SHIPPING AND BUSINESS TAMPA SHIP CHANDLERS DISCOVER THAT SEAFARERS HAS LONG MEMORY PENNSYLVANIA BILLS ARE DESIGNED TO PUT THE AFL OUT OF BUSINESS GALVESTON BRANCH SETTLES BEEF ON NEWLY SIGNED CANADIAN SHIP INFRACTIONS OF SHIPPING RULES PUT UNION, MEMBERSHIP ON SPOT WYANDOTTE AND HURON CREWMEN FOR SEAFARERS ALMOST TO A MAN SIU PRESENTS ISTHMIAN BRIEF TO NLRB SS DIXON SIGN-ON DELAYED 24 HOURS AS BALTIMORE PORT STEWARD CROSSES CREW HIBBING VICTORY CREW WINS PRAISE; COMMENDED FOR GOOD UNIONISM BEWARE OF MISLEADING IDEOLOGIES, IS BROTHER'S WARNING TO SEAFARERS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/23/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/93b314b11a69c64f9505b0e42f434357.PDF 291348897db5280fbebd378f23927f28 PDF Text Text sap Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. SlU Petitions For Election In Sun Oil HEW YORK, N. Y« FRIDAY, MAY 16. 1947 HALT THE FREELOADERS NEW YORK—All members, especially Delegates, are urged by Paul Gonsorchik, Chief Dispatcher, to check assignment cards, books and permits of all men coming aboard their ships. They should make sure there are no discrepancies or evidence of tampering with the assignment cards. Should suspicion exist over the validity of the cards, call the Union Hall dispatcher so that the party involved can be checked properly and dealt with accordingly. Ships that have been getting a lot of freeloaders and lastminute pier-heads are strongly advised to check and make cer­ tain that all crewmembers are present several hours before sailing time. If there is a shortage, call the Union Hall and something will be done. There seems to be a racket running on these last-minute jobs, so keep your eyes open. The SS Point Cabrillo crew was on the lookout and caught a freeloader passed on by a permit man, who had used ink eradicator and substituted the freeloader's name. Some get paid for stunts like this, thinking they can gel away with it indefinitely. They won't get to first base, however, if the members stay on the alert. Keep SIU ships for SIU crews and make those ships the sailing homes they should be. NEW YORK — With the knowledge that the Seafarers International Union already has signed cards from enough of the unlicensed seamen of the Sun Oil Company, Marcus Hook. Pennsylvania, to be qualified as bargaining agent, the Union this week took steps to have an elect­ ion held within that company's tankers. In a letter to. the National Labor Relations Board, copy also to the company, the union asked, that the facilities of the NLRB be used to make the necessary preparations for such a vote. The bargaining unit which the SIU wishes to represent includes the Deck, Engine, and Steward Department, with the Pursers and Radio Operators excepted. The number of employes in the three unlicen.sed Departments totals 420. NEW ORLEANS—At a busy ing shipping in foreign bottoms, According to a communication regular meeting on Wednesday, came in for a share in the dis­ from the Second Region. NLRB. to which the petition was sent, May 7, this port dealt with many cussion. It was pointed out that Marcus Hook is located within issues of vital interest to the this organization wished to com­ bat such shipping, not by eco­ the territorial jurisdiction of the membei'ship. nomic action in the style of the Fourth Region, and the petition Seafarers, but through the use of Topping the li.st was the Mer­ plus the signed cards have been forwarded to Philadelphia. Pa. chant Mariners of America, a publicity. The meeting voted overwhelm­ The request for an election finky outfit recently blasted by in the Sun Oil Tankers climaxes the Union as phony and not ingly against participation in this a four month drive by the Union. working in the best interests of particular set-up. From the first, the unlicensed MULTILITH MACHINE merchant seamen. seamen of that company were This outfit was roundly criti­ readily receptive to the SIU On the subject of the multilith cized and hauled over the coals, machine, which was discussed in litcM ature, and Sun Oil men made the Marcus Hook Hall and the membership once again the Secretary-Treasurer's latest went on record to brand it as report to. the membership, the their headquarters. phony. meeting voted to send the ma­ The Marcus Hook Hall was opened late last summer by Another organization. Ship chine back to the company, with Steve Cardullo, who has been America, Incorporated, recently j the proviso that the Union would in charge there since that time. formed for the purpose of halt- pa.y the regular rental required in such cases. New Orleans Meeting Blasts Merchant Mariners Outfit Brief Strike Wins Seafarers New Milwaukee Clipper Contract MILWAUKEE, May 11— Mili­ tant .Seafarers, crewmembers of the Milwaukee Clipper (a Lake Michigan passenger steamer op­ erating between Muskegon and Milwaukee) today forced the Wisconsin-M i c h i gan Steamship Company to give in to Union contract demands after a short two day strike which tied up the Clipper in this Port. The new contract closely fol­ lows the passenger ship pattern already established by the Sea­ farers recently signed D&C con­ tract, and provides for the 44 hour week for the Deck and Engine Departments, with an ex­ tra day's pay for each seven days worked in the Stewards Department plus other gains in overtime i-ates. After being notified of the im­ passe with the company by Chi­ cago Agent Herb Jansen, the 55 Clipper crewmen struck their ship at 11 P.M. Friday, May 9. They had previously held a meeting on April 30, and voted to strike the Clipper if the com­ pany did not meet the Seafarers minimum demands. Company officials immediately requested the intervention of U.S. Conciliator James Despin, who arranged a meeting between both parties on Saturday after­ noon at the Milwaukee Clipper offices. (Continued on Page 9) No. 20 Labor's Gains In Peril As House And Senate Pass Open Shop Biiis WASHINGTON—Last week the Hartley "Kill Labor" bill passed the House of Representatives by an almost three-to-one majority, more than enough to override a Presidential veto. This week the Senate passed the Taft "Slug La­ bor" bill by a vote of 68-24, or six more than enough to invalidate a veto by It is assumed by comI petent observers that Truman Thus the majority of the i will also veto the compromise legislators lit Washington measure which will come out of ^ • u ! the House and Senate confer- wcnt counter to the wishes of the majority of the people who live in the United States. The Senate Bill has been call-' ed a "milder" one. not because j it doesn't contain practically | every anti-labor proposal in thei book, but because it uses nicer | language than the Hartley Bill, j LI-TTLE DIFFERENCE AFL-aO Talks Suspended For Further Study There are a few points of dif- i With both sides expressing de­ ferences between the two mea-! termination to explore the possures, but conferences will take j nihilities of bringing about a place between committees from' merger m the near future, the the House and Senate, and it is! .'\merican Federation of Labor an even money bet that the re-j and the Congress of Industrial sultant piece of legislation will be Orga.nizations concluded their nothing to displease the National | first peace meetings in WashingAssociation of Manufacturers. 1 ton last week, which is spearheading the drive ^ Representatives of the two lafor restrictive labor laws. ; bor bodies came to no definite (For detailed analysis of the 'agreements on the merger quesHartley and Taft Bill, see page jtion. but they were com.pletely 4,) j united in their determination to The vote in the Senate saw the | battle against passage of the bill passed by a coalition of 47: anti-labor legislation now pendRepublicans and 21 Democrats, ing in Congress. The same number of Democrats The conference heard a provoted against the measure, and'posal "that the national unions were joined by 3 GOPers. j of the CIO affiliate with the Most of the Senators who op-; AFL on the same basis as the posed the bill termed it as "puni-' United Mine Workers—i.e., come In keeping with action adopted ' tive," and warned that it would in as they are now organized by the SIU in regard to ship­ ! lead to industrial strife, rather with their full membership." ping companies whose officers or 'than industrial peace. | ^he CIO rejected the plan, representatives call upon the PUNITIVE, NOT CORRECTIVE 'which also sought to pool the Coast Guard, the meeting went Senator Theodore Green (Dem. • resources of both organizations on record to refuse to sail a ship, Rhode Island) summed up the i in the fight against the current or even move a ship, when the measure when he said, "This bill, • wave of Congressional reaction Hooligan Navy is called in. instead of being a mild measure ^ toward the gains made by labor This use of economic action to curb certain abuses, is a harsh; unions. will prevent the abuse of mer­ measure cleverly and carefully A CIO counter-proposal, which chant seamen at the hands of the designed to kill labor organiza­ the AFL group said was not ac­ tions." operators. ceptable, recommended " f u n cIt is common knowledge that;tional unity"-to fight anti-labor The full terms of the Agents Conference were unanimously the brightest legal minds in the | legislation at once, but deferred supported at the meeting, and it employ of the largest corpora- any concrete action toward real was voted that any official who tions actually wrote the House merger indefintely, until after a long series of conditions had could not live up to the full and Senate Bills. Senator Taft admitted as much been met. terms of the Conference be in­ vited to "take themselves a trip when he revealed that 75 per A joint statement released af­ cent of the corporations had in­ ter the conference expressed the to sea." The officials at the meeting sisted on the most restrictive fea­ two organizations' agreement on were Lindsey Williams, Chair­ tures of the proposed legislation. the need for organic unity. Steps Both bills go far beyond the toward this objective, the state­ man; Buck Stephens, Recording Secretary; and LeRoy Clarke, provisions of the Case Bill which ment said, will be worked out President Truman vetoed last at future meetings. Reader. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 16. 1947 LOG WD/I'T SvmR j Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG - - - President 105 Market St., San -Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL - -- -- -- -- First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER -------- Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER - - - Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER - - - - Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. P. SHULER - - - Secy.-Trea,s. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Poor Justice When the action in the North Atlantic wa.s at its peak, the supplies to the embattled legions in Europe went through. When the Mediterranean was a beehive of Nazi submarines and dive-bombers, the ships of the United States merchant fleet kept right on the job, delivering the ammunition, the food, and the clothing to the troops. When the Pacific was a happy hunting ground for the Japanese death machines, U. S. merchant seamen did not falter in their self-appointed task of keeping the supply lines open. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. St at en Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals Now the war is over, and the men who did the These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, fighting are getting a sm.all recognition from the nation. as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging Loans to start in business with, the privilege of going back heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ to school, disability benefits, care in government hospitals, ing to them. and civil-service preference in jobs. That is, all the men who did the fighting except for the merchant seamen, who were actually the first to fight. Lately, a watered down Bill of Rights for merchant seamen has been introduced in the House of Representa­ tives, Here's what the House Merchant Marine Committee has to say about it: "If is a niiscoiiccption io consider this hill as one which would ^ranf veterans' benefits to merchant seamen . , . They {the provisions of the proposed bill) are inadequate in several respects to meet the problems, especially of education and training, disability and de­ pendency, arising out of war service." That is not justice. Our dead and our maimed speak up for more consideration. Six thousand dead, the highest proportion of any group of men in combat, came from the ranks of the merchant seamen. Ask the men who .served with us in combat. Ask the men who, side by side with us, suffered the tortures of torpedoings and bombings. Ask the men who fought off enemy air and sea attacks v/ith us whether they think there should be a difference between the type of benefits given to them and the type given to merchant mariners. The majority will answer with a resounding "NO!" NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL A. BUCHENHORNER C. PEDERSEN J. HARRISON G. CARUSO P. STOFFEL A. SANDY R. CHRISTIAN A. R. GUIDRY J. AMAYA H. DAUGHERTY P. La Cicero R. WRIGHT G. GREY H. HAMOND C. CASE F. HAMON J. O'NEILL W. BROSE C. MASON A. WALTERS ^ ^ NEPONSET HOSPITAL HUGH BURKE J. S. COMPBELL LINDEN CLARK JOHN T. EDWARDS J. FIGUEROA E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY C. LARSON L. L. LEWIS L. TORRES BALTIMORE HOSPITAL WM. KEMMERER WM. REEWES JOHN WEBB PETER LOPEZ RALPH SIGLER GEORGE WARFIELD CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES LEE JR. ERNEST SIDNEY MANUEL ROMERO FRANCIS O'BRIEN RICHARD HANSEN 4. 4. t. BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON S. WILUSZ D. FARRIS H. SWIM P. MADIGAN R. MORRISON E. MOFIENE E. DELLAMANO J. LEVACK D. BURLISON P. KOGOY D. GROVE 4 4 4 CHICAGO MARINE HOSP. LOUIS JOHNSON STEVE SCHULTZ HENRY T.AIJ.Y You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiems; Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) STATEN ISLAND HOSP. H. R. BELCHER E. E. CASEY V. PLACEY R. G. MOSSELLER E. CARRARAS M. BAUCSKI D. NELSON G. H. STEVENSON P. AMATO J. A. DYKES E. B. HOLMES C. A. MILLER H. SELBY W. R. BLOOM J. MOLINO F. NAGY J. BURGOS N. NEILSON 4 4 4 ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL M. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. McDONALD C. RASMUSSEN B. HOFFMAN J. KOSLUSKY �Friday, May 16, 1947 Canadian SlU Faces Legal Runaround By w. T. MCLAUGHLIN THE CORRECTIOH We're sorry that we made a mistake in the item con­ cerning the NMU carferry sell-out in last week's LOG. We stated that it was "man­ datory" for the carferrymen to take one leave day a week off. That's not so. It's not mandatory because the NMU is now circulating petitions telling the companies that the men want to take 52 leave days a year off. JACKSONVILLE — Counter­ proposals from out of the past, surrounded' by legal verbiage, is the answer of Seaway Lines, Limit'ed to the demand of the Canadian District of the SIU for a contract. What the hell kind of a In a document of 15 closely sweetheart agreement did typewritten pages, the company the NMU sign with the rail­ attempts to confuse the issue of roads that they have to pe­ wages and working conditions tition to take off leave days with laws and regulations. which they are already sup­ However, the men who sail posed to have under their the New Northland arc not be­ new contract? ing taken in by the ruse, and they are firmly united to gain their ends. The proceedings are a classic example of the means which Can­ adian operators will use to halt the seamen in their efforts to gain decent wages and condi­ tions. Now the company is willing to abide by "rules and regulations By PAUL WARREN of any governmental agency hav­ ALPENA — After spending ing jurisdiction," but this same company was content for months three days in this fair city of past to operate its ships with but some 15,000 population, I've no­ a minimum attempt to live up to thing but praise about the hos­ any sorts of standards or regu­ pitality and friendliness. lations. You've heard about Southern SIU Organizers Leave Alpena With Regrets SEAFARERS LOG Page Three lakes Seamen The Only Sufferers As NMU Continues Stalling Tastics By EARL SHEPPARD lays in the election which will give these men SIU union con­ ditions! These stooge tactics aren't hurt­ ing the SIU: they aren't hurting the Wyandotte Transportation Company—but they are hurting the Wyandotte seamen! Every day that the NMU or the company succeeds in holding up the election, just that much longer Wyandotte crewmembers are forced to sail under open shop conditions. fort to have these elections held as soon as possible. Here, again, the tactics of the companies and the NMU are holding up the pro­ ceedings. Both Hanna and Wilson are re­ fusing to consent to elections aboard their ships, and hearings will be held in Washington be­ fore the election are ordered by the NLRB. In addition, the NMU is throw­ ing every possible obstacle in the path of speedy elections, actually playing the companies' game for them by hamstringing the sea­ men's efforts to .select the union of their choice by means of an election. As this issue of the LOG goes to press, we are preparing to pe­ tition other unorganized Lakes fleets. As soon as hearings are held on these petitions and election dates set, we'll print the informa­ tion in the LOG and keep all in­ terested Lakes seamen posted as to the progress being made. DETROIT—Well, the old stall­ ing business has started all over again. By that we mean that the NMU has resumed its usual tactics of delaying and throwing monkey wrenches into the NLRB election machinery once more. At the last meeting held in the NLRB offices, with representa­ tives of the SIU, Wyandotte Transportation Company and the NMU present, NLRB Examiner HURON ELECTION Miss Greenberg gave the NMU The Huron election will be held until Friday, May 9, to showsome time between May 15 and proof that they had sufficient June 11, when the company finds strength in the Wyandotte fleet it convenient to bring both the to intervene in the election which Crapo and the Boardman into the SIU had petitioned for Detroit at the same time. earlier. There's no doubt in our minds Friday came, went, and no that the company could bring the proof was forthcoming. The NMU ships into Detroit before this couldn't produce any because the time, but rather than delay the SIU had 95 per cent of the election by lodging a protest Wyandotte crewmembers signed with the NLRB we reluctantly up on SIU pledge cards! accepted these stipulations for a But the NMU did play the consent election. shipowners' game by pulling one Huron seamen only have to NLRB BOTTLENECK of their old stalls. restrain their impatience to get With one exception, the SIU Despite the fact that the NMU the election over for a short time has long opposed most Washing­ knew full well that the SIU rep­ now, and they'll have their ton Boards and Bureaus. We're resents 95 per cent of the Wyan­ chance to select the union of j opposed to regimentation in any dotte men, and that the NMU their choice as a sole collective form. Our lone exception to this hasn't a snowball's chance in hell bargaining agent. rule is the National Labor Reof winning an election in the According to reports reaching I lations Board, Wyandotte fleet, they deliber­ Many times the NLRB has prcately held up the election by fil­ us from the various organizers who have been contacting the vented long drawn out jurisdicing unfair labor charges against two Huron ships regularly, the tional disputes, and cleared up the Wyandotte Transportation considerable costly delays in var­ Huron seamen are still over­ Company. ious labor troubles. whelmingly for the SIU. HURTING SEAMEN However, a considerable Even though there's been quite We don't care how many a turnover in these two crews, amount of this red tape should charges the NMU files against the new men are signing SIU be eliminated in the processing any of these unorganized opera­ pledge cards as fast as they ship of disputes through the Wash­ tors on the Lakes, so long as it aboard these vessels, and many- ington NLRB. doesn't hurt the men sailing these men have taken SIU books. Time after time, instances like ships. These companies and their the NMU's deliberately stalling There's no doubt that the Hu­ owners' union, the LCA, can well of elections, and the holding up ron seamen will vote for the SIU protect themselves. of certification results through in a big way, because they know However, in this instance the who has won the best conditions phony protests, haVe cost the un­ phonied-up charge prevents the and contracts on the Lakes. Cer­ organized seamen thousands of Wyandotte seamen from securing tainly, the SIU record and con­ dollars in delayed union condi­ the protection of an SIU contract ditions are too well known for us tions. These costly delays must at once. to go into them. Let the record ' stop. This stalling is prolonging the speak for us. It's high time that some com­ open shop conditions on the mon sense is used, cutting out OTHER ELECTIONS Wyandotte ships. Sure, the these interminable delays in the Wyandotte seamen will get their Neither the Hanna nor the handing down of decisions. Our SIU contract and SIU job pro­ Wilson election dates have been'AFL should support the NLRB, tection eventually. But, the set as yet, but the SIU is exert- but we should insist on red tape NMU's actions are causing de­ ing all possible power in an ef- elimination. hospitality? Well, here's a town BREAKING P.OINT some 235 miles north of Detroit That went on as long as the where they really practice gen­ man in the stokehold, the man uine Northern hospitality. at the wheel, and the man wait­ ing on table kept their heads This is no exaggeration, mere­ bowed low and suffered in si- ly a statement of fact. But it's lence. going to be tough to shove off Finally, these men reached a today, and leave my many Alpoint at which the substandard friends behind. They're conditions they worked under p^opje and a credit to any and lived under became intoler­ American community. able. Since the company showed no 1 know it's going to be a pleas­ keen desire to change those con­ ure to come back here again ditions, the crew, like smart men. whenever the opportunity preDecent sents itself. decided to organize, became wages and conditions While up here, we contacted their paramount desire. the SS Boardman of the Huron Until April 14, the wages paid Company, and the SS Alpena of ABs came to $120.00 per month, the Wyandotte Company. Both without overtime. In the Stew-j of these ships are lined up alards Department, for an average most solid for the SIU . 18-hour day, Waiters received only $75.00 monthly. There's an NMU organizer in What hurts the men of the , „ v-, • i. TVT ,1-1 J • 1 town by the name of Davis, who New Northland is the knowledge •' , u u i , , ., 1, has been trying by hook or that the money they should have , • u u j , . . . u I crook to get a job aboard one been receiving in wages before i , ® ., , u, • • u • .V /I K.r the Huron ships for the past this time is bejng used by the company to fight the proposals of the Union. However, everyone is wise to As free citizens of Canada, the him, and they're getting a big By JOHNNY JOHNSTON crewmembers of the New North- laugh out of his efforts. There is no doubt that the land do not intend to be led This Davis individual has been around or deceived by legal jar­ making some big promises in his Seafarers Intei-national Union gon. They wish to see the "good efforts to swing Huron and Wy­ has achieved the highest stand­ intentions and faith" of the com­ andotte seamen to the NMU. ard of wages and conditions for pany expressed in real wages, But these, men are all sold on seamen anywhere in the world. not in wordage. the benefits of SIU unionism, We also have the record of never having lost a beef. CSU TERMS contracts, and protection. No other maritime union can The counter-proposals of the They want no part of the match the many gains our Union company are ludicrous in the fact bankrupt and faction-torn NMU. has made since it was first start­ that they are patterned on the They want a real union with ed, but even so, some members existing agreements between the real contracts and conditions— are willing to jeopardize the fu­ Canadian Seamen's Union and the SIU. ture advances of the SIU. the operators. Just why the Alpena has a number of Lakes When the time comes to ne­ Dominion Government should al­ seamen located in town and in gotiate for new agreements, un­ low itself to be closely identi­ the surrounding area. Many of less certain points are cleared fied with the communist-domin­ these men have seamen's papers, up, and unless certain characters ated CSU is something for Can­ adian seamen everywhere to ser­ but are no longer sailing for a start to cooperate with the ma­ variety of reasons. But they're jority of men who live up to iously ponder on. However, Seaway Lines states really interested in the SIU, and the terms of the contract, our that the CSU conditions are as are doing their best to push the officials are going to run into trouble with the operators. far as they are prepared to go SIU on the ships. and they have formally drawn up Hei-e is what the members of Thanks a million for your the papers. friendliness and fine weather, the SIU must keep in mind: One argument being used by Alpena. Here's one guy who'll Remember, when a ship has the company is that it is a Can- boost your fair "Ity any day in arrived in port and is waiting for payoff, a seaman is still on the week. (Continued on Page 4) Present Contract Will Lead To Better One,7 If articles and must turn to, if on the Hall, report to your ship at day work, or stand watch if a once. Look the ship over, and w-atch stander. i if you decide that you don't It is not right to hit the dock want the job, come back to the as soon as the ship ties up, and , Hall, or call the Dispatcher, and stay ashore until payoff time, j ^ man can be sent to take your By doing that, someone else place. Most important of all—don't has to put in the extra work. and it is a dirty trick to penal-, get drunk for the payoff. If ize the Union Brothei-s who stay j there is any time in dispute, the on board and live up to the Patrolman needs all the infor­ mation he can get to clear it up. contract. And remember, it is possible DON'T GOOF OFF to be logged for this in an Am^ eucan poit. ; makes the Patrolman's job much A SHIRKER I harder. In fact, sometimes he is Another way to put ex t r a ^^ot told about the overtime in work on your buddies is to wait dispute, and only finds out about until the last moment before it days later wdien the drunk sailing time to pile off. This sobers up. By that time it may means that the ship sails short- be too late. By following these simple handed, and somebody else has rules, we can make our jobs to do your work. If you notify the Union Kali easier, and make it possible for in time, a replacement can be the SIU officials to win more sent, and you can be paid off on gains for us when the next mutual consent. agreement comes up for discusWhen you are dispatched from sion. I] �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 16,1947 Anti-Labor Bills fiiYe Bosses Big Weapon If the dominant features of | for the boss to avoid all obliga- workers cannot be discharged the Taft-Hartley anti-labor Bills tions to bargain honestly since for legitimate union activity, but become law, employers will have by merely sitting and listening this law .would kill all that. at their fingertips many ways lo five bargaining sessions, even And any worker who refused with which to stymie union or- if he only says "no,"' he will be to handle scab goods could be ganization, withhold advances in considered as living up lo the bounced out with no appeal, wages and conditions, and wreck provisions of the law. thus attempting to turn good This turns into a mockery the union men into finks. existing unions. All of these are exactly what collective bargaining process. MORE TO COME the National Association of Man­ The proposed law necessitates a These are the main points, but ufacturers has wanted for the 60 - day compulsory cooling - off period, and allows for individual the minor points are every bit past two decades. It is still too early lo prophesy submission of grievances, there­ as vicious. Take, for example, what the compromise Bill will by undermining the union griev­ the provision that would prevent a strike of workers in a plant offer, but if the NAM gets its ance machinery. way, here are the weapons which j 4. Industry - wide bargaining if one worker is given an Un­ justified wage cut. the employer will have to throt- would not be allowed. Companies which compete Or, for instance, if a speed-up tie labor. 1. No worker would have the j with each other would not be is instituted in a department, protection of the closed shop—it : permitted to a.ssociate themselves those employes would not be al­ would be outlawed. | for bargaining purposes, unless lowed to strike. The union shop, under ccr-! the unions in those plants emOr no strike would be le'gal if tain conditions, such as the vol-ploy less than 100 workers each, started to make the employer untary agreement of the em-lor it" the plants involved are recognize the union, or protest ployer and the fact that the more than 50 miles apart. his dealing with a company In essence, this will eliminate union. If the boss commits an union shop was not gained through strike action or threat lo r d e r 1 y collective bargaining unfair labor practice, or refuses of strike action, would be al- J which has been built up over a to agree to union security, in­ lowed. : long period of time. surance, welfare funds, or paid If a union member then re- I STOOGES ENCOURAGED holidays, any strike called to fuses to live up to the rules of ; 5. Company unions will be le- rectify these wrongs would be the union, he could not bo dis-' galized. illegal. charged, since the only cause | Barring actual bribery and And if such strikes should be for removal would be the non-I physical coercion, the employer called, they could be broken by payment of dues. 1 would be permitted to cultivate injunction, or by suits for triple This is a "welcome sign" to; and ennfrol rnmpany unions damages, a n d/or by criminal disrupters and provocateurs, 1 Thus the bosses would be free prosecution. many of whom would be com- I to set up company unions, give pany stooges, working within the j them certain advantages for the time being, and by use of stooges union to destroy it. ONE PICKET ONLY break up the legitimate move­ 2. Mass picketing would be ment of the workers. illegal. 5. Firings for union activity, The United States Senate, by The right of labor to strike, Union members know that the or for icfusal to work on non­ a vote of 68 to 24—six more than to bargain or even to conduct best way to discourage scabs is union goods would be okay. the two-thirds necessary to its own affairs within the bound­ by the establishment of a large Anyone who tried to help override a Presidential veto, has aries of its own democratic or­ enough picketline to make it im­ , build the union in his own shop passed the anti-labor bill spon­ ganizations is curtailed in this possible for the company to send I would be fair bait. Anyone who sored by Republican Senator bill, while industry is allowed scabs through. j believed in the solidarity of the Taft. The Democrats split their to continue its arbitrary swash3. No compulsion for the e.m- labor movement could be fired vote evenly, 21 for to 21 against bucking course. ployer to bargain in good faith. without any recourse. with three Republicans joining If individuals wish to rely up­ This section of the proposed ' Here is a sleeper. The Wag­ the minority. on political action as a recourse, legislation would make it easy ner Act specifically states that Organized labor as a whole that is their business; and if fought the passage of this bill. their faith in politics leads to CIO and AFL forgot their dif­ their destruction, they are wel­ ferences and fought as one. Leg­ come to their role of martyrdom. islators were buttonholed, meet­ Today, however, neither martyrs ings were held, thousands of or heroes, messiahs or great telegrams were sent — every leaders _are needed. The literary cash register rang able talent. In fact, Floyd was peaceful endeavor and every Labor has carved its destiny up a payoff for Ordinary Sea­ 30 enthused over Cowl's com­ form of political activity and on the point of production with man Jesse Wyndon Floyd, first munication telling him of the pressure was employed by labor picketlines and blood. Any de­ Seafarer to cash in on his story­ story's publication, he has begun and its representatives. viation from its militant tradi­ telling efforts as a result of the work on his first novel. Today it is apparent to all that tion can mean only one thing— recent LOG announcements of­ The Seafarer-writer, who is 23, these means have failed. the destruction of trade union­ fering marketing aid to mem­ has been sailing as a member of "Where can labor go? What ism. And the destruction of bers with a flair for writing. the SIIJ since 1943, doing his can labor do? unionism means the destruction The successful Seafarer has writing between trips. A native The politicians will:have labor of the nation, of democracy and one of his short stories, entitled of Phoenix City, Ala., where he believe that the question -must the free institutions which mark "His Own Way," appearing in resides with his parents, Floyd be settled at the polls ,that those America's social ascendancy. the May issue of "The Family threw up a college career at legislators who voted for the As sure as night follows day, Album," a monthly magazine Birmingham - Southern College, bill must be repudiated by labor will retrogression thea follow widely circulated on Long Island. because "he couldn't stomach and liberal pro-labor legislators progress. Call it fascism or what Although Floyd's story brought the stereotyped curriculum." In­ elected in their stead. you will, life, liberty and the him cash, the prestige of hav­ stead, he went to sea. This is well and good, but it pursuit of happiness will become ing his material accepted for Brother Cowl i-eports that the smacks of the story about the forgotten terms with the supublication by the editors Of a response from Seafarers with lawyer who promised to free pre;ssion of labors hard won commercial magazine is regarded ability to write has been far his prisoner client even if it rights. as the greater of the rewards. beyond what he expected. Sev­ took him twenty years to do it.. "His Own Way" is Floyd's eral manuscripts are now being Labor today cannot afford to first successful literary work. read to ascertain their possibil­ wait. Inaction at this time m.eans Floyd's professional entry into ities. destruction long before any pol­ the story-writing field was the Particularly in view of Broth­ itical remedy can be found. direct result of one of the an­ er Floyd's success, Seafarers who LABOR'S STRENGTH nouncements in the LOG. Read­ have written anything they deem Labor's greatest strength lies ing it, he immediately forwarded worthy of publication should in its control of all production (Continued from Page 3) his manuscript to Carl Cowl, a take advantage of the service and the employers existence de­ adian concern and they do not Seafarer whose connection with Cowl is offering. pends, as does labor, -on the benefit from Government subsi­ a reputable agency of authors' Manu.scripts must be typewrit­ continued functioning and op­ dies like their U. S. counterparts. representatives enables Seafarers ten. They should be addressed eration of industry, agriculture, Our reply to that is that the to have their, material read to Carl Cowl, care of SEAFAR­ commerce and transportation. subsidy they have been enjoying without the customary charge ERS LOG, .51 Beaver Street, The great difference between is the most vicious kind imagin­ for the service. New York 4, N. Y. the employer and the employee able—low wages and poor living CONSIDERABLE TALENT -The manuscripts should be ac­ is that the employer may stop conditions-^with profits extract­ Cowl saw possibilities in the companied by . a stamped envel­ operations at anytime he chooses, ed from the flesh and sweat of short story and succeeded in,ar­ ope addressed to the sender's turning production on and off Canadian seamen. ranging for its sale to the mag­ residence to insure safe return like water from a tap, with the Seamen, like every other class azine. Cowl states that Brother in case the material is not up number of workers employed of worker, were never intended Floyd shows signs of consider- to snuff. by nature lo waste their lives being governed by his whims. iti-sfSStca- CAPITOL PUNISHMENT Log's Service To Writers Scores; Seafarer's First Story Is Sold The 1 time has come when the figlit must be taken away from the legislative halls and carried to labor's own selected battle­ field, the point of production. Congress has scrapped the Bill of Rights by passing this bill which draws a strict line between the rights of labor and capital, intensifying the class conflict which, under a demo­ cratic system, should not exist. American labor has seen how both bosses' parties have bark­ ened'to the beck and call of the owners, not the workers. "What these legislators have done is fo commit treason against the men who built up the land we live in. Faced with such treachery, the American worker has but little choice. He must resort to eco­ nomic action, action which will show Congress that there must not be one set of easy rules for employers and corporations, and another set of harsh regulations for workers. The Senate and the House of Representatives have declared themselves on the side of the exploiters. Now labor must rally to its own defense with the weapon which won for it so many gains in the past years. Operator Tries To Give Legal Runaround To Canadian Seafarers away under foul, unhealthy liv­ ing conditions, and to exist for the sole purpose of piling up profits for the shipowners. "We are confident that Seaway Lines will soon discover the wis­ dom of signing with the Canadian District of the Seafarers. Eco­ nomic action is one argument that even these operators will un­ derstand. It will prove once and for aU the dignity of our motto, "The Brotherhood of The Sea." �Friday; May 16v 1947 THE S^EAPARERS LOG Pag© Fiv0 No Meat Shortage On Robin Locksley What with sailing the ship, and taking care of the menagerie on board, the crewmembers of the SS Robin Locksley, Robin Lines, didn't ha/e too much time to stand around posing for pic­ tures. That's why they didn't bother to take the names of anyone appearing in the photos on this page. But the pictures speak for themselves. These are the animals in whose mouths you are not supposed fo stick your head — namely lions. The Locksley crew remembered that, and the voyage ended without anyone getting hurt. Monkeys are the craziest people, or have you heard that one before? Well, anyhow, this monk nestled in the above Brother's arms became quite a pet on the Locksley, and prac­ tically every crewmember had hir picture taken with the little fellow. This is a giraffe sticking its neck out, not the lookout of the Robin Locksley. When a giraffe gets a sore throat, that's really trouble. Brothers, all the way down. Playful little ball-of-dynamite, eh. Although dangerous, this leopard made friends with the crew. Like all the other ani­ mals, however, it got only the most respectful attention from the crew. This leopard has plenty of friends now, but wait till it he or she gets a little older. Bet that Seafarer won't want to come that close to a grown-up cat. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 16. 1947 Shipping Better Than Good In Port Savannah "Keep Hail Fires Burning" Is New Philly Slogan By CHARLES STARLING By EDDIE HIGDON SAVANNAH — Shipping in PIIILADELPHIA-Spring may this southern port is still better have airived all over the United than good with quite a few ships States, but here in the city of in here and in Charleston. We've Brotherly Lovo we are still keep­ covered the ships tied up in ing the Hall fires burning. The both ports and squared away all cold weather seems to be affect­ beefs that came up. ing shipping, and for the first In addition to the excellent ships and is being sent out to the Washington that the so-called time in many weeks, we have By JOE ALGINA supply of ships touching port, agents of all ports. brains in Congress have decided to report slow shipping. NEW YORK—We never tire of three ships from the boneyard The Union went to great ex­ to cut down on the number of We haven't had many payoffs in Brunswick have ben brought passing along a good word, and pense and work to make up these aliens sailing American ships. lately, but we have had quite a again this week the word is good here to be repaired. We expect They do not, however, take cards and have them printed. few ships in transits, and nearly to crew these ships about the with shipping and business ham­ They are fine pieces of work and into consideration that the maall of them have needed some mering along in good style. We if you live by the rules and sug- joritj' of alien seamen sailed all middle of the month. replacements. That has helped can use all the rated men wo through the war, and if any We have just about cleaned out somewhat. can get our hands on for jobs NCW,' AtyFiNE group of men is entitled to citi­ out the house in crewing the We crowed up the Hall J. HERO-W-D«f?f£S,' zenship it is surely the alien sea­ regular ships so we are going in the Deck and Engine Depart­ ments. Kelly, Waterman, and she sailed men. to have a little difficulty in for Norfolk to load coal for Italy, The reason the shortage of crewing these vessels. Some of these men have been We also finally sailed the New men continues is naturally due We'll probably end up by call­ sailing American ships for years, Hall Hills, a tanker that has been to the large number of ships hit­ ing another port for the men. but according to law they must around the port for about five ting New "^ork for payoffs and Here's hoping there is a port have five years on American weeks. sign-ons. Thanks to the inrush with a few men around looking ships before they can qualify for of ships, the Patrolmen have Incidentally, if any port has a lor ships. citizenship. ship going to Bremen, and need­ Just in case the word hasn't been burning their soles contact­ Something seems amiss when ing an Acting AB, please con­ gotten around, the Charleston ing them all as they hit port. aliens who served in the Army One ship that gave the Patrol­ Hall has been closed and all were granted citizenship after tact Walt Gardner in this port. shipping and business for that men an easy time was the Robert only three months service, yet He is on the loose, and has some port is being handled through W. Hart, Waterman. She came an alien seaman must put in five unfinished business over there. in, and paid off the other day in gestions on the card, you'll have years at sea. Someone should go here. SIU WATCHDOG So far all ships tying up in excellent style. better trip all around. down and slraighleii things out Charleston have received quick Brother Tilley, our Patrolman, The cards when they come with the boj's on Capitol Hill. Another vessel here in transit coverage, and the closing of the was not disposed of so easily. aboard ship are to be placed un­ has the slopchest horrors. He is religiously checking slopchcsts of Hall there hasn't worked a hard­ Aboard the William Wirt, Alcoa, der glass whenever possible, and ship on any of the crews hitting there was a beef concerning the are not to be kicked around or all the ships which hit this city, and he is doing a good job of destroyed. They are too valu­ that port. ouarters. making the companies toe the That's about all the news for able for all matters, from ship­ The crew asked that the quar­ the week from Savannah. We ters be changed from wartime board meetings to beefs, to be mark in this respect. can't offer any free drinks or to peacetime set-up, but the com­ torn up. Silence this week from the We have had a few unorganized free shows as enticements but if pany refused, saying it would shipcs in this port, and with the RETIRING BOOKS Branch Agents of the follow­ you want a quick ship to almost cost them thousands of dollars. help of the organizers from New I'd like to say a few words ing ports: any port in the world, Savannah York, we have been able to take concerning the retirement of The crew insisted and the com­ is the place for you. care of them. JACKSONVILLE books. If you are contemplating pany stalled, but now all is se­ MARCUS HOOK Nothing new on our quest for leaving the sea make sure you rene and the boys are happy in GALVESTON a Hall. We know that the read­ retire your book by sending it to their new quarters. As far as MILWAUKEE ers of the LOG are probably fed the 6th Deck, 51 Beaver Street, 1 know this is the last Liberty CORPUS CHRISTI up with our troubles, but anyone under SIU contract to make the or by handling the matter in ASHTABULA who has read up on the housing conversion of quarters to the person. DULUTH situation realizes that our search In either case make sm-e you peacetime arrangement. CLEVELAND for a home is being duplicated Another ship that gave us a get your retirement card. 1 want By W. H. SIMMONS MOBILE by guys all over the United to stress this point, for after tough lime for awhile was the BALTIMORE States. SAN FRANCISCO—This past Nampa Victory of the Waterman every meeting we have 20 or 30 NORFOLK fellows asking for reinstatement. week we had the pleasure of Steamship Company. All hands, including the chief SAN JUAN The majority of these men paying off the SS Thomas J. cook and bottle washer, have The Chief Mate aboard had HOUSTON Lyons, Smith and Johnson, out himself mixed up with God. He have to be refused as the mem­ been spending a good part of about four months. There was was trying to pull a few fast bership stated that men more than every day looking for quarters. The deadline for port re­ a swell gang of real SIU men ones on the crew and thought he one year in arrears in their dues • What we want, we can't afford, ports. monies due, etc.. is the aboard, and they brought the had succeeded until Patrolman cannot be reinstated. and what is within our means, Monday proceeding publica­ So, if you're going to work or ship in spic and span and in Sheehan came aboard and re­ wo wouldn't touch with a ten tion. While every effort will stay ashore awhile, retire your good condition. moved his halo. foot pole. be made to use in the current The Delegates did a bang-up Now the sad soul is looking book, or you'll find yourself out issue material received after We here in Philly did all we job, and all disputes were hand­ for another ship where his meth­ of luck when you get the urge that date, space commitments could to help out the telephone to go to sea again. led at the payoff. ods will be appreciated. generally do not permit us to workers. Now that their strike Right after that, we had the WARTIME HEROES The long awaited SIU foc'sle do so. is over, we wish them a lot of SS Council Crest, an American Card is ready for placing aboard 1 see by the reports out of luck in their future struggles. Pacific Tanker. She came in from a three month trip, and some of the crew liked the Gold Coast so much that they decided to spend a little time here, tak­ ing in our sunshine and refresh­ By SONNY SIMMONS ourselves so short of men at tempts to take men on SIU One of our ships, the Nampa ments. ships from the Seamen's Insti­ Victory, stopped off in Miami the the moment is due to a sudden TAMPA — Shipping in Tampa Brother Joe Barron, who was tute. other day and 1 received a phone ships Delegate, and Brother is still excellent, the only hitch call from Key West. The Hor­ call from the Mate informing All ship and departmental Crawford both have traded the being a terrific shortage of men. ace See, tied up there called for me that a Deck Maintenance delegates are warned to be on Gulf for San Francisco, at least We've combed the gin mills, 15 men and that just about was needed. Because there was for the time being. the restaurants and every place cleaned us out. no Hall in Miami he was going in town, but our manhunt still HAT'S OFF MORE COMING to hire an NMU man from the Joe did a mighty fine^.job on finds us far short of the men In addition to the large crop pier. the Council Crest. In fact, both demanded by the ships calling of Waterman scows in port, we 1 stopped that by informing ships were a real pleasure to for crews. are expecting a couple of Bull him that if the man was hired During the past week 76 men Line ships in from the phos­ handle, and my hat's off to the he might find himself off the crews of the Lyons and the were shipped from the Hall. phate run. It has been several ship when it hit Tampa. The Prospects for the future are very weeks since a Bull Line ship Council Crest. ship pulled into Tampa with a The way everything is going bright, what with Waterman pulled in here. It looks like FWT and an Oiler having been along so smoothly makes me sending ships in here regularly. they're taking a back seat to added in Miami, so when the very happy and easier to get The Waterman Columbia Vic­ Waterman in this neck of the Patrolman contacted the ship he along with. tory is in port now waiting for woods. shooed them ashore. Here's a note for ships signing three Oilers and a Fireman, but Over in Miami we are hav­ The best way for us to avoid articles in the Gulf: Please we have none to give her. In ing some trouble with the Sea­ this trouble is to make sure that check stores and medicine chest addition, we sent the Moose Peak men's Institute, and the crimp the lookout for men taken on in no men are hired in Miami. thoroughly before signing on. off to Batavia, Java, short two hall they've been operating. Miami. The chances are ten to Tampa is only a few hours away This will prevent a lot of trouble men. Since the closing of the Miami one that the man taken on is from that port, so all necessary later on. One of the reasons we find Hall there have been several at­ not an SIU man. men can be taken on here. New York Branch Still Hit By Manpower Shortage; Can Use Rated Men In Deck And Engine Departments NO NEWS ? ? Gold Coast Is Cheerful Place Ships Are Crying For Full Crews In Port Tampo �Friday. May 16. 1947 Boston Begins Construction Of Three New Piers By JOHN MOGAN THE SE 4P A RERS LOG Page Seven The Patrolmen Say,.. Solid Crew Henry Murranka NEW YORK—An excellent ex­ ample of union solidarity and good fellowship was the payoff of the SS Fairisle of the Water­ man Steamship Company in New York last week. There was real solidai ity among the crew, and they .stuck together at the payoff in a manner that was a credit to the Union. At the time of the payoff a joint meeting was held attend­ ed by the entire crew, and all went on record not to payoff un­ til the quarters were made pre­ sentable for the new crew. Two NMU members who were fortunate enough to sign on the ship in a foreign port took the floor at the meetmg and thank­ ed the entire crew for the way they were treated during the voy­ age. hoping he learned his lesson this time. The Chief Engineer and his Assistants are retired SIU mem­ bers and were fairly decent joes. It was evident that they had not forgotten that they had sailed in the foc'sle themselves. On March 7, the LOG carried a story on page 4 headed, "De­ termined To End Bad Shipboard WENT TO BAT Conditions, Four Isthmian Crews The First Assistant and the Hold Meeting in Calcutta." Chief went to bat with me when This story outlined the way a it came to breaking a heavy log chance meeting of four Isthmian imposed upon the Deck Engineer. crews turned into a mass meeting This log the Captain agreed to to protest the deplorable condi­ and was broken. tions of Isthmian ships. By a unanimous vote, the sea­ There was only one break in men present at that session the e.xcellent conduct of the crew. agreed to take action, as soon as One chai actcr was logged for r^ their ships returned to con­ fusing to leport to his station on tinental United States, to make general alarm during fire and boat drill. sure that the bad conditions would be brought to an end. This he admitted, claiming he The ships! crews involved in, could not see the necessity for the protest were from the SS holding a fire and boat drill at Steel Artisan, the SS Memphis sea. You can rest assured that WANTED SIU City, the SS Beaver Victory, and no attempt was made to lift this log. the SS Citadel Victory. They expressed their desire to, Well, that's-the way the story All in all. this crew left no discard their NMU books for trip went. Of course, it was based After that he decided that sail­ cards in the SIU, even though doubt that the SIU has the best member.-jhip of any seafaring un­ on information received via let­ ing was better for him than a they had been NMU members ion, barring none. ter, and although every attempt shoresidc job. AU through the for six years. was made to check the facts war, Brother Murranka sailed Ray Gonzales NOTHING WORKS The Captain of the vessel was carefully, there was a possibility the ships that went to the far 4. i 1. an all-right guy, but he was The headache of the week was of a minor error. corners of the earth filled with plagued with a log-happy Mate. Bu.sy Port the SS William J. Bryan (Water­ supplies for the fighters against A MINOR ERROR The Mate stood by the gangway man). This scow came out of fascism. NEW ORLEANS—The Seafai-ever ready to log men who were the boneyard, crewed up in New ers in the larger ports are turn­ We heard about the error last He made trips through the sub- five minutes late. He liked the York and sailed immediately to week when Henry M. Murranka, ing their eyes to the Port of New infested North Atlantic, the Pa­ wholesale logs too. for he threat­ Boston for loading. Orleans an.xious to know what is AB, .stopped into the LOG of­ cific, and into the Mediterranean, Nothing on the ship was in fice. Hem-y is fresh off the Cita­ when German airplanes were so ened to log the whole crew for going on. Well, here is a sea­ infractions of rules he himself working condition, appai ently, as del Victory, and he wanted us thick they blotted out the sun. man's eye view of the situation. set down. the repair list was a half-mile to know that crews from six The river is lull of ships wait­ Never, however, did he feel as It is the opinion of the Union ing for berths with the Alcoa long by the time they reached ships took part in the meeting, helpless as when the Jap planes that a rcoccurance of tlu se ac­ here, also a beef for subsistence not four. .started coming in over Pearl tions will put him in the posi­ ships unloading their cargoes at owing to the fact that no hot the point in barges so they won't He added the name of the SS Harbor. tion of finding it tx-ry difficult to be delayed. water was pKjvided while on the Allegheny Victory and explained sail another SIU .«hip. Here's SIU ALL THE WAY Thei e are three passenger ships run. that he had forgotten the name in the port at present. The Alcoa of the sixth. Came sign-on time, and the Henry has been sailing onlj' Clipper due to sail the 23rd on The results of the meeting were subsistence beef hadn't been set­ about six years, but from his first her maiden voyage to the islands. tled satisfactorily, nor had the immediate and far-reaching. On ship he has been a member oi The Alcoa Corsair will be laid up repairs been made; so the sign- the Memphis Victory, the two the SIU. It was the Union, ac­ The SIU Hall in Charleston here until June 6th undergoing on was held over pending dis­ .';tew-pots .system was brought to cording to him, that forced de­ has been closed. All signchanges, one of which is the in­ an end, and overtime was more position of these items. cent conditions for seamen dur­ ens, payoffs and coniacling stallation of a first class beauty At this writing the Bryan still clearly defined on the other ships. ing the war, even after the NMU of ships for that port is being parlor. Many of the crewmembers hasn't got the crew on articles, had sold its membership down handled through the Savan­ The queen of the Gulf and although everything may be brought up individual beefs, and the river in favor of Russia. nah Hall. South Atlantic, the SS Del Norte there was plenty of advice offer­ straightened out today. "The SIU is the best thing that of the Mississippi Shipping Com­ ed to help straighten out the var­ Savannah Agent Charles The outlook for the coming every happened to seamen," said pany. is here for a stop-off on her ious situations. Starling assures all SIU crews week in this area is pretty good. Brother Mun-anka. "Aboard a regular run. But it was apparent to all con­ stopping off in Charleston The SS Antinious (Waterman) ship a man would be a slave to that they will receive full docks today, will probably pay­ cerned that the Isthmian beefs WORKING TOGETHER the officers, but with an agree­ coverage and representation off tomorrow; and a couple of would continue until the SIU ment, a seaman is protected." The crewmembers of this ship by the Patrolmen from the tankers are scheduled to pay­ had a contract with the company Especially with an SIU agree­ With this in mind, the assem­ have proven that, when all de­ Savannah Hall. off in Portland before midweek. ment. Ask the man who sails blage censured the National Mari­ partments work together and The latter pai't of the week is under one. time Union, CIO, for its stalling hold their weekly meetings, they still a question mark, but should tactics, and voted to pass the can bring in a clean ship no mat­ be pretty fair for shipping, what word along to other Isthmian ter how large a crew she carried. with the two big ones for Eastcrews. The procedure on the Del ein, and the three or four ex­ In addition, the group went on Norte is for each department to cursion boats, getting ready for record to bring pressure to bear elect a member to act on the end-of-the-month sailings. on the company to improve con­ ship's trial committee, and per­ THREE NEW PIERS ditions once the ships arrived formers are deal with on the ship By LEON N. JOHNSON Construction of three new back in the United States. the same as they would be at the piers, with the most modern After explaining all the above, PORT ARTHUR — Paying off off before the articles were Union Hall. equipment, is due to start today. Murranka started to leave. Just the King Hathaway of the Amer­ signed. The first trip of the Del Norte By their actions they put the was a nightmare. This construction is part of a on an off chance, we asked him a There were ican Liberty Steamship Company union in a bad spot. We prom­ more beefs on her when she got 55-million dollar plan of the question about his sailing exper­ Port Authority to modernize the iences, and before we knew it, gave me a real thrill this week. ised the men necessary to sail back in port that there were in port and afford shippers some we had hold of a very interesting She paid off in good old SIU the vessel and when they weren't Armour's packing house. style with no beefs in any of there at the sign-on the com­ substantially good reasons for story. The last two trips have been the three departments. pany then exercised its right okay and all the credit is due using the facilities here rather AT THE START than to ship by rail to other Not that there were no beefs to pick up any men it desired. the men who try to make a ship This conduct is not doing a home while aboard, instead of ports, as they have been doing. Brother Murranka, by a queer aboard, but the delegates had But, as one wag suggested, a chain of circumstances, found done an excellent job of squar­ anyone any good. The man who a mad house. good start would be raze the himself at Pearl Harbor, on the ing away all the beefs before pulls this trick is hurting him­ The crew on voyage number entire waterfront and start famous December 7, 1941. How the ship hit port. That's the way self in the long run, but he three donated $102.50 to the Ma­ never seems to realize it. building from scratch—for along did he get there? Well, that's a we like to see it. rine Hospital to be divided We had better take,, care of among aU members and tripcard the Avenue, at least, the piers story in itself. After the excellent payoff of the jobs we now have, for it men. It has been the procedure are just about the same as Henry was on a ship returning the Hathaway, we ran into a is due to things like this that in this port to give the permitwhen the Boston Tea Party was from Japan, which put into Pearl little trouble getting replace­ we have to issue new permits, card men something every week staged. Still, it is good to see Harbor. There was an urgent ments due to the small number In the near future jobs won't while in the hospital. construction get started anyway. need for foundry men, ,and since of men in the port. We know the boys in the hos­ be as plentiful as they are now, Incidentally, and also owing to he had plenty of experience be­ We had to call nereby ports so if you are not ready to ship I pital will appreciate and thank new construction of highways, fore deciding to go to sea, he the crew of the Del Norte for and Boston Elevated escalators, applied for a" job and was ac­ for the necessary men and there don't .take the job. we ran into an old problem. At the moment things are thinking of their unfortunate etc., the Union property has tak­ cepted. en a fantastic jump in value, So there he was, working hard Some men were dispatched to looking good for the next few Brothers who are laid up. Buck Stephens with real estate brokers offering and minding his own business, this port, but after accepting days with a promise of good William Brightwell transportation money they went shipping in this port. Here's over twice as much as the Union when "the world exploded right Johnny Johnston aboard the ship only to pile hoping the promise materializes. paid for it. on top of me." BOSTON—Shipping and busi­ ness picked up somewhat during the past week, with a couple of tankers and tiie Yarmouth pay­ ing off here, and many of the ships in transit calling for re­ placements. The tankers, SS Fort Winne­ bago and the SS Celilo, paid off with no disputes hanging fire. The Yarinouth also p a i d off without incident. The crew of this vessel, inci­ dentally, goes on standby while she is in the .shipyard, where she will remain practically until the starting of the Nova Scotia run on May 28. The Evangeline is also sched­ uled to start her run just about the Schne time; but the shipyard woi'k on her is still behind schedule. However, there are in­ dications that she will be ready for her sailing date. Charleston Closes Members Must Always Remember Tbat Contract Binds Both Sides �Page Eight T HE Now Is The Time To Revamp LIbertys Into Livable Ships SEAFARERS LOG Trinidad Racket By FRENCHY MICHELET As all of the steamship com- [ no one overworked. For under panies with which the SIU holds ^ this setup you have a utility to contracts are evidently planning make the rooms, passageways to operate Liberty ships indefin­ and stewards department heads. itely, I think that the time is Much better arrangements can now ripe for the Union to make unquestionably be worked out a determined effort to get de­ by a mechanically-minded com­ cent living conditions aboard mittee, when one is elected to these vessels. look into this problem. The im­ I don't write this in a spirit portant thing is to elect a com­ of criticism, but rather as a sug­ mittee now. gestion for doing the easy way The time is ripe for action. If now what may very well prove ^ show old John Shipowner extremely difficult to accomplish ^^at we intend to get decent livlater on when the operators will jyjg conditions aboard these own the ships outright and must scows, then you can bet your shoulder all the expenses: for I ij^er money that he's going to believe that, with a little pres-1 goose Uncle for the dough while sure, the Maritime Commission goosing's good! will spend the few dollars re-1 A letter mailing service has sprung up in Shagaramus, Trinidad, which may be the beginning of a new rack­ et. Crews of Alcoa vessels hit­ ting this port state that a local Customs man has been contacting ships promising to mail the crew's letters for a small fee, but neglects to carry out his promise. One Alcoa crewmember reports having lost six letters containing ten dollars through his reliance on this service. . To avoid what may be a swindle, crews are urged to route all mail through their Pursers to insure its safe de­ livery. Friday. May 16, 1947 More Shipping Ruies Explained By The New York Dispatcher (Editor's note: To clear up mis­ understandings and misinter­ pretations of the shipping rules, a short series of articles con­ cerning the rules that come in for the most discussion and trouble has been prepared by Paul Gonsorchik, Chief Dis­ patcher, New York Branch. The first article dealt with the shipping rules in general, the second with shipping rule Number 14, and today, I'ules 29 and 30.) By PAUL GONSORCHIK NEW YORK — Last week I dwelt on shipping rule 14 and pointed out that there was no three day trial period in which to regain a shipping card. I also mentioned the fact that the rules covering this are on the back of the assignment cards, and they must be followed to insure smooth operations and ship assignments. Two more rules that come in for much abuse are those per­ taining to promotion aboard ship. They are shipping rules 29 and 30. These rules go hand in hand and the failure to read and fully understand both rules often causes trouble. Rule 29 reads: "Any man may be promoted on a ship providing he is capable of performing the duties required, but he must make one complete trip before promotion." OFTEN VIOLATED This ru'e is one of the most violated and misused of them all, as many men stop here and rush off for their promotion. The rule means that any man may be promoted on the„ship if vessels to the various operators. ' ^ he has made one complete trip Here are some suggestions for and has the endorsements for making Liberty ships almost as that particular promotion, but comfortable aa the old "Hogs" „EHBEHT JANSEN Several meeings were held| Results of the strike are car- that promotion must be from a that were built some twenty during the next 10 days with a ried in another LOG item, so years earlier and of which the CHICAGO—Shipping is again final meeting on the 9th. Still j we won't go into any further demen who designed the Libertys on the upgrade here, and we the company would not give an, tails. However, it should be evidently never heard tell. have quite a few men around. noted that the SIU members on inch. LAME DUCKS The SS City of Grand Rapids, After the ship came in Friday the Clipper responded 100 per Extend the midship hou.sing which is now fitting out in Bennight, the crewmembers were in­ cent like true Seafarers. all the way out on both sides ton Harbor, is calling for her The company was badly sur­ formed of the company's stand. to eliminate the outside midship crew and will make her first trip So they immediately packed, prised to see the men set up port and starboard passageways of the season on June 20. walked off the ship, and set up picketlines in a space of 30 min­ on the main deck. utes with every Clipper crewComing into this port during picketlines around the dock. These passageways are as use­ the week were the SS Penobscot member participating. Members of the ILA, who were less as a lame duck congressman. and the SS Sultana. Once again the militancy and Several driving cars off the Clipper, ob- .the strength of the SIU on the By putting doors on both ends The Georgian Bay of the inside passageways you Lite's SS North American will served the picketline by stopping Lakes was demonstrated by this serve the same purpose. fjrst trip out of Chi- the cars right there. quick job action. Many of these Full cooperation and support Seafarers had never walked a When the sea kicks up and gggg QJ.J ]y[ay 23 with a voyage to it's necessary to dog the forward j Holland, Michigan Tulip Fes- was given the Seafarers strike by picketline before, but they sure rated job. This means it docs not doors, you may pass through the^^j^gj the ILA members, and we owe learned fast! apply to Wipers, Messmen or Or­ our thanks to Brother John boat deck passageway and climb, ^f^er a long layup, the SS When the strike started, the dinary seamen. This is made down the forward ladder which Michigan is again going into op- Brzek, president of ILA Local men didn't know that it would clear in rule 30 which reads: is what everybody does anyway. I g;.ation. She's a sandboat, and 815. be over in less than two day.s, "Ordinary Seamen, Wipers and By extending the housing to ^ m g„ y,g ^g^ gji.. Even though the Milwaukee but tliey were prepared for a Messmen must not be promoted eliminate the outside passage- field strip which is being worked Port Council of the AFL Mari­ good long strike if necessary to on board vessel, but must come ways, you get extra large, airy g^ ^g^ time Trades Department has not secure their legitimate demands. off and register at next rating be­ foc'sles like those we had be­ as yet been chartered, the Coun­ This is the way any beef should fore being permitted to sail at MILWAUKEE CLIPPER fore these bright boys of the cil went into action immediately be won. After every attempt to next highest rating." hooligan navy dreamed up the' ^ ^^-ike was called against the upon notification of the SIU settle an issue fails, job action is If all men would read rule 30 nightmare of crew accommoda- gpgj.gtors of the Milwaukee Clip- strike. I the only recourse. after reading number 29, most of tions for Liberty ships. operates out of Milthe difficulties would be avoided. It makes clear the fact that un­ rated men cannot be promoted seat all of the crew' at once— sengers aboard ship. something which our contracts, the war, she operated The only time promotions of call for but which isn't possible g^ Chicago as an excursion unrated men are allowed aboard under the present setup. i^^jp ^ t^^p daily The SS Petroiite of the Ma- beautiful city when we were for­ ship is during an emergency, and Then, too, the small pantry ^g Milwaukee. Now she's back thiasen Tanker Corporation was tunate enough to visit you on even in these cases the promoted between the crew mess and the g^ ^ler year round run across men should report to the Hall as miles at sea when the terrific April 7th and 8th. old guncrew mess should be Lake Michigan, soon as possible in the first port blasts and explosions rocked the "We pray that our Heavenly reached. moved to the forward end of Negotiations with the Clipper city of Texas City, Texas. Father, in his mercy will com­ the guncrew mess resulting in gpgrators, the Wisconcin-MichiBAD PRACTICE •With amazement and horror fort those of your citizens who an even larger messroom that g^^ gS Company, have been the crew listened to the radio Taking promotions aboard ship are bereaved and will heal and will be as comfortable as any dragging on for months with no reports of the catastrophe that when a man is violating the ship­ afloat today. comfort those who are wounded progress being made in the drawhad overtaken the Texas water­ ping rules is definitely not i:i ENLARGE GALLEY and injured." , ' ing up of a new agreement. Finfront city. It was with cold shiv­ the union spirit. Not only that, The galley could be substanticlipper management ers that they remembered being although most men are unaware aUy enlarged simply by extendthat they would go along tied up at a pier in the center of it, they are leaving themselves mg It forward to eliminate the the rest of the passeiigei of the disaster area only a week wide open for charges to be forward thwartships passageway operators. earlier. placed against them. and moving the door to the port ^fter the signing of the D & C, Members whose gear has In addition to this, the accep­ Deeply touched by the dis­ side. There still remains the af- Georgian Bay, Bob-Lo, and C & been held for more than three tance of an undue promotion can aster that had taken place, the ter passageway for communicat- g contracts, which set up the mean the loss of a job to some­ months in the fourth floor crew of the SIU ship got together ing between port and staiboaid. 44.hour week pattern for Lakes one who has fully qualified him­ baggage room of the New Finally, on those Libertys that passenger boats, another meet- and collected $106.00 to be sent self for the job. do not have a saloon pantry, one jng was arranged with the Mil- to the relief of the city as an York Hall are advised to call At the present time with ship­ expression of - their sympathy. should be installed. It's more waukee Clipper owners, for it immediately, or notify ping good, jobs can be taken off work for the saloon messman to At this meeting, the SIU NeIn the letter which accom­ the Hall where they wish it the board with little difficulty, carry his gear back and for- gotiating committee flatly turn- panied the money, the crew but when jobs become scarce en­ sent. ward to the crew dishwasher ed down the company's offer of stated: forcement of the shipping rules than it would be for him to wash a six m«nth's contract with other Crowded conditions make "The sum of $106.00 was col­ will tighten, especially those his own. He serves only ten demands refused, lected and subscribed by the it impossible to hold gear concerning shipboard promotion. people and it would be a cinch On the next day, April 30, a crew and some of the officers of longer thai^ three months. All The best way to avoid any dif­ for him to wash his own gear shipboard meeting was held the SS Petroiite as an expression ficulties or the possibilities of effects remaining unclaimed if he had the facilities to do so. abord the Clipper at Muskegon, of our sympathy in your disaster. charges being levelled at you is after three months will be Both the crew messman and and the assembled crewmembers It was with stunned horror that to prepare for that time now by the dishwasher could then serve gave the company a 10-day we heard the announcement of sent to the owner's home via learning the provisions of the the crew and both pitch in and chance (until May 9) to meet the catastrophe while miles at express collect. shipping rules. wash the gear, just as they did the SIU demands or else they sea. It is a good union man who Gear without addresses under the old setup, with the re- would strike the Clipper. The "We shall never forget the knows his union rules and con­ will be disposed of otherwise. suit that the crew would get a|company was notified of this ac- friendly atmosphere nor the stitution and follows them to the hell of a lot better service with tion. warm hearted hospitality of your letter. Clipper Strike Once Again Showed Militant Spirit Of The Great Lakes Seafarers Petroiite Crewmen Remember Blasted Texas City As 'Friendly' Unclaimed Gear �Friday, May 16, 1947 Vessels On Move In Buffalo As Ice Is Broken By FRANK MOHAN THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nina NAM'S Promised Poad To Freedom'Only Leads To The Open Shop And Slavery For The Worker By LOUIS GOFFIN izing into unions and through our unity forcing the employer to part with some of the wealth we, the workers, have created. But like the little boy in the sandpile, he doesn't want to share any of his toys. The other six points of the NAM'S program concern certain rights that the union workers .should have in their unions, but by the time they finish relating their seven points the rights of union men have been transferred to the employer. If they insi.st upon continual lefei t rice to freedom and democ­ racy, let them look at the SIU and the SUP. Our membership has these rights through demo­ cratic rank and file control and no one has ever been "coerced" into joining the SIU. For the knowledge of the NAM, the road to freedom has been open to us for over ten years. When the Wagner Labor Rela­ tions Act was passed, it was then that the American worker came out of his .slavery and not through any efforts of the employer or the NAM. PROFITS FIRST The National Association of Manufacturers which claims to be truly American is being trai­ torous to the American people. In its greed to get higher profits it is willing to sacrifice the work­ er on the open shop alter. Through their lying and de­ ceitful articles in the bosses' press, they are trying to swing the axe on American labor, but it's going to take them moi-e than that to succeed. If you haven't read a news­ paper recently you are probably unaware that a road to freedom has been opened to you. A road We know that articles in de­ to freedom for the American fense of unionism will not be worker with the grand opening printed in the big newspapers, and tape cutting ceremonies be­ we do know, however, that ing held up only for a lack of through our labor papers the She was ably assisted by a workers anxious to take the road. truth will be known. John Roen tug, and the 36 ves­ Of course the reason for the We also know that the Amer­ sels which had been frozen in lack of eager travelers to take ican worker will not fall for the for several days, both arriving this road is due to the dubious odorous dish prepared by the and departing, were finally on character of the road's planners employers and their political —the National Association of stooges. the move. Manufacturers. No thanks, Mr. employer and Now, a steady stream of ves­ the N.A.M, for your invitation to So, finding themselves lacking sels heavily laden with iron ore the "road to freedom," we have in volunteers, the boys of the and grain are moving into the NAM have decided to force the already found our road and it Harbor with a minimum of de­ workers down the road to free­ doesn't lead to the open shop. lay owing to the ice conditions. dom through compulsory legisla­ If the wind doesn't shift again, tion enacted by their puppets in Washington. freezing up the ice once more, In the meantime, to soften up things should keep on moving in the workers and make the road this port. a little softer to the feet, the Na­ Sailing on these Great Lakes tional Association of Manufac­ breeds as hardy a race of sea­ turers has been placing full page By J. M. (WINDY) WALSH day an average of six hours pei- the ;"acti()nai'y congre.ss, we can men as any in the world. Cer­ advertisements in the newspapers day. Do not for one minute think e.xpect to be number one on his tainly, the unsettled weather con­ extolling the virtues of the "road In the past, a good many of that the boss is not carefully offensive. We can, and must, us have been prone to look up­ ditions on the Lakes in early to freedom." keeping records of every action lorstall hi.m by being union men. Spring and Fall are as tough as on the SIU agreements as in­ that we perform aboard his In their advertisements, paid In every other trade, as in any other place, and lot tough­ struments forged merely for our ships. for by the big corporations, this one, the union 'man is look­ er than most areas. protection against the boss, to seven points are listed which He has done it in the past and ed upon as the best in the game. be invoked when it served our they grace with the title of "A GOOD BUNCH for sure he will in the future. A mark of distinction that is purpose, and ignored if it was Bill of Rights for the Worker." against our selfish interests. Not only are these Lakes sail­ WATCHING AND WAITING applied by most officers aboard The first is the right for any ship that I know is the remai'k: ors hardy, but they're as good a Such one-sided thoughts must Today, in a flurry of export "They are SIU men." man to get a job whether ho bunch of shipmates as you could not be allowed to survive, if we shipping, the shipowner has as­ belongs to a union or not. Everything we have has been wish to sail with. A number of ourselves wish to survive the sumed an air of bene\'olence. won on the bricks, across the these men have benefitted con­ inevitable anti - labor legislation AWFULLY WORRIED table and on the ships. We must siderably from the gains won for due soon from our Representa­ This bothers the NAM greatly. tives and Senators in Washing­ protect ourselves and live up to them by the militant actions of PfAPy... AIM... They are awfully worried about our agreements. It is serious, the SIU. ton. you and me getting a job and no matter how lightly we take In the eyes of the law an Although a good number ot having to join a horrid union. it now. them are sailing on unorganized They want us to be free men to agreement is a legal contract So. boys, bear in mind that the ships, still a large percentage of choose. the job we want without binding upon each party to the extent set forth in the body of Bosun is living up to the Agree­ these Lakes seamen are mem­ being "coerced" by a union. the contract. Under our agree­ ment when he peps you up a bers of the AFL just waiting for This from an organization ments we have certain privileges little or holds you to twenty the day when an election can whose reputation for union-bust­ guaranteed us. minutes for coffee. be held aboard their ships, and ing, labor-hating and profitsThere are certain duties im­ He is living up to the agree­ they can register their choice of greed is only too well known to posed upon us. both v.uitten and ment which is our protection as a union bargaining agent. union men. understood. These obligations long as we fulfill our obligations When that time comes, they This is the same bunch that must be met by each and every under it. will mark their ballot for the spent thousands of dollars and member while aboard ship, if FOOLING YOURSELF SIU in order to win the best con­ successfully smashed price con- we are to continue as the most tracts and conditions on the trol so we could have the free- powerful force in maritime, This serves his aims as it creates Bear in mind. also, that you Lakes. dom to pay twice as much for How foolish is the crewmem- an atmosphere of friendly laborhurting the company one food and clothing. ber who brags about "sticking relations; but never forget that' bit when vou get drunk and The first point, the right to get the company." He must be feeble the minute this boom is over and | chop up furniture, smash dishes, a job whether a man belongs to minded to reason in such a man- the real shipping competition throw food away and raise hell general a union or not, is a laugh. That's ner. for each violation of the starts, he will start looking for ways and means of eliminating 1 r ,• contract, both in the letter and all we need Brothers. You are only fooling vourself, excess costs. j , We know from experience 'he spirit, serves to forge tools and piling up a mass of evidence We are certain to be his major that may someday come tumbwhat it means if this becomes foi" use by the employer. target. With ample support from ling down on your head. the law. First it would mean that HELPING THE OPERATOR the employer gains the right to Each such action is strengthshipowners hand in At the payoff of the SS King employ any one he chooses and negotiations, Hathaway in Port Arthur this that means the immediate negotiations it is not alweek, the crew pitched in and loading of all union employees to ^,3^^ ^^e best argument that donated a total of $37.00 to the be replaced with finks. Seafarers in the Galveston Ma­ The employer also gains the ^.-ins the point, just as in poker rine Hospital. right to cut the wages and work-'the best hand does not always {Continued from Page 1) strike the siiips whenever necesthe pot. Those contributing to the re­ ing conditions through threats of Finally, General Manager RaA' firing now that he has no union Pressure can force the best cuperating members of the SIU always received hand to diop out. Pressure on Van Beckum agreed to the SIU ',the best wages and were: L. G. Colon, J. Parker, B. to contend with. conditions on the part of the boss can consist contract terms which were then Lakes, and we have the best Fouler, H. Wall, G. Muirhead, D. ROAD BACK of countering every demand of submitted to the membership contracts. We intend to keep it Cesser, R. Kerhley, A. Stanton Then, through this freedom ours with a carefully tabulated for ratification. After member­ that way, and this action of the and F. Otves, each two dollars. given the worker, the boss would list of the misdeeds of our va- ship approval, a further meeting Seafarers aboard the Milwaukee The following members con­ gradually push back working rious union brothers aboard at 3 P.M. Sunday was necessary Clipper further proves our point. tributed one dollar apiece: A. conditions to the days of the ship. to sign the new agreement. "Our white caps are oil" to the Longe, A. Smith, B. Hager, T. Coolidge era, when there was If we ask for increases in militant Brothers on the Clipper Tobiassen, D. C. Crockett, J. A. tremendous prosperity for the linen, for example, they can Service will be resumed on the who had guts enough to go out Robillard, R. A. Barrett, V. Ro- bosses and misery for the work­ show where our crewmembers Clipper with the scheduled 11:55 and fight for their demands. We male, C. Wilson, G. Maher, ers. are using towels for rags, mops, P.M. trip to Muskegon tonight. also owe a debt to our AFL O'Tere, M. Dellane, A. Aubin, We will have gained "freedom" etc. Great Lakes District Secretary- Brothers in the Longshoremen. T. Heaton, D. Cavanaugh, J. and the employer will have gain­ If we ask for food increase Treasurer Fred Farnen praised John Brzek, Milwaukee ILA Viladesan, A. Silver, Smyth and ed his unmolested profits. they can counter with proof of. the strikers for their militant job president, as well as other AFL G. Bloemanl We know, and the bosses know, wastefulness, pilfering and other action, and stated, "It's high time affiliates in the Port Council, Meanwhile, up in Boston, that the only way the American forms of destruction. the shipowners realized that the went down the line 100 percent If we ask for better working SIU is here to stay on the Lakes, with the SIU, and they have our Mario Albei^o donated three worker has been able to gain high dollars to the Brothers in the wages and good working condi­ conditions aboard ship, they can and that if they don't agree to thanks from the bottom of our we'll heart.s," concluded Farnen. tions has been through his organ- show where we are working to- our legitimate riemand.s, Brighton Marine Hospital. BUFFALO — Arriving in this port last Friday, May 9, the gov­ ernment ice breaker SS Mack­ inaw has done a swell job of breaking up the huge ice pack . outside Buffalo Harbor. Collective Bargaining Is Two-Way Street, The Union Must Keep Its Obligations, Too X Seafarers Give Helping Hand To III Brothers Brief Strike Wins Seafarers New Milwaukee Clipper Contract �THE Page Ten SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 16. 1647 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Camera Nabs Lafitte's Overtime Pirate Schuyler Crew Charges CG Disregards Seamen's Safety The United States Coast Guard's apparent disregard of the welfare and safety of American merchant seamen has drawn stern censure from the crew of the SS Philip Schuyler * 2 Character at rail of the SS Jean LaFitte is not fishing. Apparent not knowing he was being watched through porthole by alert Messman with camera, the Chief Mate paints way. 2 Just so there'd bo no mistake. Messman gets up behind the Mate just as he swishes a brushload of paint. Now there's no denying the guy was chiseling on the Deck Department. Chief Mate Mars Voyage To Far East The SS Jean LaFitte pulled into New York last week to wind up what crewmembers described as a "good trip." The V/aterman vessel was out four months on a run that in­ cluded stops at San Pedro, Man­ ila, Shanghai, Masinloc, Singa­ pore, Port Sweatenham, Penang, Aden and Port Said. A1 hands agreed there was a good crew aboard, with particu­ lar plaudits going to the Deck Department. The LaFitte's skip­ ^ The piratical paint job over. Chief Mate E. S. Albert slips away while Messman completes his photographic rec­ ord of the incident. Me.iter has been turned over to the Union. Good Deal One of the most difficult tasks in connection with writ­ ing is finding a spot for pub­ lication. The task, however, has been made easier for Sea­ farers who have written—or are about to write—stories or articles v/ith a salt water tang. An arrangement has been made with a reputable agency of authors' represen­ tatives, who will read your material without any charge. If the stuff has possibilities it will be brought to the at­ tention of publishers for pos­ sible sale. Send your manuscripts— typewritten, of course — to Carl Cowl, c/o Seafarers Log. 51 Beaver Street. New York 4. N. Y. Enclose a stamped envelope, addressed to your permanent residence to in­ sure safe return in case script is not up to snuff. per, Captain Fred C. McNaught, drew a round of applause for his cooperation with the crew. Sev­ eral of the crew said the skipper was "the best we ever sailed with." Only thing that marred an otherwise clean record through­ out the voyage was the presence of the Chief Mate, who pirated overtime rightfully belonging to the members of the Deck Gang. The Chiefs painting piracy was reported to the Union, by James Marshall, Deck Delegate. Bridge Invades Foc'sle; Wears Crown King Still King is But no Thomas W. tops as the still the champ!—or the champ is still King! matter how you look at it, the fact is that King, an AB out of West Virginia, still rates best bridge player in the maritime indus­ try. His mastery of that cardt game is fast becoming a legend you guys aren't hep to the jive), the Bosun was leading by 1800 in shipboard gossip. points. On the return voyage King's latest successful defense Taylor took the lead at the end of his title was made aboard the of the 150th rubber. SS Bessemer Victory during a re­ By the time the Bessemer hit cent trip to Bremen and return. New York, the contest was along Three of his shipmates—no mean hands themselves — who had in the 193rd rubber, and King, who had been pacing liimself heard of his prowess with the carefully throughout the game, cards threw down a challenge .stepped into the lead by 1500 that no real king.—certainly not points. There was less than 5000 a Thomas King—would side step. points difference between the INTERNATIONAL GAME high and low scores, which. King The Bessemer Victory got un­ pointed out, was very close for der way. So did the bridge game. a pivot game as long as this one. An international air surrounded KING WINS the contest. Matching skills with The order of the finish at the Brother King were E. Smet, Bo­ trip's windup was thus; first. sun, of Antwerp, Belgium; Robert King, second, Taylor; third, Taylor, Chief Electrician, of Ma- Hixlge, and fourth, Smet. lone, N. Y.; and Ted Hodge, Deck King was still king. And the Maintenance, of New Zealand. Seafarer bridge-enthusiast, who In describing the course of the began sailing in 1925, and who contest. Brother King had a between shipping dates makes mountain of labor for the LOG shoresided bridge players look reporter's savvy of bridge is con­ sick, looked forward to more fined to a working knowledge he challenges to his skill. He has received during a visit to the no fears about being defeated, dentist. <• however. He figures he can take King revealed that^ on arrival them all. in Bremen, after 80 rubbers "It's just in the cards," he (something like an inning, in case bpined. The Schuyler men said they at Key West, Fla., so that he were "convinced" that a feeling could receive proper professional of antagonism is responsible for care and the benefit of x-ray fa­ the Coast Guard's altitude tow­ cilities. At the last moment, the Coast ard merchant seamen. They be­ Guard radioed the Schuyler that lieve, too, that the further apart the two groups are, the better Pritchett's case "was not consid­ conditions will be for the seamen. ered an emergency" and refused In a signed statement released further aid in the matter, it is to the boarding Patrolman when charged in the crow's statement. As a result, Pritchett had to the ship pulled into New Orleans recently, the crew took the Coast remain aboard ship until the Guard to task for its retraction Schuyler arrived in New Orleans of a promise to effect the trans­ eight days after the accident. MORE IMPORTANT fer to shore of an injured crewCommenting on the reversal member aboard the Schuyler. The Coast Guard's turn-about in of attitude the crew's statement attitude came after all plans had said, "That arm belonged to been completed aboard the Pritchett. He might like to use Schuyler to have the man remov­ it for the rest, of his life . . . Does the Coast Guard consider the ed for shoreside treatment. American Merchant Marine as PRITCHETT HURT Roy Pritchett, Oiler, aboard necessary to the welfare of the the Schuyler, was the man whose citizens of the United States as injuries resulted in the crew's it does its own department? '"If they do, do they imagine statement. Pritchett, who is also a licrtised electrician, was re­ they are inspiring the confidence quested to examine the motor of of the great body of taxpayers the galley blower. He was ac­ who support the subway sailors companied by the Chief Engineer. and make the Coast Guard pos­ While Pritchett was preparing to sible . . . "We, the members of the examine the motor, the engine room skylight fell down on his crew," the statement continued, arm, inflicting a severe break, "are more convinced than ever that there is nothing but a feel­ the crew's statement said. Everything possible to render ing of antagonism on behalf of first aid and make the injured the Coast Guard for the Merch­ Seafarer comfortable was done ant Marine and the further aboard ship. The Captain signal­ away we are from them, the bet­ ed the Coast Guard for aid and ter off we will be. "This separation can be accom­ a cutter was dispatched to the scene. Then, a life boat was plished by our united and dili­ dropped over the side to pick up gent effort. We have a war rec­ morphine with which to east the ord to be proud of. If the Coast severe pain Pritchett was suffer­ Guard didn't match it, now is the time for them to make amends ing. Arrangements were made not widen a breach that will ul­ aboard the Schuyler to have the timately sign their own "death men sent to a shoreside hospitaU knell," the statement concluded. THE BELL RINGS FOR CHOW Meal-lime on the SS Alexander G. Bell is a looked for event. Sealed around sumptuously laden table are several of the wellfed Seafarers crew. At left side of table, from front to rear, are Barney Henkly and Arvid Gylland. On the right, same order, p.re Clifford Clousse, John Schupsticks. Eddie Kopka and Carlyle C. Kirk. Responsible for the bell-ringing menus are Steward Hoss McKinnie. Chief Cook Benny Calliorina and Delegate Jimmy Dayton. Meals include such delectables as oyster eocktail, sliced chicken and veal steak, grilled to order. �Friday, May IB, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief PILOT BUTTE. Aug. 29. 1946 —Chairman L. A. Connors; Sec­ retary L. T. Higgins. Deck Dele­ gate asked why fruits were be­ ing left out to rot. instead of putting out just enough for one night. Water fountain repair necessary. Baker asked to make more pies and cakes. Suggestion to see Chief Mate about securing buckets. Lux soap, lye and equipment to clec,n heads at next port. Stew­ ard to put a better brand of coffee aboard. List of fines for various offenses drawn up and approved by all. t 4. 4. ALCOA PLANTER, March 31—Chairman Russel; Secre­ tary Henry B. Snelling. Deck Delegate reported all okay. En­ gine Delegate reported that the First Assistant is tight on the overtime. New Business: Crew asked Steward for explanation on the sudden shorta,ge of fresh foods. Steward claimed he had made requisition for stores, but they were not put aboard. Mo­ tion carried for each depart­ ment delegate to draw up a Good and Welfare list for his department. member of Deck Gang is not living up to union principles. Bosun requested no discrimina­ tion be made between full book and pro book members. Stew­ ard spoke on departmental du­ ties saying that all departments only do work assigned to them and that no overtime be done without authorization. Mo­ tions carried: All crewmembers to keep library clean, and in order. Fruit juices to be served according to crew's wishes. 4. 4. 4. Someone Played A Chicken Trick The oratorical wizards of hi.-tory paled in comparison when the Bessemer Victory's Chief Cook made an impassioned plea for the return of what was re­ ferred to as his "puloined pan." Said pan disappeared in Brem­ en recently, and the cookie is pretty much put out about it. Making the loss more irksome was the fact that the pan, at the JOHN W.^ BURGESS, April time of its disappearance, was 16—Chairman John Coppers; amply covered with several Secretary Frank Webb. Mo­ chickens. tions carried: to elect one Though it may sound amusing, member from each department the crew stood to lose most on to keep crew recreation room the chicken deal. Seems like in shape, each man to serve there'd be less of the winged one week; all crewmembejs are to wear shirts and trousers food to go around on the return trip. in messhall; cups to be return­ 4. 4. 4. ed to sink and butts to be kept HASTINGS, April 13—Chair­ off deck. Repairs to be made man Philingame; Secretary as per list submitted. Burns. Report made by Shay on purchase of washing ma­ chine. Reagan to receive money left from purchase of wash­ ing machine. Motions carried: to have each Department dele­ gate make up "beef list" to be 4. 4. 4. presented to Captain and Pa­ NATHANIEL CURRIER, trolman; to have sufficient April 12—Chairman R. Maston; amount of blankets brought Secretary R. Cummings. Deck aboard. An investigation is to and Engine departments re­ be made of fact that there is port no beefs. Steward Dele­ one messman for crew's mess. gate asks who is to collect Ch. Quarters to be cleaned up after Cook's wages while he was sick payoff. and unable to attend to his duties. Motion carried to re­ quest Patrolman to choose ship's delegate at time of sign­ ing on. as per shipping rules. All soiled and torn linen, also all Army towels, to be removed and replaced with proper lin­ % % a, ens. Request and repair lists SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY. to be turned in and acted upon April 20—Chairman R. Hayes; before new crew signs on. Secretary B. Watson. Purpose of meeting is to effect change 4" 4" 4" ROBERT M. T. HUNTER. of foc'sles for watches, so as Feb. 5—Chairman M. E. Pappato have Quartermaster. AB. dakis; Secretary M. Kilmark. Cardeckman and QS on same No beefs in Deck and Engine watch occupy same room. A departments. Steward reports vote was taken on proposed Night Cook and Baker refused change by men who stand to attend meeting. Steward also watches, and change was to be reports ships is using 16 lbs. made by 9 to 5 vote. Objection sugar daily, and since company raised over which foc'sle was to only put 900 lbs. aboard, sup­ be occupied by who. and sug­ ply must be considered. Same gestion to decide by drawing for coffee. Motions carried: to slips was not accepted. De­ check on list of supplies and cided to refer this question to replenish same to last for en­ New Orleans Patrolman for his tire trip; to post notices in ad­ advice, final decision to rest vances of meetings, according with the crew. to rules. 4 4 JONATHAN GROUT. April 4. 4. 4. ROBERT M. T. HUNTER. 20—Chairman Held; Secretary Feb. 23—Chairman M. E. PapAustin. Minutes of previous padakis; Secretary Tom Wil­ meeting read and accepted. En­ gine delegate reported all liams. Engine Delegate states okay v/ith exception that one brother had lost tripcard ap­ plication, and there is an in­ sufficient supply of soaps and powders. Stewards department okay., Deck Delegate reported gangway watch was knocked off in Hamburg. Germany. 4 4 4 CITY OF ALMA, Mr. 23— Chairman Sullivan; Secretary Foucek. All Engine depart­ ment quarters, heads and show­ ers to be painted out. Night Cook and Baker to be moved to a room where he has a chance to sleep, portholes to be changed to glass in all unli­ censed quarters. New crew not to sign on until repairs have been made. snu-iM susjfiEss! • 4 4 4 CHARLES WARFIELD, (date not noted)—Chairman E. L. de Parlier; Secretary R. N. White. Minutes of previous meeting read and accepted. Election of departmental delegates. Mo­ tions carried: to continue clean­ ing of recreation room as in previous voyage; to have crew's ice box removed from recrea­ By HANK tion room; to obtain electric Washington News Item. Alay 12: The Maritime CommisKion mixing machine in Baltimore supported today a measure to give wartime merchant seamen for use in galley; and to have benefits similar to those granted to armed service personnel under vessel sprayed and properly fumigated upon arrival in Bal­ the GI Bill of Rights including education. But both the War and Navy Departments opposed the bill. The measure, by Representa­ timore, tive J. Hardin Peterson, Democrat of Florida, is modeled after one 4 4 4 JAMES SMITH, April 13— approved by the House Merchant Marine Committee last season. Chairman J. Petro; Secretary It would eliminate, however, some sections objected to in that bill, Ray Brown. Delegates reports such as loans, civil service preference in jobs, merchant marine read and accepted. Chairman hospital care for non-war service as well as war-connected disabil­ Payments toward education complimented crew for keep­ ities, and 'benefits to dependents. ing messhall in clean condition; would be lowered . . . Well, it looks to us that this bill will not also cautioned crew to keep have much meat to it, after all. It will be just a gesture of praise cups and glasses clean for and educational reward—especially v.-hen the bill leaves out hos­ watch following thenr. Sug­ pital care, etc. We wonder why the War Department and the Navy gested that ship's laundry be Department are so courageously stubborn and technical with what left clean at all times, and that the Merchant Marine should or should not get. Maybe it's just passageway paint work be kept their peace-time nerves boiling over into everybody's business, or something? as clean as possible. CUT and RUN 4 4 4 4 ALEXANDER G. BELL, Mar. 16—Chairman Lader; Secretary McKinnie. Motion carried: to refre to Patrolman question whether utility pantryman should have overtime for work which Steward says is routine in nature. Other motions car­ ried: to turn off all fans when on watch; to have Chief Mate put mushrooms in working con­ dition; to have sanitary men sweep recreation room daily; officers lo be informed that they are lo return their dishes and cups to the pantry when finished with them. TliOlTCTTHESlU.^ TtoreCT YOURSELF.^ 4 4 Well, Pefe King. Ihe happy cook, sailed a week or so ago lo ihe land of Italy. Bon trip to you, Pete . . . George Meaney. the volunteer organizer grabbed a ship too, leaving us a prom­ ise that he'll write a. few newsy letters about the trip and shipmates . . . Our shipmate. Brother Spurgeon Woodruff, and his mustache, are on a ship right now—headed for South Africa. Also aboard is his and our shipmate. Chips Einar Hansen. Let's hear from you guys . . . That little oldtimer. Bosun Joe Felton, just came in from a trip a. few weeks ago . . . Bosun Herman Christensen shipped out recently but re­ gretting that his shipmate Pete Gvozdich was out on some other ship instead of in port for a trip together again . . . Sam Luttrell just came in with his sense of humor and variety oF stories . . . Steward Eddie Kasnowsky just came in from a trip to the West Coast. He's ready to grab another ship—this time to Texas—and try to get his long-delayed case of working gear, etc., which some company keeps forgetting about. 4 4 4- Brother Joseph De George, the mustached ex-bartender, is contemplating a voyage after realizing that a landlubbing job doesn't pay anymore. Joe confessed that he discussed and proved to his wife that he was better off going to sea. Brother Joe con­ fessed that he had a possible good deal with some noiseless type­ writers which one of his pals could not sell in some other part of the country. Anyway, Brother Joe and his shipmate Chuck will probably be out on a ship soon, retelling their wartime ex­ periences 'as they did to us this week—humorous stories about shipmates and situations during the war which will always bring the laughs and go good with any beers or any crew of shipmates . . . Brother William Thornton, who confessed that he is some­ times called Wild Bill, dropped in to say hello and to thank us for wishing his mother swift recovery to her illness last year down in North Carolina. Brother Bill promised us he would write a letter or two when he's out on his trip—so we could brigh'6en up our column once in awhile. Okay. Bill, take it easy novK, When you Brothers come back from those long trips get yourselves acquainted with what happened while you were gone. Read the back issues of the LOG. Find out what's new-«» so you don't get fouled up before you ship again. �Pager TmtOIre TH:E SB AtBA JP E R' S SWASHBUCKLING 'Skull And Bones' Rattles Roswell Victory's Crewmen To the Editor: This is written with hopes of weeding out the flunkies who have been riding merchant ships in various jobs (or positions in this case) with no other purpose than to make life miserable for seamen. The crew of this ship, the SS Roswell Victory, feel they would be letting their SIU Brothers down if they didn't register a beef about this undesirable and unlearned (and several unprint­ able words) so-called purser we have aboard. We have found this man to be a habitual liar. He is unable to perform his routine duties, such You dare not go to him with any of your minor ailments, as he goes to the medicine chest, and picks at random without hav­ ing any ideas as to what he is giving you. It is a fact that he gave one of the boys a bottle of hot sauce for a laxative. How the hot sauce got into the medi­ cine chest no one knows. And why the Captain allows him to continue this attempt at "mass murder," no one has yet" quite figui-ed out. In regard to Patrolman Ray Sweeney's question in the Feb. 28 issue of the LOG on the mat­ ter of cockroach .spraying in mess halls I should like to say that I think if a man sprays the messhalls, staterooms, etc., he is en­ titled to overtime. But if a man just sprays mess rooms—well, hell, it only takes five minutes. It all comes back to the fact that a Union man is the best man on a job. He gives capital a day's work and in re­ turn he wants a full day's pay. Under the circumstances men­ tioned in Ray's article, I can't say exactly. I don't know the Stew­ ard, but I feel that a lot of messmen nowadays don't want to do the day's work they're paid for. If those guys just worked five minutes to do the spraying job in the messrooms, I really don't believe it should be overtime. But if they sprayed longer and after their regular eight hours of work, it is, and they should be entitled to, overtime. I believe . the SIU-SUP is a good Union for this reason—it is fair with the steamship companies, although the companies are far from bel^ fair with us. Jim "Chick" Sharp Houston, Texas LAFITTE IN PHILIPPINES It I The Waterman vessel relaxes in placid waters while chrome ore is loaded aboard at Masinloc, Zambalis, which contains one of the largasl chrome ore deposits in the world. This photo, taken March 8 last, was submitted by Seafarer James Marshall, Deck Maintenance on the LaFitle. Isthmian Crew Slaps Treatment Dispensed By Union-Hating Mate as handling the slopchest, which Seafarer Hospitalized he opens whenever he damn In Eyansville, Ind. pleases. He completely disregards the wishes and the well-being To the Editor: of the crew. After making' a trip on the SS St. Augustine Victory, an Isth­ "DOCTOR." TOO mian ship, I am here to rest up As if that were not enough, he for awhile. No beefs on the seiwsuddenly decides he is a "doc­ ice here. tor," though he doesn't even have To the Editor: JEAN a pharmacist's certificate. He has no knowledge of medicine or medical terms and can't even give you a shot without making a big blunder. There is one thing, however, that he is damn good at—too damn good. That is juggling the slopchest (in case you haven't already guessed it, it always is to his advantage.) In case the To the Editor: company doesn't remove this The Deck Gang of the William character from the payroll, be Tilghman calls attention of the alerted by this letter. membership to the union-hating Beware of the purser at present Mate of this Isthmian line scow. aboard the SS Roswell Victory He claims to be a member of the of the Robin Lines. MMP, but we doubt this very H. E. Perlinson much. In a picture of the characteris­ tics of this individual, you would BROTHER GIVES OPINION ON INSECT SPRAYING Friday, May 16. 1947 LOG WITHOUT THIS' Would like for you to send me the LOG at my home address in Mt. Vernon, Ind. We had a lot of trouble at the payoff in Mobile on April 8, but I think everything was straight­ see him running around the deck, shouting at the top of his voice ened out okay. to the Bosun and sailors: "Turn Howard M. Lewis the men to at 8 o'clock . . . I'll Marine Hospital log you five for one . . . I'll take you to the old man." To the Evansville, Ind. Log-A-Rhythms Bosun he would scream, "Work them sons of up to 5 o'clock." He made a general nuisance of himself, and nearly drove the gang to the point of open re­ bellion. COLD POTATO Apparently the lives of the sailors mean nothing to him. He has violated every safety pre­ caution laid down by the com­ pany and which every man had to sign. He can and should be held responsible for at least -five men being. hurt, two of whom had to be sent to the hospital in Bombay. These same men, after being hurt, were turned to again and again. He has openly discriminated against two men, one of whom returned from the hospital with his discharge stating, "Fit for sailing, but not fit to work until wound is healed." This man was broke out on his watch below to stand a four-hour wheel watch so that the men on the 8-12 could work four hours on deck. This he refused to do. He was SS Floating Boom By BILL ROBINSON then made to stand three and a half hours at the wheel on his own watch so his mates could work on deck. This he did from Bombay to Baltimore. LEGREE WRITES Another case of direct discri­ mination was against a man on his watch who would not take any of his crap. To this man he wrote a note giving a schedule for him to follow every morn­ ing and night, which included shining brass on holidays, sougeeing on Sundays, etc. This madman wanted to work the Bosun and Carpenter on Saturday afternoon and also rig cluster lights on deck at night so that the 8-12 and 12-4 standbys could work. Does the mem­ bership wonder why men blow their tops when they have to put up with ATS 90-day wonders such as this. This guy started to sea in a tanker in the spring of 1939. If we remember right, there was a tanker strike on then. Need we say more. These and other acts of dis­ crimination we hold against this man. Signed by 15 Crewmen SS William Tilghman They'll Be Down B. A. Way Soon, Fellas We went rolling 'cross the 'Lantic On the good ship "Floating Boom," And she pitched 'til we were frantic. And we thought we'd met our doom. With our load of locomotives We had started put for France— Like a maddened heathen votive. All our ship could do was dance. To ihe Editor: The Captain on the flying bridge. The Chief Cook in the galley. The lookout on the foc'sle ridge. The Wiper in the alley— All hung on tight for all their worth And tried to keep their footing— Our good ship bounced around with mirth. And beat them all to pudding. And so we rolled and pitched and rolled. And sometimes made two knots; The seas around were grey and cold. And dismal were our thoughts. And then at last we sighted land And fell upon our knees To give our thanks to the angel's hand That brought us through the seas. The pots and pans flew through the air. The dishes crashed and broke; We lashed ourselves with care. The ship thought 'twas a joke. It stood us on our feet at first. And then upon our heads. And when we thought we'd had the worst It threw us from our beds. So, sailor, when you're shipping out. Beware the "Floating Boom," Or it will get you without doubt. And take you to your doom. Columbus was a skipper bold. Through many a storm be strayed. But never in the tales he told Was such a voyage made. During a one-month stay in Buenos Aires recently, the boys of the SS F. T. Frelinghuysen found a place which soon became the hang-out of most of the crew. It is a nice place and you meet many SIU members there. The owners of this place would be glad to receive the LOG for distribution to our members. Name of this place is the May Sullivan Bar at 25 de Mayo 692. Deck Delegate, Book 21576 SS F. T. Frelinguysen (Ed. note;—The LOG had previously been requested to ship copies to the address given by the Frelinghuysen's Deck Delegate, and bundles of LOGS have been going there for the past month.) �THE Friday,'May 18. 1847 SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen THE RIDING WAS ROUGH Shoves Off On SS Harlan For China To the Editor: Seconds ailer this picture was taken, heavy seas cascaded over the bow of the SS Warrior Point, but the sturdy Pacific Tanker came up right away for more. Seafarer James F. Byrne, Steward, stood by with his camera to record the scene. How ya all, Brothers? Hear that southern accent? I've been down here in the land of red beans and rice so long that I am thinking of taking out my confederate citizenship papers. I've got a southern ac­ cent, a southern telephone picket in my mind and southern bank­ ruptcy papers in my pocket. Move over. Senator Claghorri! I spent three weeks on the beach in Mobile, where I grab­ bed this Waterman scow, the SS John M. Harlan. I would like to recommend the Port of Mo­ bile to all as one of the most progressive, and quite the busiest port I have hit in quite some time. Shipping was booming all the while I was there, and still is, with plenty of jobs in all depai'tments. The new hall is really nice and Agent Cal Tan­ ner and his Patrolmen are doing a good job to make this one of our busiest and most efficient SIU ports. HER CREW CHOSE THE SEAFARERS Previous Crew Lacked Pride, Say Lundy Men, To the Editor: On April 24, at a meeting aboard the SS Benjamin Lundy, it was voted to use the columns of the SEAFARERS LOG to publicly castigate the crew that preceded us on this bucket. Never were foc'sles left so badly littered. A trash accumu­ lation greater than two weeks cleanings by New York's depart­ ment of sanitation lay on the decks. Dirty socks, underwear, old papers, shoes, dungarees, broken bottles, magazines, glasses and pictures were strewn all over the place. These were saturated with whiskey, water and stale beer. How in the hell could these "characters" find time to do their work and still have time to crr3p up their quarters as completely as they did is be­ yond our wildest imagination. So, Brothers, (and especially you oldtimers), you can do a helluva lot worse than hit the' beach in Mobile. I ran into quite a few oldtimers there — some that I hadn't seen in quite a while. It really surprised me. You can also have a good time there, as the police are pretty good, the beer is just right, and there are plenty of charming ^ young ladies to help you pasz the time. In fact, after being on the picket line with all those / chickens I sort of hated to ship. We are loading here in Galves­ ton for the Far East, so it will be a few months before I can again blow my top. Oh, yes! I've got "Peg Leg" Andy Ander­ son on here with me. It cost me about ten bucks in beer to shanghai him. But Andy had the giris in the Tip Top cafe run bow-legged bringing him beer so I thought it best to remove him for awhile. Blackie Neira and Don Hall were in Mobile and they ac­ cused me of going to China to prove or disprove a theory about Chinese women. An interesting thought to that. I'll say "au revoir" for now. Brothers, with a wish for good luck and smooth sailing to you . all. Blackie Gardner SS John S. Harlan Let's Have 'Em The SS Petrolite, of Mathiasen Tankers, Incu which recently came under SIU banner by virtue of crew's 27 to 2 vote in collective bargaining election. National Labor Relations Board has already certified the SIU. No Union man would leave a mess for his Brothers to clean. His pride in his Union would not To the Editor: permit him to do such a thing. ^ Well, here is one Seafarer who We are foi-ced to conclude, there­ can and will wholeheartedly un­ fore, that the crew before us on derwrite the Union Optical Plan this ship were not good Union that was announced and describ­ men. ed in the May 2 issue of the iOG. Perhaps they were members In the belief that I needed new paying dues as long as^the glasses I went to the Union Op­ Union gives them jobs but that tical Plan, after contacting our type will pull out when the go­ Special Service Department. Af­ ing gets tough. ter one of the best eye examina­ A Union man takes pride in tions I have ever had, I was fold himself, his Union and his job. by the doctor that I did not need Our predecessors were without new glasses now but might need this pride. a pair of reading glasses in about Crew of SS Benjamin Lundy a year or so. HOW TO GET UP STEAM—THE (Ed note: The Union is glad The cost of the examination was one buck. No attempt was to know that Brother Schoenmade to sell me-any .^lasses such born's experience with the as seamen generally experience Union Optical Plan was a sat­ when they visit the average com­ isfactory one. Since it is SIU mercial outfit. This visit has con­ l>olicy to keep clear of any­ vinced me that the Union has thing that might smack of canperformed an invaluable service shaking or commercialism, the to the membership in making Union proceeded with caution available this plan. I, for one, before endorsing the plan. Af­ ter the New York membership, am all for it. So if you Brothers think you at a regular meeting, authoriz­ need glasses, be wise, economize ed Secretary-Treasurer Shuler to investigate the possibilities —with the Union Optical Plan. for arranging with a coopera­ "Chips" Schoenborn tive optical outfit for eye ex­ New Yo»k aminations by competent, li­ censed men and glasses at WRONG WAY moderate prices, a careful study was made. Only after deliberation was the Union Optical Plan endorsed. It is the same one which the Inter­ national Ladies Garment Work­ ers Union, AFL, has made available to its membership). CORRECTION Thanks io Pete. Tom got all the steam he wanted. Agent Curly Renlz. Cartoon submitted to LOG by Baltimore To the Editor: I wish to correct two mistakes in the LOG article of April 25, headed "Mobile, Boston Men Re­ member Hospitalized." The ship's name is the Joseph H. Hollister and it was a Waterman, not an Alcoa vessel. Also every crewtnember, ex­ cept one who missed the payoff on ship, contributed at least a dollar for our Brothers in Fort Stantion Hospital. Forward to a 20-page LOG. Seymour Heiniling Galveston, Texas This is it. Brothers! Right on these pages is a good place to blow your top. If you've got a beef or some suggestions you think will be of benefit to your Union and your Brothers, why not have it printed in the LOG? If you haven't any steam to blow off, there must be something you've found in­ teresting. on your trip thai you'd like to pass along for others to read about—char­ acters you meet in the farflung comers of the earth, joints you've found worth seeing and those you feel it advisable for your Brothers to avoid. Why not let all hands profit by your exper­ iences? Maybe you're pretty good at turning out a poem—okay then, let's have it. Pen and ink sketches are welcome, too. If you've got some photographs of your ship, or shipmates or tmy "shots" taken in the various ports o'call, send them along. We'll return them. Just mail your material to the Editor. Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. How about doing it NOW! �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 16, 1947 A Good Time Had By All On Clatsop . 4 aw. :'.: :i4.i; .• >.i ii:SS&.K,f s i:, • i- wi*ilv ^ With spray flying, the Clatsop heads into the open sea. The picture above was snapped as the ship started on its run. Looking forward on the SS Fort Clatsop, Pacific Tankers, it appears that the vessel is heading for a good trip at left. And that's the way it turned out, with all hands reporting a good ship, good officers, and plenty of fine food. KiiSiSX limi-i lif®' Right, L. H. Currington, OS, gets up in the world. Painting the mast is not too much fun, but few complaints were heard, or maybe he's too high up for his voice to carry. Take it easy, take it easy, don't you know that life is better that way. From the looks of the picture above, Elmer Heiber, Bedroom Steward, has learned that lesson. Not that there wasn't much work to be done, but by waiting for an opportune moment, this shot was obtained. Okay. Brother, take it easy. Here's a man who had few complaints about the Mate. He is Bosun Hector McKenzie, who did not have to worry about interference from the officers. He ran the Deck Gang, and ran it very well from all reports. With the kind of a swell crew that was on board the Clatsop, it made a Bosun's life a happy one. Wearng his white cap even when far at sea is Red Hall, Second Cook. Red brought in all the pictures on this page, and gave the LOG the story of the voy­ age of the Clatsop. It seems that the men all had a fine trip, and that even after five months there were few who wanted to isgn off. That sounds good. i t. He's holding a handbag, and a pair of shoes in the rough of course. Left is C. Purser, AB, with the alligator that was kill­ ed by the crew when the ship anchored in the mouth of the San Juan River. Lots of fun was had by all, but hunting gators is dangerous business at best. Right, a posed shot of the Bosun, Hector McKenzie, Chief Cook Casey-Jones, and Richard Frasier, Galley Utility, all left to right. The men had only compliments about the food, so it must have been Brother Jones who had a lot to do with that state of affairs. And when handing out applause on the food, don't forget Red Hall, who cooked, took pictures, and brought these photos into the LOG office for reproduction on this page. & m �THE Friday, Mfiy 16, 1947 SEAFARERS The Patrolmen Say... Page Fifteen LOG iHCLOS Happy Days Ahead—Lakes Men Can Get Rid Of Bhth NMU, LCA hours "lost", the Mate didn't Efficiency Experts rely on an ordinary wrist watch NEW YORK — The infamous —oh, no, he carried a nice, new By JOSEPH A. SHIMA time-study mpn and efficiency stop-watch that even recorded TOLEDO — Activities in the did the LSU and NMU phonies experts of the factories and the the tenths of seconds. NEW YORK Port of Toledo have started to show up on the scene, mills have finally infected the SS BEN WILUAMS He had it all worked out. In­ pick up now with the arrival of Then they tried to ride in on minds of a few of the Chief stead of starting a man on over­ D. Dean, $2.00; E. T. Pattersoi. several contract vessels in the the SIU's efforts as the "inter­ il.OO; W. C.,Jtoberts, $1.00; A. Greene, Mates on SIU ships. time when he turned to, he $i on. past week. veners." We ran think of other The old practice of timing men started the watch when the man SS BESSEMER VICTORY words more appropriate to call Shipping is still a little slow for every job they do, and how Ijegan the actual work. E. D. Pattee, $1.00; R. Hull, $1.00; though, due to the fact that most them. much time it takes them to com­ An example of this was the A. Franke, $2.00; J. McCollam. $1.00; of the boys are hanging on until Yes, these outfits want a free plete the task has become the time the Bosun was doing car­ N. Maffie, $1.00; J. Coyne. $1.00; T. they accumulate a little cabbage. ride on the Seafarers coat-tails, personally assumed responsibil­ pentry work. The Mate started McLucas. $1.00; J. Santalla. $1.00. Organizational activities have and they don't care if it's at the SS FAIRISLE ity of more than one Chief Mate the watch when the Bosun lift­ who revels in the new-found ed the hammer and stopped the F. A. Marie, $2.00; A. J. Lubinski. been progressing at full speed expense of the unorganized men method of hard-timing a crew. watch when he laid it down. Of $1.00; W. C. Weeks, $1.00; A. R. ahead, and now that the 44-hour or not. Pierce, $1.00; P. H. LaCosta, $1.00; Certainly, when either of these One of these birds I ran across course the rest of the work con­ W. H. Mansfield, $2.00; C. M. Mc.AI- week which the SIU won for the recently on the Beauregard car­ nected with this was not over­ lister, $1.00; Wm. Brown 6t Crew, passenger ships has been publi­ phony outfits—the LSU or the cized, and the Seafarers negotia­ NMU—intervenes, it's at the ex­ ried a personal Log or diary in time in his opinion. Well, he $19.35. tions for the 40-hour week on the pense of the seamen involved. SS J. GROUT which he recorded the amount learned differently. freighters plus other demands are J. E. Doyle, $1.00; P. D. Miller. Immediately, they start the of man hours and minutes lost I suggested to him, for his $2.00; A. DclValle, $1.00; C. Holliday. known, the unorganized Lakes same type o? stalling and com­ on the voyage. convenience, the installation of $2.00; E. D. Tyree, $2.00; O. L. Rob­ seamen are coming into our hall pany stooge tactics that have pre­ For example: If 12 men take a time clock on deck so the crew ertson, $2.00; H. F. Tanner. $2.00 in increasing numbers. They're vented Isthmian seamen on the D. J. McKinnis, $2.00; W. Wilcoxson. 17 minutes for coffee time, the could punch in and out when inquiring about the SIU and how Coast and other fleets from hav­ $2.00; W. H. Van Hoosen, $2.00; W. N. result is 12 times 2 or 24 man they began a task. His eyes lit Satchfield, $2.00; L. Linam, $1.00; we function. ing SIU representation which minutes lost. If the crew knocks up when I made this point, and T. Roberts, $30.00; L. J. Smith. These men are all anxious to they want and need so badly. olf 10 minutes early to wash up I could almost sec a time clock $2.00; L. F. Ledingham, $2.00; 11, get away from the slave-driving When the Huron, Wyandotte, Faucher. $1.00; C. D. Wagner, $3.00. for chow, the result is 120 man plan forming in his mind. tactics and poor conditions of the Hanna and Wilson elections, as SS R. STUART minutes lost. He came out of it quick, how­ Lake Carriers. Most of them are well as those for other fleets R, E. Allen, $1.00; Lence Grower. In addition he recorded in his ever, when I started raising the $5.00; W. H. Knight, $1.00; Johnnie too smart to fall for the old line which the SIU expects to petition little time book the total number roof over the disputed overtime Thomas. $5.00; C. F. Barnes, $1.00; of vague promises dished out by in the near future, are held the of hours lost by an AB who was and his assembly line tactics. W. G. Moore, $2.00; M. McClintock. the LSU and NMU. So they repudiation of the LSU and the injured and unable to perform This guy's actions were still $2.00; j. R. Granger, $2.00; W. T. look to the SIU. NMU by Lakes seamen will be his duties due to his confine­ fresh in my mind when I hand­ Hardeman, $1.00. Men on the Huron and Wyan­ final proof of their finish on the SS A. MOORE ment to his room. led the payoff of the SS A. dotte ships all know who is re­ Lakes. j. D'Oliveira. $1.00; B. M. Move. Moore. On board the Moore, the ODDS AND ENDS sponsible for them having a Then the heads of the two out­ $1.00; R. Maloy & CreVv, $7.00. Mate also had come under the in­ chance to select tlieir own uniun fits can go their respective way.s. By totaling up all the odds SS CORNELIA fluence of the speed up system. and ends of minutes and hours George C. Truesdale, $1.00; George to represent them in negotiations One back into the offices of the L. Johnson, $5.00; D. Villanucva. $1.00; wilh the companies. Not one LSU Cleveland-Cliffs legal staff, and CURT COMMENTS he brought forth a total which J. M. Joyner, $1.00; J. E. Martin. or NMU organizer contacted the others to some other indus­ made it appear that no one His tactics were the same, ex­ $2.00; i. J. Harlow, $1.00; E. B. these ships early this Spring. try and area where their tactics worked or stood watch during cept in his notes he added little Pridgeon. $2.00; M. Blum ,$2.00; H. D. and purposes are unknown. the whole voyage to and from comments. Some of them were Crump, $1.00. In the first place neither of Europe. these outfits had any program That happy day. Lakes sailors SS SEATRAIN HAVANA honeys. One of which was: "Oh, To figure the minutes and for the good old days when you H. Shero, $2.00; Z. Szewczykokski. or any constructive gains to of­ will be well rid of these phonies fer the unorganized Lakes sea­ and of the open shop conditions could take a guy on the fan tail $1.00. SS JEAN LAFITTE men. Not until the SIU had on the Lakes, and can enjoy the and straighten him out." , ,, . ..., ,. ^ I S. A. Milecki, $1.00: L. J. Cordon, spent several weeks - contacting benefits of SIU unionism, conThis buzzard could not see $I.OO; J. M. Marshall, $3.00; \Vm. men from these fleets plus the tracts, protection and represenwhy the company should have Butler, $2.00; H. W. Spencer, $3.00 Hanna, Wilson and other fleets, tation. ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. to pay penalty hours when the!*"' *'00; F- Umholtz, $2.00 SIU HALLS Phone 5523 , , V i. • P'F. Denny, $1.00; H. B. Stever, $1.00 14 North Cay St. unbroken hour was not given c. ciutras, $2.00; L. Oiiu, $1.00. Calvert 4539 for chow. The poor shipowner P. Furtak, $1.00; J. H. Loughlin BOSTON 276 State St. should not be penalized for only $2.00; A. E. Anderson, $2.00; R. W Boudoin 4455 one half hour work. Martin, $2.00; A. R. Beille, $2.00 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St, M. Castro, $3.00, G. W. McAlpine Another item that hurt him $1.00. Cleveland 7391 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave to the quick was the allowance SS HATTIESBURG VICTORY Superior 5175 of 15 minutes coffee time out of Jessie Smith, $1.00; P. F. Griffin. Jr. CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. four hours work. (Shades ofi*' ®"' $3.00; R. B. Hub Main 0147 i'V »i oo CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St No Coffee Time Joe! This must'' Earl Sellers, $1.00. Corpus Christi 3-1509 have been one of his ABs.) SS CAPE SANDY DETROIT 1038 Third St, There were other items in his Robert A. Peak & Crew, $17.00. Cadillac 6857 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St little book that were gems a la Robert Sansonetti, $1.00; J. Melrose 4110 Pegler. I sure would have liked GALVESTON 308'/,—23rd St to have a copy of it to print Mulero, $1.00; S. N. Pizza. $2.00. Phone 2-8448 verbatim. GALVESTON HONOLULU 16 Merchant St The one thing this guy forgot Phone 58777 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS HOUSTON 1515 75th St is that the shipowner and the E. J. J,aks, $2.00; F. Saragosa. $2.00; Wentworth 3-3809 Union negotiated the agreement H. E. Merchant, $2.00; J. J. NsgakieJACKSONVILLE 920 Main St in good faith and all the pro­ wicz. $2.00; J. Pryor, $2.00; N. V. Phone 5-5919 Realti. $2.00; T. Adkins, $2.00; J. E. MARCUS HOOK 1'/, W. 8th St visions of which he complained Renski, $2.00; G. D. Dail, $2.00; W. Chester 5-3110 were agreed to by both the com­ Nugent, $2.00; SS Noah Webster, $9.00. MILWAUKEE 633 South 2nd St. pany and the Union. A. Robertson, $4.00; J. White, $2.00; MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. But maybe he didn't want to R. J. Gushue, $1.00; J. W. Martin. Phone 2-1754 $2.00; O. H. Judge, $10.00; J. A. MONTREAL 1440 Bleuiy St. remember that. NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. James Purcell Walsh, $5.00; SS James Smith. $23.00: Jean B. Lancier. $1.00. Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. NORFOLK HAnovcr 2 2784 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Phone 4-1083 A. Jensen. $2.00; E. Griffith. $3.00; PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Will the holders of receipts J. .M. Durfey. Jr., $3.00; C. B. Lan­ LOmhaid 3-7651 B47060 through B47100 please caster, $2.00; T. PetrofT. $2.00; P. A. PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. Nunnally. $3.00; J. O. Dasher. $3.00. Phone 2-8532 contact the nearest Union Hall in PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. order to get records straightened Beacon 4336 RICHMOND, Calif 257 5 th St. out? Duplicates of throe receipts Phone 2599 were lost, and only by coming SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. into the Union Hall at the earl­ Douglas 5475-8363 ROBERT EAGLESON iest possible chance can the mat­ SAN JUAN, P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon Write to your sister at 220 W. San Juan 2-5996 ter be cleared up. 35th Street, Savannah, Ga. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. The following are known to Phone 8-1728 have been among the group: 4 4. 4 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Gusto Salgero Main 0290 CARSON B. McCOY T^MPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Francisco Ruiz Phone M-1323 Money order sent to you by Juan P. Rabon TOLEDO 615 Summit St. Arvid Gylland, who was on SS Fernando P. Sande WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Wm. MacLay with you, has been Gumersindo Barriero Terminal 4-3131 returned. Write to him c/o Rog­ Manuel Cividnes VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. Garden 8331 ers, 69 I»aSalle St., New York Carl R. Jackson VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. City, and he will arrange to get Richard Umland Pacific 7824 BALTIMORE NOTICE! PERSONALS Joseph J. Pucchio. it to yoru. Retroactive Wages Smith & Johnson 60 BEAVER ST., NEW YORK 4, N. Y. MV OREGON FIR Geis, Walter R 6.50 Allen, D. F :. $ .46 Grant, Wright 80 Rollback, J 94 Hals, Johannes 37.88 Brauns, J. L 1.40 Henard, Charlie E 8.06 Brilcs, D. E. 26.58 Hill, Clair S 6.41 Burnett, L 55.22 Mayer, Joseph J .64 Howard, R. A 94 Peterson, Robert M 1.10 Lowderback 94 Pool, Donald E 30.80 Lucas, Curtis 42.10 Sakers, George 24.74 McCarty, M. L 176.18 Stahl, Ralph E 2.20 Woodward, J 7.24 Theodore, Philip M .64 Townshend, Robert W. . SS RALPH A. CRAM .90 Brown, Joseph S $ 10.26 Wilson, Ivan D 38.11 Campbell, Arthur 7.47 SS WALLACE M. TYLER Chatelain, Lawrence A 24.74 $ 3.26 Fitzpatrick, Edgar 8.86 Blair, Robert Brooks, Glendyn 94 McBurnett, Louis N 7.94 Haukeland. Ingolf 23.80 Nash, Ferrell G 2.34 14.00 Oliver, Arthur L 7.94 Houde, Eugene Keyes, Lester J 9.80 Nash, Ferrell G 2.34 Lindkvist, Erik R 3.74 Oliver, Arthur L 7.94 Martignetti. Alfred 3.26 Pulizzi, Jesus C 7.94 4.20 Riley, Thomas E 6.54 Parsly, Edwin Parsons, Frank E 9.80 Sternberg, Lester L 18.20 9.80 Sweeney, Theo 21.00 Soiett, Donald T SS WILLIAMS VICTORY Vallainos, Spiros N 3.26 Wright, Swayne 3.26 Ackley, Eugene E. $ 38.52 SS THOMAS J. LYONS Bowman, Richard W. 8.40 Andrews, Robert $ 30.80 Cahill, Walter 73.88 Brannan, George T 30.80 Dunlap, Eugene 1.97 Ciseicki, J 16 Hancock, Clarence A. 8.40 Koscilnak, Emil 8.40 Paschang, Francis H. 8.40 Pyle, Chance, T ..." 14.00 Rakas, Frank ... 24.25 Make sure the name of Renard, James T 16.60 ^ your ship is on the repair Roales, Robert G .46 lists and minutes before sub­ Torres, Juan S 42.58 mitting them to the boardng Vandersall, Wheeler C. . .46 Patrolman. Wright, Samuel D 8,40 NOTICE! �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS Friday, May 16, 1947 LOG '1 4 a.?: ?*•••• i ' »-»«^ t if/**' JSflj H - -rfhi I4.^ -, ^. I!. . -«%. 1 V S. . i •/in '¥• :* • vjv; ! i^yS^. WIN FOR YOURSELVES THE HIOH WAGES AND SHIPBOARD CONDITIONS THAT THE SlU IWOI K)RTHE DRY CARGO SEAMENl • ,•? jf-» I'i••* V/:. jpfe-:] 9i'{- My. ^ •''H SEE. THE TANKER OR6ANIZING COMMITTEES IN: PORT ARTHUR. HOUSTON GALVESTON NEW ORLEANS MARCUS HOOK TAMPA BOSTON NEW YORK MOBILE Trfl ' • \' v^' ••»'• ' '«.<• • ;; vit^VA -< * J. -'V; i. iinmnomiicsf � 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 May 16, 1947 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. IX, No. 20 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU PETITIONS FOR ELECTION IN SUN OIL LABOR'S GAINS IN PERIL AS HOUSE AND SENATE PASS OPEN SHOP BILLS NEW ORLEANS MEETING BLASTS MERCHANT MARINERS OUTFIT AFL-CIO TALKS SUSPENDED FOR FURTHER STUDY BRIEF STRIKE WINS SEAFARERS NEW MILWAUKEE CLIPPER CONTRACT POOR JUSTICE CANADIAN SIU FACES LEGAL RUNAROUND LAKES SEAMEN THE ONLY SUFFERES AS NMU CONTINUES STALLING TACTICS SIU ORGANIZERS LEAVE ALPENA WITH REGRETS PRESENT CONTRACT WILL LEAD TO BETTER ONE, IF ANTI-LABOR BILLS GIVE BOSSES BIG WEAPON CAPITOL PUNISHMENT LOG'S SERVICE TO WRITERS SCORES; SEAFARER'S FIRST STORY IS SOLD NO MEAT SHORTAGE ON ROBIN LOCKSLEY SHIPPING BETTER THAN GOOD IN PORT SAVANNAH "KEEP HALL FIRES BURNING" IS NEW PHILLY SLOGAN GOLD COAST IS CHEERFUL PLACE SHIPS ARE CRYING FOR FULL CREWS IN PORT TAMPA BOSTON BEGINS CONSTRUCTION OF THREE NEW PIERS THE PATROLMEN SAY... MEMBERS MUST ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT CONTRACT BINDS BOTH SIDES NOW IS THE TIME TO REVAMP LIBERTYS INTO LIVABLE SHIPS MORE SHIPPING RULES EXPLAINED BY THE NEW YORK DISPATCHER MILWAUKEE CLIPPER STRIKE ONCE AGAIN SHOWED MILITANT SPIRIT OF THE GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS PETROLITE CREWMEN REMEMBER BLASTED TEXAS CITY AS 'FRIENDLY' VESSELS ON MOVE IN BUFFALO AS ICE IS BROKEN NAM'S PROMISED 'ROAD TO FREEDOM' ONLY LEAD STO THE OPEN SHOP AND SLAVERY FOR THE WORKER COLLECTIVE BARGANING IS TWO-WAY STREET, THE UNION MUST KEEP ITS OBLIGATIONS, TOO SEAFARERS GIVE HELPING HAND TO ILL BROTHERS CAMERA NABS LAFITTE'S OVERTIME PIRATE SCHUYLER CREW CHARGES CG DISREGARDS SEAMEN'S SAFETY CHIEF MATE MARS VOYAGE TO FAR EAST BRIDGE INVADES FOC'SLE; WEARS CROWN KING STILL A GOOD TIME HAD BY ALL ON CLATSOP HAPPY DAYS AHEAD--LAKES MEN CAN GET RID OF BOTH NMU, LCA Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/16/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/eb474cd112b785efe21703dee0143ab9.PDF 8aecde21ab0c90c00443a5534c16f4bf PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Lee Crew Wins Extra Pay Award SAN FRANCISCO—A decision which may have great bearing on the future treatment of sea­ men who are on board ships , in foreign poi'ts when articles ex­ pire, was recently handed down by the Shipping Commissionei- in this port. Slating that, "After careful consideration it is my belief that there was justification for dis­ charge of the crew of the SS Richard Himry Lee with pay­ ment to them of one month's ex­ tra wages . . . had conditions at Shanghai permitted that action by the Consul," the Commission­ er, Lt. Commander S. H. Waring, USCGR, awarded one month's extra wages to the seamen who signed articles on June 1, 1945, at New York. This action climaxed nine months of arbitration, during which the Calmar Steamship Company tried every legal means to pievent payment to the men. The vessel left New York on June 6, 1945, and after many stops, was in Shanghai on May 31, 1946, when the articles ex­ pired. On June 3 members of the crew presented to the Amer­ ican Consul a request for dis­ charge on the grounds that the voyage had been unnecessarily prolonged. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. MAY 9. 1947 Montreal Hall A new Hall has been established for Seafarers in Montreal. Canada. Gene Markey is the new Port Agent. Address of the Hall is 1440 Bleury Street, and all crews coming in to Montreal are asked to see Brother Markay at the Hall as soon as pos­ sible. This refers in particu­ lar to Alcoa crews. Pass this news along so that other Brothers will know where in Montreal they can find out the latest Seafarers news. No, 19 Coast Guard Disrupts All Maritime Industry, SlU Tells Congressmen WASHINGTON—Appointed by J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer of the Atlantic and Gulf District, to present the Union's position, .Joseph H. Volpian, Special Services Representative last Friday appeared before a House Sub-Com­ mittee to register the opposition of the SIU to House Bill 2966, which would extend the power of the Coast Guard over merchant seamen. Known as a bill "to amend the Administrative Procedure Act to authorize commissioned offi~ "" ^' ccrs of the Coast Guard to preside at the taking of evi­ dence in proceedings under section 4450 of the Revised Statutes," H R 2966 would empower CG officers to serve as judge and jury in the As far as conditions on Pan­ cases of merchant seamen amanian ships arc concerned, charged with infractions of Lowey has plenty to say. Two stewpots a r e maintained, and the law. Panamanian Scows Are Hell Ships, Says Seaman Who Has Sailed Them This is the story of Denny Lowey, an English AB who comes from a long line of- Eng­ lish seafaring men. Denny has been sailing since 1937, right through the heart of the war year.s. There was a time when ships were torpedoed as soon as they hit open water, and Nazi sub­ marines were thicker than the fog which hides London skies during most of the year. Through it all, Denny and his fellow shipmates, allied with the men of the United States mer­ chant mai'ine, kept the sea-lanes of the world open. CREW CHARGES Soon the tide of battle turned, Two of the allegations made by and there was no longer the the crew were as follows: same terrific fear of a Nazi vic­ 1. This application is based tory. Then the big money men, DENNY LOWEY on the grounds that the crew in the United States and Eng­ has completed the ^ agreement. land started to lay their plans and for defrauding the U. S. for breaking the seamen's unions Government of tax money. {Continued on Page 4) American ships, built by Am­ erican labor, paid for by hardearned American taxes, and sail­ ed throughout the war by Amercan merchant seamen, were "transferred" to Panamanian and NORFOLK — Steps are oeing Seamen's Union with a view to Honduran registry. That's where Denny Lowey, taken by the local American securing greater employment for and hundreds of other English Federation of Labor Port Maii- Norfolk members of the Inter­ seamen, came into the picture. national Longshoremen's Asso­ time Council to throw picket- ciation. ASSIGNED TO HELL lines in front of all docks in the Denny was a member of the The meeting accepted a pro­ event of a boycott of Panaman­ posal by Daniel Alston, chair­ Merchant Navy Reserve Pool. He ian .ships. The Council will be man, that a treasury be set up was assigned to a Panamanian prepared to act on immediate to cover local expenses and in­ ship, belonging to the Panama notice. Transport Company. cidentals. Plans were drawn up at the It is significant that now the A communication from the April meeting of the Council, MTD, emphasizing "that only PTC has stopped masquerading following discussion of the de­ AFL unions in the maritime under a fake name and openly cision on the Panamanian situa­ trades shall be recognized mem­ admits being part of the Stand­ tion reached at the national bers of the Port Maritime Coun­ ard Oil of New Jersey. conference of the AFL Maritime cil," was read at the meeting. Denny says he first became Trades Department in Chicago In addition to Brother White awere of this recently when the recently. > officials of the local group are Franz Klasen, the ship he was Ray White, SIU Port Agent Brother Alston, President, and on, had the old company name and Vice President of the Coun­ N. B. Dillard, Secretary, both of scraped off the bow, and the cil, suggested a meeting with the the ILA. The council meets the new company name, Esso, re­ place it. local representative of the Greek third Monday of each month. Norfolk Maritime Trades Council Prepares For Panamanian Action the unlicensed men are frequ­ ently fed tlie leftovers from the officers meals. Overtime is unheard of, and although the men are forced to do extra work, it is usually call­ ed "safety of the ship," and no e^ttra pay is collected. Quarters are overcrowded. with 3 and 4 men sharing one foc'sle. The officers, of course, have larger rooms, and only one man to a room. Public hearings on the bill were held last week, and in ad­ dition to Brother Volpian, Capt­ ain William Ash. SecretaryBusiness Manager of Local 88, MM&P, also testified in oppo­ sition to the proposed legisla­ tion. The full text of statement follows: Volpian's The Seafarers International Union of North America numbers approximately 90,000 unlicensed seagoing personnel whose sole means of livelihood are derived from their service on Merchant vessels, which sail on all oceans and the Great Lakes. Our membership has a very real interesi in the proposed bill H.R. 2966. BUCK-PASSING The men are under the pro­ tection of no flag^. The British Consul tells them that the Pan.amanian Government is respon­ sible for them, and the Pana­ manian Consul passes the buck right back. The writer has been in When a man'* is injured, he is at the mercy of the company. charge of the Special Services (Continued on Page 3) {Continued on Page 14) AFL Longshoremen Swamp ILWU In Seattle Bargaining Election -SEATTLE, Wash.—The Inter­ national Longshoremen's Asso­ ciation, AFL, scored a sweeping victory here over the CIO's Long­ shoremen's group, known as the ILWU. The showdown came when the CIO unit sought an NLRB elec­ tion to determine the bai-gaining agent for the foremen and checkers, jurisdiction over which the AFL union has exercised for years in all ports of Washing­ ton, except those on the Colum­ bia River. The result showed foremen, 102 for the AFL union and only 14 for the CIO group; checkers. 152 for the AFL and only 13 for the CIO. Reporting the results to AFL President William Green, E. M. Weston, president of the Wash­ ington State Federation of Labor, said that the Federation's suc­ cesses in fighting off anti-labor legislation and in making the Washington Workermen's Com­ pensation Law one of the best in the Nation, in addition to other gains by affiliated unions, a strong feeling had been appar­ ent recently among some CIO members that they should "get into the main body of the labor movement." �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 9. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Puhlished Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER . . . Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER Vice-President 86 .Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic &: Gulf District P. O. Bo.x 25, Bowling Green Station, New Yorli, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 50 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - Sccy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1033 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 114 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 Not Forgotten Every week, to every M.arine Hospital where a mem­ ber of the Seafarers International Union may be under­ going treatment, a Union Brother goes to see him. And he doesn't go empty-handed. He takes with him money for cigarettes, copies of the LOG, other Union literature, and the best wishes, of the membership for the ailing Brother's speedy recovery. Being a member of the SIU is more than just belojiging to a union. The motto of the Seafarers is "The Brother­ hood of The Sea," and aboard ship and ashore, this ideal is constantly in the minds of all good Union members. On this same page is printed weekly a list of Brothers in the various Marine Hospitals. This is done so that shipmates and buddies of the hospitalized Seafarers can know of their whereabouts and drop them cheering mes­ sages. .But even these items.already mentioned do not sum up the extent to which the Union will go to insure com­ fort and good care for ailing members. Any Brother who has been, or still is, in a Marine Hospital, knows that when the hospital representative comes around, he is ready and v.dlling to listen to all com­ plaints. Complaints that range from the quality and quan­ tity of the food, to the type of treatment, to the infrequency of treatment. And after listcjiing to the beefs, the representative doesn't stop there. He goes to bat on every legitimate gripe. It is publicized in the LOG, and Headquarters starts wheels moving with letters to higher authority in Wash­ ington. By such means, many intolerable situations have been cleared up, and conditions in many Marine Hospitals have been improved. Within the past year alone, this program has resulted in better conditions, better food, and more efficient treat­ ment for hundreds of seamen, since even seamen who are not members of the SIU benefit when the Union carries the ball, So, Brothers, if you find out that you've got to go to the hospital for a while, don't fear that you'll be forgotten by your buddies. They'll write to you when they can, they'll see to it that you are supplied with smokes, and they will be=- ready at any time to make certain that you are receiving good care. You won't be forgotten! 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 In The Marine Hospitals 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 writ­ ing to them. STATEN ISLAND HOSP. H. R. BELCHER E. E. CASEY V. PLACEY R. G. MOSSELLER E. CARRARAS M. BAUCSKI D. NELSON G. H. STEVENSON P. AMATO J. A. DYKES E. B. HOLMES C. A. MILLER H. SELBY W. R. BLOOM J. MOLINO F. NAGY J. BURGOS N. NEILSON J* it BALTIMOP.E MARINE HOSP. ALEXANDER DUDDE CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES PAYNE CARLOS LEE JR. JOHN WEBB JOHN RILEY (G.L.) JAMES McMAHON (G.L.) ERNEST SIDNEY PETER LOPEZ MANUEL ROMERO GEORGE MILLER WM. KEMMERER RICHARD HANSEN 4-4-4. NEPONSET HOSPITAL HUGH BURKE J. S. COMPBELL LINDEN CLARK JOHN T. EDWARDS J. FIGUEROA E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY C. LARSON L. L. LEWIS L. TORRES 4-4 4NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL GUS KREZTER C. MASON STEVE MOGAN R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT N. LONGTINE ED. DUDEK J. J. O'NEILL E. J. NAVARRE J. N. HULL C. TYNER C. J. COMPAN WM. H. CAO J. W. DENNIS ED. CUSTER WM. BROCE. Jr. GEO. F. DUFFY You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) ADAM KARPOWICH C. LOCIGNO WM MEAGHER D. LAUBERSHEIMER G. F. HART H. N. LEAVELLE S. HAMILTON 4- 4- 4TV AV A « At • 1 J A A %. A * J^ V ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL M. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. MCDONALD c. RASMUSSEN B. HOFFMAN J. KOSLUSKY 4. •V **' 4. •*» CHICAGO MARINE HOSP. LOUIS JOHNSON STEVE SCHULTZ HENRY LALLY X % % BRIGHTON MARINE HOSP. E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM E. MOFIENE E. DELLAMANO J. LEVACK D. BURLISON P. KOGOY J. MORRISON -i, �Friday, May 9, 1947 T H L Moran Agreement It was reported a couple of meetings ago that the Union was having some trouble in persuad­ ing Moran Towing and Trans­ portation Company to open neg­ otiations pertaining to increasing wages and overtime rates. We were successful last week in negotiating with the Moran Towing and Transportation Com­ pany what are at this point the highest wages ever achieved for oft'-shore vessels by any Union. A complete story on this was carried in last week's issue of the SEAFARERS LOG, giving the full wage scale and copy of agreement reached. Membership meetings, both ashore and on ship, have repeat­ edly dealt with the question of slop chests. Practically every crew has complained of the inferior qual­ ity and high prices of merchan­ dise carried in slop chests on board SlU vessels. This question has ben referred to Headquarters for action by the membership. A letter was sent last week by your Head­ quarters Offices to all SlU con­ tracted operators, requesting the names of the ships chandlers who supply slop chests for their particular vessels in all ports. LOG by Headquarters Offices. The Atlantic and Gulf District is fortunate in not having over­ loaded its membership roles in comparison with available con­ tracted jobs. It is to our Union's advantage that we keep it that way. A survey is now being made of the possibility of future jobs for the Atlantic and Gulf Dis- SNiN of the Ports of New York, Balti­ of the SIU. A full and detailed more, and New Orleans, where report will follow as to the out most transfers have been taking come of this. place. Headquarters R e p r esentative Robert Matthews last week was Organizing sent to the Port of Montreal, Mathiasen and Sag Harbor Tankers, Inc., have been notified of the SIU's desire to negotiate WHeRe'S 'EM a contract as a result of the re­ ICE-BOATS? cent National Labor Relations Board Victory of the SIU in rep­ resenting their unlicensed per­ sonnel. The date for the com­ mencement of such negotiations will be made known shortly. [ Earl Sheppard, Atlantic and Gulf District Organizer, who has been placed in charge of the Organizing Drive for the Inter­ national in the Great Lakes Area, was recently in the Port of New York consulting the Atlan­ tic and Gulf District Organizers, pertaining to the drive in the Great Lakes Area. Canada, along with International Organizer Gene Markey, for the establishment of an SIU Hall for the Port of Montreal, Canada, with the thought in mind of laying a program to enable the International to expand the While here, he requested scope of operations of the Cana­ Headquarters Offices to notify dian District of the SIU. all Atlantic and Gulf Ports, in Gene Markey will be in charge the event of a request for help of the Montreal Branch. All SIU by the Great Lakes Staff, that crews are to make it their busi­ the officials and membership are ness to cooperate with him in to cooperate in every manner every possible manner while in possible. that area. The Agents Conference of this The Organizing Staff of the year recommended that the in­ Atlantic and Gulf District has land boats in the Gulf Area be recommended t o Headquarters placed under the jurisdiction of Offices that the issuance of Isth­ the Director of Organization and mian Organizing books be tem­ his Staff. porarily suspended for the pur­ This has not been done to date pose of allowing for retrench­ inasmuch as there has been some ment of the Organizing Program confusion regarding this situa­ of the Union. tion and it was impossible to Exceptions to this rule are to turn this over to Gulf Area Or­ ganizer L. J. Williams until this be made only upon recommenda­ tions by Organizers after a man situation has been cleared up. My presence is necessary in applying -^for membership has the Gulf Area in the near fu­ shown sufficient amount of sea ture and, while there, this prob­ time while acting as volunteer lem will be ironed out with Or­ organizer for the SIU. A full program and details for ganizer Williams and New OrISans Port Agent Steely White, the governing of admission of who up to this point has been in membership will be issued by charge of that particular section Headquarters shortly. In the uNmi/m.? Panamanian Scows Are Hell Ships, Says Seaman Who Has Sailed Them SIU-SUP Probationary Members It has been called to the at­ tention • of the Headquarters Office.s that in a couple of Ports recently, probationary members, both SIU and SUP, were told they came under SIU shipping privileges, under the same rules as applied to tripcaid and permit men and have pulled them off ships. This is incorrect as all book members, regardless of whether they are probationary or full book members, are entitled to meantime, no official is to take applications for new members. Attorney Ben Sterling has completed the brief for the SIU in the Isthmian case. This brief will be presented to the Nation­ al Labor Relations Board in Washington, D. C., shortly. More details of this case will be car­ ried as soon as disposition is made of .same. By J. P. SHULER, Secretary-Treasurer Once we have this available information, outfits supplying such slop chests in the SlU con­ tracted vessels will be notified that unless all merchandise put trict of the SIU. Once this sur­ on board all contracted SlU ships vey is completed, a policy can be is Union made, fair priced, and good quality, that SIU crews introduced to govern transfers from District to District. will refuse to allow them to In the meantime, however, all furnish slop chests for any SlU hands should be aware of the vessels. fact that since the action taken This is a matter that will take \ at the Joint East-West Coast some time, as the Organization Agents Conference in Chicago, in has to be careful so that it 1945, regardless of which Dis­ doesn't become involved legally trict issued a man's book, he in this beef. is qualified for shipping rights, This matter will be handled no matter in which District he by Headquarters, and a commit­ is on the beach. tee will be elected in the future This matter of transfers is called to the particular attention WHOSE'S 'AT„ to survey all findings and make i-ecommendations in order to put a stop to some of these high­ jacking -ships chandlers from robbing ships crews on slop chest items. Page Three "REPORT/ the same shipping privileges. Port Agents are hereby noti­ fied that in the future, they are not to remove any SIU or SUP probationary members from con­ tracted vessels on the basis that they are entitled only to tripcard and permit men shipping It is to be noted that further privileges. meetings will take place in the District Transfers near future between the Union It is recommended that no and Moran, dealing with clari­ transfers be accepted from other fications of various points of the Districts into the Atlantic and working rules in this contract. Gulf District until further notice Slop Chests SEAFARERS (Continued from Page 1) "And y ou know what that means," said Lowey. Most of the men on these transfer•red ships have never seen a Panamanian port. They sign-on and -off in English ports, and do most of their sailing between United States and Far Eastern harbors. So bad was it on the Klasen, which was the fourth Panaman­ ian ship Lowey sailed on, that he had a nervous bi'eakdown and was sent to the hospital. Upon release from the hospital he was offered another trans­ ferred ship, but instead of sign­ ing on, he headed right for the New York SIU Hall. The rate of pay is far inferior to American standards. ABs are paid about $95.00 per month. Firemen the same. Oilers collect around $100.00, and Bosuns only slightly more. NOT SCABS Besides being resentful about their pay, these men realize that they arc jeopardizing the stand­ ards of American seamen. If there should be a boycott of Panamanian ships, the men now sailing the vessels would come right over to the SIU side, according to Denny. Here he received a warm re­ ception, and his story was heard with great interest. While Denny was in the hos­ pital, his shipmates appealed to the National Maritime Union, CIO, for aid. In fact, represen­ tatives from the Joshua Macy, another such ship, also were in on the meeting. They were promised all sorts of help, but nothing ever came of it. That's why the Seafarers, helped. He's right now, on Denny came to and he has been on an SIU ship a tripcard, and he is free of the fear that turned him into a nervous wreck on Panamanian ships. HERE'S TRUTH If there are any Congressmen who think that the many stories about conditions on Panamanian ships are exaggerated, here is first hand information. And it's only one of many such stories which have been told to officials of the Seafarers International Union. Denny Lowey and others were put aboard Panamanian ships inn o c e n t of the conditions on them, innocent of the fact that they would be owned by U.S. capital, and innocent of the fact that they would be helping to break down what U.S. sea­ men have fought for so long. They don't like it, and they want to do something about it as quick as possible. That's Denny's story, and he knows what he's talking about. Union Expenses Expenses in some ports have not been reduced to the point that was recommended by the Agents Conference. An example of this not having been done is shown in the past New Orleans Minutes, where a motion was carried that further expenses be allowed to operate than those laid down in the proposals of the Agents Confer­ ence. A further example was shown in the Port of Savannah where a motion was carried to have a secretary for the Branch, although the membership had ruled by overwhelming major­ ity on the actions of the Agents Conference to eliminate same. The Port Agents in these re­ spective Ports have had this called to their attention, and the membership is hereby notified of this failure to comply with Union policy as per recommen­ dation of the Agent Conference. In the event that membership rules are not complied with by these two ports shortly, the membership will be given defin­ ite recommendations to elimin­ ate these problems. Financial reports from various ports, as submitted to Headquar­ ters, show that some heavy "building expenses" are submit- ted. Headquarters recommends that in the future no Ports spend money for "building expenses" until the proposed expenditures have been submitted for entire coastwise action as per the Con­ stitution. On another matter of expenses, a bill has been sent to Head­ quarters for payment for a multilith machine in the Port of New Orleans. The bills submit­ ted total over $2,000.00, includ­ ing the cost of the machine and various supplies. This bill will not be paid ^ Headquarters until such time as the membership knows the score on it and has the chance to make a decision, as per the Con­ stitution. The last Agents Conference in­ structed the Secretary-Treasurer and the Headquarters Offices to see to it that the Union's pro­ gram in all matters, and that applies specifically to the Union's economizing program, be exer"cised by all Port Agezits. It further provided that in the event it was not done, that vio­ lations of such policy were to be brought to the attention of the membership. This has been done. In order to prevent such in­ fractions in the future, it is rec­ ommended that the niembership (Continued on Page 8) �THE Page Four SEAFARERS LOG Wyandotte And Huron Crewmen Are Selidly Behind Seafarers Friday, May 9, 1947 Active Seafarer. On top of this, they receive as thei'e is a militant Seafarer $1.25 an hour for all penalty left we'll continue to win the DETROIT—With the election overtime as specified in the con­ best wages, hours, working and •on the two Huron ships sched­ tract. livipg conditions afloat! uled for sometime between May Stewards Dept. members now Let's look at the record some 15 and June 11, and the election get an extra days pay for each more! aboard the four Wyandotte ships seven days worked, and have Back in 1942, the SIU first probably being held within the had their overtime rate increased gained the 40-hour week for fit next two or three weeks, crew- from 5 to 15 cents an hour. out and lay up. Yet, the NMU members aboard these unorgan­ For all fit out, lay upland win­ brags that they gained it through ized Lakes vessels arc lined up ter work. Deck and Engine men almost to a man for the Seafar­ get $1.60 an hour for'the rated their phony strike in 1946! It's in the records. Check 'em for ers International Union, AFL. men and $1.40 an hour for the yourself. Stewards Dept. Bob King is working out of unrated men. We could go on for hours Alpena contacting these ships' men get paid $1,60, $1,40, $1.25, pointing out where the SIU and crews, and I'm doing the con­ and 93c according to their month­ SUP have led the maritime in­ On the picketline and on the tacting in the Detroit area down ly pay rates, and the low bracket dustry for years, but we realize Wyandotte way. Besides those includes bellhops and maids. ship, Salvatore Garofolo is an All time over eight hours in that most Lakes seamen know active, valuable man. During personal man-to-man contacts, a the score, and that's why they're number of my very good friends one day or 40 hours a week is going so strong for the Seafar­ the 1946 General Strike he was on the.se ships are in constant paid at time-and-one-half. ers. in the New York Port, but he D & C gains have been nego­ correspondence with this office. tiated with the Bob-Lo, Geor­ has participated in other beefs NO PHONY PROGRAM As a result of these contacts, gian Bay, C & B, and other pas­ in other sections of the coun­ both in person and via mail, we If we were like the NMU, we'd senger and excursion lines under try. Happy sailing, wherever have built up a fine relationship come out with a phony 1947 pro­ SIU contract. between the six Wyandotte and gram and say that the SIU was you aire. Brother. Huron crews and the SlU. FREIGHTER CONTRACTS going to get all unorganized In addition to signing up al­ The SIU is now negotiating Lakes seamen a 50 per cent wage most 100 percent as far as SlU with Midland, the sandboat op­ increase, a 30-hour week at sea pledge cards are concerned, a erators, and all of our bulk and in port, the 6-watch system, large number of these boys have freighter operators. These con­ and 180 leave days with pay a Crews of vessels putting in But we're not like the taken out SIU books. This is tracts have not been completed year. at Manila, P. I., are warned furthei- proof of how they feel as yet, but among our demands NMU. to be on the look out for a about the SlU. Sure, we want all Wyandotte, are the 40-hour week, substan­ former member, James Har­ tial wage increases, increased Huron, Hanna and Wilson sea­ PHONY PROPAGANDA rington, who last paid dues overtime rates, and improved men, as well as others we are petitioning for, to vote for the in December 1945. This man Several of these boys have working rules. sent in some of the NMU's cur­ When we finish these negotia­ SIU. But the SIU will not try has been going a.board SIU rent line of phony propaganda tions in the near future, the re­ to' insult their intelligence by ships saying he is a friend that they are mailing to Wyan­ sults will be printed in the LOG, handing them any line of bilge of Union officials, and using dotte and Huron crewmcmbers. and the record will once again about our 1947 program! it as a means of soliciting Our program is, as always, to Seems as though they're using show that the SIU has .set the funds. His claim of friend­ get the best wages, hours, over­ the mail route due to the rugged pace on the Lakes as always. ship is entirely false, and We expect to get the 40-hour time, working and living condi­ reception given a couple of their Seafarers should bear in organizers. The Huron and week, and the SIU will be the tions in the maritime industry. mind that he is in bad stand­ Wyandotte seamen told these Union to do the job. SIU con­ Check the record to see if we ing in the Union. NMUers in no uncertain terms tracts and conditions have always haven't always secured our aims, that they wanted no part of them topped the industry, and as long then vote for the SIU! • L. or their phony union. These fellows are really getting a big kick out of the NMU's empty promises to get them a 25 per cent wage increase, a 40-hour week at sea and in port, the 4-watch system, and 90 leave days a year with pay. DETROIT—This is- the real Members of the NMU who sail part of their regular work day These are their promises, now story of the NMU's finky sell ouf on the carferries are now ready with no overtime pay. This let's look at the' NMU's record of their own members sailing the to disown their own so-called means that working conditions as to what they actually got com- Great Lakes carferries. This is union for selling them out. are now actually worse than they - pared to what the SlU has se­ the truth which they didn't dare were before the new contract They were built up to high cured in its contracts. to print in the items in the Pilot hopes by the NMU's avowed in­ was signed. Let's look at the contracts regarding the carferry settle­ Here's the real payoff! NMUtention of securing them a $100 which the NMU negotiated for ment. We challenge them to re­ ers sailing the carferries were monthly subsistence rate instead the carferries. The carferries fute one word of this article! asked to ratify the new contract of the $60 now being paid, seven formerly worked a 7-day week While the SIU has been carry­ days pay for five days work, and by means of secret ballots three with 30 leave days a year. Under ing on a battle to secui-e the 40numerous improvements in the days after the companies had the terms of the new NMU con­ hour week for the Lakes freight­ working rules and working condi­ asked them to clear up their tracts the men work a 6-day, ers, the NMU sold its members back leave days. tions. 48-hour week with 52 leave days down the river by signing a 48In other words, the NMU had Here's what the carferrymen a year. hour week contract with no ap­ agreed to this sell-out contract actually got under their new con­ So the NMU actually gained preciable gains for the carferries. before the men had a chance to tract: a 6-day, 48 hour week with just 22 leave days a year, with At the same time, the SIU con­ vote as to whether they would seven days pay (actually being no increase in wages, no overtime cluded the best passenger agree­ accept it or not! an increase of only 22 leave-days pay for the seventh day, and ment ever made on the Lakes This is the outfit—the NMU— a year, as they were already get­ lousier working conditions. when the D & C pattern of a 44which is now circulating litera­ ting 30 leave days annually, and Is that the kind of a deal that hour week for the passenger could take these leave days in ture among the unorganized they'd give the Huron and Wyan­ ships was established. groups of five or six for fishing Lakes seamen, telling them of their marvelous program! dotte seamen if they were fool­ or hunting trips). Now, it's man­ Is it' any wonder that these ish enough to vote for the NMU? datory that they take a day off same Lakes seamen laugh when The same kind of a sell out that each v/eek. the NMU even mentions the mar­ the car ferry men got! In the new ferry agreements, Department Delegates velous gains they are going to there are no provisions for over­ should check to see that all D & C CONTRACT secure for all unorganized men time work on the seventh day, overtime is turned in 72 hours on the Lakes? Now, the SIU is not bragging and if the men should have to before the ship is scheduled Sounds like the old wobbly about the D & C contract, but work on this day they would to dock. But this does not "Pie in the Sky." let's look at what we won as com­ only receive straight time for it. mean to hold the overtime pared to the carferries. The SIU doesn't brag about until then. Contrast this to SIU contracts where the members secure $1.00 what we are going to do for all As soon as penalty work In the Deck and Engine Depts., to $1.25 per hour for overtime Lakes seamen some distant day is done, a record should be men now work a 44-hour week during sailing season, and time- in the future. All we are asking given to the Department for the same pay as they received head, and one copy held by and-one-half doing standby work. is that the unorganized Lakes for a 56-h6ur week. Their maflIhe man doing the job. In There was no change whatso­ seamen compare the SIU con­ datory monthly increase for that w&y there is less chance ever in the working rules. In tracts and conditions with any week end overtime amounts in for thing.<> to get fouled up. fact, the men are now_asked to others on the Lakes. Compaz-e, cold cash to an increase of $52 a do all kinds of penalty work as then choose—the SIU! month. By PAUL WARREN AnENTION! NMU Cannot Afford To Print True Story Of How It Sold Out The Carferry Workers On Overtime Lee Crew Wins Extra Pay Award (Cotitinued from Page I) entered into on June 1, 1945, under whose terms the vessel was to be returned to a final port of discharge in the Con­ tinental United States at a date not later than June 1, 1946. This has not been done. On the con­ trary the voyage has been un­ necessarily prolonged and is now being continued contrary to agreement. 2. As an indication of the inefficiency of these organiza­ tions, (vessel, owners, and Mas­ ter) it might be noted that wo have spent seven months out of the last nine at anchor in var­ ious ports and that we are still carrying cargo which was brought from England last September and never dis­ charged. Another charge made by the crew was that the slopchest was never adequate and failed to con­ tain shoes, socks, underwear or work gear, and that fresh food was supplied for only 20 days out of the 250 days preceding the date the application was filed. AGREEMENT MADE In his decision the Commis­ sioner pointed out that although denials were made by the 'WSA, the Maritime Commission, and the company, that the vessel was kept out and the voyage pro­ longed through inefficiency and lack of diligence on the part of the owners and the Mastei-, such was not the case. In his findings he placed all blame for failure to complete the voyage within 12 months direct­ ly at the door of the owners, and that it constituted a breach of contract. On the strength of the applica­ tion, the American Consul, with the agreement of both parties, extended the articles for another 60 days, with the proviso that the "seamen of the SS Richard Henry Lee waive no rights to all wages and extra wages remain­ ing due and unpaid: that their interests and rights under lawful agreements are in no way pre­ judiced by this extension." At that time the ship was un­ der the jurisdiction of the "War Shipping Administration, and the WSA approved the plan of ex­ tending the articles so that the ship could bo sailed to San Fran­ cisco, and agreed to abide by the Commissioner's ruling in regard to the request for ope month's extra wages for all members Of the crew. It took nine long months be­ fore the arbitrator reached a de­ cision, but that ruling bids well to become another strong plank of seamen's rights. Heretofore seamen have not been able to collect extra, as a general practice, for voyages which extended beyond the tei'm of the articles. Attention Agents All applications for SIU burial benefits must be mailed to: JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Dept. Seafarers Intl. Union 51 Beaver Street New York 4, N. Y. 1 �Friday. May 9, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG I Page Five Mobile SIU Aids Phone Strikers Seafarers Mass On Picketlines With Striking Phone Workers By CAL TANNER M OBILE—starting with April 30, the Seafarers of this port have marched side by side with the striking telephone workers. Not that SIU aid had not been offered previously; it's just that the phone workers' Strike Committee had not wanted any outside help. liut on April 29, after a request from the strik­ ers, we called a special membership meeting and voted to support the National Federaton of Tele­ phone Workers morally, physically and financially. Early the next morning, white-capped Sea­ farers massed on the picketlines with the tele­ phone workers. Many of them asked for white caps, saying that they thought it a great privilege to wear the badge of the militant seamen. A great many warm friendships have been started, and the strikers are learning a lesson in trade union solidarity. MATCHED STRENGTH these gatherings as possible. This procedure has raised the morale and stiffened the backbone of the strikers. Girls representing the telephone workers now accompany the Patrolmen to payoffs to take up do­ nations for the .Strike Fund, and in true SIU fashion, our members have contributed hand­ somely. For the record, it should be noted that the various AFL organizations have given generously of their time and effort. All of the Business Agents have assisted in all possible ways, and the unions have either already contributed to the Strike Fund, or have signified that they will do .so at the next regular meeting. Last, but not least, many of the cafes which sea­ men patronize have extended credit to the strikers. APPRECIATION The best appreciation of the support being given by the SIU came from the publicity charman of the telephone strikers. He said, "SIU support will, in my opinion, be the deciding factor in settling the strike in favor of the workers. Since our first appearance on the picketlines, wc have matched the strikers pickets with ours. Many of our men concede that lines maintained by the telephone workers are as fine and orderly as any they have ever seen, and are definitely in the best tradition of the SIU. "We believe the presence of a strong union like the SIU on our picketlines will have a deciding in­ fluence on the management." Meetings are being held twice daily, and with the help of Scott Walters, AFL Organizer, we are arranging to have speakers at as many of Words like these mean a great deal to us, and we're happy that we can bo of assistance to these people. Those signs carried by fhe Seafarers, "SIU SUPPORTS TELEPHONE WORKERS," means just what it says. The SIU went to bat for the strikers, morally, physically, and financially. So did other AFL Unions in Mobile. The Mobile SIU Hall was put et the disposal of the striking telephone workers, and they made good use of it. Meetings were held there frequently, and it became one base of operations. As shown above, the strikers and the Seafarers made friends, and with the SIU on their picketlines, the telephone workers were sure of militant support. Picket signs of the National Federation of Telephone Work­ ers, the NFTW, are up front, but the Seafarers can be seen on the same line. This picture was taken in front of the main tele­ phone building, and shows the strength of the line. That policeman on the right is minding his own business. And the picket* ers are minding theirs. Veteran Seafarers reported that the picketlines were orderly and solid, in the best SIU fashion. Here's a picketline that's solid SIU. On the first day of Seafarers participation, the seamen massed on the line to bolster the morale of the strikers. It sure helped the spirits of the em­ battled workers. This line looks like an all Seafarers picketline, but that may be because some of the telephone workers put on white caps as a tribute to the militant j SIU seamen who came to help them out. £{( �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 9. 1947 Cleveland-Cliffs And Phony LSU Work Together Watch For Men Hired From Miami Fink Hall By SONNY SIMMONS TAMPA—Even with plenty of ships touching this port, we have kept trouble down to a minimum. But in every sunny day, we alwavs prepare for rain, and sOj **•••••• what happened last week came P||0|^g |{|Q0 gy |LA as no surprise. The Mate of the SS Columbia By SALVADOR COLLS Victory called from Miami and SAN JUAN — Things here on additional ports after they leave said that the ship needed a Deck Maintanance man, and that the the Enchanted Isle are popping Venezuela. We have been getting excel­ Skipper was going to hire one' fast. This port can use men in from the Seamen's Institute. {all ratings with plenty of jobs lent cooperation from the Inter­ national Longshoremen's Asso­ A little bit of palaver, and the available in all departments. ciation down here. Mate was convinced not to do so, | In addition there are jobs They are going to negotiate but to come to Tampa one man available on the shoregangs for their contracts with the under­ those of you who wish to soak up short. standing that all companies that the Puerto Rican sunshine. When the ship arrived in this More work on the shoregangs have contracts with them must port, I checked and found that can be expected as I expect to also sign joint agreements with the Captain had hired a Wiper sign shoregang contracts with the SIU. This is due to the fact from the fink hall, so I pulled about six or seven companies if that if we signed them by our­ him off in short order. everything goes along as it is selves we would never have One of the Firemen, although now. ' enough men for the jobs. an SIU member, had also shipped It seems that the boys coming I want to thank the ILA for from the Institute. It was too I down here really like the Island, the fine cooperation they have late to do anything about that,'^^ ^ given us both at work and in but I have Wired ahead Ne^ negotiations. I have tried be­ Orleans, and the matter will be few takers. fore to negotiate contracts of this taken care when the ship arrives Of course, I don't blame the nature, but it has been an im­ there. boys for wanting to enjoy the possibility to meet with any of It would be a good thing for pJeasures of San Juan, as there's the companies as they wanted to Delegates to make sure that no plenty to do and it can be done deal solely with the ILA. men are hired in Miami, since So, at the present time, we are it's a 99 to 1 shot that any men negotiating jointly for shoregang who sign on in Miami come from jobs, and we expect, in the near the fink hall. future, to get a combined charter between the SIU and ILA. PORT ACTIVITY More Shoregang Work Expected In port now there are two Wa­ terman ships, with two more due soon. Bull Lines have one, and Pacific Far East has one. The Waterman Port Captain tells us that Bcveral ships will be com­ ing in soon to load phosphate for Japan. That's all right with us —the more the merrier. Rated men have no trouble shipping out of here. In fact, we are in need of ABs, Cooks, and Firemen. Even an OS or an MM has no difficulty making a ship. Sounds good, and we hope it keeps up. Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: NEW ORLEANS SAVANNAH JACKSONVILLE CHARLESTON MARCUS HOOK GALVESTON MILWAUKEE CORPUS CHRISTI SAN FRANCISCO ASHTABULA BUFFALO DULUTH CHICAGO CLEVELAND The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due, etc., is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. Seafarers Continue To Establish New Gains On The Great Lakes By HENRY CHAPPELL here for less than most places. This week, two more men join­ ed the Beachcombers Club, but unlike most, they weren't par­ ticularly desirous of® coming ashore into the ranks of the club. TOLEDO—With the exception of a few odd ships in the ship­ yards, all of the some 50 ships that were laid up in this port during the past Winter months have already started on the 1947 Lakes season. 1947 should really be a banner season on the Lakes, and the shipownei's should reap an exceptionally high harvest of profits on the seamen's sweat. As usual, the Lake Carriers As­ sociation is laying back to see what the SIU gains in the way of wage increases and shorter hours before they establish any new scale. The SIU is the leader on the Lakes, and they all wait to follow our lead. This year is no exception. The SIU has already gained the 44-hour week on the Lakes passenger boats along with num­ erous other gains. Now, we're after the 40-hour week in the bulk freighter field, with corresponding wage in­ creases and improved conditions over the 1946 contracts. After we break the 40-hour week on the Lakes, other outfits will probably come along and claim that they did the job. Con­ fidentially, we don't give a damn as long as all seamen benefit by our fight. We're not in this business for publicity, but to win the best conditions possible for our mem­ bers. That way all seamen will bene­ fit, because the LCA and other outfits will have to follow our lead. They always do. DOUBLE TROUBLE They were .on the Coastal Mariner where they ran into a bit of trouble, one for taking a cou­ ple of days off and giving the Steward a hard time, and the other for not standing his gang­ way watch. Both men were logged, but I By HAY WHITE had the log pulled with the un­ NORFOLK—Shipping in Nor­ derstanding that the men would pile off the ship. folk is booming again. The lack Another beef I've been hand­ of rated men is still the problem, ling, of a little different nature, but so far we have managed to is going to cause someone to burn crew the ships efficiently enough a little before it gets settled if to sail. the case is proven to be true. There is still a steady traffic of One of the crew aboard the SS of SUP ships hitting this port. Marina claims he was beaten up Eight paid off last week. Al­ by the Skipper and he has two though, they were fairly short" witnesses to the act. The crewtrips it made deck shipping good member and the two witnesses and the Acting ABs had a field came down to the Hall and filled day. out sworn statements to the fact. The usual run of ships in tran­ We expect to see some action on sit is about the same. The main this in a few days. problem aboard these ships is This week I handled the pay­ that the crew signs on without off of the MV Ponce and squared proper stores or repairs. The away a lot of beefs that had ac­ Membership was notified through cumulated. We have increased the last issue of the LOG not to sign on until the ship was holidays for the Ponce crew I from nine to around twenty, and the repair list taken care of. This should eliminate the prob­ which the crew was naturally very happy to hear. lem. LONGER TRIP The affairs of the port are in good shape. There are no beefsI believe they will have a good 40-HOUR FIT-OUT pending and shipping for the payoff when they come back Back in 1942, the SIU was the coming weeks looks good. Come,'from their present trip, as they first to secure the 40-hour week on down to Norfolk and Ship on figure it will take over two for fit-out and lay-up. However, anything from a tug to a tanker, 'months with stops at a couple of it wasn't until the Fall of 1946 Norfolk Has Steady Flow Of Shipping NO NEWS?? that other seamen on the Lakes secured this gain originally won by the SIU. That's what gives us a real bel­ ly laugh, when we read some of this lying propaganda put out by so-called unions on the Lakes. They even claim credit for the 40-hour fit-out and lay-up week. But the Lakes seamen know who won these gains back in '42—the Seafarers! Through the fighting efforts of the SIU, many gains have been won on the Lakes—and many more gains will be won before we're through! If we could win these victories on Ihe Lakes with approximately 5,000 dues paying members, how much more could we win with the Lakes 100 per cent organized? Just answer that one yourself. DETROIT—One of our Great Lakes Seafarers, whose name is being withheld due to the fact that he is now working aboard an unorganized ship, was in the other daj' and gave us a few de­ tails concerning the non-union conditions aboard the SS Joliet of the Cleveland-Cliffs Line. According to this Brother, con­ ditions on the Joliet are really lousy. This outfit is under con­ tract to the phony Lake Sea­ men's Union. In fact, he says that conditions are the woi'st of any Lakes vessel that, he'd been on in quite some time. This scow was docked at the C&O docks in Toledo, and he went aboard her at the fit-out. The pump was drawing filthy water from the creek and crewmembers were forced to show.-r in oily, scummy water or else go without showers at all. The big-hearted ClevelandCliffs management issued one face towel and one bath towel each week to the Joliet crewmembers. In addition. Cliffs seamen were forced to clean their own quarters, change their own linen, and make up their own beds. NO OVERTIME SHIP Firemen cleaned the back heads without any overtime. Oil­ ers were painting and chipping at all hours of the day and night at straight time. These were only a few of the non-union conditions on this Cleveland-Cliffs ship. •\Vhile they were at the dock, a lousy night lunch of bologna with no butter was the usual practice. Oilers were told that they had to learn the different lights on the rivers, channels and other points so that they could record the engines' RPMs and note their position. These were only a few of the rotten open shop conditions ex­ isting on a supposedly organized ship. Is it any wonder that Cleve­ land Cliffs seamen are really fed up with the phony LSU, and are looking for a decent union con­ tract and decent union condi­ tions? Stick around, boj^s! You'll soon have the kind of conditions, con­ tract and Union representation that you want. You'll soon have them because the SIU is on the march. Soon, THE GREAT BOSSES UNIONS LAKES TOO, WILL BE SIU,' Here's another idea to mull! and there won't be any open over in your mind. The ship­ shop conditions on the Lakes. owners and the various big shots of industry' have their unions, don't they? Sure, they have the -National Association of Manufac­ turers, U. S. Chamber of Com­ merce and the various city cham­ Alcoa's newest luxui-y liner, bers, Committees for Economic the SS Alcoa Clipper, has ar­ Development, and othSr outfits rived in New Orleans which too numerous to mention. will be her home port from On the Lakes, we have op­ now on. The Clipper features erators' unions like the Lake wide use of aluminum, which Carriers Association, ^he Propel­ saves greatly on weight. ler Club, and various regional It has made it possible to re­ and trade groups. If these guys tain 75 percent of the cargo can see the benefits of unionism, space aboard the ship, while even if it is their own variety, outfitting accommodations for 98 why can't the unorganized Lakes passengers. Aluminum is also seamen benefit by their example? practical since it does away with Y'es, in union there is strength. salt water corrosion. And on the Lakes that strength The Clipper is capable of do­ lies in the Seafarers Internation­ ing 21 knots, which will' make al Union, AFL. That's the only her one of America's fastest pas­ course to follow. senger vessels. Alcoa Corsair Ready For Maiden Voyage �Friday. May 9. 1047 New York Has A Busy Week On Waterfront THE SEAFARERS LOG AROUND THE WORLD ON THE LAFITTE Page Seven Shipping Boom In Port Boston Undergoes A Slight Recession By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON—It must be reported couple of weeks, and a case of that the shipping boom in New grippe kept me in bed for three England has come to an end—' da3-.s. Everything went along NEW YORK — With business temporarily. We've just finished .smoothly in my absence from the and shipping maintaining its the slowest week we've had hall. steady pace, the Patrolmen have around here in a long time, and Shipyard delays in connection had a good crop of payoffs and the outlook for the next week is with the Evangeline .stalled off sign ons in the past week. not so hot either. for a while the inevitable head­ Of the many ships contacted One pay-off which was .sched­ aches in getting this scow this week some were found in uled to start the week off was straightened out. Incidentally, fine shape while others had beefs cancelled, so the time is past due there appears to be enough men galore, but they were all handled when the boys .should be notified a-^'ailable to man the Eva around in the usual SIU style and made that shipping will be slow in shipshape once more. Boston. But unfortunately, by One of the ships that had a the time this article hits the good share of beefs was the SS printed page, the outlook may be Hastings, Waterman Line. She Starling al Baltimore, the SS Jean LaFitte, Waterman, made altogether different. pulled in after a five months trip a round the world voyage. Pictured above are, left to right, However, strangely enough, to the Far East, and at the pay Henry C, Thornton. DM; Harold Spencer, AB; Fred Umhollz, bad as shipping was this past off there were a lot of beefs to DM; James Marshal, DM and Deck Delegate: and Denny Wells, week, it was still necessary to is­ handle but the whole crew was Bosun. The ship was out four months, and a good crew made the sue permits in order to get the there, all sober and very coop­ trip enjoyable. The Deck Gang especially came in for a lot of ships out. erative. praise. The Chief Mate tried to foul things up, but more about The Fort Winnebago paid oil All three Delegates were on him next week. in Portland on Friday. All the the ball with everything in or­ replacements that were wired in der, all books collected and from the ship were obtained and everything lined up for the Pa­ dispatched to Portland; then, af­ trolman just the way they like ter the pa\-off, when the ship the hall at the pi'esent time—but to see it. was .scheduled to get away, the one never knows how many men OVERTIME BEEF Mate up and fires three of his will actually take the jobs once The major beef aboard con­ By WILLIAM RENTZ deck gang, thus delaying the ship they are posted. cerned the Oilers relieving the BALTIMORE—Shipping in the We also have a few ships run­ until we could get the replace­ Firemen so he could go below to As predicted here recentlj'-, the ments up there on Saturday. the lower engine room to clean port of Baltimore ha.s slowed ning to Denmark and Italy as Nantasket Steamship owners In a case like this the Union fuel oil suction strainers. On this down just a little from the -tor­ well as the Bull Line tubs run­ certainlj' cannot be blamed for bought out the Provincetown ex­ beef they collected a total of 720 rid pace it has been maintain­ ning to Puerto Rico and coast­ the delay, rather, the Mate who cursion run, and are bringing up hours overtime. There were a ing, but it still hasn't slowed wise to Tampa and Boca Grande. would blow his top at the last a brand-new ship to place in op­ few minor beefs concerning the down enough to make the crew- In addition we have the usual run minute when the ship is rcad.v to eration around May 30. Since we of Tankers in and out, so, you can Electricians which were put in ing of the ships an easy task. already have a contract with the see shipping is booming out of sail, should get the rap. order in short time. The slight slowdown has given Nantasket people, the ProvinceLACK OF MANPOVv'ER Skipper Hugh Brown of the the Dispatcher a chance to catch this port. town run is automatically Then, too, we had the Willis Hastings, is a former SIU mem­ his breath and spray his throat, The baggage man in this port Vickery, American-Pacific, come brought into the SIU orbit. ber who has retired his book, but he'll get little rest for his would like to notify all members in here short three men on deck. This also severs the last con­ and he cooperated with the crew vocal cords for a while. The gang called the hall and nection that the fink New Bedand Patrolman all the way. It stated they wanted a full crew on 0!d outfit had in Boston. Hence, While on the subject of ship­ would be a pleasure to have more I leaving Boston. The beef was the advent of good weather will ping and crewing ships, I'd like Skippers like him around. Life taken up v.dth APL, who wanted bring to the Avenue a -sizable to bring to the attention of the can be a hell of a lot easier if to sail light for the return trip to number of pretty good summer members, especially those that New York, and it was finally- jobs for SIU members who want ship out of Baltimore, the fact agreed that the three men would to homestead it for the summer. that they are letting themselves be put on here. and the Union down by not tak­ .So much for this week. Will So what happened? Three men ing these Ore Line ships. be back next week with news are dispatched, more trouble de­ of increased activity on the Bos­ The Ore Line contract is not velops. and others in the crew ton waterfront—we hope. the best that we have, but it isj pile off—the ship sails to New a hell of a lot better than riding' York short four men on deck! unorganized scows, or for that A check on the ships in transit' matter, a lot of NMU contracted very often reveals they are sail­ ships. ing short-handed, and of course that there is baggage on the the companies and agents are SOME BRAND NEW racks dating back three and four notified that the needed men Several of these wagons are years. Unless the owners claim practically brand spanking new, the gear or send a letter asking must be put on. Then, just often enough to make us look bad, the and are reputed to have just for such luggage to be held, it there is just a little cooperation about the best crew's quarters will be disposed of to some char­ jobs stay^ on the board for a cou­ MIAMI—Hope.s that this city ple of days and the vessel gets given, and the Skipper went all afloat. There are just a few of itable institution. will emerge as an important away—still shorthanded. the way with us on that. the old Ore boats left and these East Coast port were increased And that's the story from Bal­ The weather up this way has Another ship that wasn't as should not be neglected either. with the arrival recentlj' of the been pretty lousy for the past timore this week. pleasant as the Hastings was the If your beef is that the con­ SS Grange Victorjv first ship to Fort Erie, Pacific Tankers. Three tract is just a little below the call in Pan-Atlantic Steamship times the crew went aboard for average SIU contract, all the Coi'poration's n e w 1 yscheduled the sign on, and each time they more reason for you to ride these cargo service to Miami. had to refuse to sign articles. ships so we can bring the con­ By JERRY LICHTMAN The vessel put in amidst much GOT THE DRIFT tract up to par. fanfare, with local officials and SANDUSKY — Our organizing selves. The ship had come in with a representatives of the Waterman So come on, fellows, let's not Unorganized Lakes seamen are drive on the Great Lakes con­ long list of beefs and repairs, leave the jobs up to someone else. Steamship Company of which and the company had done noth­ Let's ride these scows and line tinues to move at a rapid pace tired of being orphans as far as Pan-Atlantic is a subsidiaiy — ing to clear up the matter. After them up as they should be lined as ship after ship lines up for the hours, working and living con­ expressing optimism over Mi­ ditions are concerned. They're SIU. the third refusal, I guess the up. ami's future as a port of call. tired of fitting out on the run, company got the drift, for they Having talked to many hun­ The line has already instituted painting, chipping scrubbing, all The Rosario, formerly the Triswent ahead and made the neces­ dreds of Lakes seamen in my a regular twice-weekly schedule sary repairs and squared away tam Daltan, left here for Norfolk organizational activity in this at their regular rate of pay. Now linking the East ports with they're looking to the SIU for and then for Denmark. the beefs. port and various other Ohio ports, Miami and the Gulf, including The crew then signed on and Plad a Waterman wagon sail­ I can truthfully report that these some changes. one direct New York to Miami Now that the Lakes seamen the ship got out of port. ing for Norfolk also, after which men are going for the SIU iii sailing. realize what an SIU contract The Yarmouth, Eastern, is she is going to Gdynia, Poland. a big way. Local enthusiasm for this means, they're all for us. They in port now on the last leg of her Ted Babkowski is aboard her as The vast majority of the un­ know that job security, job sen­ famed resort city's entry into last trip before to Boston for re­ well as several other good SIU organized Lakes seamen whom iority, competent union repre­ the maritime picture culminated pairs. There she will meet her men. She should come back in I have contacted, are fed up with, sentation, and overall AFL pro­ in a cocktail party in the Col­ sister ship the Evangeline which as clean as a whistle. the rotten open shop conditions tection come with an SIU con­ umbus Hotel for the SS Grange hasn't gotten away on her run which have prevailed on these tract, and they won't settle for Victory's 34-man SIU crew and STEADY RUNS as yet. Lakes for many years. steamship line officials. anything less. We still are covering the Alcoa Calmar Steamship Company is Coming from Boston, the They see SIU contracted ships Just like that well-known hat ships on their steady Bauxite run now. paying retroactive pay and Grange "Victory unloaded about and talk to Seafarers crews about slogan on the radio, the Lakesand the Ore ships on the Cruz the money can be collected at Grande run. The Joshua Hendy, 1,000 tons of freight and took the conditions and contracts men believe, "Don't take less the company offices or by writ­ ing to 44 Whitehall Street, New South Atlantic, was in and left which all Seafarers enjoy. Then than the best; don't take less than on about 300 tons for discharge at New Orleans. they want the same for them- the SIU!" for North France. York, N. Y. By JOE ALGINA Baltimore Boosts Ore Ships — They Have 'Best Quarters Afloat' Grange Victory Makes First Stop At Miami Lakes Look To SIU For Changes /..I/; �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 9. 1947 Headquarters Reports To Membership (Cotjthiued from Page 3) ried in this issue of the SEA- pearances of various Union Rep­ meeting. These reports are to ficials in all branches, as well resentatives will have on this be then mailed to all ports in as by the membership. immediately take interest in this FARERS LOG, on Page 1. problem and take action to put^ The membership should make | committee. Such a thing is un­ time to make it possible for all By adoption of such rule, it A&G Port holding meetings to would make Headquarters en­ a stop to unnecessary spending | it their business to see that they predictable. of the Union's money. The only predictable thing is act on the same report on the forcement of Union policy and the fact that the SIU will con­ same night. program more simple, in addi­ Coast Guard tinue to fight with all its power It is to be remembered that tion, of course, to allowing the —AND FUfilhERany form or degree of military the Secretary-Treasurer's Office membership in all the outports MORE... The Union's position regard­ control over our members by of this Union was charged by the benefit of acting on Head­ ing the necessity of removing any branch of the Armed Forces. the Agents Conference with the quarters Report at the same the Coast Guard from control full responsibility of seeing that meeting, as does the membership of the Merchant Marine is the Union's policies and pro­ meeting in the New York Educational Program grams known to all SIU members. are executed by all of­ Branch. We have unequivocally oppos­ The membership has referred ed the military having control the problem of Union education of any part of civilian workers to this Office. Ships' libraries since the very inception of their are now being assembled which tyranny over the Merchant Ma­ will be put on board every SIU rine. contracted vessel. This library In line with this consistent will contain bound volumes of By G. "TEX" SUIT SIU policy of anti-military con­ read and digest this entire re­ the SEAFARERS LOG for the trol, Headquarters Offices as­ port. HOUSTON — The old saying,' commies are still in the .street, In addition to the SIU making entire year of 1946. signed Joe Volpian, Special Ser­ '"While the cat is away, the rats and the rank-and-file is-in charge, In addition to these bound vol­ vices Representative, to appear known their position to this Con­ will play," could be appropriately who knows what the turn of umes of the LOG will also be in behalf of the Union and pre­ gressional Committee in regards applied to the NMU officials in events will bring. History is carried various other Union pub­ sent our position to the Con­ to the Coast Guard, various this port. For while the memagain repeating itself, but I bet lications—some of them already gressional Committee on Judici­ other Maritime Unions did the bership was away, the local agent Uncle Joe isn't fiddling while off the press—others now in ary in Washington, D. C., on I same. Boyes and his trustworthy Pa- his dream boat burns. The di.sMay 2, 1947. There is no need for any the process of being set up. These libraries will be made trolman, instead of attending to rupters will get another assault This full verbatim report as wishful thinking as to the available to every ship's crew, union matters, were found to be! plan mapped out and storm the given by Brother Volpian is car- amount of effect that these apdevoting their time to a com­ local NMU bastion once more. but will not be available to in­ munist pow-wov/. The embattled rank-and-file has dividual members desiring one. When the word got" around, the a job cut out for them, but here's This is because of the limited numbers of the bound 1946 membership called a .special hoping they come out the victors. LOGS that the Union has on meeting and after an all day ses­ hand. There will be a cost of sion,, decided that the two party approximately $10.00 to each line boys should be allowed full By E. S. HIGDON ship's crew that these libraries time to the cause, and in the fu­ ture they would not have to PHILADELPHIA—For months joying the atmosphere and cli- are placed on. This will cover bother with petty things such as now we've been looking for a mate of the City of Brotherly actual cost of putting up this union business. new Hall in this fair city, but, Love. The boys, I am told, stop- gear. They also decided that the of­ The necessity of charging each so far we've drawn a complete' ped off for a meal before dropficials should be replaced with blank. That new Hall is still as ping in at the Hall. Rumor has ship's crew for this library is men who would attend to union far from sight as it was when' it that they were afraid they evident, inasmuch as it will matters and not the latest swerve we answered the first For Rent would be handed a registration mean a saving of thousands of in the party line. They then ad. card and with it an assignment elected two new officials. Everything that we've looked card. Maybe they're right, at is priced out of our range,' The newspapers and newsreels ORDERS COME most places asking twice what these days are sure giving a big Thing.s were looking good for they wanted a couple of years play to the teachers, telling us the anti-disruptionists, when Fer­ By JOHNNY JOHNSTON ago, so it looks like we'll be all about the starvation wages dinand "the fink" Smith wired working out of the same loca- the teachers are getting. It realthe local Moscow boys telling It is interesting to note that tion for some time to come. ly strikes us funny, however. them to start their disrupting although under the ancient The one place we find things that they aren't saying one word tactics. The cue was quickly code.s, "Article XIII of the laws moving is out there on the point about the poor striking teletaken and a .special meeting was of Oleron" of merchant seamen's of production. We paid off sev- phone operators out on the pickcalled stating that the ouster of rights, the seaman was entitled eral ships and all beefs were etline. the CP boys was unconstitu­ to maintainance and care, he settled in the SIU manner. | We are fully in agreement that tional. still could be put to death for Also moving along is the ship- the teachers deserve more pay The commies also said the desertion. ping boom we've been enjoying and all the publicity they can membership had no say in the Later he was subject to brand­ for several weeks. This port has get, but it makes one wonder dollars to the Organization, and matter as to who was to be the ing and imprisonment. Being a been so short of ABs that we've about the minds of the press, will limit to actual cost to each officials. They produced a tele- transient with practically no member of a crew 25c or 30c. been calling New York for men. radio and movies. gram from Ferdinand stating that voting power, he was victimized The Hall J. Kelly, Waterman, Could it be that it is healthier Headquarters will notify all it was his decision and not the | and exploited. The shackles of which has been idle for a couple to support the teachers, who will members when these libraries membership's to decide whether' serfdom clung to him, and in. of months, is going to take a get their raises from the state are available for placing on or not an official is to be re­ some countries still cling. crew soon. She is at present in than it is to attack a giant cor- board SIU ships. lieved of his position. It was undoubtedly the friend­ drydock getting repaired, and poration like the Telephone Upon hearing this, an appoint­ ship and affiliation of the Inter­ will be ready for sailing in a Company? On Headquarters' Report ed Patrolman took the floor and national Seamen's Union and the short time. NO MENTION TOP SHAPE American Federation of Labor, Another thing has us puzzled. The Headquarters Report in and their great leaders, FuruOne of the ships paid off this ^ Everyone is blowing his top the past has been submitted first [MONOTONOUS, seth and Gompers, which caused week was the Petrolite of the ^ about priorities for the veteran. to the membership at the regu­ ISN'T IT ? the passage of the Seaman's Act Mathiasen Company. She was: Even the Civil Service is boast- lar meetings of the New York and raised the seaman's statu,s iii very good shape and the ,ng about the many vets they Branch, and acted on, and then from that of serf to freeman. whole crew was pleased with the have on their payrolls. referred to the outports through SIU victory in the Mathiasen el- [ The climax, however, is reach- the medium of the New York ection. The crew was anxious ed when the Federal Housing minutes for final action two I Administration broadcasts for weeks later. housing space for veterans. Recently, after action was ta­ Members whose gear has Again, make no mistake, we're ken by the New York member­ been held for more than three behind the vets, but it seems ship, this Headquarters Report months in the fourth floor strange that no mention is made has been run verbatim in the baggage room of the New of the need of housing for sea­ SEAFARERS LOG with later said the membership was within York Hall are advised to call men. I and final action taken by the its rights by removing the com­ for it immediately, or notify Well, I guess the seamen, ac­ outports. mies. the Hall where they wish it cording to the FHA, will have to It is necessary in the future sent. Then the local disrupters again sleep in the park — correction that full coastwise action on please—the families of the sea­ Headquarters Report be taken tried to take over the meeting Crowded conditions make and have the new officials men. it impossible to hold gear by a majority of all Branches Ring the chimes for an ex­ holding meetings before publish­ thrown out of the meeting, but longer than three months. All ceptionally clean pay off on the ing the Headquarters Report in this plan backfired and the local effects remaining unclaimed disrupters were forcibly ejected to learn when they would have Alexander Graham Bell. We are the LOG. after three months will be from the premises. an SIU agreement. "Very soon, bowing our hats to the Stewards sent to the owner's home via Therefore, it is recommended , Brothers. Department in particular for the to the membership that in the express collect. TWO UP iWalter Gardner and Charles fine chow they served. No won­ future Headquarters Reports be At the moment the score Gear without addresses Bush got off the Robert Inger- der the crew was on the ball at completed Saturday night be­ stands two to nothing in favor will be disposed of otherwise,gg. soll in Norfolk and are now en- the pay off. fore the following Wednesday of the membership. The two NMU Rank And File In Houston Rovolts Against Commio Piocards Outlook For New Hall In Fhilly Is Poor, Shipping Remains Good Unclaimed Gear �Friday. May 9, 1947 THE THEY MAN ISTHMIAN'S CITADEL VICTORY SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Buckos Have A Real Field Day On Isthmian's Citadel Victory By D. D. STORY The Ciladel Victory's Deck Gang: Kneeling, left to right. W. Thompson. Deck Maint.; Miller. OS; Harry Monahan, OS; and T. Bruder. AB. Standing, left to right. A. Rosendale. Carp.; S. Dawe, AB; H. Murranka, AB; D. Story. Bosun; W. Kavitt. AB; R. Sigwart. AB; C. Loades. AS; and Smokey Ouwenall. Deck Maint. has never worked a day in his life. Yet this man was expected (Ed. note:—The writer of the to be able to supervise the up­ following article is an oldtimer keep of a seagoing vessel. I want in the SIU. He has been riding the Union and also Isthmian to Isthmian vessels since the start know why this ship was return­ of the campaign). ed to the States in such filthy What I tiiought would prove to condition. be a .successful voyage on the It was a common occurrence to Lsthrnian scow, the SS Citadel start at least 10 jobs in a single Victory, turned out just the op­ day, and finish none. The Mate posite. Having aboard a strictly stated that he was aboard ship bucko Skipper and a kindergar­ to .save money for the company ten King's Point stiff for a Chief —which he certainly did in con­ Mate did not help matters in the nection with overtime. least. He failed to give the crewThe Mate, who is supposed to members a record of legitimate come from a well-to-do family. overtime. His excu.se was that ii .slipped his , mind and that he would make it up later. Having a little confidence in his word, we agreed to let it go at that. But by the end of the voyage, he .still had not brought the overtime record up to date, and we had to take our own action. Isthmian "bible" and rli.sregarded. was violated For example, the 8-to-12 Jun­ ior Engineer was ordered to rerelieve the 4-to-8 watch for sup­ per because, according to the chief—and I quote—"The lav/ require.s four men to be on watch down below at all times." Came the time when a Junior was sick and nobody was oicleied to take hi.y place. Questioned on this, the Chief replied, "The Junior Engineer OMB-riVO-THeEEFOUR -YEP, . THAT'S mwi! ANCIENT RULE In the matter of overtime, the bucko Skipper ruled that work­ ing overtime on Sundays hy day workers was strictly out. I be­ lieve we of the Union stopped working Sundays without over­ time years ago. does, nothing rip watch anyway." In this wtiy be saved the com­ pany some 60 hours overtime and the previously mentioned lav/ cea-^ed to exist. Perhaps .some authoiily can The tnrival in Haifa came on tell me where the Isthmian line a Saturday at 8 p. m., and the found the guy we had foi- a Stew­ ship was anchored till the next ard. He ceitainlv kne\v how to day awaiting pilot and berth. The Junior Engineers were dismissed, the Chief claiming that port tim.e was in effect. I DRILLED A1£WU WHAT I LOVE .. Rotten shipboard conditions didn't prevent the crew from celebrating New Year's Eve. In photo above they are shown in Alexandria. Egypt, night spot, where they drank a toast to "happy days," Girl in foreground is unidentified, but she looks okp.y from here. The Patrolmen Say... Farewell, Washington Honesty Is Best NEW YORK—Farewell to the SS George Washington. For quite a number of years, for Eastern and Alcoa she sailed to and from the West Indies and Nova Scotia with full SIU crews. During the war she was the only passenger ship that wasn't converted into a troop transport, but was used to ferry construc­ tion workers to the various bases in the Caribbean. During these many years she was a faithful servant to her op­ erators and her crews stuck to her through all kinds of condi­ tions and times. However, she hasn't been turn­ ed out to pastui-e yet, for we un­ derstand she will operate under the Spanish Flag, which means she is due for some terrific beat­ ings under her new masters. We hate to see her go, but like anything else, nothing stays on forever. In her farewell, it is truly unfortunate that her final days under the SIU banner were marred by pretty shabby treat­ ment of the crew by the Alcoa Company. In my opinion the treatment given the final crew was pretty lousy, when the company, in its anxiety to get rid of the ship, really did a job on the crew that had sailed the ship trip after trip, some of them for years. It isn't necessary to go into the details of their actions, but if the Alcoa heads read this item, they should know what I am referring to. Louis Goffin MOBILE—Here in the Port of Mobile in the past two weeks I have come across a recuiTance of an old, old story that seems to be coming back into use. That is the practice of some seamen to payoff at the Com­ missioner's Office to avoid pay­ ing debts owed their shipmates. Some guys, it seems, can't face the music and payoff their debts after some guy has been good enough to stake them to a sawbuck or so, .so they pull this wellworn maneuver to get out of it. It is a practice that should stop, but it is useless to preach on honesty. The guys that take this easy way out sometimes learn to their sorrow that it wasn't the easiest way after all. Most guys have memories like elephants when it comes to money loaned and many a guy has re­ ceived a sore lip from a guy he forgot he ever knew, but hap­ pened to borrow a five spot from five years before. For certain fellows I want to make this warning: there are people looking for you and they aren't carrying flowers. Some day you'll run into your creditor and you'll think the boom fell on you. Whiiey Lewis 4. i, It Senseless Performing NEW YORK—Aboard the Bes­ semer Victory, Waterman Steam­ ship Company, I ran into an inci­ dent that is a sorry reflection on the SIU. Due to the action of some per­ former or performers, the repu­ tation of the whole Union mu.st •suffer. The night before the Bessemer paid off, the door of the Chief Cook's room was broken in, his locker smashed, his electric ra­ zor stolen and several articles of clothing were maliciousl.v ripped and torn up. Not content with this damage, the same was done to the room of the Second Cook. The locker lock w^as smashed, clothing rip­ ped up and a^ expensive wu'ist watch stolen. 11 was impossible to attach the blame to anyone, but it had to be an SIU member or members who committed the act. Whoever did it, no doubt, had a load on, but such actions can­ not be passed off as the innocent amusement of a drunk. He wasn't too drunk to pass up a wrist watch and electric razor. A seaman's life is tough enough at times with every guy out to skin him, but no trick is lower than stealing from your shipmates and senselessly de­ stroying their clothing. Not only did this performer mess things up for the crew that was aboard the ship, but the ship was due for a quick turn around and had to sail without the re­ pairs being made to the wrecked locks and lockers, thus working a hardship on the new crew. Jimmy Drawdy In this way the Juniors were chiseled out of four hours over­ time for the Sunday morning watches. However, as the Oiler and Fireman claimed overtime for standing the 8-to-12 watch in port (Saturday night), the Chief very smugly told them that officially the .•^hip was still at sea. DOUBLE-TALK Whenever watches were set on weekdays, the Juniors were equal to the rest of the gang. If, however, watches were set on a Satui'day afternoon, or Sunday, they had to wait until standbj' It w^as quite a problem to dis­ was rung on the telegraph be­ cuss the matter of better food fore going on watch, thereby with him. That high pre.ssure hat cutting down on the overtime. meant more to him than trying To complete the picture thus to make a better spread on the far given, the ship was equipped chow tables. He claims to be exwith a First Assi.stant Engineer navy, but we, the crew, are in sailing on his first merchant ves­ favor of taking away the "ex" sel (he was navy stuff). and forgetting he was ever on a Holding a Chief Engineer's li­ merchant vessel. cense, he was unable to hold a Old Bucko has the navy idea wiench or fit a pipe. This poor himself. If a member of the crew helpless thing tried to make good reports to work late, the old man his mistakes and lack of know­ gets the Purser to type up the ledge hy having the Oilers do log immediately, instead of wait­ maintenance work during day ing to see if the man has a legiti­ and night watches at sea. follow­ mate excuse. ed by cleaning up decks and Bucko never calls up the man, floorplates. which, on a union but gives the log sheet to the ship, is Wiper's work. head of the department, who is Despite working under these supposed to get the man to sign conditions, which were coupled it and thus come in for an auto­ with food shortages. I could not help noticing the excellent spirit matic fine. among the SIU members and the LOUSY ALL AROUND way they kept up the perfor­ mances of their duties. The Engine Department has it The day the contract is signed little better than the deck men. and Isthmian has working con­ They were totally at the mercy ditions we can all say to those of the Chief Engineer, who claim­ who organize^d, and helped to or­ ed to be a union member. In ganize, this fleet: practice he did everything con­ "Thanks boj's, you've done a trary to union rules. Even the gi-eat job!'' make a menu look good. Maybe he thought we were goats and could eat the paper. At lea.st it might have been better than the slops he dished out. to the crew. �•a If . Page Ten THE SEAFARERS Friday, May 9. 1947 LOG SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Crewtnetnbers Of Steel Mariner Score Rugged Isthmian Lash-Up FOUR STALWARTS ON THE BARTLETT (Ed. note:—The following ac­ screen doors in either the toilets tention if he had a broken neck. As a matter of fact, an AB, count of some of the irials or the galley. When the Car­ aboard the Isthmian ship. Steel penter suggested to the Chief who is a Christian with the first Mariner is substantially as it Mate that screen doors (which name of Aaron, had to change was submitted by five crew- were plentiful) be put up, he was his name to Douglas in order to members: A. Jorgensen, Aaron told to mind his own business. get medical attention. This, fel­ low Seafarers, in a country hav­ ROYAL EDICT D. Kizziah, Nicholas Sarouku. In Arabia, His Majesty the ing two delegates to the United S. J, Kasmirsky and Domenic Master issued an edict that there Nations assembly in New York. Diser). If you happen to cover the would be no more visits to the The same country which recently waterfront and the gentle breezes doctor. Expenses were too high, received a 40 million dollar lendcoming off Sandy Hook waft a he opined. So our Carpenter, lease gift, manipulated by the strong odor of barnyard manure who had a sliver in his finger, Standard Oil Company and sup­ and chicken, don't get excited. It's which was swollen twice its plied by American taxpayers. only Isthmian's Steel Mariner natural size, had to cut his fin­ SIZZLING SPOT arriving, ending another typical ger with a razor blade. But that As for the climate, you must only was the beginning. Isthmian trip. The Carpenter had a busted or be prepared to withstand terrific The aroma springs from the bridge, and the chicken odor strained lung and had doctors heat, for a temperature of 130 likewise. When we say chicken, to prove it. He stayed in bed one degrees is common. In Bauda day, and was told by his highness Shapur, Persia, which is a col­ we don't mean fricassee, either. that he was faking, that if he lection of mud huts, there is no The voyage itself could have ' didn't turn to for eight hours of doctor and no feminine com­ been fairly pleasant if the Cap­ I labor, he would be logged four pany. Native warm beer is $1.25 tain and Chief Mate had taken I for one, or be paid off in Bom- a quart, and they feature a na­ the trouble to learn a few things tive firewater called vodka, which • bay. about the seafaring business, and Our Chief Engineer spends it is not. if they had paid a little atten­ Beer is good in Barsa, Iraq. most of his time checking up on tion to safe working and sanitary Sometimes it's Danish or Dutch, the Carpenter, and is now "prac­ conditions. It would have helped, and it's 60 cents a bottle—always ticing medicine." The Deck too, if the Chief Engineer would warm, of course. Aberdain, Per­ Engineer had been sick a couple act more like a human and less of days,so he went to the Chief. sia, an oil place, has some nice like a small edition of Captain swimming pools, Said the Chief Engineer, "Stick clubs and Bligh. where you can remain—if you be­ out* your tongue." 'UNHOLY TRIO' The Deck Engineer complied. have—and drink Canadian beer These three characters were "Hmm, hmm," said the Chief. 60 cents the large bottle. aptly called "the unholy trio," "It looks all right. You can work There is good service at a In photq taken aboard the SS Josiah Bartlett are, standing and charges against these gentle­ tomorrow." lovely British Seamen's Club in from left to right, Dick Cummings and Ed Dworanczyk; kneel­ men are being drafted, and will As this ship is likely to sail Karachi, India. Just don't set ing, Jack Woturski and Walt Gardner. stick. the Persian Gulf for the next five out alone, and don't go off walk­ Like ostriches, these gentle­ years, it is only fair that you ing. The natives are very hos­ men are hiding their heads in Seafarers should know what you tile—all India is a smoldering the sand. They refuse to see the are up against besides the offi­ volcano. handwriting on the wall, and cers who belong back at the "old Bombay is not what it used realize that a new era is dawn­ Homestead." to be. Italian beer there is one ing for Isthmian seamen—name­ We were 69 days in the whole dollar a quart, the joints arc of Arabia without shoreleave. In closed from 3 to 6 p. m., and clos­ A fire of undetermined origin, which broke out in Saudi, Arabia the Standard Oil ing time three nights a week is Company, in conjunction with its 9:30. Prohibition is expected the fore-end of the No. 4 hatch tween-decks of the SS native hirelings, prevents crews commonplace, j Ben F. Dixon in the port of Baltimore last Tuesday, was from getting shoreleave. The While we were there, 40 persons Seafarer crew Captain is told here that if there were killed. after a two-hour battle. is a Jewish crcwmcmbcr on the This is all from our pen. Don't Effective and coordinated ef­ ship he could not get medical at­ say you didn't know the score. fort on the part of the crew kept One of the most difficult the flames from spreading and tasks in connection with writ­ 'POWDER PUFF' AND FRIEND damages, therefore, were slight, ing is finding a spot for pub­ it was reported by Julio Evans, lication. The task, however, Deck Delegate aboard the ves­ has been made easier for Sea­ sel. farers who have written—or Shortly after discovery of the are about to write—stories blaze at 3:15 a. m., the Dixon or articles with a salt water ly, SIU working and sanitary con­ men had the situation under con­ tang. ditions, among other things. trol but hoses on board were in­ An arrangement has been Either those would-be Himmeffective in fighting the flames made with a reputable lers and Hitlers have seen too which licked at the overhead of agency of authors' represen­ many movie versions of sea life, the hatch. Shoreside apparatus tatives, who will read your or they have read too many sowas summoned and firemen re­ material without any charge. called sea stories, because they sponded with goose-necked hoses If the stuff has possibilities don't seem to have any sea ex­ that quickly doused the stubborn it will be brought to the at­ perience. The tragic part of deal­ flames. tention of publishers for pos­ ing with such characters is that The fii'e was discovered by sible sale. it is difficult to explain to young­ Jose Rey, Fireman, who was on So if you've been holding er members or permits why it is the 12-to-4 watch, after he no­ back your literary efforts for necessary to pound the bricks ticed that the oil tanks were lack of proper contact, get so that the same characters can close to the boiling point, and out that old typewriter and win better working conditions. that strange noises were coming get going. Short stories, ar­ Samples of some of the skip­ from the tanks, reported Evans. ticles, book-length manu­ pers one-way attitudes are well SOUNDED ALARM scripts will be read carefully demonstrated in the following: No cargo was in the hold, and by the agency. In Bombay he engaged a dozen fire was confined to the dunnage Send your manuscripts— workers to scrape his parquet stored there. typewritten, of course — to decks (so, essential, of course) Throughout most of the inci­ Carl Cowl, c/o Seafarers Log, but. on his periodical inspection dent, Esteban Castro, a member 51 Beaver Street, New York tours he blandly ignored a mid­ of the Deck Gang, kept the ship's 4, N. Y. Enclose a stamped ship . toilet which hasn/t been siren screeming, alerting crews envelope, addressed to your cleaned except once in five of nearby vessels, which stood by Sam Carlisle, AB aboard the SS Meredith Victory, held permanent residence to in­ months. until the blaze was out. There "Powder Puff," the ship's mascot, so that Gil Parker could sure safe return in case script Two of the toilets are close to make this photo. were no casualties. is not up to snuff. the galley, but there are no Blaze Aboard Dixon Doused By Crew In 2-Hour Battle Good Deal t �Friday, May 9. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief THOMAS MacDONOUGH. Jan. 2—Chairman Jerry Thexlon; Secretary jCyril A. Scott. Delegates reported all in order. Repair list of Deck and Engine Departments was read and ap­ proved by all. Agreed to have ship fumigated, and Pairolmen check the slop chest when he comes aboard. Steward asked crew if they were satisfied with meals and feeding in general. Grew gave approval stating that all are well pleased with the feeding and realize that Steward cannot please all but he has done an excellent job. Discussion on the penicillin racket being pulled by shoreside doctors. Repair list at­ tached to minutes. THOMAS HYDE, Feb. 2 —Chairman John Milini; Sec­ retary Henry Adamowitz. New Business: Motion carried to im­ pose a $2.00 fine on any mem­ ber of the crew who uses cups as ash trays. Good and Wel­ fare: Motion carried that rec­ reation room be kept cleaner. Motion carried to move library from gear locker to recreation room. Steward asked that due to shortage of towels, crew should not use them for soogie rags as there were plenty of rags for the asking. Sugges­ tion made that departmental delegates see the Skipper in reference to getting draws in American currency in Norway, if possible. 4i. SNAMPA VICTORY, Feb. 16 —Chairman B. Goodman: Sec­ retary S. T. Wilusz. Delegates reported everything okay. New Business: Motion carried to have gunners' mess turned into recreation room for the crew and to have the chairs in that room depaired. Motion car­ ried to have the drinking foun­ tain repaired. Motion carried to have the Radio Operators pay more attention to »>iuning in the radio so that the crew can have the benefit of the speaker in the messroom. Mo­ tion carried to ask the Captain to have a foc'sle card put up. 4' CITY OF ALMA, Feb. IBChairman Red Sully; Secretary J. McConeghty. Delegates re­ ported all in order in their de­ partments. New Business: Mo­ tion carried to obtain the slopchest prices from the Steward and they be given to the Patrol­ man when the ship reaches the States. Motion carried that glasses be put in the port holes that need them. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that crew make arrangements with de­ partment heads so the men can have a day off in port. Recom­ mended that clothes be re­ moved as soon as possible from laundry tubs as they lend to smell up the place. 4. 4. MV TAG KNOT, March 11— Chairman Harold Taylor; Sec­ retary (not given). Chairman appointed delegates to act as committee to carry out and re­ port on all recommendations made at the meeting. New . Business: It was pointed out that running a steam line into the laundry was impractical on this type ship. Decision made that more night lunch be put out for men coming off watch. Many complaints were aired concerning the food and its preparation. Steward promised his cooperation in righting the matter. Various ship repairs necessary were listed and ap­ proved. Discussion over the water taJten on in the Canal ^one. 4, 4 4 SMITH-THOMPSON, March 13—(Chairman and Secretary not given). New Business: Mo­ tion carried to have radio loud­ speaker returned to the recrea­ tion room from Second Mate's cabin. Good and Welfare: All hands are to return AMMLA books and magazines to recrea­ tion room before leaving ship. All bunks to be stripped and rooms left in clean SIU condit'on. 4 4 4 CHARLES WARFIELD, March 22—Chairman D. L. De Parlier; Secretary R. N. White. New Business: Motion carried that more prompt and concientious medical treatment be given the crew by Pursuer. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that crew use recreation room for card playing and not use the mess until the recreation room is full. Recommendation that officers and crew have the same privileges at the slopchest and purchases be made at the same time by both crew and topside. Crew stood in silence for one minute in reverence for broth­ ers lost at sea. 4 4 4 ALCOA PLANTER, March 31 —Chairman Russel; Secretary Henry B. Snelling. New Busi­ ness: Crew asked for explana­ tion from the Steward for the sudden shortage of fresh foods. The Steward claimed he put in a requisition for more stores than were put aboard, yet he reported to the N. O. patrol­ man that he was not short. Crew recommended an inves­ tigation of the matter. 4 4 4 VOMATILLA. (Date and chairman not given) Secretary J. McGroder; New Business. Motion made to contact patrol­ man in Marcus Hook in regard to the antics of the Steward aboard. Ship's Delegate elected. Motion carried to have a meet­ ing once a week at a conven­ ient hour. 4 4 4 JOHN JAY. (Date, Chairman and Secretary not given) Spe­ cial meeting for the purpose of discussing the unfitness of a member of the Stewards De­ partment to perform his duties. Crew decided he cannot handle the work in the Stewards De­ partment and recommended that he be switched to the Deck or Engine Departments on pro­ bation. 4 4 4 ALCOA PAGASIS, March 6 —Chairman C. Bailey; Secre­ tary E. Bankston. New Busi­ ness: Discussion concerning more fresh fruit; butter and dif­ ferent canned vegetables. Stew­ ard said that requisition was messed up on this voyage. Mo­ tion carried that next trip the Steward notify the delegates of each department of matters like this. Motion carried that all tripcard and permit men be cleared through the Hall be­ fore making another trip. Mo­ tion carried that each delegate see that his department leaves clean foc'sles. •DON'T 0IVE UP THE SHIP/ E CHIEF ^nEMARD SHOULD HOT LEAV9 HIS SHIP UNTIL RELIEVED BY ANOTHER CHIEF STEWARD. 4 4 4 NIANTIC VICTORY, April 12, Chairman Morris Norris; Secretary Joseph Garello. Dele­ gates reported and previous minutes read. Old Business: By HANK Repair list for next voyage read and it was suggested that it be For the benefit of the membership we keep filling most of this posted for next crew to see. weekly column with our advisory-educational type of writing— New Business: Agreed by all which we hope does wake up and steer some guys right in their that no one pay off until each various journeys through this seafaring life. It's easily realized member is completely satisfied that most of the Brothers will remain SIU .sailors for a long time with the payoff. Motion carried —if not for the rest of their desirable salty li\-es. Thus the im­ to give Stewards Department a portant thing for all Brothers will be the essential chain of educa­ vote of thanks. Good and Wel­ tion absorbed (on ships, in union halls and meetings), the militant fare: Discussion on splitting actions performed individually and collectively and the sensible Firemen's overtime on donkey stretch of thinking done as time, trips and events roll along. Every watches. Agreed by Firemen SIU man has a big responsibility, which serves in many directions at meeting to divide equally all —as a sailor, as a shipmate and as a union man. Hs mental and donkey watch overtime. One physical behavior is his best shipmate—-ashore and asea—and upon minute silence observed for lost it stands the security of the spirit, the progress, the respect and brothers. strength of the SIU. 4 4 4 4 4 4 WARRIOR POINT, March 3 Naturally, it has to be said, it isn't enough just to be a steady —Chairman James F. Byrne; paying member and perhaps be proud of being SIU, too. You Secretary James Gamble. Stew­ have to live that pride—performing it in the expected and sen­ ards Delegate resigned and new sible manner—in the small ways as well as the big. From such delegate was elected in his militancy, strength and all kinds of victories the proud reputa­ place. One member raised sev­ tion of the SIU has reached the desires of nearly all Isthmian eral objections to the election seamen as well as our neighboring Canadian seamen who have of the new delegate, but all long suffered and struggled to find a safe, honest, strong union. charges were denied and dis­ Well, these Isthmian and Canadian seamen have found that proved. Chairman called for type of union. It's the SIU—which has been and always will be an end to the petty bickering settling all beefs, protecting the membership and holding the and asked for cooperation highest wages and best conditions on all waterfronts. among the members of the 4 4 4 Stewards Department. Brother Salvatore Frank i.s drying his anchor right now clown there in the port of Mobile . . . Jim.my Millcan says that his ship­ mate, mustached Percy Beyer, the New Orleans man, shipped out as a volunteer organizer . . . Brother Paul M. Hodges just came in from a short trip to Rotterdam and asked us to print the folloNving important message to his brother, Walter J. Hodges: Get in touclt with your mother. She has been worried about you. Hasn't heard from you in four years. She's living now at 1317 East Bolton Street, Savannah, Georgia . . . Little Joe Ryan, the happy Steward, 4 4 4 TULANE VICTORY, March would be even happier if he could hear from his best friend. Miss 19—Chairman Louis Fuselier; Kay Mandick, if it's possible ... Joe says that any possibly forth­ Secretary John Zimmer, Dele­ coming letter or letters could be addressed to this hall c/o Fourth gates reported no beefs in their Floor Mail Dept . . . Two happj' cooks and shipmates are in town departments. New Business: right aboard a ship. That's Brother Casey Jones and Brother Red Ship's Delegate elected. Dis­ Hall ... To Brother Abe Sprung we have a message for him: Con­ cussion on the employment of tact your sister. She's seriously ill. Signed, M. G. , . . Brother Nick native help in the galley. De­ Calzia would like to hear from Bill Stock and Joe Razel at the cision was to the contrary. Mo­ New York Hall. tion made that any member un­ •5 -4 ^ able to do his work due to be­ Brother Roberf Barreff, the electrician, just came in from a trip. Brother Barrett says that his shipmate. Cliff Wilson, stayed ing intoxicated be brought up down in the Port of Port Arthur, Texas . . . Oldtimer Jimmy on charges. Motion defeated. Brooks just came in from a trip to Germany. Jimmy suffered List of fines drawn up for minor a serious injury to himself and is going down to the hospital offenses in the messroom. Good in Mobile to see what can be done. Good luck to you. and Welfare: Discussion on the Jimmy, and swift sailing out of the hospital, too . . . Last week use of the steam table. Stew­ we heard from oldtimer John Campbell that his best shipmate. ard stated that the use of the John "Whitey" Hawkins sailed out of New York recently— steam table had not worked without John Campbell, of course . . . We heard that those Iwo out satisfactorily. Decision to good shipmates. Peg Leg Anderson and Blackie Gardner, met put booklet "Here's How Broth­ each other recently down in New Orleans—and shipped together er" on the bulletin board for Brother George Meaney. the volunteer organizer amongst the study by all. All members Isthmian seamen, confessed to us that all the talking he did to stood in silence for one minute these Isthmian men during this last trip really convinced these in remembrance of departed men they were lucky. brothers. CUT and RUN ..-a- �Page TwelTe THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 9. 1947 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Crew To Cool Off Engineer; He Made Tropic Run Hotter To Ihe Editor: This is to advise you of the un­ fair working conditions handed to us by our Chief Engineer, and by his stooge, the First Assis­ tant. This vessel, the SS Snake Head, left the Port of Baltimore on Oct. 31, 1946. At no time since leaving has the Chief En­ gineer or the First given any consideration to the welfare and working conditions of our depart­ ment. Neither of them has made an inspection to see what conditions existed in our quarters and head, which are in faulty condition and badly in need of repair and paint. The rooms of these two men were painted during the early days of our trip. We have been out six months and have made four runs iti and out of the Persian Gulf. This in­ cludes three trips through the Red Sea and Suez Canal, and two trips to Japan through the Ma­ lacca Straits and the South China Consequently, the First's reason stinks. On several occasions, the Chief has logged and broken men from their ratings. For instance, a FWT to a Wiper, with Wiper's wages, and a log; an Oiler to a Wiper, also with Wiper's wages. At times, he has threatened men with physical "persuasion" if they in any way questioned his orders. He also went so far as to state to an Oiler, whom he broke, that he would put him ashore at the first American-controlled port, or into the hands of an American consul with charges that would get him five years im­ prisonment. THE SS WARRIOR POINT AND HER STURDY STEWARD , 's" The Pacific Tankers vessel unloading high octane gas at the oil docks at Le Havre. COMPLAINTS UNAVAILABLE Now, I don't think our Union goes for that kind of talk or treatment. I have personally gone to the Chief on ^11 these complaints, but to no avail. He "''mXiiM'Ui'Viiiix-i told me that as Chief Engineer •iiir''" he was running his department the way he wanted, and would continue to do so, regardless of anyone or anything. The old "Captain Bligh" crap. Although we were in Balti­ HPylTHiSiS more about three weeks, neither the Chief or First Assistant En­ NiO CHOKING gineers saw fit to obtain strike G-G-Gl/AtAB AiP-f MATTER! clearance. They have been chal­ I'M CH-CHOy.ihiGl lenged for clearance but could not produce. The Chief continu­ ally contrasts this vessel with the way things were run on his Isth­ mian ships. Kindly notify all ports so when this vessel arrives in the States it will be contacted by a Pa­ trolman who will square these Sea. The run also calls for two two characters off. Thanks! steward James B. Byrne stops at Ceylon. Fred Hohenberger, Eng. Del. shows what the well-prepared TERRIFIC HEAT and Unlicensed Engine crewmeniber aboard the War­ Throughout all these tropical Personnel. SS Snake Head rior Points will wear during runs, the fire room skylights Yokohama. Japan fire and boat drill. have been battened down with strict orders having been given not to open them. The subse­ quent high temperatures are un­ bearable and unneces.sary, al­ To the Editor: fellow Seafarers who have the though the Chief claims it is an They say there is a first time misfortune to get on this sulphur absolute necessity in order to ob­ for all things, and this is my run know there is a good place tain maximum efficiency. The first time in attempting a letter where they can enjoy them­ First claims that it is also to to the best damned paper in the selves. keep rain off the boilers and out country so have mercy for the Signed by D. A. Wall and of the fire room. Eight other men of the mistakes. The Engineer on watch has his SS Mae I have noticed in the LOG Oiler go to the stack deck three that there is usually something or four times a watch to trim the about places that fellows have BROTHER WANTS ventilators. We feel it would be found which give seamen a the responsibility of the En­ break, and I generally make an A TRANSLATOR gineer on watch to see that the attempt to find them when I FOR HIS MAIL skylights are closed if it rains. hit poi-t. Well, I have found one almost at home, and though it To the Editor: I've got a few minutes to spare is in a hard-to-get-to, out of the LOG Liked way place, it is the best I have tonight, so I'll drop you all a few lines. Just got my back In Canada had the luck to find. copies of the LOG. Keep up It is the only one that I have To the Editor: ever seen that will, on the next the good v/ork. Would you be good enough to day, call a fellow in and say Sure was glad to hear about add my name to the mailing list "here's your change" from the the Hall in Marcus Hook. Say for your paper, which I con­ twenty that you paid for the hello to Blackie for me. Any sider one of the better Union last round. Tlie change was well of you fellows who sailed the publications. over $15. Now, how about that? Pacific Tankers oil scow White We would be glad to recipro­ The place is called John's Sands with me during i946 can cate if you are not already re­ Tavern and is located at 137 drop me a line, if you care to ceiving copies of our publica­ South Wood Ave., Linden, Texas. at the address below. If you can read Dutch (no I would like to suggest that tion, Steel Labor. John's be one of jthe places joking) let me know, as I have Margot Thompson where LOGS are available. The a few letters I would like trans­ Assistant Editor manager has said he will be lated for me. Steel Labor, Dave (Red) Harvey. F2/c glad to have the paper there Canadian Edition Co. 5701 Seabee Tadien United Steel Workers of for the men who come in. Port Hueneme. Calif. We hope you will let the other America. CIO •r Mae Men Get A Square Deal Warrior Point Gets Going After A Troublesome Start To the Editor: I have just finished reading the article in the LOG about the Fort Stanwix, and wish to back it up 100 per cent. Another fellow and myself got off her in Texas before she went to Norfolk, and we say, without a doubt she is the best feeding ship afloat,' including the fancy passenger ships. It's getting to be quite a habit for Sam the Messman to donate to the dice game. As for the crew on the Stan­ wix, without a doubt they arc one of the best afloat. The Chief and the First Assistant Engineer are also very good men and doserve a vote of thanks for being behind the Black Gank 100 per cent. Parker and myself got this scow the SS Warrior Point in Houston when there were plenty of jobs open; in fact, the Galveston Pa­ trolman made all the bars and gin mills in Galveston to fill out the crew. The Steward was pulled off an­ other Pacific Tanker in the ship­ yard to take this one, but he turned out in bad standing with the crew. LIQUID STORES We ran out of fresh milk and vegetables about three days out of Houston. When we got to Charleston, the crew was expect­ ing more to be brought aboard, but nothing doing. When we got to Wilmington, the crew told him to be sure and get some. He got some alright, but it wasn't stores—it was gin in quantity. Our main unit went out on us and we proceeded to Norfolk for the shipyard there. We layed at Norfolk for five days and the Steward was still drinking and giving flimsy excuses about the milk and stores. We tried to get a Patrolman aboard, but wove told they were too busy to get to us. We then proceeded to Balti­ more for the shipyard, out of bread, milk, vegetables and a few other items. By this time the crew was getting damn tired of excuses instead of action. After laying in the stream for three days, all full book mem­ bers started signing to vote the Steward off. Somehow or other he got wind of what was going on and paid off before we could get to him. We now have a Steward who has everything ship shape and stores aplenty. Although we are short a messman and a wiper, we are pulling out today and it looks like we will sail without them. About seven different book men went to the Baltimore Un­ ion Hall trying to get a Patrol­ man aboard to settle a few beefs and be at the payoff. We were told: "Sorry, loo busy." or "We'll be down tomon-ow." NO ACTION Since we have been here llo'.v 14 day.s, we are wondering what is the matter with the Patrolme.n here. The crew has asked me to find out what the matter is, as it has always been the SIU-SUP policy to see that union men in good standing board a union ship are taken care of. We are bebewildered as to what is going on. Thanks to Joe Volpian, of the SIU Special Services Department, for collecting $256.00 in back pay and $92.50 transpoitation from Overtakes. It was beginning to look as though the company was never going to come across. To all the gang on the Fort Stanwix, a hearty hello. We sure miss that sailor's dream of good food , which is served aboard the good ship Stanwix. Floydale Teague Raymond E. Parker SS Warrior Point Texas Reader Finds Log Interesting To ihe Editor: I want to congratulate you for the interesting articles appeaiung in the LOG. I read every page now that I have the opportunity to get it every week. Keep up the good work, and I hope to see many more on the way. Mrs. J. A. Sanchez, San Antonio, Texas �friday. May 9. 1947 THE SEAFARERS YOU GUYS AFRAID OF A BOX CAR? THEY LOG ASK Men of tthe Seatrain Texas' Stewards Department (photo left) are just as puzzled as the Deck Gang (photo below), when it comes to figuring "why we have to keep smling shorthanded." Word from Brothers Dragoo and Gibbs. Deck and Engine Delegates, respectively, points out that Seafarers have ridden on box cars, so "why not sail with them?" "One of your best contracts is with this company," the Broth­ ers add. "Higher wages and guaranteed time off." "If you are looking for ad­ venture and a woman, we don't have them. But it's smooth sail­ ing and a helluva good Stew­ ard's Department, so let go of these 60-day old cards and well see you next trip." Let's Have 'Em This'is it. Brothers! Right on these pages is a good place to blow your top. If you've got a beef or some suggestions you think will be of benefit to your Union and your Brothers, why not have it printed in the LOG? If you haven't any steam to blow off, there must be something you've found in­ teresting on your trip thai you'd like to pass along for others to read about—char­ acters you meet in the farflung corners of the earth, joints you've found worth I HAVE A-EK-) - A-?om lyin CG Invades Foreign Ports To Police Civilian Seamen To the Editor: SEND IT TO THE LOG! i To the Editor: seeing and those you feel it advisable for your Brothers to avoid. Why not let all hands profit by your exper­ iences? Maybe you're pretty good at turning out a poem—okay then, let's have it. Pen and ink sketches are welcome, too. If you've got some photographs of your ship, or shipmates or any "shots" taken in the various ports o'call, send them along. We'll return them. Just mail your material to the Editor, Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. How about doing it NOW! ALL WILL CHANGE Do you know that the mates and engineers who are appoint­ ed from the company offices would scab if there were a strike? However, these conditions will be changed when all the lines are organized, So, fellows, get on the ball, and help organize the poor mis­ guided stooge, who says, "the Lake Carriers will take care of me," but who is on the beach during hard times. Mates do not take ABs or Or­ dinary's jobs. Firemen and Oil­ ers ai-en't bumped off the job by engineers when you belong to the SIU. So protect yourself. Brother, and look ahead! Don't be a chump for the Lakes Carriers or their affiliates. Don't be a sucker! Join the SIU! "Baldy" McAdoo I am happy to report, that has changed drastically, after a dele­ gation went to see the "old man." It is the crew's wish that such a man be forced to either aban­ don such practices or get off all SIU ships, as his type is detri­ mental to the Union. The writer feels that the WarBut here is the situation on field has a very good crew. An the Purser, who is strictly one of old timers named Bill Fahn is the topside crowd. It is his con­ Bosun, and yom-s truly is serangtention that he is the company's ing the Stewards Department. representative same as the masE. L. de Parlier, Steward tor. Recently the company raised SS Charles Warfield the Pursers* wages to $264 a Puerto La Cruz, Venez. month, with overtime at $1.60 per hour for work performed on Sat­ COOLING OFF IN urday afternoon and Sundays. This move was made to dis­ courage the organization of Pur­ sers into our affiliate, the Mer­ chant Marine Staff Officers As­ sociation. The Purser feels he will get more out of playing up to the company than by uniting and getting demands in an hon­ est fashion. This man (as the minutes will ^Handful verify) is an unmitigated com­ By VIC COMBS pany and master's stooge, and chief informer. It is his practice to open the slopchest at a sign Last night I held a hand in mine. from any officer, and issue them It was so small and sweet whatever they wish in any quan­ I thought my heart would surely tity. Especially is this true in break. regard to cigarettes, which he So loudly did it beat. rations to the crew, while offi­ cers may buy choice brands by No other hand into my hetirf the case. Can such fondness bring. More than the liitk hand I held He has in the past been very last nightlackadaisical about medical treat­ Four Aces and a King ment to the crew, a situation, 1 Evidently they are going to maintain one of these poor man's Hitler in every port in the world to meet merchant ships. They will tell you where you can go and what you can do, and pull your papers on the spot if you don't like it. A new Coast Guard policy is coming to light which makes all their other attempts at despotism look good. Reports have been coming in from all over the world, from Shanghai to Marseil­ les, of CG officers being kept in foreign ports with the sole job of FOREIGN INVASION waiting for American seamen to It isn't enough they persecute come in. Then the CG men will ride herd on them and "keep us in our own country — now them in line," as long as they are they'll be waiting for us in every foreign port, where we won't there. have the protection of out Union, or even a lawyer available to de­ LAKES CARRIERS fend us, a right they claim to STILL PULLING guarantee. FAST ONES They are going to the incred­ ible length of pulling papers for To the Editor: things not even remotely con­ Well, the Lakes Carriers are nected with ships. There have still pulling their fast ones. been cases of papers pulled be­ One of our Brothers and three cause a man got in some ginmill deck hands, w^ho had come all beefs miles from the waterfront, the way from Cleveland, were on or became involved with the the steamer Calumet. They came French gendarmie—offenses that aboard about noon a day ahead are purely within civil jurisdic­ of when they were to start work. tion. Next they will be pulling The Steward told them they papers for beating your wife. could bring their gear aboard, but What is an outfit whose sole ll^that they couldn't eat on the ship purpose is guarding the U. S. —not until the next day when Coastline doing outside the threethey turned to. So you can see mile limit, thousands of miles what the shipowners' stooges will give you. And these are the kind of people we are bucking. GOTTA fwmrr Of course the skippers have a (X'SeCVSFRoM, lot to do with it, as well as the THc$tVJ0ml mates and engineers. They have posted watchmen at the ladders to keep off the ships organizers and guys who are looking for jobs. The dock cops will also give chase. You fellows who have never been up here don't know what it is like. Pandering Purser Mars Warfield's Good Setup There are no serious beefs aboard the SS Charles Warfield, an Alcoa Liberty, which is on the Venezuelan and bauxite run. We have a good skipper and a good mate, and there has been no com­ plaint on the chow or the depart­ ment serving it. Page Thirteen THE ISLANDS Log - - Rhythms^ Crewmembers of the SS Wolf Creek kill some time and a few bottles of brew down in an Aruba refreshment parlor. Photo was taken by Emory Smith, who Is—rather appropriately— Pumpman aboard the vessel. from the nearest U. S. coast? The answer is obvious. It gives them hundreds of soft jobs in good ports all over the world. SOCIAL CLIMBERS They can strut about in local society, enjoying the climate and the girls, throwing their weight around in a way they never could get away with at home. In or­ der to furnish the government with some excuse for supporting them in this idleness, they sneak around every ship that comes in, trying to find or stir up trouble as an excuse for being there. It is to their interest to make trouble; in fact, it is necessary for them to stir it up if they are going to keep their soft rackety Their phony navy never leaves the U. S. anyway, so if they ai'e ever going to see as much of the world as the seamen they push around, some such scheme as this had to be dreamed up as an ex­ cuse for them to go abroad. But they are not merely pulling papers in foreign ports. They actually pull the man off the ship right there and let him find his way back to the States as best he can. The worry to his family, the months of pay lost, being broke in a foreign country—what the hell do they care for all that? They're the United States Coast Guard, aren't they? And you're just a coinmon seaman. "Sleamboal" O'Doyie �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 9, 1947 Take Coast Guard Out Of Maritime: SlU receive by ter to all parts of the Country to which every free American is the Coast and it is a virtual impossibility entitled. to procure witnesses in his own KANGEROO COURTS behalf. More "brass" in the Coast In addition to action by the Guard means that they must The investigating officer then find some excuse to justify keep­ takes over the role of examining Master and the Coast Guard, the ing these officers in the Seivice. officer or prosecuting attorney. seaman may also be prosecuted In short, it is desirous of main­ He choses his own hearing of­ by the Criminal authorities ' of taining its hold on the Merchant ficer or judge. No jury is chosen the United States. In the cases Marine to keep these men in and he is not tried before a jury in which we represented the sea­ their positions. All this means of his peers which is a constitu­ men, we have learned that the that the taxpayers will be re­ tional right of which he cannot proceedings are a mockery and have resulted in nothing but quired to spend unnecessary mil­ avail himself. contempt by the seaman for the lions of dollars because not only The Hearing Officer acts as are these extra officers required, judge and jury and in many Coast Guard. The hearings are but likewise, a full office force cases becomes the District At­ conducted in the fashion of a SIU-CONTROLLED DISCIPLINE provided for every infraction of "kangeroo" court and the man must be maintained, such as torney. the rules. In addition, if the is actually railroaded. The pun­ stenographers and clerks, all of The Union is very much interest­ offense is serious, the Master If the Master who entered the ishment depends upon the whim which has heretofore been hand­ ed in disciplining its members for can place the man in irons and notation in the log book is not infractions of the rules and laws feed him on bread and water led by the Department of Com­ present, the log book then is al­ of the Hearing Officer and for aboard vessels as are the Coast for as long as he sees fit. The merce at a fraction of what it lowed in evidence and becomes the same identical offense two hearing officers would differ Guard and the Operators of the Master may restrict a seaman to would cost if the Coast Guard prima facie proof of guilt. The greatly in the punishment which ships. We have set-up in our the vessel and not allow him took over. accused has not been given an they mete out. Constitution where anybody who shore liberty to which he would It is well known that the opportunity naturally of being The hearings that are conduct­ is charged with misconduct be entitled when the ship United States Coast Guard is a faced by his accuser and of ed in foreign countries usually aboard a ship can be tried and reaches a foreign port. Military organization. It was course, cannot cross-examine the result in a severe suspension or punished according to the grav­ formed for the purpose of saving log book, all of which is contrary actual revocation of the seaman's If in the event a seaman miss­ ity of his offense. We realize that lives at sea along our coasts. It to the letter and spirit of the papers. He is advised that he es his vessel, he immediately forwhen a seaman doesn't perform has clone a commendable job and Constitution. \^ery often, the has the opportunity of procuring his duties as he should, it places ^ feits all his pay together wdth in the writer's opinion, it should Master who makes the entry in his own counsel but whei-e, for an extra burden on his fellow, all his personal belongings. No devote all its time and attention the log book, gets his informa­ crew members and at the same where else in the world are to just this service as no other tion from a third party and instance in Korea, can you get a lawyer who is familiar with time injures the reputation of such strict penalties imposed, for group can perform these duties therefore the entry itself is no­ the laws, both civil and mari­ those infractions. the Union of which we are all as well as the Coast Guard. thing but hearsay evidence time, of the United States? lie proud. If a person who works ashore which again is contrary to all is, therefore, by force of circum­ NO MILITARY CONTROL The writer has been going to fails to appear on his job for law as we practice it in the stances, deprived of adequate .sea since 1923 and has sailed in a day, all he loses is his day's From what we have read and United States. representation; the black gang or engine room pay. If he decides to quit the learned, there is no civilian oc­ The burden of proving guilt At the conclusion of the hear­ department of ships during this job for some reason, he doesn't cupation or industry under the is not placed upon the accuser ing, the accused is permitted an time. He has come to know sea­ forfeit his back pay or his per­ authority of a military organi­ as is done in all proceedings, but appeal but to whom is the ap­ men, being one himself. He is sonal belongings but is entitled zation during peace time. It is immediately the burden of proof peal made but the local appeals familiar v/ith the duties of the to them regardless. The law also repungnant to all our concepts shifts to the accused to prove board, which is comprised of officers and the problems that provides that the Master is in of freedom and liberty. The that he is not guilty. Coast Guard officers, and in the exist aboard ships and therefore sole command of the ship and all founders of this Country have many cases that we have" ap­ can without fear of contradic­ his crew is answerable to him. rightly placed the President of EXAMINERS INCOMPETENT pealed there have been an in­ The law, while being very the United States, a civilian, as It has been our experience finitesimal number reversed. If strict in its provisions, has been Head of the Armed Forces, as that the men who act both as the accused still wants to appeal adequate to handle all problems it is well known that the at­ examiners and hearing officers, further, he can go to the Com­ that arise on a vessel. In addit­ titude of the Military is far are not fitted for these jobs mandant of the Coast Guard in ion, a seaman is answerable if different from that of the civ­ either by temperament, training Washington. he commits a felony to the Fed­ ilian. or experience. They are not fa­ We know of very few in­ eral authorities and is subject There is an almost indescrib­ miliar with the problems that stances' where the Commandant to severe fines and imprisonment able caste system amongst the arise on a merchant vessel. Those has reversed both the local ap­ if he violates the law.Armed Forces. The officers look few who have gone to sea have peal board and hearing officer. At the inception of the last down on the ordinary soldier or had service on a military ship, It appears that the Coast Guard wai-, the late President of the sailor and in the same way, the which is entirely different from likes to take care of its own and United States, realizing that vict­ officers of the Coast Guard have that of a merchant vessel and in reversing one of its officers, ory could not be attained except shown no sympathy to the Mer­ it seems highly unfair to have it feels that it suffers a smirch with the cooperation of the Mer­ chant seamen. a man sit as judge and jury in on its reputation. chant Marine and to expedite ' During the war, the Coast tion, speak upon Maritime mat­ the transfer of war goods to our CG BREEDS RESENTMENT Guard set up what it called ters from the viewpoint of the allies, placed it under the juri­ "Hearing Units" for the purpose Instead of bettering condi­ unlicensed personnel. sdiction of the Navy. of further disciplining seagoing tions on board ship, the Hearing This was not done to dis­ personnel in addition to the pen­ The Merchant Marine has al­ Units have resulted in a great ways been a civilian occupation cipline seamen because discipline alties provided by law as out­ lack of discipline and resent­ long before our government wa.s has always been maintained on lined above. ment not only among the unli­ formed. The only time it might Merchant ve.ssels, but it was censed personnel, but also among These Units work somewhat in have been considered an arm done primarily for the purpose this fashion. An officer would the officers. of the Military was during the of the movement of ships where examine the log book and speak The Merchant Marine has al­ last two wars when it came un­ the Military authorities deemed to the officers of the vessel con­ ways been .self-sufficient and has der the jurisdiction of the Navy. they were necessary. cerning any infractions. Assum­ always done a good job in main­ It differs from a military organi­ ing a seaman was guilty of com­ taining order and discipline COAST GUARD GREED zation in that there is no draft­ ing aboard ship an hour late, aboard merchant ships. The of­ ing or enlistment among the The Coast Guard, likewise, this would be entered in the log ficers are familiar with the men. which is regularly attached to book and the man would be fin­ the trial of a merchant seaman problems of their crews, having A seaman can sign for one the Treasury Department, was ed by the Master. The inves­ when he is not familiar with the come up from the ranks them­ trip and at the termination of also put under the jurisdiction of tigating officer would thcr issue customs and usages which per­ selves. the voyage quit or make another the Navy and the Navy turned a subpoena to the man notifying tain aboard merchant vessels. Seamen, while on board ship, In addition to being logged by are under the direct supervision trip as he sees fit. If his super- the Merchant Marine over to the him to appear at the office of or officer doesn't choose to em­ Coast Guard. the Coast Guard. In the mean­ the Master for an infraction of and control of their officers who, ploy him for a further trip, he With victory won, the Coast time, his wages would be held the. rule, he is also tried for the in our opinion, are adequate to can let the man go. There are Guard was turned back to the up contrary to law as provided same offense before the Coast mete out punishment for infrac­ no provisions made for pensions Tieasury Department, but is re- in the statutes that seaman re­ Guard and this places him in tions of the rules. This has or any other benefits that a sold- fused to relinquish its hold on ceive his pay within forty-eight double jeopardy. The argument woiked fairly well from time ier or sailor would be entitled the Merchant Marine but in­ hours after the vessel discharges that the Coast Guard uses is that immemorial and there is no rea­ to as a result of being a member stead, is trying to keep it under its cargo. He would then appear the Master confines his punish­ son why this practice should be of the Armed Services. its own jurisdiction. There is befoie the investigating officer ment to a fine or in some cases, changed to satisfy the greed of a very good reason for this at­ who just reading the log book, to imprisonment on board ship the Coast Guard. CIVILIAN MERCHANT MARINE titude. determines if the man should be whereas the Coast Guard pro­ We therefore, respectfully, for ceeding is not against the person tried. the reason outlined above, ask The United States Merchant During the war, the Coast nor against his money, but this committee to disapprove of Marine has always been under Guard became top heavy with If he finds in the affirmative, this proposed bill. the jurisdiction of the Depart­ Admirals, Captains, Commanders he then issues a set of charges against his- papers. Respectfully submitted, This is the grossest fiction that ment of Commerce. This ,in our and Lieutenant Commanders. or an indictment and informs JOSEPH H. VOLPIAN. opinion, is the proper place Some of these people are desir­ him that he can get counsel and can be imagined because if a Special Services •where it belongs because all the ous of holding on to their posi­ that he can subpoena his wit­ seaman's papers are either sus­ Representative activities of the Merchant Ma­ tions, knowing full v/ell that nesses. By the time this advice pended or revoked, he is cer­ Seafarers International rine has been in aiding the ex­ they could not get comparable is given to the seaman, his ship- tainly hit in the pocket becaOse Union of North America change of goods through water salaries and conditions in civ- mates, having been paid off, scat- he cannot pursue his livelihood {Continued from Page 1) ; home commerce from one counDepartment of the Union since try to another and from one 1913. His office is at the Union coast to the other, headquarters in the City of New The Congress has passed cer­ York. Part of his duties as Spe­ tain laws which have been on cial Services Representative is our books for many years, to go before the Coast Guard whereby adequate provisions Hearing Units on behalf of ac­ have been made to enforce dis­ cused seamen. He has appeared cipline. For instance, if a crew in at least 200 cases of alleged member without permission misconduct before the Coast stays ashore one day from the Guard. The writer is present at vessel, the Master is allowed to the request of his Union to op­ "log" or fine him two days' pay pose the passage of the above for the day he missed. bill. There is a logging or penalty ilian life as they being officers in Guard. �THE Friday. May 9, 1947 SEAFARERS Page Fifteen LOG BULLETIN PERSONALS TOMMY KEYES Get in touch with Ray Shapnick at the Philadelphia Hall, 9 South 7th Street. 3. S. i Retroactive Wages Smith & Johnson SS Corporation HOUSTON 60 BEAVER ST., NEW YORK 4, N. Y. INDIVIDUAL JAMES J. DONOHUE Seay, John B SS JOHN A. DONALD SS JOHN GALLUP Contact Joe Kornek at 1404 Es­ Bianco, Sabastiano S 1.40 Sheets, James K $ 11.20 Biggerstaff, J planade Ave., New Orleans or Blankenship, C. P 1.40 Tetterton, Charles B 24.77 Coulter, J. G Attorney Samuel Segal, 11 Broad­ Carver, Ernest E 1.40 Wright, L Catudal, C. E 11.20 Crowell, E. R way, New York. 1.40 Darville, Richard E 17.74 SS JOSEPH LEE Fontenot, G 1.40 J- S- iEnyart, Elbert H 94 Houchins, Clarence M. 1.40 Davey, Wm JOHN ROSS Gaskins, R. J 13.23 Malmstrom, E 1.20 Davis, Harley M No. 859640 Gillen, Paul 2.34 Pruszka, Norbert 53.42 Gi-esham, Arthur 11.20 Rahas, F William J. R. Simpson of the Jowers, J. C 71.73 Groenevald, Wm. J 24.77 Shaffer, J Briti.sh Merchant Navy Welfare Carver, Ernest E 1.40 Haccke, Oscar W. 11.20 Shaffer, George Office, 3 State Street, New York Catudal, C. E 1.40 Hock, Raymond J. 17.74 Smola, E. A 4, N. Y. is anxious for you to con­ Darville, Richard E 4.20 Hudson, Wilbur .... Enyart, Elbert H 94 Stinehelfer, E tact him. 1.40 Johansen, Henry .. Gaskins, R. J 13.23 Swank, E. B i* 3" 4.19 Meszaros, John J Gillen, Paul 2.34 JUAN ANTONIO SANCHEZ Morris, Chester R. .. SS JOHN B. LENNON Jowers, J. C 11.20 Nilsson, Svend A Please get in touch with your Kosow, Bery E 9.54 Amrned, Hassin $ 11.90 Nye, Dow M mother or wife as soon as pos­ LaMorte, Sabastian 3.26 Bayley, A. W 60 Pierce, John sible. Martin, J. J 11.20 DcVere, L. E 6.90 Pigg, Leonard E 33. 3. Mulling, Willard 18.67 Grassi, John 46 Rushing, Elmer W. .. Oliver, Marvin 30.07 Heaton, Thomas M 7.36 RALPH MALOY Szyllowski, Leonard Patterson, Frederick 20.18 Hill, John 24.48 I am mailing seven dollars to Rankin, Whitney G. . Waters, Ernest L 6.06 Kansas, J. 29.84 you at 132 Barrow Avenue, Pel- Van Bysterveld, H. D. 9.66 McGuffy, Albert E 34.30 SS JOSHUA SLOCUM ham, Ga.—Mickey. SlU HALLS ASHTABULA BAl.TIMORE 1027 West Fifth St. 14 North Gay St. Calvert* 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLF.VELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi 3-1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6357 DULUTH S31 W. Michigan St. Melrose 4110 GALVESTON 308'/z—23rd St. Phone 2-8448 HO.NOLULU 16 Merchant St. Phone 58777 HOUSTON 1515 7Sth St. Wentworth 3-3809 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St Phone 5-5919 MARCUS HOOK IVs W. 8th St Chester 5-3110 MILWAUKEE 613 3o-Vh 2nd St MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Phone 2-1754 Arnold Bernstein SS Corp. 17 BATTERY PLACE Room 143 New York, N. Y. SS WILLIAM COX (Voyage No. 1) Pedro Gonzales, Isabelo Gar­ cia, John Saiad, LeRoy Jackson, Alfred Ortiz, Fealameno Palume, Anton Kula, Charles Saviano, Lyle A. Brannan, Jerome Fleck, Herman Pedersen, Alberto Gu­ tierrez, Mauri O. Karlssen. John A. Wernboe, William Wild, Joe V. Alvarez, Francis J. Fischer, Rober Williams, Sylves ter Zygarowski, John W. Prze lecki, Harold G. Relaford, Ignasio Tirado, Chas. M. Kavanaugh George Litchfield, William Her nandez, Robert J. Laliberte. Bedell, Charles Cruz, Juan Dirkmeyer, Frank J. Egan,,James R Edler, Aske Hudson, Walter R. Jones, David L Martin, Robert A McCarthy, Charles Morris, E. J Mulholland, Robert E. Simond.s, Theodore L Tamboory, Peter Tuum, Alexander V. Van Splunter, J. M. 9.30 5.10 24.28 32.66 .94 .94 .46 1.40 .94 .94 .94 .46 7.47 .46 6.44 4.20 7.47 7.47 .46 7.47 7.4 S 1.87 1.87 1.87 3.74 1.61 1.40 1.87 1.87 1.87 6.63 1.87 1.87 2.01 12.14 139.98 DONATIONS J. Jillette. $1.00; .1. L. Waldermar, $2.00; A. Lavaie, $2,00; G. Ray. $2.00; B. Roasberg. $1.00; L. A. Schop, $1.00; O. Uusmann. $2.00; V. Tommassa, $2.00; S. Melensky, $1.00; T. W. Har­ ris, $2.00; I. Vante, $2.00; E. C. Sharer, $2.00; J. H. Boyles, $1,00; R. N. Web­ er. $1.00; W. Manning, $2.00; A. Tuum. $1.00; J, H. Hopkins, $2.00; F. Carrol, $2 00: F. Osterman. $2.00; G. Mitchel. $2.00; C. Wallender, $2.00; S. Wakeland, $3.00; J. Thomas, $1.09; L. W. Glass. $3.00; C. Schuessler, $3.00; C. Ahtlanen, $2,00; R. M. Raines, $4.00; C. W. Williams. $3.00; J. W. Marrs. $3.00; J. McMains, $2.00; J. G. Newman. $2.00. NEW YORK INDIVIDUAL DONATIOr>iS H. Put, $1.00; B. Baker. $2,00; L. F. Smith. $1.00; L. J. Wade. $4.00; A. Amelia, $1.00. C. A. Richardson. $1.00; C. L. Martin, $1.00; A. E. Swenson. $5,00; Mary Rutledge. $2.00. SS LA FARGE J. Friel, $2.00; J. Dimacis, $2.00; P, C. Adrian. $3,00; A. Guittare. $2.00; Crew of SS La Farge. $22.00. SEATRAIN NEW JERSEY Patrick. .Anderson. Gray, Olive, Hayes, Watson. Dennis. Huckins, Townsend, Lester. Miiens. Swift, Schuler, Hackson, Third Mate. Total $21. Crew of SS Seatrain New Jersey, $21.00. w. SS GEORGE WASHINGTON » G, Flood. $1.00. SS ELIZABETH Mohrman. $2.00; Davis, $1.00. W. J, George J, Virden, Arthur P. Gilbert, Ar­ thur H. Chaplin, John Babect. SS JOHN JAY T. L. Stinnette. $2.00; W. E. BlanS- A. i chard. $2.00; A. Schamhora, $2.00; P. John H. Makarewich, Erasmo Copernica. $2.00; Willie C. Williams. Flecha, Jei'ome Millen, Frank $1.00; D. L. White, $1.00; C. Starke, $5.00, Nacklicki, Pedro Vasquez, Wal­ SS POINT CABRILLO ter Pedersen, Ernest Pelowski, J- Merke!. $1.9 1; H. E. .Miller, $1.00. Andre Yance, Frank Vitale, Jo­ SS MATTHEW B. BRADY seph Pearson, William F. BlakNORFOLK ley. Campbell, Persons L 7.94 F. R. Rom.iller, $1.00; G. B. Williams. Douglas, Peter 7.94 $2.00; C. C. Cornett. $1.00; 2. K. .t t Emery, Edgar H 3.26 Ciucias. $1.00; R. H. Smith. $3.00; J. T, SS JOHN GIBBON Harmstead, George L 7.94 Ball. $3,00. (Voyage No. 2) 7.94 Emil Aunio, James O'Connell Mazurkiesioz, Henry Jan Rani, James Less, James SS M. MICHAEL EDELSTEIN 76.09 Lamb, William Young, Orville Arshankuni, Andrew Cianci, Luigi 138.84 Guernsey, Marcel Rialland, Ben­ J. it S. 104.50 LOST jamin Rabinowitz, Adeline Ta- Reeves, James A SS WILLIAM COX vares, Clark Inman, Athanasious One seamen's wallet, contain­ SS MUHLENBERG VICTORY (Voyage No. 2) Staikopoulos, -ilnaxagoras Anaging Union receipts, discharges, Axel W. Andersen, Clayton M notou, Henry Anderson. Almeida, L $ 74.34 personal pictures and papers MO.N TREAL mo Blevry SJ; NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. Kelley, Darold F. Wilson, George Robert Gray, Norbert Pruska, Carter( Merritt W 46 somewhere aboard SS Cape San Magiiulia 0112-6113 W. Starns, Harold A. Townsend Dimitri Bartoi, Dalton Simon, Driggers, Eddie T 1.87 Diego during latter part of March NEW YORK 51 Beaver St Edgar H. Starns, Andre C Martin Steffen, Rudolph Bibow, Eriksson, F 14.29 1947. Return to Ervin Catrwright, HAnover 2-2784 Touchon, Anton Kula, Teddy M Joseph Malone, Peter King, Be2.41 Box 306, Stuart, Oklahoma. Makila, Esko NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. 2.79 Phone 4-1083 Hiott, Thomas Brescia, Robert nigno Bantista, John Gray, Jean Nieves, Rosario P PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Prothero, Alberto Gutiercz, John Majerus, Edward Do Mello, Vic­ Ortiz, Silvestro O 2.79 Lombard 3-7651 A. Wernboe. ; 2.79 tor Mylnok, Donald Woodside. Oswald, Wm. G Will William Coe Stewart PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. Maurice Parker, Harold J. Pyle, Chauncey T 2.34 i i. i Phone 2-8532 please get in touch with his Radzvila, Frank A 14.46 PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. Larson, Sidndy Pickett, Roger SS JOHN GIBBON folks as soon as possible. His Schram, R. G 82.00 Beacon 4336 Johnson, John C. Hart, Bernard (Voyage No. 3) family is worried about him RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. Williams, Sylvester Zygarowski, 2.34 Andrew George, Marcel Rial- Serrand, Rosendo since he WE^S seen in Texas Phone 2599 George A. Simon, Virgil L. Hard­ land, Terrance Jone.s, Jesse Cum- Stoneburg, Nigel F 2.34 City, Texas, on the day of SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. ing, George Georgevich, James Sullivan, Melvin H 2.34 bee, Emery C. Sims, Orville Douglas 5475-8363 the disaster. Any one having 4.20 SAN JUAN, P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon R. Akin, Walter E. Harris, Hugh Guernsey, James H. Nelms, Ade­ l^agner, John R information about him get San Juan 2-5996 D. Terrill, Eugene R. Beckley. Waters, E. L 5.60 line Tavares, Thomas H. Morillo, word to his folks through SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. Webber, Ramond J 2.79 it i. it Roy J. Jones, McLauren Eustace, the Galveston SIU Hall, Phone 8-1728 Walter Filipponi, Adolphus Gra­ SS ORBIS SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. SS NEGLEY D. COCHRAN ham, Richard Warson. Main 0290 (Voyage No. 16) TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. $ 3.74 Herbert R. Kreutz, Norbert Brown, Robert D Salvator Volpi, Gustaaf Van JERRY THE OILER Phone M-1323 Bottom, Malcolm C 5.60 Pruszka, Dimitri Bartoi, Dalton Thillo, Jose Soares, Michael ConTOLEDO 615 Summit St. DeCosto, Wm. R 23.80 who was on the SS Algic from WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. busione, Luis Moreno, Julian Ja- Simon, Wessley Bentley, Rudolph 7.47 May to September, 1946, please' Terminal 4-3131 ranilla, William Frew, Melvin Bibow, Joseph Malone, Ronald Lee, Roy R 3.74 get in touch with E. E. Casey at VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. Davis, Dan Krickovich. V. Frye, Mack E. Greenwald, Owen, John F Garden 8331 19.60 Marine Hospital, Staten Island, Stanley Kurosz, Joao M. Gon- John Gi'ay, Jean Majerus, Ted B. Schenck, Lester J. ... VANCOUVER .... 144 W. Hastings St. This is very im­ 7.00 New York. Nettles, Victor Mylnek, Edward Smith, Louis H Pacific 7824 calves, Pedro Almocera, Santiago portant! 7.47 Thompson, Francis E. Colon, Daniel F. Kelleher, Walter De Mello. NOTICE! �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 9, 1947 rf TANKtRWf t". crtiES sewicf 1 TIM ES lai 1 I I I I I f I I I I L . AND ENJOY TME THE EEST CONDITIONS IN MARITIME! • • « IHESEAWRfRS INTERNATIONAL UNIOM � 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 May 9, 1947 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. IX, No. 19 Description An account of the resource Headlines: LEE CREW WINS EXTRA PAY AWARD COAST GUARD DISRUPTS ALL MARITIME INDUSTRY, SIU TELLS CONGRESSMEN PANAMANIAN SCOWS ARE HELL SHIPS, SAYS SEAMAN WHO HAS SAILED THEM NORFOLK MARITIME TRADES COUNCIL PREPARES FOR PANAMANIAN ACTION AFL LONGSHOREMEN SWAMP ILWU IN SEATTLE BARGAINING ELECTION NOT FORGOTTEN WYANDOTTE AND HURON CREWMEN ARE SOLIDLY BEHIND SEAFARERS LEE CREW WINS EXTRA PAY AWARD NMU CANNOT AFFORD TO PRINT TRUE STORY OF HOW IT SOLD OUT THE CARFERRY WORKERS SEAFARERS MASS ON PICKETLINES WITH STRIKING PHONE WORKERS WATCH FOR MEN HIRED FROM MIAMI FINK HALL MORE SHOREGAN WORK EXPECTED IN PUERTO RICO BY SIU, ILA SEAFARERS CONTINUE TO ESTABLISH NEW GAINS ON THE GREAT LAKES CLEVELAND-CLIFFS AND PHONY LSU WORK TOGETHER NORFOLK HAS STEADY FLOW OF SHIPPING ALCOA CORSAIR READY FOR MAIDEN VOYAGE NEW YORK HAS A BUSY WEEK ON WATERFRONT SHIPPING BOOM IN PORT BOSTON UNDERGOES A SLIGHT RECESSION BALTIMORE BOOSTS ORE SHIPS--THEY HAVE 'BEST QUARTERS AFLOAT' GRANGE VICTORY MAKES FIRST STOP AT MIAMI LAKES LOOK TO SIU FOR CHANGES HEADQUARTERS REPORT TO MEMBERSHIP NMU RANK AND FILE IN HOUSTON REVOLTS AGAINST COMMIE PIECARDS OUTLOOK FOR NEW HALL IN PHILLY I SPOOR, SHIPPING REMAINS GOOD BUCKOS HAVE A REAL FIELD DAY ON ISTHMIAN'S CITADEL VICTORY CREWMEMBERS OF STEEL MARINER SCORE RUGGED ISTHMIAN LASH-UP BLAZE ABOARD DIXON DOUSED BY CREW IN 2-HOUR BATTLE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/9/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/cefd34972188b80579288a0d4c5de626.PDF 553e99458f2f432ee05ad517c4057f39 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL, IX. NEW YORK. N. Y,. FRIDAY. MAY 2. 1947 STRAIGHT FROM THE SHOULDER Wilh no hedging, these representatives of other seamen's unions vowed all-out support to the Seafarers' planned boy­ cott of Panamanian ships to halt the transfer of United States shipping. Speaking is Captain William Ash, Masters. Mates, and Pilots; while looking on are James Scott, British Seamen's Union; and E. Johansen, Norwegian Seamen's Union. For other piicures, see page 5. No. 18 Foreign Seamen's Unions Piedge Aid To Seafarers in Panamanian Boycott NEW YORK—World-wide support of the Seafarers International Union's plan to halt the vicious transferral of American ships to Panamanian and Honduran registry is virtually assured, should the signal fx? given. In a stirring demonstration of international waterfront solidarity, representatives of .seamen's unions and five major maritime nations voiced their organiza­ tions' endorsement and pledged full support of the SIU stand, which calls for boycott of vessels flying Panamanian and Honduran flags when they READY FOR ANYTHING ~^put into American ports. Canadians Win Raise, 30 Day interim Pact JACKSONVILLE — The crew of the SS New Noi'thwind, Seaway Lines Limited, came back from a nine-day trip to find that they were covered by an interim agreement, and that a straight thirty dollar increase, across the board, was already in I'ffcrt. Another stipulation ofT^— the interim agreement is that a plished without the cooperation contract. must, be negotiated of the affiliated unions of the within 30 days. Signers for the Maritime Trades Department in Union were Lindsey Williams, in the Jacksonville area. The untiring efforts of Atlantic charge of Gulf SIU organizing; James Manners, Jacksonville and Gulf officials also contributed Port Agent; and W, J, McLaugh­ in great measure to success of the lin, representing the SIU Cana- Canadian Brothers. With chin up. Joseph Beirne. President of the National More and more, the strength din District. Federation of Telephone Workers, addresses a strike meeting of the AFL Maritime Trades De­ This wage gain, the outcome of in the SIU Hall in Baltimore. He was pledged the support of partment is becoming known as the job action reported in last a workers' force, appreciated by the Seafarers on the pickelline and followed that offer by stat­ week's LOG, meant a great deal seanaen and waterfront workers, ing that he was more optimistic than at any time since the to the crew, as was evidenced by strike started. and respected by the operators. the celebration which took place after the vessel docked and the good news spread around. The speed with which the com­ pany came to terms was final proof to the crew that only or­ ganization, on the ship and However, the management fin­ jobs, as well as considerable DETROIT, April 29—Members ashore, can gain advantage for of the Great Lakes District of ally saw the light of day, and income if the D&C failed to op­ workers. the SIU, assembled in Detroit at realized that the Seafarers was erate, the Union stood firm in ANOTHER SHIP COMING a special meeting yesterday, ra­ not going to give them any The unlicensed personnel on tified by an almost unanimous special concessions, and weaken the New Northwind is Composed vote the newly negotiated D&C the entire passenger ship wage structure on the Great Lakes. mainly of French Canadians, agreement. The SIU has just signed a Negotiations had been drag­ with a sprinkling of Nassauvians. More than 200 Lakes Seafar­ new agreement with the In June the "company expects ers were present to register their ging on since last Fall and, at Moran Towing and Trans­ every meeting between the SIU to add another ship to the run, overwhelming approval of the portation Company covering with accommodations for 200 new 44 hour week and other negotiating committee and man­ its fleet of sea-going tugs. gains secured for the D&C sea­ agement re|)resentatives, they passengers. For full details of the con­ claimed that they would not he This is planned despite the men. tract. which establishes the Ever since last Fall, the De­ able to operate in 1947 if the company howls that it is playing highest wage scales in the hide-and-seek wilh bankruptcy troit and Cleveland Navigation company had to pay any wage maritime industry for off­ Company had been pleading increases. operating one ship. shore opierations. see story The SIU Canadian District poverty in an effort to prevent Despite the fact that the SIU on Page 3. realizes full well - that this job the SIU from gaining their legit­ stood to lose over a thousand could never have been accom­ imate contract demands. The seamen's representatives, who issued their approval of the plan at the April 17 New York membership meeting, were: Einar Johansen, Norwegian Seamen's Union; Ernest Roberg, Swedish Seamen's Union; F. Clausen, Danish Seamen's Union; James Scott, British Seamen's Union, and Manuel Pitharoulis, Secre­ tary of the New York Branch, Federation of Greek Maritime Unions. Additional support would come from the world-powerful Interna­ tional Transportworkers Federa­ tion, it was announced at the meeting by the Organization's representative in the United States, Willy Dorchain. The meeting was addressed also by Captain William C. Ash, Secretary-Business Manager, Lo­ cal 88, Masters, Mates and Pilots of America, which, like the SIU, holds membership in the ITF and the American Federation of La­ bor's Maritime Trades Depart­ ment. Meanwhile, as the SIU tight­ ened its plans for a pK)ssible showdown on the Panamanian {Continued on Page 5) lakes SIU Okays 44 Hour Week D&C Contract Moran Signs its minimum demands on the company. Before finally capitulating to the SIU demands, the D&C at­ tempted to spearhead a passen­ ger ship combine to force the SIU to negotiate a single con­ tract or on a single pattern with the D&C, Boh-Lo, Georgian Bay and C&B lines. This plan failed when the Sea­ farers representatives told the combined shipowners at a meet­ ing held in Detroit on April 25 that the Union would not re­ treat from its minimum terms.. Last Saturday, April 26, D&C General Manager Emory Hatch (Continued on Page }) �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 2, 1947 The Itnc'ttp ^ SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG . . .President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER - Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER . . . Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Sscy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Sec.y.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor ^ 267 Solidarity Forever There's an old union song, dating from the days when a picketline was a prelude to long months in the hospital and worse, that sums up the true ideas of Seafarers' union­ ism. The song goes liice this: Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Solid aril y forever, Solid a ril y' fo rci c r, Solidarity forever, For the JJniou makes us strong. Staten Island Hospital Those words, or thoughts like the ones expressed in the above words, are never far from the minds of the members of the Seafarers International Union. The song has been sung on picketlines in every state of the United States, and it symbolizes the actions of the merchant sea­ These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, men in the SIU, who set the pace for the American mari­ as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging time industry. heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Men Now in The Marine Hospitals Through the direct economic action of the militant men who make up the membership of the SIU, standards of all American seamen have risen. Wages are at an alltime peak, and conditions aboard SIU ships are the envy of other U. S. seamen, as well as merchant mariners the world over. All this has been achieved by solidarity. The unity of the AFL Maritime Trades Department made possible the SIU victory in the 1946 General Strike—the most complete tie-up of shipping that has ever been seen. And this same unity, only on a bigger scale, will be called into play in the battle to force an end to phony transfers of American ships to Panamanian registry. The solid ranks of the MTD will be augmented by the seamen of other countries; of Denmark, England, Sweden, Greece, Norway, and where the International Transport workers Federation has affiliates. When the SIU calls for action, it will be an international team that will fight the battle through to the end. Many unions have preached solidarity. The SIU has actually gone about practicing it. That's why we can count on the organized strength of maritime workers all over the world to back us up in our coming beef. Our solidarity has paid off, is paying off, and will continue to payoff well into the future. It's the real trade union way. ing to them. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL GUS KREZTER C. MASON STEVE MOGAN R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT N. LONGTIME ED. DUDEK J. J. O'NEILL E. J. NAVARRE J. N. HULL C. TYNER C. J. COMPAN WM. H. CAO J. W. DENNIS ED. CUSTER WM. BROCE, Jr. GEO. F. DUFFY ADAM KARPOWICH C. LOCIGNO WM. MEAGHER D. LAUBERSHEIMER G. F. HART H. N. LEAVELLE S. HAMILTON % % % STATEN ISLAND HOSP. H. R. BELCHER E. E. CASEY V. PLACEY T. P. O'SULLIVAN R. G. MOSSELLER E. CARRARAS M. BAUCSKI D. NELSON G. H. STEVENSON F. NERING V. ALVAREZ F. G. CRUZ P. AMATO J. A. DYKES E. B. HOLMES C. A. MILLER H. SELBY NEPONSET^ HOSPITAL HUGH BURKE J. S. COMPBELL LINDEN CLARK JOHN T. EDWARDS J. FIGUEROA E. FERRER J. R. HANCHEY C. LARSON L. L. LEWIS L. TORRES S. S. t . BALTIMORE MARINE HOSP. CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES PAYNE CARLOS LEE JR. ALEXANDER DUDDE EDWARD CAIN JR. ERNEST SIDNEY STANLEY ROWE AUGUST OENBRINK WALTER SIBLEY You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6ih 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.) WM. KEMMERER RAYMOND NOE MANUEL ROMERO GEORGE MILLER OSCAR PAYNE JOHN WEBB JOHN RILEY (G. L.) JAMES McMAHON (G. L.) ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL M. MORRIS W. B. MUIR D. MCDONALD C. RASMUSSEN B. HOFFMAN J. KOSLUSKY % ^ ^ CHiq^GO MARINE HOSP. LOUIS JOHNSON STEVE SCHULTZ HENRY LALLY % % BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM T. -MAYNES R, LORD J. RUBERY D. BURLISON J. LEVACK E. DELLAMANO J. CAREY �Friday, May 2. 1947 THE SEAFARERS BELONGING TO SIU PAYS OFF Wearing happy smiles, these crewmembers of the SS New Northland celebrated the thirty buck across the board raise negotiated for them by the SIU Canadian District. Story appears on pa.ge I. Information from Jacksonville gave name of ship as the New Northwind. We're con­ fused now, but we hope to clear up the name by the next issue. Great Lakes District Okays D&C Pact, 44 Hour Week (Continued front ?a^e 1) signified a desire to sit down with SIU representatives in a last minute endeavor to arrive at an agreement satisfactory to both Union and company. Present at the meeting in the company offices were Mr. Hatch; company attorney Mr. Bullard; Gi-eat Lakes Secretary-Treasurer Fred Farnen, and International Repro.sentative Russell Smith. After a meeting lasting more than 3 hours, terms of the set­ tlement were.finally decided, re­ duced to a memorandum agree­ ment, and Union representatives agreed to take the agreement back to the membership for either ratification or rejection. It was ratified almost unanim­ ously, with only 3 dissenting votes. 44 HOUR WEEK Among the provisions of the new contract are the following: men in the Deck and Engine Departments receive the same pay for 44 hours that they form e r 1 y received for 56 hours; week-end overtime for Satur­ day afternoons and Sundays is paid -at the .overtime rate of $1.00 per hour; all penalty over­ time as outlined in the contract is paid at the rate of $1.25 per hour. In the Stewards Department, members arc paid at the rate of 1 e.xtra day's pay for every 7 days worked, which actually amounts to an increase of al­ most 15 percent in their base payAll fit-out, lay-up and winter work is to be paid at the rate of $1.60 per hour for the rated men, and $1.40 per hour for the unrated men in the Deck and Engine Departments. Work of a like nature per­ formed by Stewards Department members is to be paid at the rates of $1.60, $1.40, $1.25, and $.93 per hour for the 4 wage brackets in this department. All work over 40 hours in any week will be paid at time-andone-half. This provision includes all standby work, which actually I' '• • .. means any work performed out­ side of the regular sailing sea­ son, including fit-out and lay-up. This is a decided increase over the old set-up. OTHER CONTRACTS ATTENTION! All Canadian seamen on Coastwise vessels should never neglect to pick up their discharges on leaving a ves­ sel. When you register at the Hall for a ship and have no discharges to show, or prove your rating, or length of serv­ ice, you only handicap the Dispatcher. In addition you cause yourself inconvenience and perhaps unemployment. LOG Page Thre« New Moran Contraet Sets Top Wage Stale NEW YORK, May 1 — Faced with the possibility of economic action in the event of contin­ ued stalling, the Moran Towing and Transportation Company ca­ pitulated yesterday to the de­ mands of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union's negotiating com­ mittee and signed a contract em­ bodying the highest wage scale in the maritime industry for off-shore operations. Negotiating and signing the agreement for the Union were J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasur­ er, Atlantic and Gulf District, Joe Algina, Acting N. Y. Agent, and Steve Cardullo, Marcus Hook Port Agent. R. M. Fox signed for the company. Under terms of the record contract. Seafarer crews of Mo­ ran tugs will be paid top wages that include all monetary gains in effect on other SlU-contracted vessels, plus the six per cent cost of living increase retroac­ tive to Jan. 1, 1947, negotiated with other companies last March. Up to the time of the negotia­ tions, which v/ere concluded yes­ terday the company had repeat­ edly refused to open discussions for a new contract. It had been stalling since the signing of the interim agreement last fall. Two weeks ago. Brother Shuler notified the company that membership was getting fed up with company's continued delays and favored action. Shuler's no­ tification apparently took effect. In addition to the high wage provisions, other features of the new agreement are: 1. An "inequity increase" of $10 per month for Able Sea­ men and a $15 per month for i Wipers both retroactive to June 15, 1946. 2. An increase in the Stewards Department manning scale, one man being added. 3. Standby rate of pay while in port is $1.53 per hour for an eight hour day. Overtime rate for standby work is $2.30 per hour. The agreement also calls for increase in the travel, meal and subsistence allowances prevail­ ing in all SIU contracts, and are retroactive to March 11 last. (Text of the Supplemental Agreement appears on Page 14.) Low Cost Glasses Now A vafiaUe To Seafarers ".See these new glasses," said Bi other B. "I'm proud of them, and they only cost me $35.00." Another Brother who happen­ ed to be listening to the conver­ sation, looked up and said, "Don't crow until you've been wearing them for a few weeks. I bought glasses myself, and after a little while they did more harm than good to my eyes." After that the conversation became general, and plenty of the Brothers aired their beefs about glasses. To make the story short, here are some of the criticisms: Too high a price on glasses. This was voiced by practically everyone who could make him­ self heard. Terms of the D&C agreement will serve as a pattern for other operators in the passenger ship service, although these contracts will all be negotiated and sign­ (Continued on Page 4) ed on an individual basis. Bob - Lo Excursion Company, and the Chicago and Buffalo SS Company have already signified a willingness to sign like agree­ ments. The Chicago, Duluth and Georgian Bay Transit Company MONTREAL, Canada — The ed out at a press conference in strategy, with the CSU being, in is expected to go along with the effect, nothing more than an Canadian District of the Seafar­ Montreal. pattern. arm of the party and the seamen The decision to form a Cana­ Other agreements covering the ers International Union of North exploited in its behalf. Milwaukee Clipper, and various America has inaugurated its dian District was made by SIU Emergence of the SIU's Can­ Delegates representing 91,000 excursion and passenger ship drive to win improved wage and adian District will provide the maritime and allied workers of working conditions for Canada's operators on the Lakes are now ! spark Canadian seamen have North America when they mot seamen with the establishment in the process of being negoti­ been waiting for. It will set up a recently at the SIU's Third Bien­ of a Branch office in this port ated. militant plan of action for gain­ nial Convention in Chicago. Secretary-Treasurer Fred Far­ city. nen expressed h i s satisfaction The Convention's decision was ing higher wages and better The branch, located at 1440 over the D&C contract in this Bleury Street, was opened last prompted by the desperate plight working conditions, and will call manner, "Certainly, we didn't Thursday, and is being directed of Canadian seamen who have for settling of beefs at the point get everything that we asked by a Canadian Seafarer, ...Gene been foundering without organ­ of production — the methods which have proven so highly suc­ for. But we have no. apologies ization. Markey. cessful on the American water­ to offer for the pattern estab­ In addition, requests have been front. Woi-king with Markey are H. lished on the Great Lakes pas­ pouring in by the hundreds from Murphy, Secretary-Treasurer of Already the Canadian District senger vessels." Canadians who wished to be­ has demonslraled samples of Farnen continued, "We broke the Canadian District and Van­ come organized and affiliated what it can win for Canada's un­ the 56 hour week on these ships couver Port Agent, and William with the SIU, whose militant organized seamen. Within the and got a 44 hour week. This McLaughlin, organizer and Vic­ reeord of accomplishment in be­ past few weeks—while it was in itself is a substantial gain toria Port Agent. half of its membership stands amounting to an average in­ The Canadian District's drive unparalleled in waterfront his­ still in the state of organization— the District forced signing of a crease of $52 monthly for all will be aimed at organizing tory. Deck and Engine employees not everything in Canada that floats. contract by the India Steamship The Canadian District is set­ Company covering the Canadian counting the penalty overtime. Activities of the Montreal office Next year, we expect to have will be coordinated with those ting out to elevate the standards crews of six vessels and giving a 40 hour week on all SlU-con- of the Vancouver and Victoria of wages and conditions on Can­ them the same wages and work­ ada's waterfront to a level com­ ing conditions enjoyed by Amer­ tracted Lakes vessels just like branches. parable with those enjoyed by ican Seafarers. we're demanding on the freight Robert A. Matthews, SIU Head­ Seafarers in the United States. ships this year. That's our goal." Similar contracts were nego­ quarters Representatve, who is Up to now, seamen of the tiated by the Canadian District temporarily in Montreal to aid in country to the North, have been wth a number of other shipping setting up the machinery that —in the great majority—unorgan­ firms, including the Seaway will produce better wages and ized. They have been subjected way Lines Limited, in which all conditions .for Canadian seamen, to filthy conditions shabby pay. unlicensed crewmembers of the Check Ihe slop chest be­ emphatically stresses the purpose company's SS North Wind, op­ fore your boat sails. Make COMMIE SELL-OUT and nature of the newly-formed erating under Canadian registry, sure that the slop chest con­ district. The communist - dominated received a $30 a month increase tains an adequate supply of Canadian Seamen's Union has i in wages. Steps were also taken all the things you are liable FOR CANADIAN SEAMEN failed its membership miserably.' to bring the vessel's shoddy con­ to need. If it doesn't, call the "This Union will be of, by, and Waterfront advances were made ditions up to Seafarers standards Union Hall immediately. for Canadian seamen," he point­ secondary to communist party, —the best on the waterfront. SIU Canadian District Opens New Haii In Montreal, Begins Organizing Drive Check it - But Good �Page Four THE NMU Tries To Freeioad On SlU St Lakes Drive SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 2, 1947 NFTW OFFICERS SPEAK By EARL SHEPPARD DETROIT—At a recont meet­ idcnt of the National Maritime ing held in the Local NLRB oi- Union as saying the Union is com­ ficea, the NMU representatives munist-dominated and that you expressed grave concern because must be a member of the com­ the SIU had failed to notify them munist party or you cannot hold that we had petitioned for elec­ office in the union and he backs tions to be held in the Huron, up his quote by shoving the Wyandotte, Hanna and Wilson Pilot in your face and showing it to you in writing, you as an or­ fleets. It seems that wo really hurt ganizer haven't a leg to stand the feelings of these sensitive on." In the same Pilot under Joe souls by not telling them where, when and why the SIU was or­ Curran's name, the following ap­ peared, "Tiierc can be no com­ ganizing on the Great Lakes. As far as we arc concerned, in promise with corrupt political our current organizational cam­ machines, grou'ps or cliques, paign on the Great Lakes, there whose loyalty is first to outside is no such thing as a National organizations before our union's welfare." This, from the presi­ Maritime Union. Maryland's telephone strike leaders addressed a meeting in Baltimore, held at the SIU Hall. Certainly, when the Lakes sca- dent of the NMU who has closely Also present was Joseph Beirne. President of the National Federation of Telephone Workers. In mcm themselves have repudiated followed the commie line for ten the usual order, Jim Yewell, State Strike Director; Walter Petry, organizer; Joseph Beirne; Tom this outfit time and again, and years, and who openly referred Hooper, Assistant State Strike Director; and Bob Beveridge, President of the Telephone Equip­ state overwhelmingly that they to Joe Stalin as "Comrade Sta­ ment Workers, and a member of the National Policy Committee. are interested in joining the SIU, lin" when he visited Ru.ssia! and only the SIU, why should When the leopard changes lus we concern ourselves with a spots, we'll believe that Joe Curbankrupt outfit which spends all ran and his group of eye-wash of their time in fighting among artists have changed their poli­ themselves and trying to cram tics! But enough of the NMU. their phony politics down the sea­ It's already taken up more space men's throats? in the LOG than it rightfully de­ We have no interest in fighting serves, but we've got to keep the BALTIMORE Sparked by the Ho told the meeting that Sea­ the NMU, mentioning the NMU, record straight. announcement that white-capped farers would join the telephone or considering them in any way LAKES PICTURE Seafarers would join them on workers on the pickctlinc. whatsoever. We're a militant the picketlines, Baltimore's tele­ trade union and not interested Good progress is being shown One of the local officials. Miss phone strikers held a rousing in any phony "save the world" in the overall Lakes picture of Helen Smith, President of the strike rally in the SIU Hall, 14 political program tied to the the Seafarers drive to organize Telephone Clerical Workers, re­ North Gay Street, on Sunday, Moscow bandwagon. Our sole the unorganized on the Lakes. lated her experiences with the April 27. interest is in bettering the hours, We've already petitioned for elec­ company. wages, working and living con­ tions in the following fleets: Joseph Beirne, President of She told of starting work for­ ditions of all seamen. the National Federation of Tele­ Huron Transportation Com ty-two years ago at a salary of phone Workers, came down from pany—2 ships $3.00 per week. She ended her FREE RIDE New Yoi-k to address the meet­ militant speech by stating that Wyandotte Transportation Com­ ing. Officials of the various di­ If the NLRB wants to spend pany—4 ships she would be the last one to visions also had their say. part of their time and part of stop picketing. their scarce funds in notifying M. A. Hanna Company — 13 Baltimore Agent William Rentz One of the leaders of the ships HIGHLY OPTIMISTIC the NMU every time the SIU pe­ Baltimore telephone strikers is pledged all out support to the titions for an election, that's up Wilson Transit Company — 12 Miss Audrey Smith, above. She strikers, and volunteered the use Beirne told the audience that ships to them. Then, if the NMU wants told a packed meeting that "if of the SIU Hall every night in "tonight we can be more op­ to indulge in their favorite pas­ These companies are practical­ scabs pass your picketlines, it's the week until the walk-out timistic than at any time before time of trying to get a free I'ide ly solid for the SIU, and we are your own fault." ends. April 7. on the Seafarers coat-tails, they fully confident that they will "We have a note of optimism can do so. register an overwhelming vote from our own people and the Every time the SIU petitions for the Soafaier.s when the NLRB Labor Department that seems to the NLRB, the NMU can certain­ holds their elections. indicate that before tomorrow ly try to intervene on the ballot. Complete details on the Huron is finished, there will be at least That's their privilege, but let election appear elsewhere in the a wage proposal by AT&T." them spend a little time and ef­ LOG. As regards the other three This is all part of the Union (Conthtiwd from Page 3) fort doing some organizing on companies, meetings ai'e being He told the group that anyone Examination not thorough Optical Plan, located at 152-154 their own. going back to work before the held this week to determine the Fourth Avenue, New York City. Of cour-so, that's practically an election dates and the election enough. Many men who pre-, strike officially ended would scribe eye glasses haven't mod­ Many unions are already mem­ impossibility, as none of the stipulations. strengthen the company's posi­ ern equipment v/ith which to bers of the Plan, and all are loud Lakes seamen want anything to tion, and reduce the bargaining Now that the first part of our in their praise of the service. The do witlr a bankrupt outfit like organizational- program is just work. power of the union. Poor quality work. Some unions involved figure that theirs. about over, that part which dealt thousands of dollars have been Members of unions not on Chester Young, new NMU vice with the fit-out of the ships, we men showed glasses that were saved so far. strike are continuing to respect president pro-tem, in charge of are ready to start the second wavy, and were probably in­ picketlines, and telephone ser­ Total number of members in juring their eyes beyond re­ organizing—he took Joe Stack's phase of our all-out campaign to the participating unions exceeds vice in Baltimore and the rest place after his whitewashed exit completely organize the Great pair. of Maryland is far from normal. 150,000. Slow service. Seamen on the from office—said a mouthful in Lakes so that all Lakes seamen beach don't stick around long the Pilot of April 25. BEST OF EVERYTHING will carry an SIU book. and they can't afford to wait "When you have a young, raw With the ships in full move­ The Union Optical Plan is recruit whom you are trying to ment throughout the Lakes, it be­ for glasses and miss a ship. housed in modern offices. On organize, and he quotes the pres- comes necessary to redistribute ALL OVER NOW the premises are located the WASHINGTON, D. C.. May our organizational staff to such These criticisms were so gen­ scientifically equipped examina­ 1—On invitation from Wil­ ports as they will now be need­ eral among the membership, that tion rooms, and the completely liam Green, President of the ed in. a recent New York membership equipped lens grinding labora­ American Federation of La­ Certainly, with the swell start meeting authorized Secretary- tory. This means no long waits bor, committees from the Members whose gear has that we have already made, we Treasurer J. P. Shuler to investi­ for glasses. AFL and CIO begin meet­ been held for more than three have every intention of seeing gate the field to see if arrange­ ings today to seek the pos­ All members of the SIU, and months in the fourth floor this drive through until all Lakes ments could not be made with sible unity of all of Amer­ their families, are entitled to the baggage room of the New seamen are organized as mem­ a cooperative optical outfit that ica's organized labor. services. The Special Services York Hall are advised to call bers of the Seafarers. would give the Seafarers memDepartment is now preparing a Faced with the heavy for it immediately, or notify The vast majority of these un­ ber,ship competent examinations bulletin giving complete details. threat of anti-labor legisla­ the Hall where they wish it organized Lakes seamen are well and glasses at moderate stand­ tion, President Green, in call­ Until the bulletin is issued, if sent. aware what the SIU stands for, ardized foes. ing the meeting, stressed the there ai-e any seamen, or mem­ Crowded conditions make and that's the Union of their And Brother Shuler reports fact that the need for unity bers of their families in the New it impossible to hold gear choice! These men are sick and that from now on Seafarers can was never greater than toda.y. longer than three months. All tired of the open-shop conditions be examined by competent reg­ York'area, in need of optical service Joe Volpian, SIU Special The unity meetings in the effects remaining unclaimed prevailing on the Lakes for years. istered optometrists (and medical Nation's Capital, are the Services Representative, is the after three months will be Now they want SIU job se­ eye specialists where necessary). third of such meetings since man to see at 51 Beaver Street. sent to the owner's home via curity, contract protection, job If eye glasses are indicated, they the inception of the CIO in express collect. Seafarers who are examined at seniority, union representation, will be supplied at a very reason­ 193B and the first in over five Gear without addresses Marine Hospitals may bring their and all the other benefits of SIU able cost; and other eye treat­ yea,rs. will be disposed of otherwise. membership. prescriptions to the Union Optical ments are available when re­ They'll get it, too! Plan to be filled. quired. Telephone Strikers Rally In SIU Baltimore Hall Low Cost Glasses Now Available To The Seafarers Membership AFL, CIO MEET Unclaimed Gear �Friday, May 2, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Foreign Seamen Pledge Aid To Seafarers (Continued from Page I) quustion, ovidcnco appeared that the Union was causing Washing­ ton big-wigs to keep their ears to the ground. The Maritime Commission an­ nounced that it will pay closer attention to ship sales "under the ilag of convenience"'—refer­ ring to Panama. The Commission revealed an awareness that ships were being bought under Panama registry to beat taxes here, and to cloak ownership for political or other reasons. Tiie "other rea.sons" refer to the .shipowners' scheme to avoid payment of decent wages to American seamen, a factor which the commission and all Washing­ ton has so far failed to take a stand on. At the SIU's membership meet­ ing, Paul Hall, New York Port Agent, introduced the seamen representatives, all of whom spoke briefly. tinued, decided also to terminate tions from American seamen and, all contracts with Panamanian consequently, from seamen the .'^hips. One of the two ships was world over. immediately put back under the "Danish seamen will not allow Norwegian flag, he said. bread and butter to be taken The commiiteo then advised away from American seamen," Through the all its men not to accept jobs on j F. Clausen said. Panamanian ships, and invoked |ITF, the Danish maritime movethe aid of the country's long- linent will go along with its Amci .shoremen "to back the fight if it ican brothers, he added. comes," the Norwegian seamen's He recalled the e.xcellent re­ lepresentative concluded. lationships welded between the Terming the Panamanian two seamen of both nations dur­ transfers "modern piracy," Ern­ ing the war, and hoped for its est Roberg, of the Swedish union, continuance. declared the traffic must be stop­ BRITISH AID ped before Panama accumulates a big fleet. Jame.s Scott, speaking for the In pledging his union's sup­ British Seamen, said the Seafar­ port, he scored the deliberate rob­ ers would receive the full sup­ bery of decent wages and condi­ port of his union. He said the British Sc-arncn's Union had al­ ready i.ssued a statement concern­ ing its stand on the Panamanian situation. "'\Ve are rootiirg for the SIUSUP in its fight to beat the evils of the Panama ship transfers," declared Manuel Pitharoulis, of tire Federation of Greek Mari­ time Unions. "We fought side by side for demociacy,' the Greek seamen's representative .sard "and now we must fight .side by side for a de­ cent standard of living." Willy Dorchain, of the ITF, i-ecalled that the Seafarc-r s was the first North American affiliate oi his organization. He asserted that the ITF's Job is to raise the Brother Johansen stated that a coordinating committee con­ sisting of four unions represent­ ing all types of personnel had met in Norway recently to dis­ cuss the possibility of action, ad it was decided the licensed and unlicensed personnel "would go along in the fight to stop the transfers" to Panama. That meeting, Johansen con- F. Clausen, of the Danish Seamen's Union, stated that the members of his union are prepared to go down the line' with the SIU in the Panamanian beef^ All we've got ta do is give lhe~-word. BOSSES' CONSPIRACY Poiiiting to the elfectiveness and .succe.s.s of all pievious SIU actions in .'•x-ttling its beefs, New York Agent, Paul Hall, main­ tained that it could be done again in tl'.e current Panamanian scheme. Hall blasted the ship transfers as repiesenting more than a de­ vice o: a few shipowners to beat Arnei'ican seamen out of a decent wage. "We ai"e fighting a conspiracy on tlie part of international capi­ tal against all seamen," Hallcharged. Concluding his remarks, he remarks, he \'oiced confidence that legardless of the opposition, the Seafarers would win the beef if it comes. ACTION IN NORWAY "The Swedish Seamen's Union will be with you," said Ernest Roberg, who speaks for the union in the United Stales. It sure feels good to know that the SIU has that kind of back­ ing throughout the world. standard of woiking conditions the world over. Doi'cnain a.sserted that the ITF must take action on the ship transfers in the same manner the SIU takes action—in militant fashion. Also present at the SIU meet­ ing were officials of the strik­ ing telephone workers. They thanked the Seafarers member­ ship foi' their staunch support on the picketlines and for the con­ tribution of .SI000.00 In the tele­ phone workers strike fund. The regular New York Branch meeting on April 23 heard representatives of foreign sea­ men's unions pledge support to the SIU if, and when, Panamanian ships are boycotted. Here is a view of crowded Webster Hall, as it looked to the speakers. Willy. Dorchain. who represents the International Transportworkers Federation in the United States, outlined what action the ITF is prepared to make the Pananuuiian boycott nationwide. In the background.- left, io right, Fkeddie Stewart, Jtecording Secretary; AI Kerr, Chairman: Les Ames, Beading Clerk; and Paul Hell, New York Port Agent. From the Federation of Greek Maritime Unions also came a pledge of support in the Panamanian boycott. M. Pith­ aroulis, Secretary of the New York Branch, made this known at the meeting. While preparing for our own troubles, the SIU found lime to lend a helping hand to the tele­ phone workers. Joe Leone, member of the New York Strike Committee, attended the meeting to thank the SIU. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, May 2. 1947 SeafarersNeeded To Help Tanker, Gt Lakes Drive Progress Sg Far Proves G.L. Men Want Seafarers BY RAY WHITE By FRED FUSS NORFOLK — Shipping has slowed up considerably in Nor­ folk for the time being. Only two ships payed off here last week, but in spite of this fact we shipped quite a few men to ports south, and to ships in transit. By SONNY SIMMONS The Moran tugboats still hit TAMPA—Shipping is still at a Norfolk pretty regularly, al­ peak here with four ships in port, though two or three of them two for Waterman, one for Bull are now on foreign voyage. and a West Coaster. The Hood River. Pacific Tank­ Silence this week from the The news is that we are due ers, came in April 23rd for pay­ Branch Agents of the follow­ off. In boarding her I found for eight more in the next two ing ports: that quite a few of the freight days, most of which will call for ship boys were aboard. That replacements. NEW ORLEANS is good. SAN JUAN If this proves true we will end As the Isthmian drive is over, up with an empty hall. SAVANNAH with a sweeping SIU victory, ~ HOUSTON ABs are moving fast. As a we now have to turn our power result we have had to ship acting JACKSONVILLE on other unorganized fields. ABs on most of the ships that CHARLESTON The main object of this drive call for them. MOBILE on the East and Gulf Coasts will Pati-olman Dick Birmingham be tankers. In order for this The deadline for port re­ to be a successful operation, as just got back from Miami and re­ ports, monies due, etc.. is the was the Isthmian drive, it will ports every/thing shipshape in that port. The Florida calls for Monday proceeding publica­ be necessary for each and every member to take an active part. very few replacements, as the tion. While every effort will The first and main thing is to present crew is well settled be made to use in the current sail tankers, organized or un­ aboard. issue material received after It is only necessary to contact organized, reporting your act­ that date, space commitments ivity to the Union Hall or Or­ her twice a month now, which generally do not permit us to ganizer in whatever port you is a great relief and a big cut in do so. expenses to us. hit. This will help build up a Since closing the Hall in nucleus of tanker men of which, Miami, the Tampa Branch has at present, we are somewhat been able to remit quite a bit to The ship chandlers are having short of. Of course you will Headquarters. The closing of the a bad time of it, too, since they have to forfeit some of the Miami Branch should net us a went through our picketlines dur­ conditions and wages that are $1200 monthly saving. ing the strike. Some of the ships enjoyed under SIU contracts, We just shipped Uncle Otto on coming- in are taking on six but the object is to bring all the Rosario (formerly the Tris- months supplies of stores. This unorganized companies under tam Daltan) as Night Cook and is true especially of Waterman. the banner of the SIU, so that Baker. But instead of buying from the we all may enjoy a secure fut­ chandlers, the Port Captain or­ Some of the younger members ure. ders a truck and driver from n As the membership knows at will now have a chance to see a u-drive-it company and makes present, the SIU is in an all-out real oldtimer at work. They can the rounds to buy everything get some good pointers from him. - .rive to organize the Great needed. Needless to say, -this Lakes, and we have some of the COPS STILL AT IT makes the chandlers very un­ most capable organizers in the We're still having gendarme happy. field in that area. Borden's Dairy and Watts' Ba­ If any of the Brothers plan trouble in Tampa. These people to take a Great Lakes cruise, are still stinging under the effects kery are the only ones doing a upon arrival there be sure and of the SIU General Strike. They regular business here. These two contact the Organizer as your haven't forgotten it, and any time companies were broad minded assistance will be a great help a seaman has a couple of beers enough to see the writing on the he is as good as in the cooler. in this drive. wall and have benefited by it. Ship Chandlers In Tampa Are Still Learning Hard Facts Of Life—Do Not Scah On Seafarers NO NEWS?? Passenger Ships Next Target For SIU Organizers In Chicago By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO — Shipping this week is again on the upgrade. Quite a few of the boys are showing their faces around the Hall after hibernating in the Chicago area for the Winter months. stands for, the type of contracts we have, and the way SIU mem­ bers are represented in their beefs. For too long these Lakes sea­ men have been getting a dirty deal from the open-shop ships. During the next couple of Now they want unionization, and weeks, the outlook is that ship­ nothing but the SIU will satisfy ping will be very good around them. They've heard how SIU mem­ the Windy City in all depart­ bers give their beefs to the Pa­ ments. trolman, and get prompt settle­ Paying it's first visit to this ment of all just beefs. They port for several years, the SS | realize that they don't stand a Penobscot was at South Chicago chance of being fired if they during the week. She came in make a legitimate squawk when without any beefs, and cleared they're covered by an SIU con­ fer Erie, Pa. with a load of tract. That's protection, Brothcorn—biit only after quite a bit er! of delay at the shipyards where At the present time, we are in she was having some new plates the midst of contract negotia­ put on her. tions with the passenger boat Now that the organizational operators. The outcome of these drive is going full swing on the negotiations will be out in a Lakes, all indications here are short time, and everyone will that the seamen are going for see that the SIU is again lead­ the Seafarers in a big way. They ing the fight with the best con­ have learned what the ^ SIU tracts in the industry. Cv. Also, Mr. Saffold and Hamilton Brothers have bought four LCIs from the government. These ships will be placed under Hon­ duran registry as soon as they are converted. Crenshaw, the other large ban­ ana importer, is still getting a lot of bananas in port from ships un­ der foreign registry. A day never passes without at least 15 or 20 foreign flag ships in port, all carrying scab crews. TOLEDO — The fact that the SIU is able to petition the Na­ tional Labor Rolations Board for elections on several Lakes fleets bears out our repeated statements that the Lakes sea­ men want to be represented by the SIU in preference to any company union or the Lake, Car­ riers. The SIU is not attempting to sell the Lakes men a bill of goods that will later prove to be worthle'ss. We are no Johnny-come-lately Union trying to sell the dreams of any group of Utopians, or any group of poli­ ticians owing their allegiance to a foreign power. These people here feel safe in Our Union, the Seafarers In­ not having to do business with a ternational Union, is run by and union due to the anti-closed shop for the seamen. No one group law in this state. or clique controls the SIU pol­ The anti-closed shop law is be­ icies. fore the State Supreme Court Our policies are formed as a now, but it is doubtful if a fa­ result of democratic union meet­ vorable decision will be handed ings, and our program is for down. When it hits the U. S. the best wages, hours, working Supreme Court we expect it to be and living conditions in the in­ declared unconstitutional. dustry. Take a look at the SIU con­ tracts. Compare them with any Organizing the tugs in this in existence on the Lakes. You area is no obstacle. We can will admit that they're the tops. knock them over in a couple of Today, the SIU is in the midst days, but it is no good as we can of dn all-out drive to bring all have nothing but an open shop unorganized Lakes seamen into contract, and that would be worse the SIU as members. We want to bring the same kind of con­ than no contract at all. tracts and conditions into exist­ Patrolman Birmingham, re­ ence for all Lakes seamen as ports that the CIO has taken hold are now enjoyed by SIU mem­ in Miami. There has been little bers. TUGS A PUSHOVER or no union activity in that city. The teamsters are wide open for a drive, as well as the hotel em­ ployees. There is not one hotel in Miami under a union contract, and only a few of the bars have signed up. When the Lakes are organiz­ ed under the SIU banner, you can walk into your SIU Hall and feel confident that when jmu register for a job that you will get that job without slipping some crimp a fin. You don't have to worry about any cousins or friends of the We will have a report to the boss cutting you out on your LOG every week now. For a job. while we were going full speed SIU contracts and union rep­ day and night, but it looks like resentation cover you at all Too bad that Tampa Marine we'll have a breather for awhile. tmes when you're in the SIU. and Barrows Ship Chandlers couldn't be as smart. They made a few sales to the ships in port flying Honduran flags, but now they are unable to sell stores to the big ships. Fires Put Out, But Texas City Is Ghost Town Of Smoking Ruins YES, NO BANANAS By R. W. SWEENEY Mr. Saffold, Mr. Crenshaw and our old friends, the Hamilton GALVESTON—Texas City is a her place as a "Port of Opporcity of death and disaster. The 'tunity." Several prominent stage, fires have been extinguished, but screen, and radio stars gave a the smouldering ruins still hide benefit performance here Mon­ the bodies of over 100 persons day night, and the response was listed as missing. very fine. The crew of the SS Andrew Confusion reigns. The dead Jackson, Waterman Steamship number more than 500, and the Company, paid off and took up a job of identifying the bodies eoncollection of $61.00 which was tinues. A large funeral serviee was held last week, but even turned over to the relief fund. The fire and explosion con­ since then no day passes without tinue to be the main topics of in­ a stream of funeral processions. terest, but for Seafarers in the The business district is com­ other ports, here is some real pletely torn up. Some buildings news about shipping. We are have been designated as safe, but still busy, both with ships in the majority have been marked transit, and those paying off. condemned. Rated men are as badly needed As to the future of Texas City, here as in any other SIU port. a town that mushroomed to We are kept on the run, and with amazing size as the result of the doing volunteer work to help war boom, nobody could ven­ clear up the Texas City debris, ture a guess. Oil companies state we just don't have time to write that more refineries will be built, a longer report. Maybe next and that Texas City will resume week. Brothers, never got to sell their bananas. None of their bananas have been put in our refrigera­ tors or on our ships either. At the moment we have one Panamanian ship in port. She is undergoing a big repair job in the Tampa Shipyard. 1 1 �Friday, May 2. 1847 THE Record Of Teleiihone Company Shows Operators Have Good Beef By BLACKIE CARDULLO SEAFARERS LOG On Overtime Department Delegates should check to see that all overtime is turned in 72 hours before the ship is scheduled to dock. But this does not mean to hold the overtime until then. As soon as penalty work is done, a record should be given to the Department headi and one copy held by the man doing the job. In that way there is less chance for things to get fouled up. Page Seven Needed: Rated Men For SlU Ships And Organizers Te Aid In Drives By JOE ALGINA MARCUS HOOK—The tempo On closer observation gf these NEW YORK—Shipping is still to take the jobs on the unorgan­ of shipping has slowed some­ scabs, we noticed some of them maintaining a rapid pace in the ized ships — our oiganizing job what in the past week, but what were pretty shabbily dressed, Port of New York. .Jobs are has not ended and volunteers are we lack in shipping we are run down heels and stockings plentiful and a good selection of still needed to finish the job. making up for in contacting the with runs. As it happened to .ships is offered. unorganized ships in the area. be raining, there were three Trying to get the men to take these jobs is an almost impos­ The organizing drive is going girls under one umbrella and With the tempo of shipping sible task, so when in the Port of full blast with more and more only two out of ten had rain­ still on a high level, the number New York, drop in and see the of the Sun Oil boys coming in­ coats. of men taking unorganized ships organizers. to our Hall on their own ac­ has fallen off. We .still need men FIGHT TOGETHER There's a job to be done, and cord to join up. The organizing the more men who turn out to of Sun Oil looks very good and You could quite well under­ take these ships, the better will we hope, before long, to an­ stand that they couldn't afford be the future for all Seafarers. nounce the progress in this long anymore — not on $130 per The majority of Robin Line battle. month, yet these very same peo­ vessels are now paying off in ple can't see that by joining in The Sun Oil drive has been Ealtimore. If any of you hear the strike and fighting altogeth­ keeping us busy, but not too By EDDIE HIGDON Capetown or Durban calling, Bal­ er they could get their wages busy to keep abreast of the most timore is the place to get a ship. important labor activity of the raised enough to live like hu­ PHILADELPHIA—The steady ting out to the meetings is the The S.S C u !• r i e r. Waterman, man beings instead of just ex­ stream of ships through the Port only way to leain the function day—the telephone strike. signed on down south and head­ Let's just take a look at the isting. of Philly is still holding strong. of the Union. ed for Europe. Somewhere along Tell me what Bell Telephone record of the Telephone Com­ Plenty of ships are ere wing up CHANGE CARDS the line she broke down and was pany, or shall we say, let's big-shot doesn't spend $130 per here, but we seem to have If any tripcard men are still towed into New York for repoint out the record to some of month just to operate his big enough men for most of the jobs carrying "A" cards, these are to pair.c. If she remains in port for these politicians who want to limousine. Which reminds me— except among ABs. be exchanged for the blue P-3 any length of time, the crew hang every member of the tele­ • I once worked one day on a At the moment we seem to be permit as soon as possible at any aboard will be paid off. phone union. farm. After a hard day's work having a slight problem with SIU Hall. NIP AND TUCK First, let's take the average I asked for my pay. The farm­ some of the tripcard and permitMake sure that you take along telephone operator's wages and er gave me a dollar. When I men. Most of them never bother With New York still short of all the receipts from the various cost of living for one month and asked why only a buck he said to come to the membership meet­ rated men in the Deck and En­ ports where you iaave been pay­ compare them. The wages aver­ that was all he could afford. ings, and on Thursday morning ing dues, so it will be easier for gine Department, the ships call-" age about .$130.00 a month. I told him to keep the dollar there is a grand ru.sh to re-regi.s- the Patrolman to fill out your ap­ ing for crews are find init nip and tuck to have a full comple­ as he needed it. more than I did. tered. plication for the permit. BARE NECESSITIES ment for sailing. This, boys, is not so hot. How I also told him that if he could­ When asking for a duplicateIn addition to the good ship­ The living conditions and ex­ n't pay more than a dollar, he do you ever expect to learn any­ book, many men pay the dollar penses next. R o o m rent and .shouldn't hire anyone but should thing about the Union when you but forget to fill out t'ne blue ap­ ping, some of our new-dy organ­ ized conipanies are taking ships board figure out to about $60 do the work himself. nevei' attend the meetings? At plication. out of the boneyards. (unless 3 or 4 live together to the meetings there is always Just paying the buck is not The same can be said for the The Bloornfield S t e a ni s h i p make it cheaper), plus about Bell Telephone. They say they some kind of a beef on the floor, enough, for by filling out the ap­ $30 for lunch and carfare. These and by attending the meetings can't afford a raise. Very well, plication you then carry the du­ are the barest of the bare ne­ then if they can't afford to pay you will know the score when plicate slip as your book until Wf A/E^7W0 cessities. something comes up and it con­ a decent wage, they should do the new one arrives. With the With the remaining .$40, there the work themselves and not cerns you directly. OW^t slip you can register and take a must be paid insurance, medical hire girls at starvation wages. Let's get together on this. Get- ship. care, clothing, etc., which canThe application notifies the of­ fice where you want the hook sent. If no application is made, (lE(?E!-Go YOURSELF A you will never receive a book, as STEAK j headquarters needs the slip to is­ sue the duplicate. Branch Meetings Are A Must For Tripcarders And Permitmen Mistakes In Interpretations Of Shipping Rules Are Clarified By PAUL GONSORCHIK V not be done. This anyone can see, but not the Telephone Com­ pany. I've often wondered how tele­ phone operators keep their girl­ ish figures, now I know. Let's look at the Bell Tele­ phone Company's record: Thousands of telephones being installed, added work for the operators, added money for the Company, but no added pay for the operators. Telephone tolls have been doubled since the war, which all goes to show that Bell Tele­ phone can well afford to give these girls a raise. We were up in Chester, Pa., observing the telephone striker's picketlines. There were six girls on the line and we saw opera­ tors walking right through the line—out-and-out scabbing. Attention Agents All applications for SIU burial benefits must be mailed to: JOSEPH VOLPIAN Special Services Dept. Seafarers Intl. Union 51 Beaver Street New York 4, N, Y. NEW YORK--Recently I point- and not within 24 hours of quited up the fact that a large ting or being fired. number of Seafarers are un­ ASSIGNMENT CARD aware of the provisions of the In addition to shipping rule shipping rules, or are laboring 14, the back of the assignment under a misunderstanding of slip lists four rules pertaining their application. to reporting aboard, and if dis­ To clear up some of the dif­ satisfied with the job or fired, ficulties and give the correct in­ how to regain your shipping terpretation, it is necessary to card. illustrate some of the rules most 1. You must report to the ship frequently misinterpreted. with gear within four hours af­ Probably the most misunder­ ter clearing with the medical stood shipping rule is number examiner. 14, which reads: 2. If dispatched between 8 "Members who have shipped, A.M. and 4 P.M., rejection of or later quit or get fired, and the job must be reported to the who do not report back to the Dispatcher within one hour af­ Dispatcher within 24 hours af­ ter boarding the ship. ter shipping, shall lose their or­ 3. If dispatched after 4 P.M. iginal date." or on week-end and the job is The statement, "members who rejected, watches must be stood have shipped and later quit," until Dispatcher's office opens means, naturally, that you take and receives notice of your re­ a job off the board from the jection of job. Dispatcher, clear with the com­ 4. Failure to observe above pany office, and report to the rules, means that you will be ship, where after working a few dropped to bottom of the ship­ hours you decide to quit or get ping list. Second offense will fired. In order to get your shipping bring a ten dollar fine. Most members observe the card back, you must report back to the Dispatcher within 24 rules and report back to the hours or lose your card. Hall within a few hours, but Some men think there is a there are others who don't. 'When three day trial period, during shown the rule, they say: "Gee, which a man can return to the didn't know anything about Hall within 72 hours and reclaim it." his shipping card, as long as he When this happens, it is too reports back within 24 hours of late to do anything about it. So, quitting the ship. my suggestion is read the ship­ This is hot so. The shipping ping rules, and understand them. rules state that you must re­ If all of us do this, there won't turn to the Hall within 24 hours be any hard feelings of unnec­ of being dispatched to the job, essary loss of shipping cards. .CVi Kvij BON VOYAGE Brother Bush, Patrolman here in Phillj', quit last week and shipped out as Bosun on a Water­ man scow. Good luck, Charlie. Everybody wishes you the best and that includes the girls at Sonia's. Brother Walt "Nose" Gardner paid us a visit last week. We sure were glad that he came in as the mail rack was beginning to sag with his correspondence. About 29 letters came for him in about 5 weeks. The Deck Department of the Henry W. Beecher: The beef re­ garding the Skipper working stowaways has been settled. You can collect eight hours each byapplying to the Waterman Office, 19 Rector Street, New York. Waterman Line also has money waiting for Brother Julio Perez of the Haiti Victory, which can be collected at the same office. Weir, the newspapers report that the cost of living has gone up another two percent. And some people wonder why Labor is not satisfied with wages as they are. ¥U; Company is taking one out next week, and several other of the new companies will follow suit shortly. This means more jobs for the SIU, and will increase the short­ age of rated men. When these ships start calling for men, it will be any one's guess where the necessary rated men will come from. A large number of letters have been coming in lately from crewmembers complaining about fel­ lows quitting ships at the last minute without getting a re­ placement from file Hall. This is of real concern to the other crewmembers, for it results in a hardship on tliose left hold­ ing the bag. It not only makes for more work for them, but gives the shipowner a chance to . put his own men aboard. This practice has been discuss­ ed, shouted about and condemn­ ed. It has to stop. It's no use to continue hollering about it, it's up to the' members to take it up­ on themselves to put an end to it. Send Those Minutes Send in the minutes of your ship's meeting to the New York Hall. Only in that way can the membership act on your recommendations, and then the minutes can be printed in the LOG for the benefit of all other SIU crews. �THE Page Eight SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 2, 1947 Question On The Interpretation Of Contract Conies Up In Boston Baltimore Branch Offers Members A Variety Of Ships And Runs By JOHN MOGAN By WILLIAM RENTZ BOSTON— Shipping continues other the various members of the BALTIMORE—We have plenty They are strictly no benefit to to be excellent in the port of Bos­ Deck Dept. had been told by of shipping and no takeis, and the Union, and they exist solely ton, although business fell off some Patrolman that the Stew­ that's where the rub comes in. to get themselves and others into somewhat over the last few ards Dept. could not paint, that trouble. If they are on a ship, Lots of rated men are on the they could sougee only. weeks. someone else has to do their beach, but they do not want to work, and when they are ashore, And Article 5, Section 13 of The SS Tonto (Pacific Tanker) ship unless they get a certain they get gassed up and try to paid off in Portland, Maine—this the Agreement was quoted in run, or they insist on going with tear the city apart. ship was out six month, had support of the argument. This By JOHNNY JOHNSTON I was held by the Patrolman to plenty of beefs, loggings, etc. a certain Mate or Chief Engineer. They show up for the payoff The Coast Guard was elimin­ mean that the members of the Although she looks only slight­ smoked to the gills, and prompt­ As a result we have to take in ated from the situation and the Stewards Dept. can refuse to ly better than the wreck of ly proceed to foul everything up. tripcard men to make sure that Patrolman and the Skipper man­ paint, but that they could paint the Hesperus, the four-masted If they are paid off one hour aged to iron out the beefs with­ if they choose. Like the clause schooner SS Chiquimula has be­ the ships sail on time. With ship­ short, or even fifty hours short, I in the Agreement about the out outside assistance. come the best-known landmark ping as good as it is, the mem­ they don't even notice it, but a Bosun being high man in the on the old Spanish Trail, popular bership doesn't give a hoot about few days later they come howl­ In Boston the SS Madaket Deck Dept. (referred to in these southern link between Florida the new men coming in, but ing to the Patrolman to collect (Waterman) paid off, ,with the columns last week), this clause their money. and California. only disputes arising in the Deck when shipping gets tight, as it j about who is eligible to do the Department. Among the last of what was will, then there will be plenty of This wastes a lot of time that painting might also stand some once a huge and colorful fleet These were ironed out satisfac­ clarification in the LOG. could be put to better use in see­ of sailing vessels plying the wa­ howls about having to sweat out ing that other members get torily; but an argument develop­ (Editor's note: The question ters of the seven seas, the Chi­ a shipping list. ed on this ship with respect to everj'thing that is coming to has been put into the hands of quimula is now moored close to the right of the Stewards Dept. them. The best way to prevent any Headquarters' experts, and the the shore at the Eastern end of • such thing is to start taking those to do any painting aboard. matter will be clarified in next We have eliminated some of of Cochran Bridge, which spans jobs now, without being too par­ As a result of this argument, week's LOG.) these characters, but there are Mobile Bay. the members of the Stewards ticular. It is for the good of the still more around that have to It seems as though the number Dept., who could have picked up The Chiquimula was originally Union, since we do not want to be weeded out. Don't get the plenty of work painting out of­ of performers are increasing with an auxiliary schooner, one of be overloaded when the boom is idea that I am a Prohibitionist. ficers' quarters, did no painting— the spurt of good shipping and throe such vessels built by M. C. over. All I'm trying to bring out is that the Union will have to clean and the Deck Dept. didn't have Keith, of the United Fruit Com­ if men want to drink, they should house. Nearly every ship nowa­ pany, in 1917. Launched in Seat­ WATCH SCAB CABS the time during the trip. do it away from the Hall, and days is carrying one or two so- tle, Washington, she was put into The Admiral Cab Company in not on shipboard. PAINTING PROBLEM called "tough guys" who figure service hauling railroad rails and their Union books arc licenses to steel to the Company's banana this town is on strike, and the When they come in from a trip, Now the basis for the argu­ company has hired scabs to keep let them wait until after the pay­ bother their shipmates. plantations in Central America. ment was this: some time or the taxis moving. That means off before they start investing in In 1921 she was ordered to St. ON CHARGES that no Seafarers would ride in whiskey stock. Andrews Bay, Florida, where The Steward on the Stone her motors were removed and To show how busy the port is, River was apparently one of she was converted to full sail by here are listed a small portion of these. It is strongly recommend­ installing topmasts. the flock of ships that hit this ed by the crew that this Brother She weathered many storms place during the past week, and not be allowed to ship until the and hurricanes during the years where they are heading: SS Stone River gets back to the she was in the West Indies trade, Warrior Point—Pacific Tank­ States and the boys get the op­ and finally laid up in Mobile ers, Aruba and Antwerp; William portunity^ to press their charges. Bay after steam ran the sailing By ED LARKIN Clagett — American Pacific, Hol­ (Nole to Brother Mogan and vessels off the seas. MILWAUKEE—Things here in the crews of the SS Fort Fredland; Mae — Bull Line, Tampa Captain James Buffett, who is town are shaping up okay, and erica, SS Tonto, and the SS well-known by the oldtimers and Boca Grande; R. Lowery • — the men on the ships we have al­ Stone River. Pope tmd Talbot, Antwerp; Nel­ riEy,F|NKY! who sailed out of the Gulf, was ready petitioned are damn glad son Aldridge — South Atlantic, RACE You TO In line with established pol­ the Skipper of the Chiquimula that they are finally going to Italy; William Allen White — •!»£ UN\OW HAU! 'from 1924 to 1927. icy, we have deleted the items have a chance to vote for the SIU Quaker Line, Denmark; Ben Dix­ referring to charges placed J. S. i as the imion of their choice. on—Bull Line, Puerto Rico; Can­ The port of New Orleai# l ank- the scab cabs, and as far a.s the against the Chief Electrician of Having talked this over with ton Vest—Pope and Talbot, Inthe former ship, the member ed fourth in the nation in the' drivers are concerned—well, let a number of the men topside, tercoastal; Arizpa — Waterman, on the SS Tonto, and the Stew­ amount of waterborne trade dur­ it'go, the LOG Editor would only I know how they feel when it Coastwise and then Europe; ing the year 1946. Only New ard of the Stone River. cross out any words I could use Roswell Victory — Robin Lino; comes to the SIU. They know Too many times, the LOG York, Baltimore, and Philadel­ about those strikebreakers. that they won't have to ride the South and East Africa. phia, in that order, exceeded crew in order to get work out has discovered that charges the tonnage of shipping weight I would like to say a word You can get an idea of the ac­ of them. Especially, not when against an individual have not handled at N.O. during the year, about the performers we have in tivity from ju.st these few ships they are paying legitimate over­ been pressed and, therefore, giving the Crescent City clear the outfit. Something should be time to the men who are entitled guilt not established — or that title to leadership in the Gulf. done to these people to see to it listed. Come down to ship out of the charges have been dismiss­ to it. The total tonnage handled was that they straighten up and fly "Baltimore, if you have a rating, Here's the case of an Oiler. ed. and choose your run. right. 5,286,400 long tons. A Brother's reputation and He has to wash rags, mop the decks, and if he has any spare character may very easily be time, he paints, sougees, chips, ruined forever by a public no­ and bosses the Coal Passers. Un­ tice that charges are placed der an SIU contract, that Oiler against him; and notice thai She was still feeling the ef­ times are gradually changing By EINAR NORDAAS would get a nice little piece of the charges were dismissed or fects of her crash with the and soon jobs will not be so DULUTH—Shipping has def­ wharf, when along came the plentiful. cabbage for his legitimate over­ not entirely substantiated may not be noticed by all the mem­ initely started at the head of the Sonora and plowed into her. time. TIME WILL COME The poor Oiler has to make 20 bers who read the first item. Lakes, but it is by no means SHIPYARDS BUSY Whenever charges are prov­ good as yet. We find ourselves minute rounds, work his head They will begin to see the off, and for what? Not even ed and punishment set by the light when the shipowners start Both ships then had to unload membership, the LOG will short only of Wheelsmen, with their cargoes and proceed to the laying them off and hiring nonthanks from the shipowner. The only thing he gets is his gladly publish the finding as a unrated men here in large num­ shipyard for repairs. As a re­ seamen friends and the friends 10 per cent bonus at the end of warning to the membership to bers. sult of all the knocking around of friends in preference to the The ice, which is still greatly the ships are taking, the ship­ regular seamen. the year, provided he rides the beware of the anti-union char­ in evidence, and the strong cur­ yards are being kept busy. ship for at least six months. And acters involved.) Here's hoping they won't have he really deserves that, when you Note to the crews of the SS rents have been the cause of to wait that long before they The ships that spent the win­ consider how much overtime he Niantic Victory and the Wacosta; several accidents at this end of get the score. ter in Duluth have all pulled has lost over the sailing season! Deck Department members have the Lakes. Several ships have When all seamen are organ­ Now is the time to sign those division of overtime for stow­ limped in here, badly in need out for the season's trade with ized under an SIU agreement SIU pledge cards! Now, is the aways and Mate working on of repairs after a tussle with the exception of the barge Mag­ such practices will be elimin­ na, which is due to pull out at the Lake Superior ice. time to apply for membership deck, respectively. ated. All jobs will come off the the end of the week. This overtime, although ap­ in the SIU! Sign and join, and The ice isn't solely responsible board with each man taking his the provisions of an SIU contract proved, was not paid on the regu­ for the damages done some of Organizer Christian Fuss ar­ turn on the shipping list wheth­ lar vouchers, as most of the crew the ships up here, as the Joseph rived in town during the week er he registers at the various will follow in short order. Then, when the Great Lakes assumed. Therefore, all those Wood and the International are and has been busy contacting halls on the Great Lakes, or at are solidly SIU, it'll be the end of sharing in this overtime may ob­ both in for repairs following the unorganized ships in port. the deep water halls. the Lake Carriers halls and of tain their money by writing to their collision in the area of He reports excellent response When the election comes up from the seamen to our organ­ on your ship in the near future, all open-shop conditions on the the Waterman office, 131 State Whitefish Bay. Street, Boston, attention of Mr. Great Lakes. and you want to choose good Another accident occurred izing drive. Then, and only then, will the E. Kiernan. conditions, security and top There are, however, a few when the steamer James A. FarThe Evangeline is delayed once rell struck the west end of the men, mostly beginners, who are wages, cast your vote for the Great Lakes seamen become full fledged recognized citizens, and more, and the most optimistic es­ north pier of the Duluth ship not aware of the excellent rec­ union that will get you every­ not the orphans of the labor timates have her coming out of canal as she was leaving the ord of the SIU. They seem to­ thing that's coming to you—the tally indifferent to the fact that SIU. movement that they are today. the shipyard around May 5. harbor. Lakes Seamen Are Signing SlU Pledge Cards Collisions And Accidonts Mar Week In Duluth I. 11 �Friday, May 2. 1947 THE SEAFARERS Volmteer Organizers LOG Page Nino Rescue Tug Is Battered By Hurricane "It was obvious from the beg­ ever forget him. He acted like Bearing scais sustained as she inning," he said, "that the SIU Isthmian was going broke, and successfully battled her way is a much more democratically couldn't afford to pay over­ through a roaring hurricane, the run Union, and that SIU mem­ time. sea-going tug Farallon limped in­ bers are much better ,seamcn and His officers were afraid of him, to the Port ol Falmouth, England, shipmates." and alwaj's asked him before last week, with sevei'al injured, The fourth member of the making any decision. For that one of whom. .Seafarer Haroid party, William Adams, Wiper, reason, the ship was usually dis­ Mitchum, was ru.«hed to a Facame aboard in Colombo, from organized, and no one knew mouth hospital. which he was repatriated. He what was actually happening. The Farallon was battered as had been part of the crew of the "The officers acted like kids he was going to the rescue of Beaver Victory, and after an CULVER STEVENS another SlU-crewed vessel, the appendicitis opei-ation waited on in kindei'gaiten," was the way GEORGE MEANEY 7,176'-ton SS Caleb .Strong, whose the beach foi- another Isthmian George Meaney put it. "If the Some weeks you have to boat ship. Mate wanted to break t>ut some favoiite qustion. "What <\ii \'()U rudder had been swept away. your brains out trying to get a men he would first go to the thnk of the SIU?" The Caleb Strong cancelled her story from the many Seafarers SUP MAN Both of them wanted to be SOS two hours after having sent Skipper. The Skipper would re­ who have sailed as volunteer heaid on this one. fuse, and that would be that." it. Adams is an SUP member, organizers on the steamship lines "The strength of the SIU is The tales about the voyage The .Moran tug ran into the and has sailed as volunteer or­ which the SIU has organized. well known to all .seamen." they ganizer twice before in his two could go on for hours, and in stated. "And now. with the way hurricane's fury 250 miles off In fact, that's the usual story. years of sailing time. fact they did in the telling. But Landsend. The small craft's the Seafaiers has been helping Last week it was different, and But Meaney and Stevens arc they all add up to just one other unions, our reputation is bridge and navigational instrufour men off the SS Argonaut, m.ents were smashed by the 100the I'eal oldtimers. Meaney start­ thing — It will all be changed reaching all other workers." Isthmian Steamship Company, foot waves whipped up by the ed sailing in 1909, following in when Isthmian goes SIU offici­ Stevens and Meaney chimed in came into the LOG office to tell hurricane. the tradition of the rest of his ally. with, "The Union is doing very their stories. family. Mitchum and the tug's skipper, During most of the conver­ well. If everybody continues to Only three of them are really During the war, he sailed sation, Adams and Egga sat do his best, it will become the Capt. Ralph Thompson, were in­ volunteers. The other is a young headlong into the danger waters. quietly, listening to Meaney and best union of seamen in the jured when the first of two waves fellow who has sailed Isthmian When questioned about this part Stevens. As the interview drew world. That's the waj' we want cascaded over the whole super­ before, and realizes that with of his life, he brushed it aside to an end, we popped out our it." structure, smashing windows and SIU representation, sailing on impatiently with the remark, admitting tons of water. that company's ships will be a "Just put down that I made The captain remained at the much more pleasant task. wheel house until he had to be three trips to Rusia, three voy­ cairied below because of heavy Right after the MM&P strike ages in the South Pacific, and loss of blood from severe cuts in­ four in the Mediterranean. SIU was over. Culver Stevens, DM, flicted by the flying glass. members will know what, that and George Meaney, Bosun, Brother Michum suffered a means." were undecided about what to iractured rib and sevei'e cuts. Stevens served for awhile in do. It took only a short dis­ < 'V As the watei' swept o\'er the cussion, before they both came the Army, getting his training in if 1,117-t.on tug. .Seafarer Donald Field Artillery. He was dis­ to the same conclusion. Lupton was washed through the And that's how they happened charged to go back to sea, and ship's coiridoi' for 15 feet and in whei'i to go down to the Isthmian got plenty of fighting down an e-ight foot companionhis ship was attacked in the office to ship out. way to the main deck with the Mediterranean. steering wheel still in his hand. "When we saw how the Before going into the Army. William Miller, the Third Officer, .strength of our Union won our Stevens had been a member ol recoN ered the wheel and restored strike," said Meaney, "and then the NMU. When he was dis­ it to the .steering column. how we helped out the MM&P, charged, he made one more trip we wanted to do even more for on an NMU vessel, and that "The vessel answered to her the benefit of the SIU. So we broke the camel's back. helm and the ship was turned made believe we were anti­ rtfl-n to the sea \vhile we counted He complained about how the union, and soon we were on the our damages and casualties," communists were running the JOHN EGGA WILLIAM ADAMS Miller said. Argonaut." union for their own benefit and It was a good act they put on, not for the good of the mem­ and they convinced the company bership. shipping agent that they COMMIES ATTACK wouldn't have anything to do with unions, especially the SIU. He got the regular answer rc.served for those who criticize the NMU leadership. For weeks Sailing Isthmian was an old he was the subject of all sorts story to Brother Meaney, since of attacks, so he finally gave he started with the company up in disgust and came over to as far back as 1924. Brother the SIU. Stevens also has a few Isthmian "I've never been sorry I mad(> scows behind him. that decision," he claimed. "At On the ship they met up with the beginning I felt bad about John Egga, who sails as AB. leaving some of my buddies who John started going to sea be­ don't have any use for the com­ cause his friends spoke so well mies either, but now I realize of a seaman's life. Now, after I that if they want to clean up eighteen months, he agrees with their union, they can do it. So I'm happy where I am." them. About the trip on the Argon­ It didn't takg him long to figaut, all four are in complete uge out the difference between agreement. They think that it the SIU and the NMU, or be­ was a hard-time ship, and that tween SIU men and NMUers. only an SIU contract can help the men who sail Isthmian. OLD STORY NEW HOURS Due to the large number of ships in New York calling for crews during off hours and on Sundays. Ihe New York Hall is now operating on a new schedule of hours for registering and shipping. The new hours are; From Monday through Friday from 8:30 a. m. to 9 p. m.; Satur­ day 8:30 to 5 p. m. and Sun­ day from 10 to 3. "We did the work, all right," said Brother Stevens, "but get­ ting paid for it was another story. The day men only aver­ aged 56 hours overtime for the trip, and the ABs averaged 125 hours OT. That's like when I first started shipping on Mer­ chant and Miners ships back in the 1930's." STINGY SKIPPER The Captain of the Argonaut made an impression on the crew, and it is doubtful that they will NMU Has Plenty Of Slogans About Other Things But Not A Word On U.S. Ships Russia Won't Return NMU seamen who read the They haven't seen fit to do duran ships competing with Am­ either one. but the NMU has re­ erican vessels. We're waiting to Pilot, and those that read the mained strangely silent about hear the first bleat R-om the MMU LOG foi- real news about what j that. And the Russians have an- about the Russian ships. goes on in a seaman's life, know I swered all American questions j What's the odds we don't hear that the Pilot has been saying I on this score with stalling or a single word? some few things about the trans­ silence. fer of U.S. ships to Panamanian > j RUSSIA QUIET and Honduran registry. j On four separate occasions, beOf course, they have a good I ginning with last March 18. the Members of the SIU have beef there, but on another beef matter has been brought to the they have fallen down miserablv. attention t)f the Russians. On a long record of supporting For anyone who knows the his­ that date, the then Ambassador other unions in a just beef. tory of the NMU, and its tie-up to Russia. Walter B. Smith, wrote For this reason, all Seafarers with the communist party, such a letter to Russian Foreign Min­ are urged not to purchase the a fall down is understandable. ister Molotcrv, asking for a reply 'Vancouver Daily Province, It seems that Russia, the coun­ "as a matter of urgency." There a scab newspaper, set up and try to which many of the NMU has been no reply as yet. printed by non-union labor. officials owe their first allegiance, Nor have there been replies to The Vancouver, B. C., also has a number of American any of the thiee subsequent SIU Branch is supporting the ships, running under just the queries. International Typographers same conditions that Panamanian Meanwhile, the Russians are Union, AFL, both morally and Honduran .ships are prey to. and physically in their eight But do the comrades question apparently using American ships, month old strike. this? You know the answer to Russian crewed, to compete with Amci-ican crewed vessels. that one. When in Vancouver show In fact, at one time, the Rus­ your contempt for the scabs For over a year now, the U.S. by refusing to buy a news­ State Department has asked the sians attempted to bust an SIUpaper put out by strikebreak­ Soviet Union for the return of 95 SUP picketline in Baltimore dur­ ers. This will help the ITU ships which were loaned to Rus­ ing the height of the SIU strike against the Wage Stabilization members to win their strike sia for wartime use — part of Board. for better wages and condi­ lend-lease. These were to be tions. bought or returned by Russia at There's a lot of howling going the end of hostilities. on about Panamanian and Hon­ Canadian Seamen �Page Ten THE SEAFARERS Friday, May 2, 1947 LOG SHIPS' BilMUTES AMD MEWS New London 'Breeze' Blows News Straight To Crewmen • • The Breeze that the lads aboard the Pacific Tanker SS New London receive from time to time is not a wind current — it's an appropriately named, refreshing little news sheet published "by and for the members of the crew as time permits and "ews^.^ accumulates." egg blue denim, prepared by the Each edition of the Breeze gen­ Houston Tent and Awning Com­ erally carries from four to six pany, and wore a lovely corsage pages of news and banter about of oil stains courtesy of the No. the crew and its activities, the 5 tank, ship, and intere.sting items about The account concludes with the various ports of call. It is ^ mention of the singing of the inprinted on 8V2 by 131^ inch paper evitable "Happy Birthday" vocal, and is apparently run off by the which the Breeze says "was ou\ hectograph process—a hectograph of this world—it was hell." being a gelatin pad for making Other features of the March 4 multiple copies. issue dealt with the storms and heavy seas encountered in the MARCH 4 ISSUE current voyage, crew advances in The March 4 issue, which was foreign ports, notice of Sunday distributed at sea as the New night bingo games for the crew, London was off the Azores Is­ etc. lands, gives a detailed descrip­ Each issue gives an "orchid" tion of the m.akeup of the Azores, to a New London crewmembsr its climate and principal products for doing a bang-up job." Deland the major points of interest. bert Jetton, Saloon Messman re­ Although at press time the par­ ceived this honor in the March 4 ticular port of discharge in Eng­ Breeze. land wasn't known, the Breeze, anticipating it to be London, re­ leased a first-rate roundup as a guide for the crew in the event they hit that port. Not having a society editor, the Breeze nevertheless reported one of the shipboard top social events—a birthday party tender­ ed in honor of one of the crew. In language and style that would make reporters of the swank go­ ings-on of the shoresided society stiffs green with envy, the Breeze recounted breezily the high­ -•> S •• i iill-' aaseftsf-C •:wii All was serene on the voyage which ended at the payoff in Baltimore on March 5. reported Gilbert Parker, OS, shown at wheel in photo at right. ABOVE, three of the Deck Gang handling lines as the Meredith prepares to go through locks in Antwerp, Bel­ gium, the Meredith Victory's destinaton. Mugging with coffee mugs, from left to right, Pete, Sam and LaChance obligingly hold still for the cameraman in photo at loft. Much of the good photography aboard the Mere­ dith Victory stems from the skill of Brother Parker, one of the SIU's lens enthusiasts. Crawtord Men Propose Plan To Remove Slopchest Evils The growing storm of protest against,the abuses and inequities of shipboard slopchests rumbled more loudly as crewmcmbers of the SS F. Marion Crawford voiced lights of the affair, v/hich took place in the "elaborate Gag and Vomit Grill of New London." RE,AL FORMAL The reports says, "While the entertainment was supposed to have been informal, a number of Mr. Chadbourne's (his party) friends insisted on formality and washed their faces for the occasion. "The host," continues our ship­ board society story, "came attired Cold, Ice Slowed Down The Thomas Hyde And Put The Freeze On Crew's Romancing By GEORGE LEIDEMANN, AB instead at the open ports of Crewing up in New York on Haugesund and Kopervik. The Jan. 3, the SS Thomas W. Hyde, first American ship to dock in an Overlakes Liberty, shoved off these two small ports in over a for Newport News to pick up year, the arrival of the Hyde caused something of a stir, and 8,300 tons of coal for delivery to the crew received a warm and Oslo, Norway. cordial demonstration of friend­ This was the beginning of our ship from the townspeople. nightmare. We passed the frozen Winter being at its peak, the port of call at Oslo and called Brothers all agree the atmos­ phere wasn't exactly ideal for \ romance. But despite the cold, the fair sex was friendly and un­ derstanding. Both towns were dry, but leave it to the Seafarers to find his "aqua vitea" (booze to you!). Our cargo discharged, we (Continued on Page 11) unanimous approval of a resolu-^ It was brought out further at tion calling for posting of the Crawford meeting that the Manifest listing all slopchest ar­ plan for posting of the slopchest ticles" in the crew mcssroom be­ list would implement enforce­ fore the slopchest is supplied and ment "bf the motion made at a recent New York membership signing of the Ship's articles." meeting that all slopchest sup­ Declaring that their experience plies bear the union label. has shown that seamen have Text of the Crawford crew's been victims of the inadequate resolution follows: supplying of slopchest, the Craw­ TEXT OF RESOLUTION ford crew said the move was de­ "Whereas, Experience has signed to effect better balanced stocks "and insure the quality of shown that seamen have been victimized by inadequate sup­ supplies." plying of the slop chest, and also AN AMENDMENT by paying unreasonable prices for shoddy materials, and The action stemmed from a "Whereas, In order to insure motion of Brother Kordakis seek­ ing effective action on slopchest equal distribution of sizes, and supplies. The resolution reached in the quality of supplies "Therefore, Be It Resolved, the floor following an amend­ ment, introduced by Brother That prior to supplying the slop­ Burns, that the original motion chest a Manifest listing all slop­ be reworded for action at a regu­ chest articles be po.sted in the lar New York membership meet­ crew messrpom for crew inspec­ ing. All hands agreed to his tion, before signing of the ship's articles." proposal. �Friday. May 2. 1947 J THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief CAPE BRETON, March 20— Chairman James Humphries; Secretary Mandagoc. Motion carried thai each man clean laundry and lounge after using. Motion carried that a special meeting be called in case the laundry is found dirty and to find out who did not clean it up after using. Good and Wel­ fare: Discussion was had on the shortage of cups and glasses. The steward promises to order some as soon as possible. Sug­ gestion that the men clean up the pantry after using the night lunch. WALTER ^COLTON. Feb. 1 —Chairman J. Cerda; Secre­ tary P. G. Fox. Delegates re­ ported everything in order. New Business: Motion carried to have all hands try not to leave any dirty linen laying around. All soiled linen to be put in bin down below in linen locker. Suggest standby to clean up messhall and all hands to return dirty cups to sink in scullery. Messboys to be more careful with cups, glasses and dishes, also sink outside of gal­ ley is not to be used as ash tray. 4. J. 4. SEATRAIN TEXAS, March 30—Chairman Ed. Gibbs; Sec­ retary D. Dragoo. Motion car­ ried that the delegates check with the union and the com­ pany as to why the ships are sailing short handed. Motion carried that the heads, quar­ ters and mess be painted when needed. Motion carried that water tanks be checked for fuel oil and rust. Motion car­ ried that suitable rooms be made for Stewards depart­ ment. 4-4-4. SNAKEHEAD, April 15 — Chairman G. Stroicher: Secre­ tary E. Tart. Delegates reports accepted. Everything reported okay in their departments. New Business: Motion carried to contact N. Y. Hall concern­ ing the pier head jump made by a tripcard. Good and Wel­ fare: All hands pledged their support in cleaning laundry and mess room. 4- 4- 4. NIANTIC VICTORY, Dec. 21 —Chairman D. J. Sheehan; Secretary W. H. Chadburn. Sug­ gestion made that all food­ stuffs be kept out of crew's lockers as going into hot cli­ mate will draw flies to the food. Motion carried to make Satur­ day linen day. Motion carried to see that crew and officers Cold, Ice Make Going Tough For The Hyde And Her Crew On the business side, the Deck (Continued from Page 10) Department had its hands full steamed through the ice-bound j with the Chief Mate, who was port of Kristiansand, where we 'often referred to as "the eager loaded sand ballast below and on beaver in the eager beaver coat," deck in preparation for the voy­ because he was seen so frequent­ age home. As we inched our way ly on deck working in a fur coat. out of the harbor the thick ice The Deck gang had to show Mr. caused some damage to the old Mate from lime to time that it girl. An inspection revealed a 'could take orders from Bosun Ed bent rudder and a broken pro­ Callaghan and do its job in seapeller. men-like fashion. The Hyde's skipper, Captain I Schiavonc, the Bellyrobber, Christensen, changed her course I did the best, he' could to make the and we headed for the Clyde I two months' supply of stores, River anchorage to undergo re­ plus the small amount purchased in Liverpool, last a long three months. In keeping the -crew contented, he had the able as­ sistance of Frank "Baby-Babj' Rosso. Under the supervision of the First Ass't., J. G. Sidlo; the Sec­ ond, Jack Pierce: and the Third, Palmer, John Molini our Engine Delegate, calmly took everything in stride when he wasn't buck­ ing the pangs of the North At­ lantic and the sneers of the Chief Engineer—a Cal^nar character. Enough said! Cooperation of the Black Gang pairs. However, the Glasgow I was tops, bringing the ship into shipyards were unable to accom­ New Orleans in better condition modate us. So we were sent to than they found it. Liverpool, where we got the good A clean payoff was the Hyde's old runaround for 22 days. answer on April 17. Hank AdaThe crew did its best to give mowicz, the Deck Delegate, re­ the Lime Street glamour girls a ported all beefs settled satisfac­ run for their shillings. Later, torily, as did Brother Moline, En­ however, these dolls developed gine Delegate, and Dan Clifford, somewhat of a dislike for the Stewards Delegate. We're hoping that in the fu­ Hyde's men—or the men's hides ture the older members of the —being that we had learned the SIU will explain a few things on score. All hands agreed that most of these Lime Street "comman­ the advantages of strong \miondos" are only looking for some ism to tripcarders and non-union sucker and a one-way ticket to men. The Union is growing. Let's keep it growing. the States. are treated alike at the slopchest. Good and Welfare: All present stood in silence for one minute in respect for depart­ ed Brothers. Suggestion that Steward secure nuts and can­ dies in Panama for Christmas Dinner. 4. 4. 4NIANTIC VICTORY, March 15—Chairman Morris Norris; Secretary Danny Sheehan. Delegates' reports accepted and field. New Business: Motion carried to give the Electricians a vote of thanks for taking care of toasters, fans and per­ colators. Motion carried to give the Steward a vote of thanks for ordering fresh stores and taking care of the men in the hospital. Engine Delegate states muc^ overtime is being disputed by the Captain after being okayed by the First and Chief Engineers. Good and Welfare: Discussion on every­ thing in general. Feeling was that cigarette ration should be increased as there are plenty of cigarettes and they will get stale. POM'T MAKe IT rouOH F6R ^ YOORSELF! ^^ 1 KOfRihio UP YOUR BEEFS AT THE FbRT OF PAY-OFF; DOM'T TAKE THEM TO A^iaT>^ER PORT WHERE THE UNION OFFiGlALSARE NOT ACQUAINTED WllH YOUR PARTICULAR SET-UP AWD HAVE To SPEKJD MUCH MORE TIME BEEORE THEV CAN GET SQUARED AWAY. IT'S YOUR TIME AMD YOUR MONEY - SO SETTLE Y&UR BEEFS AT THg ^ PoiHT OF PROPUCflOA// CUT and RUN By HANK 4. 4. 4. MIDWAY HILLS. March 5— Chairman Wagner; Secretary Charles Johnsen. Good and Wel­ fare: Motion carried that the same rulings of the previous trip be retained concerning fines and offenses. Ships' dele­ gate was requested to see the First Assistant Engineer about the water conditions in the 12-4 cabins. Crew was given a warning about smoking on deck. 4. 4. 4. MIDWAY HILLS, April 5— Chairman Wagner; Secretary E. Spear. Deck Delegate re­ ported requisition for repairs to be ready for submission to proper authorities. Engine and Stewards delegates reported all running smoothly. Good and Welfare: Motion carried that all linen be turned in on pay day before the crew leaves the ship. Motion carried to stand firm ajid not sail the ship un­ til all repairs are made. 4. 4. 4. JOLIET VICTORY, Feb. 25, Chairman Joe Wright; Secre­ tary Ray McCannon. Numer­ ous complains registered on the food situation. Steward charged with catering to the topside. Good and Welfare: Motion made that duplicate repair list be secured for the head of each department and a slip be placed in each messhall .calling for ad­ ditional repair items. 4. 4. 4. MOLINE VICTORY, March 9—Chairman Milina; Secretary Corriher. Several members spoke on the fruit juice situa­ tion complaining that during the trip they had fruit juices only six of seven times. Stew­ ard produced the bill of fare to prove that juices were served more times than stated. Dele­ gates reported all smooth in their departments. All hands stood in silence for one min­ ute in memory of lost brothers. Every week that this LOG comes out there's plenty of infotmation important to every Brother—information which is essential to his job as a sailor and to his job as a union man. This is why we urge everj- Brother to read every page. Don't miss anything. Don't depend on the other guy to tell you what's cookin, etc.—he might, be just like you because he forgot to read every week's LOG or lazily missed a few pages. So, while you're resting your drj- an­ chor in port to be sure to read j'our Union paper, new pamphlets, etc., and when you've grabbed a ship just wrap your arm around a few week's bundles of the latest LOGS and save them for distribu­ tion in those foreign ports—for SIU ships, all those unoragnized ships and those favorite bars. Furthermore, to coil a phrase—your ships are your homes—keep them clean at all times—even when the Old Man doesn't make a daily inspection. You won't have all kinds of beefs, fines, and roaches on your ships if you perform your jobs—doing your work which always includes keeping your quar­ ters. passagewaj's, clothes, etc. in clean shape ... If you guys want to make a home on those coast-wise ships then here's two varieties. Pan-Atlantic Steamship Company will have three "^^ictory ships operating exclusively from New York, sailing every Friday afternoon for Miami, Tampa, New Orleans then to Mobile. Panama City and Port St. Joe. 4. 4. 4- The four vessels now in this Irade will operate to the Gulf from Boston and Philadelphia for the following ports: Miami, Tampa, New Orleans, Mobile, Panama City and Port St. Joe . . . Well, we're not going to beat around the bush about it. We'll just say that Brother Pete Bush, one of our shipmates and an oldtirner, is anchored in our town . . . Another shipmate in town right now is Edgar Kurz ... So is Bosun Bera Smyley, just back from a trip to Lisbon, Portugal . . . Brother John Murray, whojust came in from a five week trip confessed that he'll be grab­ bing the first job he can—no matter where the ship's going— coastwise or foreign. Well, there's a brother who doesn't waste his time on the beach, waiting for those special trips . . . Brother Frank Szczepanski is now sailing up there in the Lakes. Bon season to you Frank! Meanwhile, the LOG will be going to your home up there every week, as you requested. 4. 44. ODD STREETS AND TOWNS SOME SEAFARERS LIVE IN; James McFarlane—in the town of Rice Lake . . . Frank W. Christy —on Tuxedo Avenue . . . Joseph F. Schumsky—on American Avenue . . . John H. Stone—in the town of Cocoa . . . Gordon Dalman—on Cherrj- Street in the town of Holland . . . We appreciated receiving a postcard from Brother Ste\ e Girolmo while his ship took a breath­ ing spell down in Capetown, South Africa. Steve writes; "Just ar­ rived and am having a good time. Give Paul and Benny my regards. Tell Benny I'll drop him a line in the next port. So long for now" . . . Brother Raffaele Garofalo is in this town right now—all ready for a voyage . . . Deck Engineer Weaver Manning arrived two weeks ago. Brother Weaver asked us to let his shimate Joe James know about his presence in town and to look him up. However, if we re­ call correcth% Brother James shipped recently, forgetting to teU us what ship, though ... To oldtimer John L. Cobb down in New Orleans: Your LOG is now being sent weekly, as you requested. 4. 44NEWS ITEM: Only prompt governmeni action will prevent complete cessation of merchant shipbuilding in the next 12 months in the U. S., H. Gerrish Smith, president of the Ship­ builders Council of America, declared recently. He said that on the basis of present contracts, not a single ocean-going merchant vessel will be under construction after the first quarter of 1948. �THE Page Twelve SEAFARERS Friday, May 2. 1947 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS iiilJte Captain And Catfish Cause Ruckus On Bauxite Vessel To Ihe Edilor: This letter is from the Deck Department of the SS Roy K. Johnson, Alcoa Steamship Com­ pany, at present shuttling baux­ ite from Paranam, Dutch Guiana, to Port of Spain, Trinidad, and is concerned with the exploits of the vessel's skipper, nicknamed by the Deck Gang, "King Cat­ fish." BALTIMORE MARINE HOSPITAL GRUB CALLED BAD To ihe Editor; He had his feelings hurt about a week ago, when he had dis­ covered that some character had thrown a dead catfish into his ventilator, causing a very bad smell within a couple of days. Calling up the three Delegates, he issued his verbal proclama­ tion that if we didn't go below and find out who threw the cat­ fish into the ventilator he would not only be extra rough with the Deck Department but he would refuse the whole crew a draw while at anchor. Then he came out with the latest of sob stories, impressing us with the fact that while in port he had been- letting the Deck men knock off to wash up, sometimes as early as 4:30 p. m. on day work, and that they then turned around and put down overtime for the Second Mate knocking himself out doing sail­ or's work. Thus far, this skipper has been an ideal Captain. He has been so kind as to inflict nine logs on five sailors. He has hired Dutch shoregangs to wash down the decks when leaving port, so as to beat us out of overtime. He has made the round of the^foc'sle to grab the sailor's refreshments; and he has done about every other petty thing that a man of his caliber can dream up. After reading the write-up in the Log about the New Orleans Marine Hospital, and what a job the Union did in getting all the beefs there straightened out, I figured it was about time that something was done about this one in Baltimore. The patients who go to the messhall for their "garbage" can verify this. Anytime you ask for seconds and thirds here you are informed that there isn't any. If you blow your top, the dietician tells you to try and get the same meal on the outside for less than a dollar. The doctors and nurses, here, however, are the best. They're always ready to smile. Of course, We should pay off in New Or­ now and then they may give a patient a snappy answer, but leans about May 5, at which time that's to be expected because we will have quite a few of the they're really overworked the Captain's escapades to talk over with the New Orleans Patrolmen. same as the galley gang. (Name withheld on request). J. W. Horn, Deck Del. C. Brewer Marine Hospital T. Kiiski Baltimore, Md. | Log-A-Rhythms TWO OF THE HOSPITALIZED SEAFARERS Above, John Dykes lifts his head from slrecher • at London airport a few moments before he took off on last lap of 11,000 mile trip rem Karachi, In­ dia to U. S. for medical treat­ ment. Brother Dykes, a Cook on Isthmian's SS Henry Glucksman, developed a spinal paraly­ sis in Karachi in December. In a plaster case from his hips down, he was flown the entire distance and is now in Staten Island, N. Y., Marine Hospital undergoing treatment. Smiling and in good spirits, Victor Placey, (photo right) AB, spends his 27th day in Rouen, France, hospital. He fell 21 feet from deck of the SS Ben­ jamin Goodhue to stone dock below, sustaining a broken hand and elbow. The Legend Of The 3rd Engineer By BILL ROBINSON On the good ship A. A. Roney Sailing up and down the coast. There was one who was a phony— My God! How he could boast! Third Engineer was his handle. And Jonesy was his name— Though he couldn't hold a candle His boasting was his fame. REFRAIN: I'm just the ornriest engineer that's in the fleet. Just to watch me work is quite a treat, I can handle any throttle (Just as long as I've my bottle) There's not a ship afloat I can't beat. Oh, the night was dark and dreary As the Roney lay in port And the Third was mighty weary As he took another snort. And his thoughts grew slower madder 'Til he's sure he heard a bell; As he staggered down the ladder. You could hear our hero yell: REFRAIN: "Half-asternl" old Jonsey shouted, "Stop!—Slow—and Full Ahead! "I swear I'll not be routed"— But the beUs wer& in his head; The dock lines strained and partedThrough the night of wind and rain/ Out to sea ihe old ship started. While one heard this wild refrain: REFRAIN: Quick the AB and the Oiler, Jumped out upon the dock; The Fireman left his boiler— And the Night Mate died of shock So Jonesy sailed the old tub out. Alone on board was he. While faintly you could hear his shout Come back across the sea. Brothers Mold SIU Good Will To the Editor: Just got back from Puerto Rico, where Brothers J. A. Rod­ riguez, Miguel Torres and myself have been since we paid off a ship in Ponce about a month ago. We owe thanks to Facundo's REFRAIN; Airways ticket office, which oc­ cupies the office topside of our At times when stars are hiding Union Hall in San Juan, for the And you're far away from land excellent service and attention You can see the ship a'gliding the owner and his wife gave in Steered by an angel's hand; arranging passage for the three of us back to New York. They secured places for us aboard one of the best planes ^they have, for they always give merchant seamen a break. They also paid my wife's taxi fare from the airport back to our home in Puerto Rico. Words are And when that ship comes sailing not adequate for the service and With ghost-lites on the mast. attention shown us on board the You may hear that eerie wailing plane. From the far distant past. We had everything we wanted at the stopovers in Mayaguez, REFRAIN: Miami, and in North Carolina. At I'm just the ornriest engineer that's in the fleet, the airport in North Carolina, Just to watch me work is quite a treat, where we arrived late at night, I can handle any throttle all the passengers were taken to (Just as long as I've my bottle) the restaurant. ' The proprietor There's not a ship afloat I can't beat. had to be awakened-and his help St.------; had all gone home. The 30 pas­ sengers had to be fed and fed quickly, so when the guy threw up his hands you couldn't blame him. That's where we jumped in. We took off our coats and started serving everybody every­ thing they wanted from eggs to steak. And we let them know they were getting SIU service. They were, all very thankful, be­ cause some of them didn't speak English. We told them not to thank me, but that they should thank the Seafarers International Union. Of course, we also gave them a bit of a pep talk, building the SIU's good will. George Litchfield Miguel Torres J. A. Rodriguez �THE Friday. May 2. 1947 Suggests Union Expand Educational Facilities SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirieen SS SEATRAIN HAVANA RE ENTERS THE GULF Times like these are when we need to educate some of our new­ The crev*7 of this vessel, an er members who do not even un­ Alcoa Liberty on the "rum and derstand trade union terms and bauxite" run, recently became the machinery of such. Even the acquainted with the six per cent newer members added during the wage and overtime increase. We war are not entirely enlightened wish to acknowledge such with a vote of thanks to the negotiating as to the pitfalls of the situation committee. Such increases in now facing them. A suggestion to the Editor, wages and overtime mean more would be to print the New York pork chops to otTset the rising meeting in the LOG. The follow­ cost of living. ing week's editions could print The ere w , furthermore, pro­ one of the ports' meetings, based tests such bills introduced in Congress by such labor haters as upon the value of the meeting, then a return to the main Ball, Case and Taft. Also the branch's meeting for the next tax bill introduced by Knutson, edition. which will liavc little cfTcct upon Also a "Letters to the Editor the working man, but will re­ page" whei-e individual letters duce the taxes paid by Capital to which deal with the improve­ an enormous extent. ment of conditions, wages, etc., NEED FOR EDUCATION could become known to the Trade union education is need­ membership. Such lettei-s should be accept­ ed in our lanks very seriously The Educational D e p a r t m ent ed on, their ability, not only on should gear itself to a new high. improvements, etc., but on trade Two views aboard the Seatrain vessel, whirh recently called at the Port of Galveston on its It is the writer's belief that the union principles, and the politic­ first trip to the Gulf since termination of its war service. Seafarer A. Van Dyke. Deck Delegate SEAFARERS LOG should be ex­ al situation relating to the labor on the Havana, one of the four new Seatrain ships, stated that he and shipmates "can sure unions. panded and many new features say we have had the best representation given by a Union, barring none," I think there would be a quick added. In addition, trade unionists reaction from the membership to should be hired as writez's, or let off steam and encourage im­ more articles from our officials provement. Lee DeParlier, on all points of the labor situa­ have settled the past ones, and and we got to gabbing. He said To the Editor: SS Charles A. 'Warfield tion. It is not the writei-'s wish the futui-e ones will be settled that he and hundreds of others (Ed. note: The LOG already 1 have read in the columns of in the good old American way. didn't like their officers. to complain to the Editor as to how the LOG is compiled, but has a "Letters to the Editor the LOG letters written by for­ When asked why the member­ SIU HELPS lessons should be learned fi'om page"—in fact, two pages (12 mer members of the NMU. I ship did not vote incompetents Anyone with an ounce of grey other labor papers and journals. and 13) are invariably devoted was particularly interested in out of office, he said, "We can't, I am unhappy to state that in to letters from the membership. the reasons given by some of matter knows that the American they are the big bosses." many aspects the LOG is like a LOG policy is to encourage them for their desertion of the standard of living is the highest Imagine oizr SIU tolei-ating on earth, so far superior to the any big bosses! high school paper. If necessary such letters from the Brothers. unholy outfit. From the statements of these funds are not available to en- Brother DeParlier evidently This NMUer also told me they laige and impi'ove the LOG, an agrees with this principle. So. men, and from what we see in had to play ball with a few big asse.s.sment should be raised by what do you say. fellows, let's the press, all is not hai-monious shots otherwise they would be keep those letters rolling in.) ^ in the Moscow camp. And thei-e the membership to do so. discriminated against. What is other evidence that unionism kind of a setup is that? is not the only doctrine preach­ Well, it won't be long. A ed from the alters of Joe Curhouse divided against itself must ran's red temple. surely fall. Soon there will only The misleadors of the NMU be left Hari-y Bifidges, Earl have too long been using labor's Browder, little Joey Curran — lars profit. In the first three cloak to conceal their real pur­ To the Editor: oh yes, and Joe Stalin, the real months of this year they made pose, which is to tear down all big boss. An anti-labor Congress is at American institutions and des­ 22.5 millions in profits. Joseph J. MaJone, Steward present engaged in making bills While basic prices are sky- troy our way of life. No wonder SS John Gibbon designed to ruin the free Am­ high by business profiteering, a decent citizens are becoming erican labor movement. \ big-business Congi'ess is trying nauseated and are deserting in next best that a compaifison is t These bills would ruin rotaiy to desti-oy the ability of the droves. absurb. And it is the aim of the shipping by abolishing the clos­ The SIU is first, and all the SIU to do its pait to maintain worker to maintain his economic ed shop. "The shipowners would needs. With the workers it's a time, strictly an Americazr or­ these standards. This is it. Brothers! be free to pack the ships with question of bread and butter, ganization. We have had labor When in France last voyage, Right on these pages is a finks and destroy union solidar­ disputes in the past, we will an NMU Steward came aboard not diamonds and mansions. good place to blow your top. ity. A. Goldfarb have them in the future. We my ship (he wanted something). If you've got a beef or some It would outlaw many strikes suggestions you think will be for decent conditions. Workers of benefit to your Union and would be stampeded back to your Brothers, why not have it printed in the LOG? If you haven't any steam to blow off, there must be something you've found in­ who is anti-union, too. The en­ the Oilers to start painting the To the Editor: LABOIZ teresting on your trip that I'm writing to the LOG to let gine room has not been painted overhead in the engine room. BlUyou'd like to pass along for the rank and file know about for sometime, pi'obably to keep Proper equipment for the stag­ others to read about~char= the high pressure Chief Engin­ down the overtime, and it is a ing could not be found. So I acters you meet in the fareer we have aboard the SS very filthy looking engine room. told the First that asking the flung coirners of the earth, Charles A. Warfield, an Alcoa Maybe the reason he is having men to work under unsafe con­ joints you've found worth ditions was out. I told him the ship. seeing and those you feel it Oilers would be willing to paint Although he goes out of the advisable for your Brothers if they had planks for the stag­ MEBA Hall on union wages, he NOMORe WALKINO to avoid. Why not let all ing, but that we couldn't take is an anti-union man. He goes THE PLAN)K.-NOW hands profit by your exper­ a chance on breaking a leg. -tHEV JUST into the engine room with his iences? us CRA\A)LlH«0tX5H First replied that if the men substandard conditions by high pressure and a chip on his 'EM WITH PAINT.' Maybe you're pretty good wouldn't take the chance on shoulder. And I thought high threats of fines or imprisonment. at turning out a poem—okay painting the overhead, they Labor is on the verge of losing pressure went out with the end then, let's have it. Pen and couldn't paint at all. of the War era. its hard-won liberties. ink sketches are welcome, With that phony remark, I This Chief Engineer is forever The SIU should take the lead too. If you've got some told the Firemen not to paint in effectively protesting the un­ talking about and against the photographs of your ship, or any more either. In this Union union, and he is bad medicine fair methods of Congress. Lit­ shipmates or any "shots" we work together as good union erature and petitions should be to young men just starting to taken in the various ports men and seamen should, and not passed out all over. Congress­ sea. He also has his say all o'call, send them along. We'll against each othei-. men should be informed that over the ship, whch makes for return them. This is an example of how an the SIU will print lists of their a miserable trip. Not only does it painted now is that the com­ Just mail your material to engineer, who is against labor voting records in labor legisla­ he try to run all three depart­ pany told him to clean and paint the Editor, Seafarers Log, 51 and all the conditions we have tion. These lists should be sent ments, but he also wants over­ it up this trip. Beaver Street, New York 4, fought for and won, attempts to to unions in the various Con­ time cut down in each of them. N. Y. How about doing it destroy good unionism by anti­ The First turned the Firemen I have had a few words with gressmen's districts. NOW! union talk and action. room and In a previous wartime year, this character, as well as with to painting the fire Frank J. Kane U.S. Steel made 45 million dol­ 'the First Assistant Engineer, about one week later, he asked To the Editor; Factional Split Spells Disaster For NMD Rotary Shipping Menaced By Congressional Measure Let's Have 'Em SS Charles Warfield's High Pressure Man Aims To Crack Whip In AH 3 Departments • �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS LOG Sometimes Characters Have Reasons For Being That Way Supplemental Agreement Between Seafarers International Union Of North America By LOUIS GOFFIN ATLANTIC & GULF DISTRICT. and the United States Maritime Commission Moran Towing & Transportation Co., Inc., General Agent This supplemental agreement granted, retroactive to June 15,: United States Maritime Commisinade and entered into this 30th'1946, to continue through Decem- sion with a joint request by the parties thereto that it be ap­ her 31, 1946: day of April, 1947. proved by the United States The wage scales and overtime New Monttily Increase Base Pay Maritime Commission. rates now in the contract dated February 1, 1944 and the adden.5187.50 For— Able Seaman . .510,00 dums thereto, between the ,Sea177,50 Wiper 15.00 farers International Union of UNITED STATES MARITIME North America, Atlantic 8c Gulf 4. Utility Man. As soon as COMMISSION District, and the United States quarters are made available, a Maritime Commission, Moran Utility Man shall be added to Moran Towing & Transportation Towing and Transportation Co., the complement of the Stewards Co., Inc. Inc., General Agent, covering V- Department, the rate of pay to be General Agent 4 Ocean Towing Vessels are the same as that of the messmen. R. FOX, Vice President hereby cancelled and the wage This addition will not bo made scales and overtime rates set later than: forth herein shall be substituted, j^^e 15, 1947 on coastwise For— All other terms and conditions employed V-4 Ocean Towing lEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL .shall continue in full force and Vessels. UNION OF NORTH AMERICA effect pending completion of ne­ (b) On foreign employed V-4 gotiations to amend the general Atlantic & Gulf District Ocean Towing Vessels at the rules. time of the next signing of J. P. SHULER articles, 1, Wages. Effective January S. CARDULLO 1, 1947, the monthly rates of pay 5. Travel, Subsistence and of Unlicensed Personnel, when Meals. Travel subsistence shall the respective ratings are car­ be at the rate of $4.25 per day; ried, shall be as follows: and meal allowance shall be 51.05 for breakfast, $1.05 for din­ Deck Department ner and 51.05 for supper. The in­ Boatswain 5251.75 crease in travel subsistence and Able Seaman 198.75 meal allowance shall be retroacOrdinary Seaman 161.65 tive to March 11, 1947. Engine Department 6. Standby Work. When men 5312.17 Company for 212.27, standby work m port by the day 188.15 board and lodging are not I furnished to them on the ship. Stewards Department they shall be paid at the rate of 51.537 per hour. Their regular Steward Cook 5241.15, g Second Cook 225.2o A.M. to Noon and from 1 P.M. to Messman 161.65 5 P.M. Monday through Friday. Electrician Oiler-Diesel Any work performed by them outside their regular hours of work shall be paid for at the rate og $2.301-2 per hour. Men hired to perform standby work shall perform any work that shall be assigned to them by their su­ perior officer, and they shall not 3. Inequity Increases. The fol- gg subject to any working rules lowing inequity increases-shall be]set forth in this agreement un­ less they shall be required to keep steam in the boilers or oil winches. When standby work in any particular department is to be performed, an effort shall bo made to obtain men with rat­ ings in such department if they Two top leaders of the Am­ are available and are competent erican Federation of Labor, to perform such work. Any President William Green, and , ,man so hired for standby 2. Overtime. The overtime rate, effective Januaiy 1, 1947, for Unlicensed Personnel receiv­ ing less than $200 per month, shall be $1.17 per hour, and for those receiving $200 or more per month, $1.43 per hour. Green Backs Drive To Admit 400,000 Displaced Persons Secretary-Treasurer George Meany, have both gone on record as favoring House Bill 2910, which provides for entry of 400,000 displaced persons o v e r a four year period. The bill is based on a resolu­ tion adopted unanimously at the last AFL Convention in Chica­ go, and is an emergency mea­ sure which will not change ex­ isting immigration laws. In announcing his support, Mr. Green stated, "It is my firm con­ viction that the United States Government should admit at least 400,000 of thc.se peoplevictims of all forms of religious and political persecution. This is even less than half of the number of immigrants who could have legally entered our ports, but did not do so because of the war." ordered, ^e guaranteed not less than accordance with the rates of pay outlined in this section. .Standby work shall be under­ stood to mean work performed I by extra" men who are not membei's of a regulai' or skeleton crew. 7. This agreement is signed su'oject to the approval of the Final Dispatch BROTHER MATTHEW CARSON No. 7445 Born in Scotland, Oct. 1882, became full member of the SIU in June 1941. Past away on March 29, 1947 in good standing. Wa.s buried by the Union. Friday. May 2. 1947 I've sailed with all kinds of characters in my day. Good ones, bad ones, funny ones and some not so funny. In fact, aboard ship almost any guy who picks up his peas with a knife is called a character. He had a rough department to handle, for no one knew much about cooking. His Chief Cook was a lumberjack and all his food tasted like wood shavings. Things were rough, and if it hadn't been for the Second If a guy djoes a few things Cook and Baker, we would have out of the ordinary, the label, starved, "character," is quickly pinned on SOMEONE AFTER HIM him, without any of us bother­ When we hit our European ing to learn why he is a "char­ ports, the Steward stayed acter." aboard. He never went ashore, Who knows, if we were bur­ but spent his time off in his dened with what may be on his room. When the Skipper sug­ mind, or lack of it, our actions gested that he go out and get might not be far different. some air, he refused, stating, Such was the case with a "Someone is out to knock me Steward I once shipped with. off!" He was a real character, at least We'd sailed with characters that was the label we quickly before, but when we heard this, attached to him. we started keeping an eye on It all happened aboard the SS Eglantine, sailing out of New Orleans in the early '30s. The Steward was new aboard, and as soon as the ship left port we all noticed the re was something kind of queer about the guy. He always kept to himself and vvhen off duty he stayed in his room with the door locked. DateSetForHuron Election; SlUHelpsNMUGetOnBailot DETROIT, April 25—SIU In­ ternational Repre.scntative Earl Sheppard today signed a con­ sent election agreement at the Local NLRB office for an elec­ tion to determine the union bar­ gaining agent for the Huron Transportation Company's unli­ censed personnel. In a move designed to expe­ dite the election and overcome any possible delays. Brother Sheppard agreed to the inclusion of the National Maritime Union CIO on the ballot as the intervenor. At a prior meeting in the NLRB offices on April 18, the NMU had requested that they be granted one week in which to prove that they had suffici­ ent strength aboard the two Hu­ ron ships to .secure a place on the NLRB election ballot along with the SIU, Both the SIU and company representatives agreed to this request. On the 25th, the NMU repre­ sentatives submitted what they claimed were 8 pledge cards and several membership record cards, purporting to be from members aboard the Huron ships. How­ ever, on checking these cards with a payroll list as of April 15, NLRB Field Examiner Rob­ ert Wiener found that none of these names were on that list! Despite this lack of proof of any representation, the SIU agreed to allow the NMU on the ballot rather than have the election held up by any of their familiar stalling tactics. After all, what docs the SIU have to lose with the NMU on the bal­ lot, when better than 90 percent of the Huron seamen have al­ ready signed SIU pledge cards asking for the protection of SIU representation and SIU c o ntracts. to the business of agreeing on the appropriate bargaining unit and the election stipulations. Final agreement by all parties —SIU, NMU and Huron Trans­ portation Company—was reach­ ed on the following terms for the election; the bargaining unit is to include all unlicensed per­ sonnel with the exception of the Pursers, Radio Operators and Head Conveyormen. Voting will be conducted aboard the two Huron ships—the SS John W. Boardman and the SS S. T. Crapo—in the crew's lounge for­ ward on the vessels. Other stipulations were: the payroll period of eligibility to be the period ending April 30, 1947; and the date of the elec­ tion is to be after May 15 and before June 11, 1947. The reason for the election • date being set so far ahead is that the company requested this time in which to line up their schedule so that they could have both vessels stop at Detroit for election purposes at the same time. This was finally agreed to by all parties. him. We were sure the guy was imagining things, so we be­ gan waiting for something to pop. We weren't disappointed in that, for about 80 miles south of the Azores, on our trip home, we woke up one bright Sunday morning to find no Steward around. We searched the ship fore and aft, and found not a trace of him. The Skipper ordered the ship around and we went over the course we had traveled dur­ ing the night. A few miles back we found what we were all afraid of: Floating on the water was his apron and somewhere way down deep he had joined thousands of other seamen who had found a grave in the deep waters of the Atlantic. PUZZLED CREW Naturally, we were all puzzled why the guy had knocked him­ self off. No one could get to him way out in the pecan to do a job on him, so we waited un­ til the ship got into New Or­ leans, and there we got the story. It seems that the guy had a beautiful doll for a wife, and he had found out she was two- SIU CONFIDENT Earl Sheppard, in charge of all SIU organizing on the Lakes and the other organizers who have contacted members of the Huron ships crews, express com­ plete confidence that the seamen on these vessels will vote for the SIU by a topheavy major­ ity. Some estimates go as high as 95 percent for the Seafarers, Huron seamen want job secur­ ity, contract protection and com­ petent union representation. At the meeting in the NLRB offices, the Regional Board was represented by Field Examiner Robert J. Wiener; the NMU by General Organizer Michael VarELECTION STIPULATIONS go and Detroit Agent Clyde After the SIU agreed to in­ Drake; and the SIU by Inter­ clude the NMU on the ballot, national Representatives Earl the assembled group got down Sheppard and Russell Smith. timing him while he was at sea. The guy pleaded with the babe to be good, but she was getting ready to dump him and just laughed in his face. Can you imagine a guy knock­ ing himself off over a dame? We couldn't either, so we looked up his widow. She turned out to be a beau­ tiful blonde, done to perfection. After our look-see, we could al­ most see how the guy couldn't live without her. In fact, we felt kind of sorry for the guy. And, we found the answer to why this "character" acted as he did. �THE Friday. May 2. 1947 SEAFARERS MONEY DUE Shepard Steamship Company Unclaimed Baggage — New York Last week an article in the LOG called attention to the fact that there is a considerable amount of gear, not bearing the owners' addresses, which has been held in the 4th floor bag­ gage room of the New York Hall at 51 Beaver Street for longer than the three-month limit. Since then the addresses of the owners of several of these packages have been traced, and the gear has been sent to them C.O.D. However, gear is still being held that does not bear the names or addresses of the owners, and since all unclaimed bag­ gage will be disposed of 30 days from last week, it is urged that all claimants write to the Hall immediately and give a com­ plete discription of their gear and where it may be sent. Only three weeks remain before the deadline. Below is a list of names of those for v/hom baggage will be held for that period. If your name appears below, send a description of your gear, and the address to which it may be sent. If your name doesn't >appear, and you have gear at the New York Hall, send the necessary information immediately. COATE, N. V. ARMSTRONG, G. ARNOLD, GEORGE HUNT, MERC STAMFORD, JOHN P. WERNICK, ABE FITGERALD, JOSEPH SMITH, A. OVIAL, VALLY MICHUIEWICZ, JOHN BLUMLER, TED RARPOWICH, ADAM MECHNIEUMAZ PETERSON, ELLAR MARCIGLIO, ROBERTS ROMAIN, CHARLES GRESHAM, ARTHUR L. HARRIS, KEN D. REARDON, CARL HARVY, DAVID R. SIMMONS, STEVE M. CHOWOZ, PAUL L. WOLFE, W. McIVES, W. MACGAN, ROBERT BLACKBURN, ATHOL LAW, F. "WARD, W. L. SLY, RAYMOND BURK, H. DAVIS, REUELL PRULO, R. PYLE, OSCAR M. DEFRANCH, SYRIL STOVE, AGIL DOTY, G. E. B. F. R. MURRY MANUEL, FLORES EDUIE, JOHN M. GERNER, V. WESTPHEL EDWINDARUCO, D. JOHNSON, EDGAR WATKINS, J. WARD, WILLIAM L. LEWIS, JOE DAVIS L. DAVIS, P. H. AUGER, BOB CASPAR, JOHN OLENO, JOHN NEUGENT, S. H. JENNINGS, NORMAN DeVITO RABITZ, H. J. SANTO, WALTER COX, KENNETH MILLER. O. SEA JOHNSON. ROBERT LESS. TIMOTHY MACALINE, H. ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. BECKLEY, RICHARD BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. WHITE, F. E. Calvert 4539 BLUE, MONTE BOSTON 276 State St. Boucloin 4455 DUBE, JOSEPH BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. LISTERMAN. CLARENCE Cleveland 7391 CABAN, JOSE CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. WATTIGEY, E. Superior 5175 NICOLL. GEORGE CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. SlU HALLS Page Fifteen LOG ol NORFOLK MILK STREET, BOSTON, MASS. 3.66 Stray, Curtis E 1.38' Stromme, Earl 7.34 Stuhr, Olaf J Sullivan, Stephen F 45.44 BOSTON Q Suozzo, Joseph J. Sanlouzans. $2.00; B. F. Gordy. Quinnett, Wayne 5.41 Suseoff, William J $1.00; INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Swanson, Raymond C R SS TONTO Swanton, Joseph J Radcliffe, .John 4.97 Headly. $5.00; Smith, $5.00; ArrowRahm, Theodore 19.51 T wood. $2.00; Baker, $2.00; Kerweide.. $2.00; McCormack, $3.00; Woodruff, Ramscl, W 10.00 Thomason, Richard M $1.00; KoBtrivas, $2.00; .Anderson. Rastad, Harold 45.92 Tietze, Kenneth E. : $5.00; Games, $2.00; Noss. $2.00; War­ Rawlins, James H 1.34 Tietze, Kenneth E ren, $2.00; Kyle. $5.00. Reeser, Harry 1.46 Tillotsen, C. W NEW YORK Rizzo, Anthony 5.46 Tomita, Hawe SS BEAUREGARD Roberson, Richard 3.13 Tucker, Walter B D. F. Worster. $2.00; P. Re.nd. $1.00. Roberts, Manuel E. Jr 3.21 U SS ETHIOPIA VICTORY 3.16 Urban, Oswald F,. W. Auer. $1.00; C. L. Downs. Robertson, Daniel H 1.03 $4.00; C. Shiner. Jr.. $1.00; J. A. .M-nr- Robinson, Kenneth J V tln, $1.00; P. N. Froorn, $1.03. Rynberg, Frank R 74 Versosa, Primitive 0 SS GOODHUE Ryniker, Loren F 1.87 Violente, Anthony J S. A. Honorwski. $1.00; J. A. ParS Vitro, Robert E homski, $1.00; W. A. Dedeo. $1.00; W. K. Terry. $2.00; J. F. Delaney, $2.00. Sadlowski, John E 3.36 W L. Vlahos, $1.00. Savolainan, Laurie P 4.01 Wagner, Burton E SS ANTINOUS Scarbrough. Richard 11.46 West, John R A Remijn. $3.00; J. M. Harria, $1.00. Scott, Bergin H 1.87 White, James W SS W. F. PERRY 27.86 Willard, Wallace G D. H. Garrigues. $12.00; D. Wengei Scott, Samp and crew of^S W. F. Perry. $10.00. Skarrlegaard, Hans M 4.01 Williams, Carmond L. .. SS SPAN SPLICE Smiechowski, Theodore .... 1.38 Williams, Luther B Stanley Jandora, $2.00; J. C. Steeber, 11.00 Williams, Thomas E $5.00; R. J. Kipp. $5.00; M. Katrausky. Snow, George M 1.44 Wilosevich, Ljubo $1.00; F. Szczepanski, $5.00; L. Benilez, Sprouse, Watson H. $1.00; R. C. Wilhite, $1.00; J. V. Brook-s. Stark, Warner .... 5.62 Y $1.00; T. w. Kendig, $1.00; T. Mc- Stein, Peter 4.76 Young, oFrank G Nicholas. $5.00; M. B. Franciose, $2.00; Stevens, Herbert 9.19 R. J. Griswold, $2.00. Stinson, Richard . ..10 Zajac, Charles SS PERDUE VICTORY Strautmanis, Otto L. W. Borreson, $1.00. 2.72 Ziaja, Albin .. J. L. Arnolds. $1.00; J. R. Wiiiats. $1.00; C. Johnson, $3.00; C". L. Elkin.. $3.00; J. Coyle, $3.00; I. L. Gentry, $1.00. Philips, Lyle B Posey, Otis Prince, J. T Prince, J. T 1.44 3.13 8.06 23.96 8.00 2.26 27.04 3.36 7.34 10.26 34.61 1.44 4.68 1.44 2.96 29.14 32.24 2.76 13.80 66.87 .60 2.41 .50 3.60 16.57 1.09 2.69 6.99 2.41 Retroactive Wages Smith & Johnson SS Corporation 60 BEAVER ST., NEW YORK 4, N. Y. SS COASTAL ADVOCATE Begley, Raleigh Corneaux, Arnold Dayton, Paul Felker, Edwin Kumke, Wm. H Landry, Paul M. Martinez, N. J Mattsson, Emil 11. McRae, Philip W Neri, Filipi Thorsen, Henry Roupe, Gosta E Scherzer, Edw Shulman, Abo Enyder, Howard Spencer, Edw Tallev, Sirroth Woackler, Gilbert 4.20 17.74 .94 7.00 .94 .94 8.88 Thomas, Edwin M Tiske, Donald R Vaage, Torbjorn 6.44 87.82 73.06 $ 69.23 .92 14.74 SS FRANK C. EMERSON 26.30 Davis, J. H 10.26 36.28 Flack, J. C 94 54.26 Hanley, James E 1.20 41.42 SS EDWIN T. MEREDITH James, R. K 10.26 Main 0147 23.60 Johnson, 'Robert 13.45 CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. $ 26.60 15.20 Conkle, Clarence 94 Corpus Christi 3-1509 ! 29.40 Martin, Oliver F .94 Croctor, George H. DETROIT 1038 Third St. Martinez, Francisco 7.04 29.40 20:06 Martin, Thomas E Cadillac 6857 4.66 Margvaiat, Edgar 24.96 McGuffy, J. E Tho three Oilers who paid off DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. 1.96 MS COASTAL DEFENDER Melrose 4110 the Madaka in March can collect McRae, John 29.40 McHenan, Thco. E 33.56 GALVESTON 308%—23rd St. their overtime 29.40 Murphy, Johnson, L by writing, or Erwin, Willard W ? 6.06 PeiTv, Dennis E Phone 2-8448 Stevens, Bert 19.14 calling at Waterman Steamship Evans, Lawson SS JAMES M. GILLIS 6.06 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. Phone 58777 Company. 19 Rector Street. New Gambler, Joseph 33.39 SS ELROY ALFARO Ackiss. Elwood $ 3.9S HOUSTON 1615 75th St. York. The "imaginary line" beef Martinez, E. F 6.54 Bliksvar, Alfred R 15,40 Wentworth 3-3809 has been settled. $ 22.36 Padilla, E 10.26 Adrian, Philip C Kellogg, Charles M 3.51 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. 94 Radsavitch, Peter M 2.79 Barron, Joseph F Phone 5-5919 Kershaw, Charles C 1.46 S. i. 94 Ramos, Hipolito 6.06 Bell, Leroy MARCUS HOOK 1% W. 8th St. Walker, James E 3.43 Chester 5-3110 94 HENRY W. BEECHER Schminke, Victor E 5.14 Bryant, Ernest W Wichartz, Julius W 3.43 MILWAUKEE 613 So-iHi 2n.d St 9.80 9.98 Carr, Melvin J The beef regarding the Skip­ Vandiver, Thomas MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Garcia, Pedro 94 per working stowaways has been Phone 2-1754 SS EDW. G. JANEWAY Goeman, L. P 112.82 The Deck Department NEW ORLEANS ..... 339 Chartres St. settled. 5.20 Magnolia 6112-6113 can collect eight hours each by Blanton, Wilbert 6.36 Hall, John P NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. applying to the Waterman OfHary, Samuel H 94 Bonich, Rudy 5.36 HAnover 2-2784 Kearsey, Eric F 3.62 BILL BOWMAN tices, 19 Rector .Street, New York, Hitchcock, C. A 60 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. 12.60 Littleton, Robt. L 18.20 Kublik, George Phone 4-1083 N. Y. Please contact Special Services .46 in person or by mail. Important. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Miller, Charles A 94 Lallave, Domingo 4. JLOmbard 3-7651 McNichols, Thomas J. ... . 20.52 Okray, Norman 21.14 4" i' t PORT ARTHUR .. 909 Fort Worth Ave. Minichillo, Louis . 7.00 O'Neill, George S 16.80 HAITI VICTORY HENRY E. HICKS Phone 2-8532 .94 21.00 Neilsen, Neils PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. Money due Julio Perez can be Phillips, Robert Your wife is very anxious to .94 84.99 Parker, Jack Beacon 4336 collected at the Waterman Of­ Roosberg, Bernard hear from you. Price, Charles . 1.40 RICHMOND, 'Calif 257 5th St. fices, 19 Rector Street, New York, SS EDW, K. COLLINS 4» 4 4* Phone 2599 Revelle, Thomas E 1.40 SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. N, Y. KRISTEN SVANUM Sykes, Wm. E 94 Albritton, James 5$ 9.33 Douglas 5475-8363 4. 4. 4Get in touch with William Thorsen, Carl J 7.00 Balazo, Gustave 94 SAN JUAN, P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon Standard, 291 Broadwav, New Woodfall, Charles 4.20 SS WARD HUNT San Juan i-5996 Boulden, Marvin 9.34 York. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. Six hours of overtime due the Davis, Harry 94 SS FITZHUGH LEE Phone 8-1728 4 4. 4 Deck Department can be col­ Eakert, Bernard 94 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. CHARLES V. DIX lected at the Bull Line Offices, Copeland, Joseph 9.46 Filers, James P 94 Main 0290 Get in touch with your parents, 1.40 TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. 115 Broad Street, N. Y. Ensor, James 3.22 Herd, Paul R Phone M-1323 .46 Jamesport, Missouri, Route 1. Jenkins, Henry 17.28 Jeff, John W S. 4. TOLEDO 616 Summit St. 4 4 4 80.20 Kennedy, James 94 Lawton, Wm. M WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. M. CARL WELLS Naffziger, Charles 15.40 Macgregor, Wm 6.06 SS DIXON Terminal 4-3131 A communication from your Paugh, Dorsey 5.14 Marsden, La Verne 7.94 VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. Luis German Figueroa and mother states that you are des­ Garden 8331 Richards, Robert H. 63.88 Newman, Guy W 6.06 Federico Reyes can collect overVANCOWVER 144 W. Hastings St, perately needed at home. Con­ Santo, Michael J 88.08 Pau.gh, Dorsey 19.54 PacIAc 7824 lime money at the Bull Line Of­ tact her at once. Theodore, Phillip .94 Pope, Clark R 2.34 fices, 115 Broad Street. MONEY DUE PERSONALS I �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. May 2. 1947 The LOG Visits The Cavalier Crew .• • • • • so. Coffee lime, and some crewmembers gather in the Messroom to gulp a cup of java. Left to right; K. Ostling, Carpenter; Anthony Skillman. OM; Robert Larsen. AB; G. Bryan. DM; Alcides Lugo. MM; James Lupo. MM; and Richard Novak. Stewards Utility. This is the floating palace, the Alcoa Cavalier. The last word in luxury, and furnishing excellent quarters for the crew, too. The Cavalier will make the Southern cruise run, sailing out of New York on a seventeen-day schedule to the Islands. Sounds as though it will be a popular run with Seafarers. Ship leaves on first trip May 2. With trays held high. Waiters Carmelo Sousa, left, and Max­ well Brooks, right, show how they are going to carry the food to the dining room. Don't drop anything. Brothers! How about one on the house? After going all over the ship to snap pictures, a long cold one would hit the spot. These men are experts in their field. That's Bill Benish with the polishing rag. Ray Griswold pouring a shot, and Ed Mocney mixing one. Above, left. Evert van Tongeren. FWT. watches his gauges and the camera at the same time. He was the only member of the Engine Department available when the picture was taken, but he won't have to do all the work himself when the vessel leaves for the first cruise. Directly above is a view of one of the crew foc'sles. Two to a room, with double portholes and plenty of locker space. It's sure a far cry from the old days. The Waiters and Bellboy lined up. left, in the Dining Room, didn't wait to have their names taken after the photoflash went off. Anyway, they are part of the Stewards Depart­ ment of the Cavalier, and from watching them in action, it is certain that the passengers will be well taken care of. � 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 May 2, 1947 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. IX, No. 18 Description An account of the resource Headlines: FOREIGN SEAMEN'S UNIONS PLEDGE AID TO SEAFARERS IN PANAMANIAN BOYCOTT CANADIANS WIN RAISE, 30 DAY INTERIM PACT LAKES SIU OKAYS 44 HOUR WEEK D&C CONTRACT SOLIDARITY FOREVER NEW MORAN CONTRACT SETS TOP WAGE SCALE LOW COST GLASSES NOW AVAILABLE TO SEAFARERS SIU CANADIAN DISTRICT OPENS NEW HALL IN MONTREAL, BEGINS ORGANIZING DRIVE NMU TRIES TO FREELOAD ON SIU GT. LAKES DRIVE TELEPHONE STRIKERS RALLY IN SIU BALTIMORE HALL SEAFARERS NEEDED TO HELP TANKER, GT. LAKES DRIVE SHIP CHANDLERS IN TAMPA ARE STILL LEARNING HARD FACTS OF LIFE--DO NOT SCAB ON SEAFARERS PROGRESS SO FAR PROVES G.L. MEN WANT SEAFARERS PASSENGER SHIPS NEXT TARGET FOR SIU ORGANIZERS IN CHICAGO FIRES PUT OUT, BUT TEXAS CITY IS GHOST TOWN OF SMOKING RUINS RECORD OF TELEPHONE COMPANY SHOWS OPERATORS HAVE GOOD BEEF NEEDED: RATED MEN FOR SIU SHIP AND ORGANIZERS TO AID IN DRIVES BRANCH MEETINGS ARE A MUST FOR TRIPCARDERS AND PERMITMEN QUESTION ON THE INTERPRETATION OF CONTRACT COMES UP IN BOSTON BALTIMORE BRANCH OFFERS MEMBERS A VARIETY OF SHIPS AND RUNS LAKES SEAMEN ARE SIGNING SIU COLLISIONS AND ACCIDENTS MAR WEEK IN DULUTH RESCUE TUG IS BATTERED BY HURRICANE NMU HAS PLENTY OF SLOGANS ABOUT OTHER THINGS BUT NOT A WORD ON U.S. SHIPS RUSSIA WON'T RETURN NEW LONDON 'BREEZE' BLOWS NEWS STRAIGHT TO CREWMEN CRAWFORD MEN PROPOSE PLAN TO REMOVE SLOPCHEST EVILS COLD, ICE SLOWED DOWN THE THOMAS HYDE AND PUT THE FREEZE ON CREW'S ROMANCING SOMETIMES CHARACTERS HAVE REASONS FOR BEING THAT WAY DATE SET FOR HURON ELECTION; SIU HELPS NMU GET ON BALLOT THE LOG VISITS THE CAVALIER CREW Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/2/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/fc89615fc57422f523dce0197311fd09.PDF 056fbd465f24adb0c82d501d1c59d8de PDF Text Text \ZCVt' - - '•^•-•'•,ryyjry--^^y-' ",-'l.'=:*' %ill Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Telephone Strikers HoU Firm NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY, APRIL 25. 1947 INT'L SUPPORT NEW YORK. April 24 — Representatives of foreign seamen's unions spoke before the N. Y. membership meet­ ing last night and endorsed the SIU stand on Panamanian ships and pledged full sup­ port of their organizations. Among the speakers were: E. Johansen. Norwegian Sea­ men's Union; Ernest Roberg. Swedish Seamen's Union; F. Clausen, Danish Seamen's Union; James Scott. British Seamen's Union; M. Pitharoulis. Secretary. New York Branch of Federation of Greek Maritime Unions; Willy Dorchain. American Representative. International Transportworkers F e d e r ation. and Capt. Wm. C. Ash. Secretary-Business Manager, MM&P. Complete story will appear in next week's LOG. No. 17 Green Pledges Support To MID In Panama Beef; Boycott Plans Completed The nationwide strike of the telephone workers is now ending its third week with no weaken­ ing in the solid ranks of those participating in the walk-out. In NEW YORK—From the national office of the American Federation of fact, if anything, they are more united and solid today than they Labor has come assurance that the interests of the Seafarers will be protect­ were when the strike first started ed in attempting to halt the transfer of American ships to Panamanian and on April 7. Expressions of support have Honduran registry. William Green, President of the AFL, in a telegram been received from all sections to .John R. Owens, Executive Secretary of the AFL Maritime Trades De­ of American life. Organized la­ bor is lined up firmly behind the partment, stated that "We will join with representatives of the Seafarers National Federation of Tele­ and Longsroemen's organizations in appealing to Congress to deal with this phone Workers; priests, minist­ ers, and rabbis have gone on rec­ complaint in a practical, constructive, and satisfactory way." (Full text of ord backijig the telephone work­ ers; and the public is also con­ telegram appears elsewhere vinced that the American Tele­ on this page.) phone and Telegraph Company is doing all in its power to keep But if, "in appealing to Con­ the strike going by refusing to The following telegram from William Green, gress," the transfer of ships to bargain on a national level. President of the American Federation of Labor, foreign registry is not stopped, Up to now the company policy was received by John Owens, Executive Secre­ then the Seafarers International has been to divide the union in­ tary of the Maritime Trades Department. Union is prepared to put into ef­ to small, powerless groups. Of­ fers have been made to the a boycott of Panamanian and Your telegram of recent date was brought to fect unions on a local plane only, and Honduran ships wherever and my attention upon my return to office today. whenever they put into Ameri­ the spokesmen for the company Be assured I appreciate importance of question can ports. have insisted that these offers not depend on the approval of submitted in your message. Because of sacrifice BOYCOTT READY NEW YORK—Time almost ran the policy committee of the of interest of American seamen and longshore­ out on the Wall Street financiers During the past two weeks, NFTW. men through transfer of American ships to Pan­ plans have been completed to tie Union officials have dissented on Tuesday, April 22, but just ama and othe countries it becomes our duty to up these ships once the boycott sharply from this view, and stat- when it looked as though the United Financial Workers, AFL, do everything we can to prevent transfer of said : goes into effect. All ports have Five officials of the Tele­ would have to go out on strike ships. We will join with representatives of Sea­ I been notified of the strategy to phone Workers visited the New to enforce its demands, the farers and Longshoremen's organizations in ap­ be followed when the action commences, and in true Seafarers York membership meeting last money men gave in and a strike pealing to Congress to deal with this complaint style, members are ready to pull Wednesday night. George Mey- has been averted—for the time in a practical constructive and satisfactory way. the pin when officially notified to erscaugh. Chairman of the City being at least. We call upon our legislative committee to give do so by the Headquarters Of­ The walkout, planned by the Central Strike Committee, and Joe Leone took the floor to UFE for Monday, April 21, had matter special attention and assist in every pos­ fice. thank the Seafarers on behalf been postponed to allow time When this happens, the boy­ sible way. In addition will give publicity to facts of the strikers for the aid given for mediation. The Mayor's of­ cott will spi'ead to every corner submitted in your telegram through our weekly fice appointed a special media­ by the SIU. of the globe. The International news service. « / tion committee composed of Transportworkers Federation has Grover A. Whalen, representing ed that the only reasons for com­ notified its affiliates, in every Wm. Green, President pany objection to NFTW action the public and also to act as country if, and when, the American Federation of Labor SIU givesthat is an effort to break the national (Continued on Page 4) the signal, they are to union. refuse to work any Panamanian Meanwhile, labor support for or Honduran ships that may put the telephone workers mobilized into their ports. by leaps and bounds. On picketOFFICIALS NOTIFIED lines in every port where the SIU has a Hall, white-capped Copies of the resolution calling Seafarers could be found march­ for a boycott of Panamanian and ing side by side with their union other non-maritime nations ves­ Brothers and Sisters. Other sels, passed by the SIU Conven­ unions sent messages of solidar­ hamas. It has a crew of approx­ minor matters were settled with­ tion, ahd concurred in by the By w. J. MCLAUGHLIN ity and pledges of assistance. imately 85 unlicensed seamen, in a short time. AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ JACKSONVILLE—The mount­ chiefly French Canadian. Then camrf the awakening. All ment, were sent to the President ing discontent of Canadian sea­ Because of conditions even hands on the ship realized that of the United States, the Chair­ men, members of the crew of the worse than the ordinary run of the daily beefs were only a small man of the House Committee on part of the general irritation, and Merchant Marine and Fisheries, The second of Alcoa's three New North Wind, Seaway Lines Canadian vessels, they finally that the underlying causes were the Chairman of the Senate took a stand and brought the Limited, came to a head last new passenger-cargo vessels, the the wages, and working and liv­ Committee in Interstate and Forr Alcoa Clipper, arrived in New week when the crew walked off matter to the attention of the ing conditions provided by Can­ eign Commerce, and the Chair­ local SIU officials. the ship shortly before the hour Orleans this week. She will adian maritime laws. man of the U.S. Maritime Com­ of sailing. Jimmy Banners, Port Agent, make her first voyage frorh that Comparisonof Canadian and mission. and Lindsey Williams, field or­ The New North Wind is a ves­ port on May 23, and will be Copies were also sent to every joined in the regularly sched­ sel registered in Canada, but ganizer for the Atlantic and Gulf American contracts made the uled service to the Caribbean which operates out of this port District, immediately took an ac­ men decide that they, too, want- member of the Senate and the House of Representatives. in the passenger trade to the Ba­ tive interest in the beef, and iCoHtinutd on Page H) by the Alcoa Corsair. Green's Wire To Sec'y Owens Wall St Bows Before UFE; Will Arbitrate Crew Job Attlon Convmes Operator To Bargain With Canadian Seafarers Alcoa Clipper In N.O. ./ �. r.. Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 25, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG ---------- President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL - - - First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER -------- Vice-President 105 Broad St., New York 4, N. Y. GAL TANNER ----------- Vice-President r South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Bo.x 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 150 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan FIUGH MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. * Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New Y'ork, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor -^^267 By Leaps And Bounds V 'eamNSMim While there i.s one unorganized seaman left in the United States, the standards of all U. S. seamen are in danger. While there is one unorganized seaman left in the world, the wages and conditions of all other seamen can be pulled down. This truth is recognized by the members of the Sea­ farers International Union. And, recognizing the truth, the SIU has taken steps to rai.se the standards of other sea­ men, both in the U. S. and out, so that they will no longer constitute a threat to American seamen. The program undertaken to bring this about has called for much activity and expansion. When the SIU was started, less than a dozen years ago, there were few who dreamed that the Union would play such a big part in the labor movement of this country. These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospital;,, SIU wages and conditions have continued their climb, as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging and when pay increases were nixed by the Wage Stabliza- heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ tion Board, thousands of Seafarers left their ships and ing to them. WM. BENNETT struck until the Government was forced to reverse the NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL JOSEPH PODGORSKI ruling. GUS KREZTER JOHN APPLE A campaign of many months was climaxed by an C. MASON MOSES DAVIS overwhelming pro-SIU vote in the Isthmian bargaining STEVE MOGAN ORIEN WHEELER election. This election was won in the face of all the R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT STANLEY ROWE anti-union methods the company could use, and in spite N. LONGTINE MANUEL ROMERO ED. DUDEK ERNEST SIDNEY of the underhand tactics resorted to by the National Mari­ J. J. O'NEILL EDWARD CAIN JR. time Union, CIO. E. J. NAVARRE GUS OENBRINK On the Great Lakes, and in Canada, the SIU organiz­ J. N. HULL JAMES McMAHON (G. L.) ing campaign is bringing many men and companies under C. TYNER JOHN RILEY (G. L.) C. J. COMPAN the Seafarers banner. Where other unions have tried and i S. 4WM. H. CAO iELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL failed, the SIU is succeeding. J. W. DENNIS W. R. MUIR The issue of ships transferred to Panamanian registry ED. CUSTER C. RAMUSSEN is a burning one these days. The SIU has tried to halt the WM. BROCE, jr. J. KOSLUSKY GEO. F. DUFFY transfers by requesting the Government to take action. If D. MCDONALD KARPOWICH this fails, plans have already been laid for a complete, ADAM B. HOFFMAN C. LOCIGNO worldwide tie-up of Panamanian shipping. WM. MEAGHER STATEN ^ISLAND HOSP. Coupling all the above with the assistance which the D. LAUBERSHEIMER O. KAELEP Union has rendered to Brother unions, such as the ILA, G. F. HART M. BAUCSKI H. N. LEAVELLE the MM&P, the United Financial Employes, the Office E. CARRERAS S. HAMILTON Workers, the CIO Shipyard Workers, and the Telephone R. G. MOSSELLER » » 9^ Workers, it is plain to see that the SIU is not satisfied to J. A. DYKES BALTIMORE HOSPITAL sit still. K. KORNELIUSSEN C. H. SULLIVAN PAUL PAULSEN It is no wonder then that the Seafarers International PETER LOPEZ E. E. CASEY Union is held in such high esteem by all other segments of KARL THORSSON D. NELSON the American labor movement. Our record speaks for CHARLES SIMMONS W. R. BLOOM itself, and is a bright page in the glowing annals of Ameri­ CHARLES PYNE M. MORRIS can labor history. F. NERING WM. KAMMERER Men Now In The Marine Hospitals M Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staien Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) H. L. P. P. J. H. R. BELCHER JILES REYES LATORRE BOLGER A. ECHEVARIA BRIGHTON^ HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM T. MAYNES R. LORD J. RUBERY D. BURLISON J. LEVACK E. DELLAMANO J. CAREY MOBILE HOSPITAL M. D. PENRY J. G. HARRIS ARCHIE SANDY H. HUISMAN J. CARROLL T. J. FAITER M. COLLIER C. E. FOSTER WILLIAM FAWELEY E. L. MEYERS j. C.'KEEL U. S. MORGAN R. G. VARNON • .c •1 �Friday. April 25, 194V Union Structure THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thre* In a majority of the SIU Ports, our membership hit the brick.s The combining of the business with these people, and assisted systems of the Branch and Head­ them in maintaining picketlines. quarters Office in the Port of It appears now that these peo­ New York is still in process. ple are really in for a tough go An entirely new business sys­ and unless something favorable tem of the Headquarters Office happens, it looks as though prettv and New York Branch has been soon the bosses are going to try laid down, and the completion of to starve them out. this job will possibly take a cou­ By J. P. SHULER, Secretary-Treasurer We will continue helping them ple of weeks or so. wherever possible, in line with As pointed out in the Head­ The only fund that the Union loading of the Organization with try to bust some of our contracts previous membership action. quarters Report to the member­ can operate from on a day to day an excess membership, such as simply because he either wants The Office Workers Union in ship at the last meeting, once business expenses is the General other Unions are now experienc- to look militant, or is gassed up, Brooklyn, New York, struck the this is completed it will save the Fund. We are now living with­ or is a shipowners' stooge in dis­ Union quite a bit of dough, as in the income of our General guise. • well as making for better Union Fund. M//1V This must—and will—stop im­ operations. We should, in the near future mediately, or those responsible Along with the change in the not only live within the general will answer to the membership . business system, there has also income, but to accumulate for same. been set up a rig to centralize larger amount of dough in this the issuance of various Union Panamanian Boycott fund, t h rough savings to the forms, stationery, etc., to all Union. ports. As reported to the last mem­ The Organization's expenses bership meeting, plans were com­ Shipping during the past few weeks have pleted over the past two weeks been reduced and will be re­ Some ports have recently un­ for a successful prosecution of duced even more. It is pointed dergone a shortage of key rated the Panamanian boycott, once it out to the membership that this men, epecially in the Black Gang ing, is that they must take jobs goes into effect. construction firm handling the Organization's income is not all on contracted ships when they and Deck Department. All Port Agents have been no­ Brooklyn Tunnel job, and scabs are open. tified of the strategy to be fol­ were breaking through their lines In several ports, it was neces­ lowed if and when this action this past week. sary to force permit men to take commences. West Coast Tankers rated Engine Room jobs to avoid We were successful in helping Local Port Committees will set them turn these particular finks issuance of new permits. The Pacific District and the up rules governing the actions All Port Agents are hereby Sailors Union of the Pacific (part in the Ports where this Pana- back. This strike is still in ef­ fect. instructed that, when crews are of the SIU), a while back, spent short on any contracted vessels over $100,000 to organize the and there are no book men avail­ west coast tankers. Organizational Activities able to take these jobs, permit Most of these vessels ,are now The Organizing Staff of the men are to be instructed to take operating from east coast and Union, in addition to their regijthese jobs as needed. gulf ports, and they supply not lar organizing duties, were in­ This is one way we can avoid only a large number of good jobs strumental in assisting Canadian overloading this Union and then for our membership, under the seamen knock over the India SS expendable money, as the ma­ suffering later with a shortage best tanker contract in the indus Company, Ltd., of Calcutta, con­ jority of the monie.'' collected go of jobs. Book members in the try, but in addition, income to sisting of six vessels and signed into special funds which can Atlantic and Gulf District of the the Union itself. them to a closed shop Waterman There have been several beefs only bo spent on special occa­ SIU are hereby notified that the contract. sions, to wit: strike, building, etc. sui'est way we can avoid an over- lately that some fellows riding This contract was signed in these ships, especially from some the name of the Canadian Dis­ of the Texas Ports, instead of trict of the SIU. The story was trying to live up to the contract manian boycott is to be pulled carried in last weeks LOG. on these scows, attempt, as much off. All Port Agents are notified In addition, the Organizers as possible, to hold up these ships to commence no action regarding working in the Port of Jackson­ and completely disregard the the actual tie-up until officially ville with the Canadian Repre­ contract, as negotiated between notified to do so by the Head­ sentative and the Jacksonville the SUP and these operators. quarters Office. Port Agent pulled a short strike This must stop immediately. According to a statement It is submitted that no sect­ This is going to be a big beef against the SS New North Wind, issued on behalf of all the ion of officers should be ex­ Unless it does, it could easily re­ and we must guarantee complete a Canadian Passenger ship, sail­ seafarers unions represented on cluded from the proposals. Pay­ sult in a complete loss to the SUP success of it by good timing and ing from Jacksonville to the Ba­ the National Maritime Board, ment for "nights on board" and of the time and money invested effectiveness of the tie-up. hamas. Further news of this par­ negotiations are now proceed­ rest periods before sailing are in the organization of these west ticular action will be made known ing on postwar wages and con- also included in the officers' pro­ coast tanker outfits, as well as later. Other Union Beofs cause a complete loss of the jobs tions of employment in the mer­ posals. We are demanding that these chant navy. 3. It is proposed that the that they now provide for the In accordance with the resolu­ people sign a regular SIU passen­ The following are the broad amount of annual leave to be Atlantic and Gulf District mem­ tion passed at the last meeting, ger ship contract for this vessel principles on which seafarers established, as such, should be bership. the Atlantic and Gulf District with our Canadian District. Crews are hereby instructed to donated $1,000 to the striking unions have based their claims without regard to the amount The SIU is now filing a brief, of leave that may accrue from cooperate with shoreside offi­ Telephone Workers. This money on the Isthmian case, which is to the shipowners: cials in settling disputes aboard was turned over to their Central 1. Proposals on wages are any other source. before the NLRB in Washington, these tankers and SIU officials Strike Committee in the Port of Payment for leave should be for the establishment of a new D. C. New York and was handled by basic rate and the elimination at basic rates p.lus subsistence Attorney Ben Sterling is hand­ them. allowance. Annual leave should of the war risk money. ling this case, and has handled it along with other NLRB work Rates submitted are related be accumulative. 4. Payment during sickness at of the union. According to the to and fully reflect the needs organizers, he did a good job in of 1947; in addition the exten­ home and abroad was introduced presenting our case before the sion of seniority payments for during the war, and it is now NLRB Examiner in the Port of officers and the introduction of proposed that there should be New York and states in his opin­ "efficient service" payments for proper provision made in the postwar agreement for continu­ ion that the prospects of an early ratings are included. certification look good. The near The Radio Officers have sub­ ing the principle. future will show whether this is 5. Bed and bedding, soap and mitted proposals for revision ^ BALTIMORE — The crews of correct or not. to the sliding scale method of towels, with adequate changes, Sterling has not been reim­ are also proposed to apply to all three ships in port this week payment. conti'ibuted $44.00 for distribu­ bursed for this work and will not 2. The unions are further home and foreign going vessels. are hereby notified to immed­ tion to Seafarers in the Marine be until such time as final dis­ 6. Proper catering arrange­ seeking to embody in the NMB iately put into place any. crack­ Hospital, John Taurin, chairman position is made of this case. agreement the principle of the ments for home trade vessels pot riding these scows who may of the hospital committee, re­ 48-hour week established in form part of the Charter and be advocating disregard for a ported. this involves the provision of Seattle in June 1946. ' Texas Disaster Union contract covering these The SS Robin Wentley men This will necessitate provid­ adequate catering staff in all vessels or any other anti- SIU gave $20.00, the SS Robert McAs reported by telegram last ing extra leave in compensa­ ships. actions on their part. week in the SEAFARERS LOG Burney crew $10.00 and the lads 7. Recognizing the unsatisfact­ tion for the seafarers' 56 hour The Atlantic and Gulf District from Galveston Agent D. L. Par­ on the SS Frederick Granby do­ week, as it is recognized that ory basis of employment in the of the SIU is possibly the only ker, no SIU men were killed in nated $14.00. ships, are at sea on a seven day merchant navy before the war, Union in the entire maritime in­ the Texas disaster. He further Brother Taurin presented each proposals dealing with continbasis. dustry that believes in and prac­ reported that the SIU in that area of the followng Seafarers in the *uity of employment have been On the direct regulation of tices economic action at the point Baltimore hospital with $3.00: is doing all it can to help those hours of duty, the proposals also agreed. Michael Walsh, Edmond L. people in the sections affected These ar^ designed to provide of production to force the opera­ provide for the operation of a tors to live up to contracts and Cain, W. Giles, William Bennett, by this blast. normal working day and the ab­ greater regularity of employ­ contractual conditions. In the event the future does Stan Rowe, C. Storf, O. Wheeler, olition of arrival and sailing ment and some payment to sea­ show that any SIU men were in­ This doesn't mean by any Wlliam J. Anderson, Paul Carlos. day clauses,' with payment for farers while awaiting appoint­ volved, every assistance will be stretch of the imagination, how­ I. Stone, C. Smmons, John Ap­ all hours worked in excess for ment to a ship. ever, that we are going to let given by this Organization to ple, Peter Lopez, W. Sauto and (International Transport ratings and extra leave for of­ the families concerned. some screwball or union saboteur Ernest Sidney. Workers Federation) ficers. "REPORT, British Seamen Negotiating For New Working Agreement Three Crews Contribute $44 Hospitalized �rtWay. April 25. 19^ WallStBnws Before UFE; Will Arbitrate THS Page To"' - *rew SavedAs Great Isaac, ioran WOran Tug, 6, Sinks In Crash . , KEW YORK ,g Gre&t and hot CO ec men. SOCKS distributed J",he New Jer- the eies of clothing --e^djti The ^ ^^%rZ-t v IRCV she was,^. eY coast sooi i. . representing ^,joe presiWilliam A. . Confe'c.°^W^o^• k^'e r s International tioneiy representing labor. '''°'Vn\rof blankets were "T"'the atari of negotiations r,v A M. Kidder, rethe company, A. -hitration. fused to would This obstinate poarOoh^ have led to jkStock, Cuib, union conchanges, since -r^^ug Kidder tended that i^^Xotual bewould have been me cause ol the PPae'b^ty 1 acting business thiougi raf AS sonal effects. i-cturned '%r'5^»0^^o„i^Bandehhnte The Seafaji to Pier 6, East gft^.-noon the Bande.rant ^--'^'°V'^C0.nPany"-'following the SlU V„"* TaTTst".c« New Votk went immediate > and lifeboats Hall to «!"' u io,, representa- for Cuba. •"i'taki "towly the coast HonIn"ecu.°U contponsation tot iZit. day afte,- the crash. N, o •Merman Hardel, Adrian Jonas (laHl. f'sa personal cHoc'a Sealarets Adrian j, „ orew -whoso P Mossnran, aro.pp. Thoy wore » ""'.'"""rhfram"'"'the time of tne r- The Patrolmen Say- r fertSoMo'tnsa engine TTe generousity of fhrshi;-- adoard the Jflorts of "j,''jBe'"rash''were 'To"ate™When he spotted ° tug he signalled for eed astern. Seafarer [•ooklyn, ^•^••. as on r°TfhVc°reTo^he members ° j^r their """-5r;r!o:n r, ;",tireVlislon oe- ^,,o tie room wheri ttec trrcd. told «hc ^^^ ho ex- ro„h our bomes core able a'm '"T", ther was plenty of loded as thei team" caused by ^othhead and ng through the b^ ;plashing up on „ "The lights w geafarer, "™''.T,t -tm on •oi' "and I T poriside bulkI looked to Ibe P m head and saw watei at me. rieht out of • T hot-footed It , i,;- he there and went up on Albert McCabe. °»»- fiund our families Alfonso (Sandy) Sandino Feustino (Tino) Pedraso Isaac's -9-%7"";,^erienced crash occurred. occurred; exp__ ggrs crash his first mishap m r .hoard Moran tugs. • Usten. you cmP^T'hf sriX '"-ecrew— The orewmeinhm — ^hXy'can't stand 1 contacted the under mutual Stock """" V i"S^ csn-t stand a 1 mission to P^\|. could fly m -n; io -that he could t.y oTrikc. -e a strike. Jbey They iuri J ^ d-Cial. I For 1947 Season "" On " 6reat Lak •or lUf ,ckes to blast furtfkAAIt The -ar i5« .„.m lin Iff K21L nmving to 1 down the ttXc^sSn:,^mgh— murk shrouded opera.T criW calmly inwer- campaign on on the Lrihrs ^ As- and a quick payo man, he was met with torrent want. of abuse. 1 "Sure, I'R draw," cause it m .,nd every commod^ won't 1 should close u^yuld close. R best liberal eduea- rZrrto bottoms in ' * the large -Mlir number pue to th ,1 ships in ,j hoots Iwhff fnhois about_^J^^/-Tc 'T "on S»rf«s. tha H.W " " scbedvlP of bouts on a new sbippitg. for hours are: From The new '"""^p^day from p. day from 10 f° ®' of the iron or every ten b:rofofXm:fn the united States. STOCK PILING , a FViat 75,000,000 _ JaSirrrbehreught why. Be- e Arnerican rich. P.T'! Snck have. Assuming "NP' "f tfcoast Guard and Exchange and it (charges to^tbe Coas^^^^^ ,„hange^ah^ I you'fr forfeit all wages ma e change and th wouldn't wringing its ^uring the voyage. ,, at- ton Exchanges clos ^^^^^^ make one hit of a g^s exshocked by ^be Cap as _ the L^ude, the ,.5 cabin, business unufactured, peddling Lemher left tbe to country. Tf'er the When Y^hen the worn g"^ „Mtimers ol^^timers ^any automobiles ma would crew, some of the r e w"ouun-t he one "r'auSy no'ided the dbocd- The r ^as aboard ^^^^ard events, of events. pound less 01 ^rti"t-iefs ^meTab aold- "f^°pgeulating, gambling tell it. 1 war dispatcMU |this ficial this speculat™^^^e,^ spe ^^^^dn't hurt Sif'andffte/a short lecture t^.-oir^nCQ IS. f^Lrp^ii. mAT.r.'uirtbrTB UnclGiiGcd 663** trrm%eratim^^^^^^ aS^ii f 1 teU ^ y ^ ^ industry wil carry micieub - - - »b= '.3 -:. "1„rr:f ^ _J 1receivingeverything you LCA is . While tbe LCA ^^ hands over tbe hug McCabe saW the ckpcctaUo^^^^ „a,urally, proi»s. pected to D&C Lines, which a tale of Seafarers jage drive them out ..anrTthe. -TTUrngT^ -CA, the BadTo'a pSetime „cord record - -' T, ThVir clothing. ed to handle a P freight, son on Lake Erie. nus parts ^^as of 160 ''^bllioii tm ^3 man ^ seas and an increase ^vhich was the ugh on the made e men ^biveic^^ Bandeirante, hig^esryca: in peacetime hisicir way cearchlightaear bi uided by hei umhed Jacob's ''"H is expecWd^^that,^^^^^^^^^ The rded the .Normonths m jjg.„ ;Sa? ?«i^"er where they B.P9%b ^ J'isid to call with a f°'""J?„ing the record York Hall notify '.oaf the lakes bad 589 HEW HOURS I tract yy'idm „ p p o r t was also T»Tr Mv noiTiina- i oniion and one NEW ^ORK meanest 1 pledged for this seamen 'es%o tbe Master of thousand whKc •skipper goes „ jfjc Tankers, were ready fo necessary, the SS Echota ^.^^^Nines as oon n His treatment o for Another hoo ^n her who bad credit employes moi^^ Former leaving the ship tbe unexpected ^ .^uardia, to a man /ntiustea York ^ f ular Sunday command of a g into speaking on the employes of When the Echota Paied mto in transit, ' one o c^tnck. Cotton, i.„„oiicp Bayonne. tn « . J o^ telosvsn'i brothers re^jvo ^irn fSe'l-k Chant:'hrms can-t from bis fam J died -and stand a strike. r,d'lc''buNed the following "DON'T BE AFRAID" rs. C?"- W^^w^uld like to lake McCabc of Qiler who tug's en- BEHIND THE SCENES ' ma; was probably inThe comPOPy " fluenced to oac happened ^''Tange and with the Cotton Exchang . SlU assistance. ^"e ^ ^ ^bnland el50whove^ ach.eve^ .World's w oria s Meanest SEATBAIN HAVANA CBEW —« was The following message was at the Galveston received e Seafarers Branch from who were enabled "J ^te's^hoTn" but the freight- 1 channels. company 1 Later, howevei, ^^.ged to ! changed its mmd ,„e make concessions wnicn J'cceptable to the unron. —— ' II0 TIC E1 °"he3, the Ban- n reSrt:ofDun and^Bradstree. Pl'^"7.;/the nights sleep, rtoSc.°anw/hu:.. with made ready 1° ^..jth two BOTdSante at 10:50 P>ta. The ,hove the water holes in 7:30 the next hne. stood b j^^„,an morning , «ead, arrived Woloo" in a tug. the Ttmidad^^Uty ship ^„hich the thick fogcrewmembers to toko o Thomas M. ^ towing. None of Worst Great Isaac 1 Maritime ,^Yere serious > vernie The Great Isaac a casualty ^ N.C.. ^vho Cross of Asn ^.^^ht "cnng a life- sounded . Al(rD.''whiWside, -e veceivcd ito^aP.,.^Cn«» heftippfefCem-'lhSS one hU. u,,, r);rr%7--> - "So don't be you're going t B ^^^i, ig ber got bB P^,^;^uneral. the national ecoplane m tim captain told ness of nr • the Due to it can be one case where nomy 01 the Q,. the the crewmernbei, , affected plainly seen fba having health or fbe -industry wouldnt cipating thejIea'U one bttle iota. public senthe tuinea^^^ With this type l^f«f'-VW.Sh:it Coast Goard funerak to attend his i^nut timent oxpre^ I knowledge fbat tha [ How low can a man SI •Tmwded bonatifirmly hohm prepared another? i, impossible » All ,,,„ .tory hod a happy Although riheko the J The company was to strike. The :rmL-th. will -apTam that things riurne^^ out l „ reverse .men, sU-ongiy lorcalio «versh'^1.; sTm^s^Tthrtrrbt rtX*o:^->.omovl. ,e owner, horn \ j.d. In e.„T,Te« collect krollect. , •„ Ltiil stands as the WO express v«»«4>ni Gaar ^SwiM. lest SkiPPor. «,iU be disposed *)f J / „ean-ltho Now York's finan- intrenched m 1 oonaaloslcial district. •;-k �Friday. April 25. 194T T HE S E AP ARERS LOC Page Fire Keeping Up Momie Of The 'Hello Girls' A picket line is the same sll over. It's walking up and down, around and around, covering the same route all day long until the strike is over. The two pictures above are of the telephone workers picket- lines, reinforced by white-capped Seafarers. On the left. New York, and on the right, Detroit. Members of the SIO on the Great Lakes took time out to demonstrate with their Brothers and Sisters who are Gree.t Lakes Seafarer Andy Heis demonstrating that' well' known unionsolidarity with an attractive Sister unionist from the striking Detroit Telephone Workers Union. More than 20 Seafarers marched on the line with the strikers;; It did a lot to keep their morale at a high pitch. trying to force the American Telephone and Telegraph Company to bargain honestly. It's a hard pull, but the telephone workers are assured of SIU support until the strike is over. The sign carried by the Seafarer in the picture says "White Caps Off To The Phone Workers." That's the way SIU members feel about the courage of the-men and women who, with little real union experience, are putting up a good fight against one of the richest corporations in the world. % % % Besides New York and De­ troit, Seafarers are also adding their might to other picketlines set up by the phone workers. Pictured here are scenes in New Orleans where a Coordin­ ate Strike Committee has been set up with SIU officials play­ ing a prominent part in the planning and strategy. On the right, leaders of the. picketline stop a minute to have their pictures taken. It was one of the few times they halted their marching all day. Left, a pret­ ty picketer stands near the bronze plate of the southern subsidiary of AT&T. The names of the companies are changed in different parts of the United States, but the control is the same. The unions have had to put up a real battle to keep their ranks solid, but in the face of many obstacles they are determined to fight this issue through to a successful conclu­ sion. i, 4, i. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 25. 1947 Houston Lives Up To Its Name As The 'Port With A Future' By CHARLES HAYMOND HOUSTON — The officials in this Port are getting a slight, .but well earned rest, after a few weeks of hectic shipping. So many ships have been crewed up down here that Hous­ ton is known to the Brothers who ship out of here regularly as the "Port With The Future." The activity of the past few weeks has slowed down some­ what, but when least expected the mad rush will start all over again. Let it, as we are always ready for anything that happens. So many of the oldtimers are coming in now that the Hall is beginning to look like a junior Snug Harbor. of bushes and stuck a rod in his ribs. He asked the seaman for his money, and the fellow answered that he didn't have any dough. The • thug then asked, "What union do you belong to?" The man answered, "The NMU." Whereupon the bandit shrug­ ged his shoulders, and said. Aw. hell, the tin can shakers have already held you up. Here's a buck, sailor. Go have a beer on me." There's more truth than poe­ try to that one. An oldtimer in from Balti­ more last week informed every­ one that on April 7 he had marked 30 years as a seaman. Another oldtimer stepped up quietly and informed all present that he had started sailing in 1905, and in all that time had never belonged to any but AFL Unions. On leaving the Hall, he turn­ ed to the fellow who started the whole business, and said, "So long, youngster." Brothers, what does that make us who have been sailing for only ten to fifteen years? LCA Floods Lakes With Now Men NO NEWS?? In Attempt To Stop Seafarers Silence this week from Ihe Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: BALTIMORE SAN JUAN SAVANNAH CHICAGO JACKSONVILLE CftARLESTON MOBILE By HENRY CHAPPELL TOLEDO — Despite the var­ ious moves of different legislat­ ive bodies, nati'onal and state, and despite all kinds of anti­ union propaganda in the press and on the radio, the SIU organ­ izational drive rolls merrily along. Proof of this lies in the fact that the SIU has already pet­ itioned the NLRB to conduct elections in five different com­ panies. Once these unorganized Lake.s seamen see hovv SIU ships are run, and how SIU crewmembers are protected by SIU contracts, job security and competent union representation, they want to be­ come SIU members. They want contracts with everything written down, not the empty promises of the ship­ owners which are constantly broken. Most of these unorganized Lakes outfits find out what the SIU men are receiving in the line of pay, and then they come out with the same. However, all of this is chiselled back from the men in the overtime that they are gypped out of, and the inferior conditions under which they are forced to work and live. Only an SIU contract guar­ antees SIU conditions. HUNTER HUNTED The Brother with the Pepsodent grin, Mickey Wilburn, the The deadline for port re­ Dispatcher, turned up a real Sad ports, monies due, etc., is the Sack recently. It seems* that Monday proceeding publica­ Mickey and a few of the Broth­ ers decided to go coon hunting. tion. While every effort will The Brothers got the coons, be made to use in the current but Mickey was treed by a LCA SCHEME issue material received after North Pole Kitten, and a sharpIn a desperate effort to sty­ that date, space commitments shooting one at that. He got a mie the Seafarers' organizational generally do not permit us to dose of perfume that was not program on the Great Lakes, do so. manufactured in Paris. the Lake Carriers Association Even after bathing in Life­ has resorted to the usual tac­ buoy Soap, when he came into tics of going inland, advertising the Hall the next day 28 Book in the local papers, and trying members, 17 tripcard men, and to recruit men for their ships. one permit man took a whilT of They cry about the shortage the aroma and slowly left the The long distance phone strike of men on the Lakes and tell pear that there wll be any ap­ By JOHN MOGAN building. preciable let-up to the current is still on, and the local girls of the high wages which may BOSTON — Shipping and boom. The only break we are are doing all right. A tarpaulin muster was taken, be earned, as bait for their and enough money was collected business continue to boom in getting is that some of the Another strike close by the hooks. to buy five ounces of Christmas the Port of Boston and in the Waterman ships, which were The LCA wants a surplus of outports up this way. The Sim­ scheduled to get their cargoes Hall is that of the Warehouse­ men, who have been picketing men on the Lakes so that they mons Victory and the Billings in Maine ports, have been di­ the Quincy Market for some can hammer down the wages of Victory (Watermans) paid off verted and will take on pota­ time, with no signs of a break the organized men, cut their in Maine ports, the former in toes and wheat in Boston in­ yet. conditions, and break the union Portland and the latter in Sears- stead. But the telephone strike has if possible. This is an old port. This development will not an­ a direct effect on the SIU in scheme of the Steel Trust and The Niantic Victory and the noy Patrolman Jimmy Sweeney, that the bills for the Union other open shop operators, and Wacosta Victory (both Water­ who has been up in Maine so branches this month should be will fail through the active op­ man) paid off in Boston. Both much recently he has acquired practically nil. position of the SIU. of these latter ships had been what would pass for a State of Well, that about ends the re­ The SIU can and will force out four months, and the beefs Maine accent. port from Boston from this the LCA to live up to all safety were piled high on them. Then, also, the passenger ships week. So long as everything laws and government regulations However, everything was set­ on the Yarmouth run will be - VcteofiT goes as well with shipping and whereby certain lengths of ser­ tled satisfactorily, including a starting soon (the Evangeline is business as during the past few vice time must be proven before ^ . ... ,., beef on the Wacosta concerning now on delay), plus the excur­ weeks, it is still safe to. adver­ new men can perform certain Night perfume, which was Iiber. , , ..r „ • J J TT 1, I the Mate working on deck with sion boats to Nantasket and the tise to the membership that one duties aboard the ships. ally sprinkled around the Hall. ' . . i « loo A VAA, u J iv/r- 1 the gang — for a total of 188 moonlight sails. can almost take his pick as to A little was showered on Mick- , The SIU was in the vanguard hours. So it looks like a busy sum­ type of ship, run, color of mate's of fighting for these safety laws, ey. The old Tristam Dalton (Bull) mer season for everybody. hair, etc. and we'll make sure that no ALL POLITICIANS was rechristened the Rosario, And for a special few, it can phony outfit like the LCA takes Everybody in this neck of the j called for a full crew and sailed also be advertised that the nags them away from us and enwoods runs for Senator, but — but short about four men. All/ ^A\/ORir^ are running at Suffolk Downs! dangers the lives of the seamen. The Jean (Bull) is berthed in even in this land of Lee (Pass the biscuits, Pappy) O'Daniel, a St. Johns, N.B., still calling for an Oiler. new record has been set. All the other stuff in transit In this district a State Sen­ ator was called to meet the seems to be sailing light and. Great Redeemer, and so a spec- unfortunately, even after the ial election has been set to fill Patrolmen determine that there are jobs available, and say jobs the vacancy. By FRANK MORAN Well, Brothers, here's the rub. are posted on the board, there BUFFALO—The vessels which ships were not what they were Forty-five candidates announced are still no takers. were ready to inaugurate the led to believe. their intention of running for JOBS GO BEGGING 1947 failing season from the Various members of these office, two dropped out, leaving Rated jobs are still going beg­ Port of Buffalo have been forced crews, notably among the un­ a field of one female, and fortyThe manpower problem with two rolling pin catchers—males ging on the ships which paid regard to rated men in becoming to remain at their Winter moor- rated men, have been forced to off here. ngs for a while longer owing to quit their jobs because of the to you. At this writing it doesn't ap- acute. How long shipping will a shortage of fuel. slave driving tactics employed Not one of the candidates has continue at its present rate is come out openly and endorsed Impatient ship Masters, who by the lords and masters of naturally a question mark; but these vessels. labor. Perhaps they believe, if transfers to foreign registry would have made an early at­ JOIN SIU like O'Daniel, that the working are forbidden — and these trans­ tempt to force a passage through These fellows constantly drop man can get along okay on a fers of American ships are be­ the ice barrier at the breakwall, Department Delegates into the SIU hall to find out pair of overalls and $1.50 per ing fought by the Maritime have been prevented by the should check to see that all what they could do about it. We day. Trades Council and will be shortage of bunker coal. overtime is turned in 72 hours pointed out to them that by They ought to be ashamed of fought to a finish — there is no before the ship is scheduled To plow a passage into Lake joining a fighting organization themselves fbr pretending that reason to believe the SIU will Erie and then run out of fuel like the SIU-AFL and helping to dock. But this does not labor doesn't exist. The AFL is suffer any hardship. mean to hold the overtime half way to then destination to bring these ships under the down here to stay, and is be­ until then. POSITION SOUND. was a situation which the Skip­ Seafarers' banner, that they can coming more and more import­ pers would not care to face. As soon as penalty work We have not been as reckless remedy these conditions. ant in the picture. is done, a record should be as other unions in the issuing Somewhat heartened by look­ In covering the local water­ PITY NMU MEN given to the Department of books, , so that our position front here, we've run into a ing over different SIU contracts Here's a story we heard that head, and one copy held by today is a sound one — provid­ number of disillusioned crews which cover Lakes companies, we would like to pass on. It the man doing the job. In ed we can fulfill dur present who have found out that steam- these unorganized men left the seems that a seaman was walk­ that way there is less chance agreements. This is our prob­ boating on the Great Lakes and SIU hall resolved that the next ing down a dark street when a for things to get fouled up. lem at the moment, and a prob­ the conditions under which they ship they shipped on would one gunman jumped out of a clump lem which is fairly easy te solve. work and live on unorganized day shortly be in the SIU. No Sign Of Shipping Slump In New England Area I J Ships Ready To Move At Buffalo; Wait Only For Full Fuel Supply On Overtime �Friday, April 25. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG TWO VIEWS OF THE SEATftAIN NEW YOHK Page Seyea Write, Don't Go Off To Buffalo For A Berth By ALEX McLEAN BUFFALO—Although we still have miles of ice from Buffalo Harbor far into the blue of Lake Erie, the vessel.*! here are all humming with activity. AH hands ore aboard, and they're rarin' to go. All forward and aft end men aie aboard the four Browning ships at Erie. Pa., and .Sonoma is crewed up at Port Colborne, Ontario. These pictures of the Seatrain New York were sent in from Philadelphia, where the vessel was crewed up. Four Seatrains are in operation at this time, plying between New Orleans and New York. All four ships crewed up in Philadelphia, since the work of converting them was done in Chester, Pa. But there is little likelihood that any one of them will ever see Philly again. Soon Havana, Cuba, will be added to the run, and that sounds like a good trip for all Seafarers who like the land of rum and coke, end then into New Orleans for that famous cook­ ing. ' USS Tries Canshaking In Philly But Past Record Is Against Them GOOD FEEDING The fit out crew is now aboard the SS Canadian, and Steward Freeman Bradley should be able to turn out some fancy cooking on his new oil burning range. By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — There was a little fire in the United Sea­ men's Service hotel here last week, and the USS officials are trying to put the arm on seamen to raise money for repairs. We can all remCmber that the USS played ball with the NMU, and has always been antagonistic toward the SIU. In order to got a loan from that outfit a man had to get a slip signed by the Port Agent, certifying that the applicant is a deserving meniber. The USS was informed time and again that signing such slips was against the policy of the SIU, but they always had a smirking smile for a reply. Good Shipping Gleans Out Port Arthur If some of ihe rated men in some of the other ports would drop me a card with their name and address. I might be able to ship them in the near future. This doesn't mean to pack up I your gear and head for Buffalo. Contact me first, and I'll let you know the details. Now the shoe is on the other foot, and we would like to see how they feel being told that the SIU "men, will not allow bumming aboard SlU-contracted ships. When the USS was at the height of its power, it didn't need the SIU, and all over the world the Pilot was given a place of honor, while the LOG was buried or thrown out. The best idea is for SIU mem­ bers to keep their dough in their "LONGING FOR THE SEA" could bg the name of ibis picture. And Daniel Flintjer, shown above, may be doing ex­ actly that. Dan is an oldtime seaman, who is retired at this lime. He is a professional photographer, and took the two pic­ tures above and pictures for the Philadelphia Branch. Now the problem is, who took this picture of Dan Flintjer? • The bod}' of Brother Edward Kolukusky, Book No. 3901, was removed from Buffalo Harbor, and was shipped to his parents' home at Kingston, Pa. Payment of the S200 Burial Fund was made to his parents. As for the .SIU organizing cam­ paign in this Port, it is going along nicely under the able hands of Frank Moran, assisted by George llendrick. These fellows are doing their job so well that yours truly, is kept busy all day long answer­ ing one stock question, "Is this where I can join the SIU?" It means that most of the young sailors are union-minded, and are going for the union of their choice—the SIU! Great Lakes Seamen Responding To Invitation To Visit The Seafarers' Hail In Cleveland pockets, and let the chiselers do their can-shaking someplace else. Lakes completely organized un­ Kelly Island. They're regulars. By STANLEY WARES By LEON N. JOHNSON We have contacted all the un­ der the SIU banner. The SS Arrowhead, flagship of PORT ARTHUR — Most of ions along the waterfront in re­ CLEVELAND—With the first the Cleveland and Canada SS With SIU contracts. Lakes our business down here consists gards to the Panamanian busi­ month of the SIU organizing Company, .should be ready and seamen will have job security, of ships in transit which come ness, and their response is very drive now a matter of history, calling for a crew about the first' competent union representation, in to load or unload. Every heartening. We can expect their the response of the unorganized of next month. She'll start her job seniority, and the many good now and then, however, we get wholehearted support, especially Great Lakes seamen has been so daily run to Canada on May 15, conditions that come with an a big run on jobs, and before from the Longshoremen. good that it's a sure sign that and will be another addition to SIU contract. we kn,ow it every man on the Shipping is still good, and in it won't be too long before every the many Lakes vessels sailing Travelling along the river here beach has shipped. common with most other SIU ship on the Lakes will be sail­ under the SIU banner. That's the way it was in this Ports, we are short rated men. ing with SIU crews and under in Cleveland, you sure can tell As our organizing campaign that the 1947 season is well un­ past week, and from the looks SIU contracts. We expect to payoff three wins more and more jobs and der way. Out of the thirty odd of things, that's the way it's ships early next week, so if any­ Taking us up on our invitation ships laid up here all winter only members, it will be the exception going to continue for quite some body in the outports wants to to visit SIU halls and see for for a ship not to be an SIU con­ a handful remains. time. ship, Philly is the place for him. themselves how the SIU oper­ Some SIU contracted vessels tracted one. We're really on our Of course, we still have lots ates, and asking as many ques­ ALL SET ON BOYCOTT are visiting here quite regularly way now, and nothing's going to of ships that come in and go out tions as they like, is the very The crew of the Cape Breton, now. Among these are the Mead stop us from making the Lakes without taking on a man such thing that quite a few unor­ as the SS Murry M. Blum, the Bull Line, can collect 8 hours ganized seamen have been doing bringing autOT"from Detroit, and an SIU stronghold, with every the sand boats—the Hvdro and Lakes seaman a Seafarer. SS George Chaffey and the SS overtime for Good Friday, as it lately. Maiden Creek, which paid off in was a Longshoremen's holiday The door is still open for you I in Philadelphia. Call at the Bull Beaumont. fellows who haven't dropped in Line office in New York for the The SS Victory Loan blew in on us as yet. Stop by your near­ here after crewing up on the money. The beef regarding stowaways est SIU hall, and pay us a visit. "West Coast, and most of the By J. S. WILLIAMS Still up to their old tricks of crew got off and headed back working on deck of the SS Henry CORPUS CHRISTI — Between ers, and the Celilo, Pacific Tank­ W. Beecham, Waterman Steam­ luring young men to the Lakes home. To meet this emergency we ship" Corhpany, has also been with phony promises of good pay this Port and Brownsville, I ers, here in transit. Both ships had to scour every "relaxing settled. This money can be col­ and jobs, the Lake Carriers Asso­ have been kept moving as fast were covered and everything is shipshape aboard them. spot" in town, but we finally lected by writing to the com­ ciation is creating a surplus of as a weathervane in a high An Isthmian ship was in, and succeeded in getting together a pany's New York office, 19 Rec­ unrated men. wind. The William Carson put the entire crew is pro-SIU, just tor Street. full crew. After they get these fellows to in at Brownsville, and she final­ waiting for the big day when Now the town is deserted, at Brother Tilley, our Patrolman, the lakes, the LCA drops them ly set off for Germany with no the, SIU will be declared the least so far as merchant sea­ claims that the R. N. McNeeley, like a hot potato, and leaves beefs aboard. official winner of the bargaining men are concerned. We need South .'^.tlantic Steamship Com­ them on their own. The Miner C. Keith, Water­ election. men, so why not come down to pany, was the cleanest payoff SIU SECURITY man, also lit out for Germany With all that's happening, Port Arthur to ship out. that he has ever seen since he there isn't much time to write all squared away. The only way tkat this phony That last sounds like the became an official. He wants to reports, but we wil try to do In the tanker line, we had the Chamber of Commerce i^iel, commend the Delegates and practice can be stopped, and better, in the future. Wolf Creek, Los Angeles Tankstopped for good, is to have the doesn't it? crew. \ Corpus Christi Kept On The Hop �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Shipping Maintains Its High Pace In New York; Seafarers Have Their Choice Of Ships And Runs Friday, April 25. 1947 Gets Medal Douglas Crew Takes Action On Performers larger ship to handle the run New Orleans for an idenfinite ' to Bermuda when they start up period. NEW YORK — For over a again next year. With the wholesale withdraw­ month we've been reporting By JOHNNY JOHNSTON The Evangeline, Eastern, will al of ships from the boneyards, good shipping and a shortage of NEW ORLEANS — The SS rated men. Well, the flurry of be out of Boston and in opera­ some of the companies have Stephen Douglas, Mississippi tion about May 1, so, we can, called for crews for ships fresh shipping is still riding at high Steamship Company, paid off out of lay-up. Instead of hav­ expect her to absorb most of tide and the call for rated men here last week, and the crew ing the ships cleaned up and the Washington's Stewards De­ in the Deck and Engine Depart­ had everything in order and made shipshape, they want the partment. ments still stands. ship shape for the next gang. crews to sign on the same day The other Eastern vessel, the If you want to look them It wasn't left up to the heads they report aboard. over, New York is the place Yarmouth, is good for another of the departments to tell some Ships fresh from the boncyard where there is a good variety of two or three trips on the Nassau members of the crew that the ships and destinations to choose run and then she will be laid are always dirty and filthy and men who were going to stick insufficiently stored. How thej' from, so come on down and up in Boston for twenty days. with the ship would not sail expect us to take ships out in look over the bill of fare on the During her lay-up the Black with performers and gashounds. second deck. Gang quarters will be changed. such condition is beyond me, At the payoff, a meeting was Down on the waterfront, at This has been an old beef with but they keep right on trying held, and these so-called ship­ the point of production, the Pa­ this company, as the present to have us do it. Above is Thomas DiFazio. mates who got drunk in every trolmen have been kept on the quarters are small and during They should realize that we Chief Steward, with the medal poit and left their work to be ball paying off and signing on rough weather the portholes cannot go for our members cmd citation he was awarded done by other crewmembers cannot be opened for fresh air. signing on these scows until ships. for meritorious service during were told to hit the dock. they are cleaned up, and that We had the Purdue Victory, Some of them thought that the war. SAME FOR SISTER takes a hell of a lot more time Waterman, in port during the they would be able to make past week, and she was a fine another trip, and they felt that The Boston Agent is seeing to than one day. example of an SIU ship — no it that the same repairs will be they were getting a raw deal. SHIPPING RULES beefs and in fine shape. The A few of them are oldtimers Patrolmen reported that it was who have the idea that their Although the shipping rules a pleasure to pay her off. full books entitle them to do as are supposed to be thoroughly they please. But they found out understood by everyone, misAlso paid off during the week diffei-ently. takes and misunderstandings was the Span Splice, Alcoa. still occur at times. There were a few minor beefs ACTION URGED that were cleared up in quick Recently it was brought to Every ship that comes in here By RAY WHITE time. Other wise the Span my attention by the delegates of has something in the minutes Splice was in fine shape, and a ship in transit that a Patrol­ about fining the gashounds who NORFOLK-—Shipping in Nor­ 100 percent better than the last man told a man he could lake a folk is still booming. The lack stagger aboard ship just about time she paid off in New York. promotion without making a of rated men is a big problem, the time the shipping commisfull trip. but to date we have been able siont r is ready to leave. BACK TO GOVT. They come on roaring drunk, This was checked and it was to crew every ship efficiently The George Washington, which found to be an error, and that enough so they could be sailed. and then they demand that the Alcoa has been operating under the Patrolman had not made the The coal ships are beginning Patrolman foi'ce the Skipper to charter, is being turned back to promotion. to move again after a slow pay them off. the Maritime Commission by Brother Red Hancock was the No rated man can be piomot- down for the past two or three the company. The old ship has' made on the Evangeline before ed aboard ship unless he has months. Ship Delegate on the Douglas, seen a long string of operators she comes out of Boston. and he can be proud of the job made a full trip. If he is un­ This is good news to many of since the days she was run If none of the ships mentioned rated he must clear through the the local boys who usually have he did. down the ways for Eastern The New Orleans Branch als..above sound appealing to you, Dispatcher in the Hall. two or three gals waiting for Ste&mship Company in 1923. wants to take this opportunity to there will be a number of tank­ If these simple rules ai-e fol­ them in the foreign ports where thank Brother Hancock and The reports here have it that ers coming into New York dur­ lowed there shouldn't be any these ships touch regularly. Freimanis for the radio they Alcoa is looking around for a ing the coming week, so you There are four or five Moran trouble with this section of the donated to the Hall. men who have a passion for shipping rules. tugs sailing out' of here fre­ tankers will have plenty of jobs quently. These are good jobs, I've received a notice from the to choose from. homesteading them. Arnold Bernstein Steamship Of course, this doesn't apply The Seatrains have changed Company that the retroactive their Gulf port of Texas City pay covering the six per cent to the newcomer who happens since the terrible explosions and increase will be ready for pay- to snag one. He usually comes disaster. The Seatrains now find | ment on May 1, so hold off all back to the Hall complaining it impossible to hit that port applications to this company un- that somehow it's tough to keep food down after the vessel leaves and will make their stops at til that date. By STEVE CONROY the dock. That the "Brotherhood of the Maj'be these Brothers need ASHTABULA — With our or­ some of J. P. Shuler's seasick Sea" is not just a slogan, but is ganizational drive going along as a principle carried into practice? pills. per schedule in this port, the un­ by Seafarers at every turn was SAD. SAD STORY organized Lakes seamen are comdemonstrated once again this ,^ing in and signing up every day. Speaking of that brings back week with reports of contribu­ We just answer their questions, to mind a story, and 1 will use tions for the welfare of less for­ and show them how the SIU op­ a little bit of space to tell it. By PAUL WARREN tunate Brothers confined in mar­ erates, and they're convinced J. P. and 1 were on the same ine hospitals. DETROIT—Results of the Sea­ SS Wyandotte. These six ves­ ship, and after sailing, the pas­ that the SIU is their union, too. In Mobile, the crew of Al­ farers' intensified organizational sels will all be voted in the sengers rang continually for sea­ These fellows are really in­ coa's John H. Hollister turned in drive on the Great Lakes are near future. sick medicine. Shuler soon got $34.00 to be distributed among terested in SIU job security. beginning to pour in as crew tired of this, so he took .some their hospitalized Brothers. THEIR OWN CONTRACTS When it's pointed out to them after crew, aboard the ships of aspirin tablets, rubbed the name Crewmen contributing, according that SIU contracts give them the companies which we have al­ Tentative proposed contracts off, and sold them to the pas­ to the list received, were as fol­ right to fit out the same vessel ready petitioned the NLRB to have been circulated among the sengers. that they laid up the previous conduct elections on, register members of all Wyandotte and lows: Brother Eagleton, Rudy The surprising part of the Fall, they can sec one of the their approval of the SIU in no Huron ships, and they are being Keyvik, Cornell, Paedae, Silox, main benefits of SIU unionism. asked to criticize, suggest, or add story is that all the passengers H o r t o n , Christopher, Jordan, uncertain terms. to these proposals in any way felt a lot belter after taking the Campbell, George, Gill, Marshall, Most of them make some sort We are fully confident that the pills. That's "Doc" Shuler, all Ray Harris,' James Harris, J. F. of remark about the uncertainty SIU will win elections aboard they see fit. right. Under the Seafarers form of Dixon, Gavard, Crewes, Felix, of jobs aboard the open shop the ships of the Huron and Wy­ The affairs- of the Poi't are in the Chief Cook, Steve, J. H. ships, and how they are pushed andotte Transportation Compan­ union democracy, employees of good shape. We are now com­ Booker, Hickman, Burkett and around and forced to work un­ ies by a vote of 75 percent or the various unorganized com­ panies will help draft their new pleting plans to put into oper­ B. Musto. der poor conditions. better in favor of the SIU. contracts, and will be represent­ ation the recommendations of Also in Mobile, Seafarers R. They also remark about the Crewmembers of these ships ed on the negotiation commit­ the Agents Conference. Graham and W. J. Terry, serv­ Seafarers' full union representa­ have expressed themselves many Shipping for the future looks tees which sits down across the ing as a committee, collected tion of all members in their times as being in favor of a good, so come down to Norfolk $13.75 in behalf of men in hos­ bargaining table from the man­ beefs. short speedy election for the agement once the SIU is certi­ if you want to ship in a hurry. pitals from the following: L. Our Hall here in Ashtabula SIU with an SIU contract be­ fied as the bargaining agent. Galco, Newsome, D. M. Essary, Harbor, at 1027 Fifth, is now ing negotiated as soon as hu­ Raymond Graham, W. J. Terry, These unorganized Lakes sea­ functioning completely in all re­ manly possible thereafter. That's men will be a credit to the SIU "V. S. Marger, E. L. Meyers, R. spects, and we want all Seafar­ what they want, and that's what as new members, and certainly If you don'l find linen G. Varnon, "William Touley, E. ers and unorganized Lakes sea­ we're going to .see that they get! deserve a pat on the back for when you go aboard your L. Harvey, M. D. Penry, J. G. men to drop in on us at any time. There are two ships in the their militant rejection of the Halter, J. G. Harris, James Car­ ship, nolify the Hall at once. We're set up to service the Huron fleet—the SS S. T. Crapo LSA open shop conditions. Once roll. A telegram from Le Havre or members, and non-members are and the SS John W. Boardman. they're iri the SIU, they don't The Port of Boston reports Singapore won't do you any invited to drop in, a.sk any ques­ In the "Wyandotte fleet, there are have to worry any more be­ contributions from Brothers F. good. It's your bed an(l you tions, look the place over—and four vessels—the SS Alpena, SS cause they'll have SIU contract Bonnell and R. Matthews for have to lie in it. jojn up, if they wish. Conneaut, SS Huron, and the protection. men in the Marine Hospital. By JOE ALGINA Coal Ships Add To Norfolk's Shipping Boom New SIU Hall Functioning Well in Ashtabula Mobile, Boston Men Remember Hospitalized Unorganized Lakes Seamen Help Draw Up Proposed SIU Contracts . ATTENTION! �Friday, April 25, 1947 Marcus Hook A Fertile Field For The AFL By BLACKIE CARDULLO / THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine- Tatnpa Labor Girds For Fight With Open-Shop City Officials By SONNY SIMMONS Volunteer Organizers TAMPA — This labor-hating have all the men we need to man state of Flojida is trying to lead the ships down here, so each the country in the number of time we have to crew up a ves­ anti-union injunctions that are sel, it's a nip and tuck affair. being granted. But somehow, when the ship Through the Attorney General, sails, there are always sufficient Tom Watson, any injunction that men aboard to sail her. limits labor's rights is automat­ Of all the Branches, Tampa ically granted, even if it violates has the longest waterfront to the principles of the Constitu­ cover. Miami is 280 miles, Boca tion at the same time. Tom Watson, whose activities are well,known to the readers of the LOG, is continually harp­ ing on the advantages of the open shop. Every time he makes a speech before a Chamber of Commerce group, the newspa­ pers give him big quotes, and ne really eats it up. He has his eye on advancing himself to the Governor or may­ be even Senator, and he is sat­ isfied to this b.y stepping on the backs of the working men. If he achie\'es his ambition, labor in this state should hang its Gi ancle is 110 miles. Port Tampa 17 miles. Seddcn Island is an head. We ai'e banding together for out of the way place that has a finish fight, and everybody no transportation, so when talk­ from Tom Watson down is going ing about Tampa lemember the to have a battle at the next long stretch of waterfront. elections. Now there are several ships That means that Mayor Hixon. making the Seaboard docks for the Chief of Police, and all the phosphate, and that is a bad spot other guys who have given labor to get to. but we manage to a hard time here, are going to make e'cety ship that touches this Port. be fought tooth and nail. A long boyhood friendship MARCUS HOOK—From rer^'dmade Robert Morris, Oiler, and ing the reports of the success of Gilbert Clark, FWT, decide to the SIU in Marcus Hook in or­ go to sea together, but it was ganizing the seamen and in gain­ good militant unionism that ing the support of the towns­ made them decide to ship out people during our strike, one on an unorganized vessel. would believe that this is a solid Robert started sailing three union town. years ago, during the war. He The unfortunate truth is that made many runs to England and it is far from being that. Italy, and took his share of the Although the people in general sub attacks and bombing raids. are very sympathetic to us and He still has his fingers crossed are union-minded, in reality, the when he remembers how much number of unionists in Marcus luck was needed to come Hook is very small. There is a through all that without being crying need for unions in this wounded. city by the sea. About a year ago Bob went In Marcus Hook, the bartend­ home for a vacation. Like most ers and waitresses are unorgan­ ized, which is strange—for these groups are usually solidly union­ ROBERT MORRIS ized. In Wilmington, Del., the taxi It's sure true that an SIU ship drivers are without a union, in is a clean ship." fact, in Wilmington there are no OLD SALTS NOW unions of any importance out­ When questioned about their side of the Longshoremen and future plans, both stated defin­ Teamsters. itely that they expect to con­ This area is fertile ground for tinue sailing for many years to unions. The -people are definite­ come. ly interested and they showed "I can't quit," said Bob. "I their true spirit when, during tried to after a trip a while the 1946 SIU General Strike, all back, but I found myself back establishments from the highest on a ship within a few weeks, to the lowest threw open their and I was happier than when I NEW SCHEDULE INTO THE CAN facilities for our use. was on the beach." There is a definite need for The P&O Florida is down to The Chief of Police wants to "It's the same with me," chim­ the AFL in this town, and if ed in Gil. "After one trip I de­ run for Sheriff, but he has made such a schedule that it will be the AFL should come in here it cided that I would miss the sea it a practice to toss workers necessary to make her only would be the best thing that into the can for taking a few every two weeks, instead of if I ever left it now.'' ever happened to these people. Both Bob and Gill have prov­ beers, and his record of pushing every week as in the past. GILBERT CLARK It's a cinch the unions would en themselves to be good sea­ around pickets will lose him This will mean a big saving receive complete cooperation in seamen he comes from a little men, and good SIU members. plenty of \'otes' in the coming for the organization now that their organizational drive. town, far inland. In ths case it They both are certain that the election. the Miami Hall has been closed He sees the handwriting on SIU is the best Union for sea­ is Eldorado, Illinois. down. To make the Florida, WHERE, OH WHERE the wall, and he is a very un- takes three days, one going men. and they are prepared to He got to talking to his buddy, Shipping, wc are happy to re­ happy guy. there, one spent doing the job, port. is excellent. We're in need Gilbert Clark, and was so en­ do all in their power to in­ Port busine.ss is hitting on all and the third day for the re­ crease the strength and power thusiastic about the life of a of men, but where they will twelve cylinders now. We don't turn trip. come from is beyond us, for it seaman, that when he left to of the Seafarers. ship |out again, his buddy was We're sure glad to be able to seems good shipping is the story with him. cut it down to every other week in eveiV port. They went to Norfolk where from here on in. An example of the acute short­ All hands down this way are age of men in Marcus Hook is Gilbert got a tripcard, and then enthused about the outcome of illustrated by the case of Char­ he started waiting around for a ship. Bob could have sailed any the Agents' Conference and the lie Simmons. time since he had a full book, Convention. Isthmian is also Charlie came into town for a By ED LARKIN but he preferi-ed to wait for his a popular topic of conversation, week-end vacation from the Bal­ partner. MILWAUKEE — The Port of If this had been an SIU ship. and with the many sm.all com­ timore Marine Hospital, but he panies that have come under our Milwaukee looks okay, and the the men would have received couldn't convince the Dispatcher TRY FOR ISTHMIAN ships are starting to come in now. overtime for their work, and I banner in the past months, the that he was just in town on a Finally they had a long talk, visit. As a result the Dispatcher and the upshot was^ that they Crews aboard the ships in the doubt that they would have had fellows have plenty to talk Harbor will be glad to s'tart mov- to paint the stack. Since the about. tried his darnest to shanghai decided to try for an Isthmian ing again, and to get on the move Trust ships aren't organized, 19 Charlie aboard a ship. ship so as to be together, and do is their main objective. men quit their jobs. ASK CHARLIE what they could to organize Organizing is going well here. Police in this town have been I've always been telling you Isthmian. I ran into a poor unorganized giving the boys off the ships a Their first couple of attempts what a swell town Marcus Hook bad time. Here's the way it guy off the SS Ireland of the is. Some guys may have doubt­ were met by failure. But they works out: The ships are laid up Wilson SS Lines, one of the ships ed it, but if you doubt it ask kept right at it, and finally one near Jones Island, and the onlv docked here, and he was forced Charlie Simmons. As for the day they were assigned to a shTp By W. H. SIMMONS near place that the fellows can to pay out over $75 for dental girls — ask Charlie Simmons by the Isthmian representative go to down a few is on East Bay bills. " SAN FRANCISCO — Shipping in Norfolk. again. When I asked him "Why didn't in this old Gold Coast port is Street. During the trip, which was to For some time it has been Well, the cops wait until every­ you get a hospital ticket from still good, and anyone wanting evident that wo need a new Hall India and return, the two volun­ one is beginning to feel good, and the Old Man or the Chief En­ to ship can come on out. in Marcus Hook, but it looks teers signed up a total of six He replied that the then they come down to make gineer?" Business in general, however, like we will be doing business men. One, who had been an the pinch. It costs around $5 to company wasn't responsible for jg pretty slow with activity havNMU member, was so impressed in the same spot for awhile. such things. ing tapered off a bit. We're All attempts at finding a new by the facts given him by Bro­ get out once they pick you up. After working for Wilson for These men are not bothering any­ looking for better times to show Hall have been fruitless. 'Some ther Morris, that he turned in some time this was the kind of up shortly. one, and they are down on the his NMU book, and signed an people think an apartment is waterfront by themselves. It treatment that he received. He In this port this week was hard to find, but let them try to SIU pledge. had to work all day. go to the the .SS Cornell Victory, a Water­ should be stopped. Since then both men have find a Shipping Hall in a town In addition, there's been a few dentist at night, and foot the bill man tub in from Baltimore with of no great size like Marcus made another trip together, and men followed back to their ships, himself. a good militant crew aboard. here are Bi'other Clark's reac­ Hook. and when they come to a de-1 Well. I told Inm about SIU,She also brought in a few beefs On the organizational front we tions: "Boy," he said, "what a dif­ serted spot, they get jumped on; representation, and how we settle which we have to iron out. are contacting about two or It seems as though the Skip­ three Isthmian ships a week. We ference between organized and and rolled for the few measly' our beefs. Now he is one of us. It won't be long now until bucks they have left. per wants to get rich quick, esunorganized ships. Now we have are keeping them well covered The Steel Trust has about 19 these open shop outfits are forced pecially on his slopchest prices. a voice in our own affairs, and with literature and copies of the ships laid up at Jones Island, and to treat their men like human Coupled with this beef is one we are not at the mercy of the latest SEAFARERS LOG. As they really work the hell out of beings. They've been pushing the on the food, rated by the crew officers or the company." long as Isthmian sails ships into their men. During a .snowstorm unorganized men around for too as being bum—nothing to cause Bob echoed this, and added, this port, you can rest assured any excitement, however. We'll the other day, they had the Black long now, and the SIU will make "It seems to me that on organ­ that we will cover them. P.S. Hello Muggins. How are ized ships the men take more Gang painting the stack. It fi-' certain that they clean up these square away these Cornell Vicyou doing? Why don't you write of an interest in the woi-k, and nai'v got so bad that the men conditions when we have them tory beefs in the good old SIU 1 under an SIU contract. ' style. in keeping everything shipshape. quit. and say hello? Unorganized Milwaukee Seamen Get The Business From All Sides Frisco Shipping Is Still Good �THE Page Ten SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 25, 1947 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Crew Puts Out Blaze On Nordhoff At Sea DECK GANG ON THE SS MALDEN VICTORY A raging fire in the No. 4 freight hold of the SS Charles Nordhoff while enroute to Trinidad recently was brought under control by an efficient crew of Seafarers before aid arrived from Norfolk, Va. A boarding party from the?———— „ „ , shifted, were sent out immcaCoast Guard cutter Cherokee, jg^gjy which had been dispatched from FOUGHT FURIOUSLY the Virginia port, found the fire Meanwhile, the SIU crew ba'had been extinguished when it tled the flames furiously witn went aboard the Nordhoff at 3 water and live steam. Also stored in the No. 4 hold a. m. April 5, the morning follow­ ing the outbreak of "the blaze. were 65 drums of grease, 220 The cutter met the troubled ves­ drums of lubricating oil, about sel as she lay anchored off Old 2,000 pieces of pipe and four heavy motor trucks. Point Comfort. One of the Coast Guard cut­ NONE HURT ters dispatched to the Nordhoff No casualties were reported in gave up and returned to its base at Cape May, N. J., when she the incident. found it impossible to reach the The Coast Guard cutter Agassiz, sent from Norfolk to aid the A^^oa vessel before it arrived at^ Nordhoff, met the burning ship, ^ irginia capes. 50 miles off Cape Henry and I A deyelopriient w-hich occurred escorted her into Thimble Shoal,^he Nordhoff was being where the Cherokee took over. towed into port added a light touch to the sea drama. When it The 7,176-ton Nordhoff, oper­ was thought the fire had reated by the Alcoa Steamship kindled an alarm was sounded Company and carrying five pas­ and five fire-fighting vessel sengers and a crew of 39, was were called to ship's assistance. bound from New York to Trini­ Tears welled in the eyes of the dad and Venezuelan ports when Nordhoff men at the thought of the fire broke out among 320 more damage to their ship. bags of carbide, in the No. 4 On investigation the suspected hold, it was reported. blaze turned out to be steam Among the crack crew which brought the Waterman vessel in ship-shape from voyage No. 2 for the payoff in New Orleans were the men pictured above. Front row, left to right: Jerry Palmer, Deck Delegate: Sulo Salimen, OS: Tony Skilman, AB and I. Glendez, Bosun. In the rear, left to right: Joe Schweinfus, Deck Maintenance: Don Rood, AB: W. Wilmot, AB: W. Loll, OS, and Gerald Byrnes, AB. Brother Palmer reported a highly successful trip. At the payoff the men were compli­ mented on the clean condition of their quarters by the New Orleans Patrolmen. Comparison Reveals Slopchest Inequities Their theme The crew aboard the Smith- pants too long." Radio calls for help, reporting coming from about 30 tons of Thompson, South Atlantic, isn't song is; "Chandler, you made the that the cargo between decks had I onions in the hold. yelling, "Sam, you made the prices too high." According to the minutes of a shipboard meeting held recent­ MEMENTO OF MEETING WITH DANISH LIGHTHOUSE ly, the crew unanimously raised their voices in protest by expres­ sing fheir complete dissatisfac­ tion with the tariffs asked for commodities on the slopchest list. At the meeting the crew went on record as being "dissatisfied with the volume and prices of slopchest goods and the lack of sufficient warm clothing for a winter trip." ACTION The 7,607-ton Waterman vessel, the SS Blue Island Victory, pictured shortly aiter she plowed into the concrete base of the Drogden Lighthouse in the Oeresund, south of Copenhagen/ Den­ mark, last winter. Coal Ship McBtirney Had 'Wonderful Trip' The honorable mention award of the week goes to the crew of the coal ship, Robert R. McBurney, Overtakes Freight Corpora­ tion, which has just c mpleted a voyage to the coasts- of sunny France. The crew, bemoaning the fact that seldom do they see a writeup of a coal ship, mention that they had a wonderful trip, ex­ cellent cooperation from all de­ partments and topside, and no fights or beefs aboard when the ship hit the states. With honors being bestowed upon "the officers, unsurpassed for merit of courtesy and coop­ eration," and garlands to the "swell eggs in the Stewards De­ partment,". the crew assures one Not content to just register their disapproval, the crew de­ cided to do something about the sad state of affairs. A motion was passed to "bring the slop­ chest prices to the attention of the shipping commissioner befoffe the pay off, and if possible, get a refund on the overcharge. " With the adoption of this new and untried tactic of beating the ship" eard swindle pn slops, the crevv voted to send a copy of the inventory to the SIU headquar­ ters in New York. Interestingly enough, with the receipt of the Smith-Thompson slopchest list, the crew of the Roswell Victory also submitted a copy of the slopchest prices aboarji their ship. A comparison of the two lists gives an interesting picture of the inequities in supplying ships, for while the prices asked aboard the Smith-Thompson are high, the prices aboard the Roswell Victory are even higher on some items. and all that anyone sailing aboard the McBurney can be certain of an excellent trip. The shipboard delegates, who had much to do with the fine state of affairs aboard the Mc­ Burney, were Thomas Kustas, EXAMPLES Engine; Douglas B. Patterson, A few examples point this up Acting Stewards Department, very well. Aboard the Smithand John 8. Clapp, Deck. Thompson, shoe laces sell for four cents, while aboard the Roswell Victory the shakedown is a dime—a difference of 60 per cent. On the Roswell Victory sou'westers are ten per cent high­ er and dungarees are up 15 per cent. Palmolive shave cream was listed at 25 cents on the Thomp.son and at 35 cents on the Ros­ well Victory—a difference in thissmall item of 25 per cent. The reason for protests aboard ships over the slopchest prices then becomes apparent: Why the great differences in slopchest prices when wages, hours and conditions are the same on all SIU ships? Abraham Baldwin Towed Into N.Y. Minus her rudder, which she lost 1900 miles east of New York on March 24, the SS Abraham Baldwin was berthed at Pier 6,. East River, last week after being towed into port by the ocean go­ ing tug Edmond J. Moran. The Moran tug reached the helpless Liberty ship and took her in tow on March 30. Another Moran tug, the Point Cabrillo, also arrived in New York with a propeller-less ship which she towed from a point south of the Azores. �Friday, April 25, 1947 THE SEAFARERS Page Eleven LOG SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief [SEAFARER SAM SAYS:] FIRMORE, March 4—Chair­ man Wheeler Fields; Secretary Edward Miller. Beef registered pertaining to the lack of many items in the stores. Good and Welfare; Fine drawn up for various offenses in messhell. Money collected to go to broth­ ers in the Marine Hospitals. Motion carried that coffee go­ ing to bridge and engine room should be obtained from Stew­ ard during his working hours. The coffee that is set out in the messhall shpuld be left there for the watches. Discussion and opinion that the Stewards Department is undermanned. Messman is obliged to do sani­ tary work and then handle food. Motion carried that the Steward post a date and lime for the exchange of linen to avoid confusion. i a. t GADSDEN. Feb. 12—Chair­ man Earl Cochran; Secretary T. Little. Delegates reported some disputed overtime in their departments. Old Business: Motion carried to have Engine Delegate find out why wash­ ing machine was not repaired. To report back at next meet­ ing. Motion carried to have Engine Delegate find out why bunk lights were not repaired as requested last trip. New Business: Motion carried to have a list compiled by the three delegates of all repairs, replacements, and beefs and to present same to the union upon arrival in the states. Motion carried to have laundry and recreation room cleaned by each department in rotation of two days for each department. Motion carried to elect a com­ mittee to investigate the sup­ ply of cigarettes so as to in­ sure an equal distribution of same. 4- S. 4. WILLIAM JOHNSON. Dec. 15 — Chairman Roy Tompson; Secretary John J. Bluitt. New Business: Officers are to keep out of crew messhall and crew to keep out of saloon. Food situation is getting pretty bad with no chief cook or chief steward aboard. Special com­ mittee sent up to see old man about this. Motion made and carried to keep recreation room clean at all times and the ra­ dio to be shut off at 10 P.M. 4. 4. 4. ROSWELL VICTORY, Feb. 6—Chairman Harrill; Secretary T. E. Carmichael. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried that the Steward request the Captain or Chief Mate to give the cooks a reasonable time before chang­ ing of the meal hours. The Cooks only had twenty minutes notice before the meal has been changed on the day of question. Motion carried to investigate how it is possible for a fireman to be promote'd to Asst. Elec­ trician by the New York Pa­ trolman aboard the ship with­ out having the job returned to the Hall to be posted for regu­ lar .shipping call. Point of in­ formation: Has a man in a de­ partment the right to make as much overtime as the highest man in the department? "An­ swer: The man who is low on overtime usually has the op­ portunity to get an equal amount of overtime as long as he is willing to work for it and not turn down overtime when it is offered to him. 14 4 F. MARION CRAWFORD, Feb. 28 — Chairman Peredne; Secretary. John J. Brady. New Business: Vote of thanks and appreciation to Captain Charles J. Bunch for his many consid­ erations and cooperation shown to the entire crew. Motion made and carried that Chief Engineer be investigated for strike clearance, discrimination and lack of cooperation toward licensed and unlicensed person­ nel. Motion carried that no one sign on until Chief Engineer is pulled off the ship. Good and Welfare: Motion carried that each member of the unlicensed crew donate $2.00 to the SEA­ FARERS LOG. Motion carried that each crewmembers donate .$1.00 to the boys in the Marine hospital. Vote of thanks given the Stewards Department. 4 4 4 Life On Yaka A Bowl Of Scrambled Eggs Aboard the SS Yaka, the lads were getting their eggs with a roll—a 10 degree roll, that is. The men raised no objection to the roll, but the eggs were alwaj'^s scrambled, and they were getting a bit tired of the mixup. Variety is the spice of life, they recalled, and it goes something for the eggs, too. At the April 3 meeting they adjourned temporarily while the four delegates inspected the gal­ ley to determine the reason for the constant scramble, since the ship's roll didn't appear great enough to be the cause. They reported back to the meeting that the egg pans were too shallow. The meeting was resumed. 4 4 4 F. MARION CRAWFORD, Jan. 26 — Chairman Peredne; Secretary John J. Brady. New Business: Motion carried that a drain and steam line be install­ ed in the laundry, also that drinking fountain in engine room be moved to a more suit­ able location away from the hot well. Motion carried that new sheets, pillow cases and galley equipment such as coats, aprons, be put aboard. Good and Welfare: Motion carried that keys be provided to all crew quarters so that each crew member will have a key. MANROPE KNOT. March 15 — Chairman H. O. Braman; Secretary T. C. Deale. Motion that all crew quarters be in­ spected by patrolman and to be clean for a new crew. Motion that ship be fumigated. Motion carried that electric stove be put in galley. 4 4 4 JOSEPH N. TEAL, Feb. 19— Chairman Purdy; Secretary Charp. Motion carried that the Night Cook and Baker make more pastries and bake bread more often. Motion made to have the bosun issue the sea suds that are in the forepeak. Bosun says forepeak is not locked and he can get it out without it being issued. One minute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. ITtASY OH-WB f MfSS/vitA// SeAB«kR6R. ReiAX/V4D€NJ0yvbUR. MCAU, ,^MO LET TME MESS/MAW CAJJOV HIS 008. 4 4 4 GADSDEN. Feb. 12—Chair­ man Earl Cochran; Secretary T. Little. Old Business: Motion carried to have engine delegate find out why bunk lights and washing machine were not re­ paired as requested on last trip. Motion carried that a commit­ tee be elected to investigate the supply of cigarettes so as to insure an equal distribution of same. Motion carried to write a letter to the Union request­ ing thai they contact the com­ pany in regard to the carrying of an extra locomotive on deck. It was pointed out that it felt the extra locomotive makes the ship unsafe. 4 4 4 CHARLES NORDHOFF, (date not given) Chairman R. W. Grimm; Secretary (not giv­ en). Motion carried to keep people topside and out of crew's quarters. Motion carried that night Cook and Baker bake nothing but bread. Mo­ tion carried that meat block be cleaned every time it is used. 4 4 4 MANROPE VICTORY. Mar. 2 — Chairman H. O. Braman; Secretary T. C. Deale. Motion carried to insulate bulkhead next to galley stove in engine room shower. Motion carried that laundry be cleaned once a week by each department tak­ ing turns. Motion carried that all cots be assigned to each man and he is responsible for same. Motion carried that LOGS be sent to SIU ships on the baux­ ite run in care of Alcoa offices. Port of Spain, Trinidad. 4 4 4 JOSEPH H. HOLLISTER. Feb. 25—Chairman Joseph Jor­ dan; Secretary Seymour A. Heiniling. Brother Jordan gave an enlightening and education­ al talk on the history of the SIU for the benefit of the younger and new members. New Business: Various fines laid down for offenses in the messroom. Fine money to be donated to brothers in the mar­ ine hospitals. Motion carried to give a voluntary contribution to the SEAFARERS LOG at the pay off. All hands using recreation room for card games, etc., to clean it up after finishing. CUT and RUN By HANK Brother, the Monday past was sure a tough lesson in how to survive through a picket line jinxed with the worst weather any April month ever had. It had everything bad—a tough wild wind, uncomfortable rain and real winter-like weather which hit your dogs with pain. The most impressive and successful thing about the day was those phone strikers with their smiling faces and constant jabbering, as they marched around, now- and then shout­ ing all together "scab" or booing at those who entei-ed or left the building. When the rain joined the picket lines those girls blev/ up their umbrellas or covered themselves with large cellophan.3 bags—while the rest just walked and talked wuthout protection. Well, you should have seen the happy, unexpected smiles and the respect and pride fill those strikers when they saw us Seafarer's join them with our white caps, our leaflets and our cheerful en­ thusiasm—even in that day's miserable weather—to help them fight their deserving strike. A strike for better wages, conditions, etc., against the greedy, powerful bosses who keep laughing in their precious prayers and daily jokes but sweating out their hopes that through lost wages, weary days of picketing, etc., the strike would bi-eak up with the strikers grabbing whatever wage increase was offered. 4 4 4 Honestly, the way those girls maintained their lines—cheer­ fully and proudly—without regret or shame or weariness, cer­ tainly showed us sailors how strong and worthwhile we must have looked to all unions and landlubbers when we hit our own bricks on all waterfronts last year. Well, once again we SIU Brothers have shown and helped others to understand that a tough fight for something which is right is something to be proud of and long rentembered. We are proud that we have helped some honest unions, regardless of union affiliation or noti to gain more dollars and sense of job security, etc., in this new new American life of greedy profits, fantastic prices and the worthless value of a dollar in buying food, clothes, etc. Before we change the subject we hope some Brothers read this column so that we can remind them of their weak and worth­ less loyalty to their own union. We've seen some Brothers who came to the hall to ship out, walk right out of the building again just to avoid the tough business of grabbing a white cap, a pile of leaflets and go out for a few hours on a picket line, etc. In time we hope they may regret their precious laziness and worthless loyalty to SIU unity, action and principles and sen­ sibly realize just what it means to help other honest unions in their tough fight. Or what it will be to suddenly receive help from other unions when our own jobs are threatened by powerful forces, such as the companies, the elected politicians in Washington representing the people (and the workers in all unions are the people) and whatever finks there may be trying to fill our jobs while we're fighting. 4 4 4 From Baltimore "Paint Pot" McGee, we received the following letter: "I saw your write-up of Brother Paul "Haywire" Warren so I decided to drop you a line. 1 don't know his New Orleans address so please say hello to him for me. Also best wishes to Cal Tanner and the boys in the new Mobile Hall. Here's hoping Brother Charlie Simmons has left the hospital and is in shape to ship again." . . . ' Thanks for your cheerful letter, "Paint Pot," and write again about the boys if you have the time in ports . . . Well, good old Brother ~ Mike Gison, who sails Bosun, just came in with his humorous sense ' of humor from a real good trip to Italy. Mike further confesses that there's nothing new otherwi.se and hasn't seen any of our ship­ mates for some time. �THE SEAEARERS LOC Friday, April125. 1947 ' THE MEMBERSHIP SPEmtS House Union-Busting Bill Seen As Work Of The NAM Active Seafarer A bill lias just been passed by the House of Represen­ tatives to prohibit unions from national strikes or indus­ try-wide bargaining. The bill also bans the closed shop. Beef-Settling Simplified By Clean Shipboard Record To Ihe Edilor: Sitting in the office of the Baltimore Branch of the SIU listening to Brother Ray White handle.,, beefs, the thought arose in my mind that it would be a good union principle to ship out on the ship that seemed to offer the best reason for an investiga­ tion. As it is. Union officials have enough trouble paying off ships without- trying to clear up many beefs that could be handled by the crew members. charge him with stealing—round one went to the SIU. While discharging at various ports, we had picked up two woi-kaways, both SIU members. The Captain in his usual arrog­ ant manner placed them in the rope locker back aft where they slept on army cots. We the delegates approached the "Great Almighty" and asked him why he didn't permit these men to sleep in spare rooms top-side op­ posite the radio shack. His ex­ cuse was that these men were not officers. We did finally make arrangements to sleep them in the crews quarters. At the j^rt of Georgetown we lost our good record. A mem­ ber of the Stewards Department screwed up the detail giving the The authentic champions of^ this bill are, of course, Senators Commie at every nook and cor­ Taft and Ball, neither of whom ner turn around and actually has ever had to associate with breed un-Amcricanism by trying peoples outside their own restrict­ to fight labor, chain and hand­ ed sets and probably think that cuff it at every turn by antimen who earn their living by labor bills that are unfair to the sweat of their brow are labor and John Q. Public, the prehistoric animals that have consumer. These so-called friends of America are the obstacles that never been educated. These men who voted for this we, the working men, have to anti-labor bill do not care hurdle in order to conquer com­ On Jan. 8th I took it upon my­ whether it is legal or not as long, munism. self to ship aboard the 88 as they succeed in .robbing lab­ FRIENDS OR EXPLOITERS Franklin H. Kin^, Alcoa Steam­ oring men of their just rights. ship Company, bound for South Robert H. Maupin, who takes No man can successfully Why, if national bargaining and strikes are illegal, is it legal preach his friendship to the his unionism seriously, gets on American ports with general for the National Association of laboring man and for fair play the ball for the SIU whenever cargo, with a return cargo of Manufacturers to operate as it for all in general in America as there is an opportunity. Re­ bauxite for New Orleans. does nationally and internation­ long as he is a bedfellow of cently released from the Chi­ A CHARACTER ally, setting a price of its own those who exploit the small man cago Marine Hospital, he cam­ Leaving the port, of Baltimore to inflate industry every time and woman by greedily taking, paigned for improved condi­ about Jan. 10th as Oiler and by laws that they enforce, that tions there and in other mid­ workers obtain a raise in salary? Black Gang Delegate I studied which does not belong to them. west Marine Hospitals. Brother The National Association of this character before approach­ Maupin has also been very ac­ Manufacturers has been more re­ If we are to have open shop sponsible for inflation than the in unions then let us have open tive as a volunteer organizer for ing him on any subject pertain­ unions possibly could have been. shops in every other organiza­ the Sesrfarers in the present ing to union rules. My first per­ Whenever a strike was called tion, club and lodge in America. Great Lakes organizing drive. sonal contact with this imitation of Captain Bligh came about there was the threat that price If we are to negotiate locally, when he started entering the controls would be broken not by then the monopolies, chains, today in anti-labor bills. crew's quarters removing soap the unions but by the NAM, by NAM and other national organ­ In the light of all these things and matches claiming they buying its way out of strikes, izations should be restricted to that we see as the truth, I am should not have such an accum­ by raising the consumer price actual ownership in small lo­ sure that we will stand together ulation gathered as it was on every article whether affect­ calities. with right and truth as our allies against his principles to see ed or not. If the Supreme Court deems to combat and conquer those such waste. After explaining to Captain a bite on the crew. So TRAGIC RESULTS one legal, then all should be that rob bread from our tables this high and mighty scissor- on the voyage home we were It is my firm belief that if legal so that, no unfair play can and clothing from our backs and bill that we had signea a con-rac* approached by "Great Almighty" this bill is allowed to pass fully be bought to bear by sheer from our homes and children. with the Alcoa Steamship Com­ Triestram who had become a These evils can pass away also pany for these articles and that worried little boy-scout with the then the working men every­ weight of numbers and financial where in the United States will backing against any minority if we fight hard enough. should he fail to desist in this offer that should we drop the be in the future robbed and such as is being done against us Paul Parsons practice we would be forced to charges against him, ho would forget what he had on the crew cheated of his rightful salary by member. Calling together a joint having laws and injunctions im­ meeting we decided to call Cap­ posed upon him that will be un­ tain Bligh's bluff and carry the bearable. beef into port leaving the Union It is also my firm belief that By I. H. PEPPER decide on the matter. if the unions are not allowed In the port of New Orleans to progress nationally then neither should other sets such The most memorable night I know "There's a friend of mine here I want you < to meet)' it was decided that Captain Triestram would be kept off all ' as the NAMj Chambers of Is the night I drank with Panama Joe. "Few folks ever see him, so this is-a treat." Alcoa ships and never be per­ Commerce and monopolies that And as I live through the years to come He went to the porthole and opened it wide, I'll remember that stuff he told me was rum. have not been mentioned in any A shaggy green sea-monster stepped down inside, mitted on any other SIU contract ships. The entire unlicensed bills by these labor haters. Eight bells it was. and the night was black. He was mostly green with pink in spots. crew signed this petition, in­ There are many national con­ When I started helow for my midnight snack. And speckled all over with lavender dots; cluding the First Asistant Eng­ cerns and chains too numerous On the way down I met Pftnama Joe. He looked at me and laughed 'til he cried— ineer whom the MEBA can be to mention which are allowed to And that was the start of my tale of woe. He was slightly on the hysterical side. proud of for his militant action operate freely without being in protecting the licensed offi­ molested, and with those that He held a' green bottle in the crook of his arm cers contract and standing on operate nationally and treat And told me a nip would do more good than harm, his hind legs like a man fight­ labor justly I am sure we have I asked him what manner of liquor he had; ing for his union principles. no fault to -find. But let the With a wink he answered. "Come along, m* ladl" Whenever you meet John Moll union operate nationally and as First Assistant or Chief Eng­ every Tom, Dick and Harry in So into his foc'sle with him I went. ineer aboard ship, grab the job, reactionary and top-flight circles Puzzled and wondering what this all meant. for you will be sailing with a who is born with a silver spoon From out of his locker we each took a glass— real union brother who has in his mouth yells to the top of The stuff that he poured was the color of grass. fought on the picket lines in his lungs about inflation, de­ I looked at the bottle, it bore r. t a mark. I asked what he saw so funny in me; every strike since 1934. It's too pression and slowing of produc­ As to what was inside, I was still in the dark. He wasn't so handsome himself, you see; damn bad we don't have more tion. Brother, you and I knovr He must have observed my quizzical look— Said he, "You're the funniest color of human licensed men like John Moll on the reason they do is because "Rum. my boy, rum," he said, and a long drink being the job. they think maybe they will not he took. I've ever had the rare pleasure of seeing." When crew members learn make as many millions if we the self-discipline, stay on the job, workers make one more dollar I waited a moment to see him re-act. With a nod of his head and a swish of his tail. per day or week. His eyes got a twinkle that before they had He dashed .through the door and jumped over the diink on their own time, keep their noses clean and bring the lacked. TROJAN HORSE MOVE rail; ship back to port in ship-shape Said he could feel it clear down to his toes. You and I know full well I rushed from that iCoc'sle straight to my bunk. condition, we can clean out some that the open shop means an So I lifted my glass. "Well, down now she goes!" You'll never believe I was not the least drunk! of' these so-called Captain' opening into lOur circles to the It's hard to describe how it felt going down. Blights. foes of labor whereby the It was something as smooth as a green satin gown. I looked in the mirror first thing when I woke. For your clean record on the There was no cause at all for his hideous joke, union's back may be broken It tasted like nothing I'd tasted before. voyage will always prove who I was normal in color as a man could be— from within. If we have open But it tasted so good I wanted some more. is at fault when you are sailing Not even a spatter of green on me. shop then so should the NAM with an arrogant, fault-finding and other anti-labor organiza­ After several drinks and a few more to follow. I breathed not a word of what I had ^een— scissor-bill such as we just show­ We took what we found to be the last .swallow. tions. The laughing sea monster or rumdhat was green. ed- up to the entire SIU mem­ Here is another one for you. "Thanks for the drinks," I said. "Now I must go." All things being equal there's one thing I know, bership and the Alcoa Steamship These men who yell red and "Oh not on your life!" said Panama Joe. I've had my last drink with Panama Joe! Company. Joseph S. Buckley Log-A -Rhythms THe Saga Of< Panaina Joe �Friday. April 25. 1947 THE SE: A FA RE RS Organization Of All Ships Is Answer To MC's Scheme CARTOON STORY OF LESSON LEARNED BY BESSEMER MEN ••V-x'--• -jf.. - »;• rt/witNs ' Mms. #»?£• /' -VP To the Editor: I ' urrue m^f/\...., . ? • Cd«e -OHC ^yy'sf :(JOT Pft«K5 BUTTS - PHtfWC eeysVd W«»u TrtCM- I,— more being turned out? ^ ^ ypii- ':' :V-X-" WE a, we mu lllg-fccr -yo« v»At. ' .kreeP THSf jPSCK: out A T»F kj«lT - TH «t^ aftO V.f - p: • : "Steamboat" O'Doyle Belgian Lauds SIU Policy To the Editor: f Of course, none of these "cap­ tain's boys" intend to make the sea their life anyway. They are only out for a free education and the degree King's Point hands out. Many of them have admit­ ted this within my hearing. I doubt if two per cent of them^ ever make a single trip aftei they get their cap and gown. How will we, who follow the sea for a living, advance in our chosen profession if all oppor­ tunities and jobs are handed over to these guys. As it is, the CG makes it almost impossible for the man "with time" to get a license, by asking ridiculous, the­ oretical questions that only a classroom grind could answer. But then, the cadet corps is con­ trolled by the CG, isn't it? So the little "midshipmen" are coached by instructors who know only too well what the questions will be, You've really got to admire the bureaucrats of the Maritime Commission. Whenever you think you have them stopped, they dive still deeper into the cesspool of political finkery and come up with another pearl. For instance: By a peculiar coincidence, at the very time the seamen's un­ ions became strong the Mari­ time Service was created. Its purpose was a force of finks for strike-breaking. For the last 10 years it has been held in readi­ ness for an opportune moment to smash the seamen's unions. However, something happened that the scab-admirals hadn't figured on. The mates and en­ gineers at last became organized into militant unions. Officers would no longer go through a picket line to move a hot ship. How could you crush a seamen's strike without captains and throt­ WHAT TO DO tle-jockeys? Obviously, some way had to be figured out of this What is the remedy? I think dilemma. it is to unionize every American ship, from the Captain on the ANOTHER BEAUT Therefore, another dive into the raw sewage of shipowner corruption. This time they came TCXCAJ OA) THAT up with a beaut. The right cars were whispered into, the right phone calls were made from low­ er Broadway to Capitol Hill—and presto! the "Merchant Marine Ca­ det Corps" was born. The idea was so simple it was beautiful. They were already training finks to replace the un­ licensed—why not train finks to replace the officers too? There­ fore, what do we have? A com­ plete standby of Merchant Ma­ bridge to the Wiper in the bilge. rine—a full complement of Then let all maritime unions re­ scabs, licensed and unlicensed, fuse to accept or sail with these ready and willing to take over spongeboys. This action would when the time arrives. lick them off the seas, and quick­ That there is no use for these ly strangle their Coney Island crumbhouse cadets is easily Annapolis. If it were impossible proved. Where can they get jobs when all officers must come from for them to get on a ship. These are drastic measures, the officers' unions and they can no longer get into the unions? yes. But a drastic remedy is bet­ The shrinking number of jobs has ter than a drastic death. The last hit the officers even worse than time the sailors' unions were bro­ it has us. Today it is common to ken by organized government see Firsts and Seconds sailing finking it took 13 bitter years to as Thirds. Soon we will see rebuild them. Is there anyone many Mates back in the foc'sle, who would like to live that 13 as in prewar days. With a sur­ plus of gold braid, why is still years over again? 'sr«y^-8£99^r/<icfR vie-roRy-^: ' ' ' Page Thirteen LO G I have received two copies of the SEAFARERS LOG, and I want to say that I agree 100 per cent with your Union and your views. I was a chief engineer during the last war and on my return to Belgium, I could see how the political parties were using the union for their own ends. I rebuilt a union in April, 1946, without politics. I have had a hard fight, and I am still fight­ ing. I have connections in Brus­ sels, Gent, Ostend and a few other places, but it will take a while before we are as strong as you are,. Political parties control every­ one here in Belgium and it will take a lot of hard work to break it. I started a paper last October and I will forward a few copies. I entirely agree with the ar­ ticle by Lindsey Williams in the SEAFARERS LOG of Jan. 17. The same thing has happened here and is still going on. I was planning an internation­ al seamen's union during the war. Up to now I have made contact with France and Hol­ land. I don't know who sent the SEAFARERS LOG to me, but I would like to continue to receive it, and to exchange information on the working conditions of the seamen. Maxcel Convents Antwerp, Belgium 'Hates To Miss' Issue Of LOG To the Editor; Will you please send the LOG to me at my new address in Starke, Fla. Up to now I had been getting it in Mobile and would like to keep leceiving the paper. I hate to miss one issue. You are doing a swell job with the paper. Keep up the good work. I'm wishing you every success. Hagnvald Tyssor �THE Page Fourteen Texas City Totally Razed; Seafarers Gives Assistance By RAY SWEENEY GALVESTON — The Texas City area has been completly de­ molished by an explosion and fire which started on a French . ship, the Grande Camp, which was loading ammonia nitrate and cotton. The fii-e started sometime dur­ ing the night, and Texas City firemen were called to the scene as soon as it was discovered. Scores of people were allowed to come on the docks to watch the Bremen in action. At 9:12, there w?s a blast in the hold of the ship, and three minutes later, the Monsanto Chemical Plant, right opposite where the Grande Camp was docked, exploded and caught fire. This explosion rocked the en­ tire waterfront, including Gal­ veston. Other cities in the area felt the shock. The Monsanto Chemical Com­ pany was the size of a normal twenty-story building. Practic­ ally the entire office force was killed, and no one yet knows the total of other employees dead and injured. SPREAD FAST The fire spread fast as this area has oil lines all over the waterfront. Pieces of burning steel were hurled as much as five miles through the air, and this caused other fires to start. Soon the entire city was a mass of flames, and the air was full of the cries of the dying and in­ jured. Within a short time all the hospital beds were filled to ca­ pacity, in both Texas City and Galveston. Doctors, nurses, and ambulances were rushed from Houston. Every kind of con­ veyance was used to rush in­ jured people • to some place where they could get first aid. The SIU immediately offered its assistance. Some members MM&P Petitions 6 Lakes Fleets For Elections NEW YORK, April 24—Simul­ taneous with the drive of the Seafarers International Union to organize all unlicensed personnel sailing on the Great Lakes, the Masters, Mates and Pilots is con­ ducting an all-out organizational drive in behalf of the Lakes' li­ censed officers. The officers' union announced yesterday that it had petitioned the National Labor Relations Board for elections in six major fleets, involving 140 vessels. The move to set the machinery in motion to establish a collec­ tive bargaining agent for the Great Lakes licensed men was revealed to the SEAFARERS LOG by Stanley Barr, interna­ tional vice-president of the MMP, and Tom Simpson, presi­ dent of the Cleveland branch. Companies in which the MMP requested NLRB-conducted elec­ tions, and the number of ships operated on the Great Lakes by each, are as follows; Pittsburgh (Steel Trust), 63 ships: Interlakes (Pickands - Mather), 36 ships; Bethleherh Steel, 12 ships; Wil­ son, 12 ships: Interstate (Jones and McLaughlin), 4 ships, and Hanna, 13 ships. were assigned to direct traffic, while others pitched in as fire fighters and rescue workers. A few days later the High­ flyer, a Lykes Brothers ship, blew up, and the men on a Bay Towing Company tug, SIU, were injured as they attempted to get the ship away from the dock. Ths e.xplosion was more sev­ ere than the first one, but no one was killed since it was expected, and all hands were warned to stay out of reach. TOWN DEMOLISHED The whole town is wrecked. Not a house remains standing, and not a window is unbroken. It is doubtful that this city will ever be of any other use than kindling wood. Besides the hundreds killed, other losses are put at a figure well up into the millions. The oil loss alone will be more than 1,500,000 barrels. We in the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union of North America want to take this opportunity to extend our admiration to the people of Texas City who picked themselves up from the ruins, and pitched in to aid the living, bury the dead, and dig the city out from under the rubble caused by the explosions and fires. SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 25, 1947 The First Ship, First Accident Hit Port Duluth By EINAR NORDAAS DULUTH—With the arrival of the A. A. Augustus of the Hutch­ inson Fleet, the first ship in, DuBy JOE VOLPIAN luth-Superior Harbor is again We are in receipt of a letter so. It just happens thai customs humming with spring shipping. from a member who complains men are just as unlikely to know The Augustus is gaining that that he has been badly mistreat­ the law as the cop on his beat. honor must have opened her en­ ed. It seems that while at an OBEY LAWS gine up a few notches in making Army Base the military intel­ When a ship ties up in any her way to this northern port, ligence came aboard and confis­ cated some German razors, let­ port, the crew is lequired to re­ because when she tied up nine ter openers and a dagger which spect the laws of that port. If men of the after gang piled off— he had in his locker along with they have a curfew law, the crew can't blame them for piling off a must be off the streets when the record-happy ship. a brand new Air Corps jacket. curfew rings. Most of the other ships that The ship's articles specifically If the law enforcement agen­ are coming into the port now state that no dangerous weapons cies of that port have evidence are to be brought aboard: Ra­ that contraband is aboard, they will, no doubt, have to go to the zors, letter openers and daggers may search the ship from stem shipyard for minor repairs, due to the difficulties they have at are considered dangerous wea­ to stern. this time of year in bucking the pons. The Air Corps jacket is a If the Captain thinks that a ice in Whitefish Bay—the .stuff part of the uniform of the Army member of the crew has contra­ Air Forces and is not an item band in his locker that may cause is really thick there. to be bartered, bought or sold. As usual with the opening of a fine to be placed on the ship, or the season the accident rate be­ This member has been labor­ a weapon that may endanger the ing under the misapprehension lives of the rest of the crew, it is gins to rise. The first fatal acci­ that only the U. S. Customs au­ his duty to confiscate it, other­ thorities have the right to con­ wise, his company may be sued fiscate his property. In fact, the for his negligence if another deputy customs inspector who member of the crew is injured was assigned to his ship told him with the weapon. WITNESS USUAL It is customary, however, that he have a witness when he goes through the man's gear. The FBI may come aboard' and con­ duct a search if they have reason to believe that a Federal offense has been or is about to be com­ mitted, such as violation of nar­ cotic laws, smuggling of arms or dent of the season occurred a cou­ sabotage. ple of days ago on the Steamer Police can even enter your Joliet of the Cleveland Cliffs home. They are supposed to have Company. While she was tied a search warrant, but they have up here, a mooring cable slipped been known to crash into homes off the post on the dock and hit By JACK PARKER and business establishments with­ the Mate standing at the rail. He NEW YORK — Some of the out a warrant. was killed instantly. By JOHNNY JOHNSTON members of this Union have a Lawyers tell us that they can't mistaken idea as to the use of PLAY IT SAFE Very recently, Commander S. do that to us, that the Constitu­ the baggage room. Therefore, tion guarantees us protection Before the season is over many the room, which is none too big L. Patton, USMS, wrote an ar­ against illegal search, and that we to begin with, is now overcrowd­ ticle which should be read by can resist such entry; however, it men will be killed and injured ed with gear. every American. He points out is kind of tough to resist night­ due to shipboard accidents, and so many of the accidents will be We have a pile of gear that that our merchant navy, while sticks and guns. unnecessary. Play it safe on has been left with us for lengths it was lauded to the skies dur­ We have no objection to sou­ board ship and be sure. of time ranging up to two years. venir hunting either as a hobby ing the war, is now being treat­ The original limit on leaving The regular meeting of the or for the' purpose of making gear is three months, and we now ed like a . step-child. Here are some extra dough; however, if new Maritime Council was held have the problem of making some of the things he said: you violate laws in so doing, it at our Hall on Tuesday, April room for incoming bags and "Already too much loose talk is not a Unon function to defend 15, and all member unions voted bundles. unanimously to support the SIU has begun to flow regarding the you. Where a man had his address ' transfer of many of our fine The Union's job is to get the organizing drive on the Great on his possessions, we sent them war time built liners and ships best wages and conditions pos­ Lakes. to him Railway Express, COD. to allied nations. Already some Among other motions passed sible for its membership and it Where only the name and book Americans, quick to forget the looks like a pretty fair job is was one to indorse the passage of number was given, we checked magnificent job our merchant the Senate Bill to increase bene­ being done on that score. through Headquarters file for marine did in the World War II, fits for injured harbor woi'kers. ENOUGH TO DO the home address, and then sent have begun to talk in terms of Brother Slaughter, vice-presi­ At the present writing, a fi­ the baggage the same way. seeking passage on foreign op­ dent of the ILA, gave an outline nancial retrenchment program is 30 DAYS MORE erated vessels. of anti-labor bills now pending being carried out whch entails If any members have gear in in the Wisconsin and Minnesota "A quick analysis of the ques­ laying off .some patrolmen and the baggage room, it will be legislatures. Letters were drawn tion at hand brings a realization agents, the extra work to be held for another thirty days be­ up and sent to these bodies pro­ that something must be done to taken over by those being re­ fore being disposed of. If un­ testing the unfairness of the check this and must be done tained. able to appear in person, send measures. immediately. Americans don't a letter to the baggage room, Your representatives don't hap­ giving instructons on how to dis­ buy foreign cars, or foreign pen to be magicians, too. They REPORT IN pose of the articles. Give a des­ clothes. Most Americans want are competent men elected to de­ Several SIU men have shipped cription of the baggage in ques­ to support their nation's indus­ fend your interests against at­ tries and most Americans want tacks by ship operators, bureau­ out on unorganized ships, but tion, and the check nurnber. From now on, when checking to travel American. Apart from crats, politicians or pied pipers have failed to report to the Hall gear, the top half of the check this they owe it as a duty and of any hue. These are Union as to what ship and line they are must be filled in with the mem­ obligation to the more than 6000 functions, and it is best that we working on. It is very important ber's home address. Then, if it dead merchant seamen asleep in concentrate our strength on es­ for th& success of the drive that we know what ships are covered. is left over three months, it can the deep. Those silent heroes sential goals. made the supreme sacrifice in be sent COD to the address So, Brothers, drop us a line or If you get in trouble for a law order that others might have violation, outside Union jurisdic­ come down to the Hall, and give given. Next week we hope to list the freedom of travel." tion, get a lawyer or take the us the dope to insure complete items of baggage which have Commander Patton has the rap, but don't expect the Union coordination and cooperation all names but no addresses attach­ right idea for the future of Am­ officials to become involved in down the line. ed. But some have no identifi­ erican shipping, and with more beefs that are disconnected from cation at all, so the absent- good articles in the same vein, it Union functions. minded professors better get could be brought home to the They have plenty of work to busy and send in descriptions of American people that their mer­ do taking care of duties which their gear, and instructions on chant marine could serve them are properly their responsibility where to send it. to the entire membersliip. in peace as well as in war. Baggage Room Crowded With Unclaimed Gear �THE Friday, April 25, 1947 SEAFARERS MONEY DUE Union Sulphur Company Page Fifteen LOG Job Action Convincos Operators To Bargain 33 RECTOR ST., NEW YORK CITY BOSTON $3.69; Stanko Martihoff, $21.58 SS BEN HOLLADAY INPIVIDUAL DONATIONS the almost feudal conditions (Continued from Page I) W. Hallett. $2.00. Don Cameron, $2.95; C. Cub T. Mehora, $1.88; A. W. Newman od the advantages which Seafar which prevailed on the ship. bage, $7.53; L. Donia, $3.93; J $71.44; A. Parkola, $3.86 Henry NORFOLK ers enjoy. Last week it was decided to INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Gorten, $2.40; A. W. Good, $4.40 Scott, $29.31; K. Vehara, $5.18. Developments moved fast after pull the pin. The Maritime A. Z. Wllllama, $3.00; F. N. Bailey, R. Greenwood, $2.95; K. Hoden that decision was made. Pledge Trades Department was informed • t 4. $3.00; A. Mellssaratos. $3.00; J. O, SS WILLIAM W. McKEE $2.95; J. C. Hubcr, $2.35; L. P, Wood. Jr., $3.00: J. L. Paramore. $3.00; cards authorizing the SIU to rep that job action was in the wind, C. Baker, $5.76; F. Bolden, F. P. Burr. $3.00; J. A. McKenzie. $1,00; resent them were signed 100 per and the full support of longshore­ Kelly, $2.69. P. J. McDonald, 67c; O. Mor­ $1.68; J. Espinda, $1.49; Duffy SS Arizpa, $12.00. cent by the crew, and a compre­ men, teamsters, taxi drivers, and gan, $3.29; R. Nicholson, $2.95; J Mapes, $27.06; J. Parks, $5.08; hensive check up was made of ship repair men was pledged. NEW YORK INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Olson, 76c; K. Thomas, $2.40; James Rooney, $31.28; J. Town, every phase of working and liv­ Cal Tanner, Mobile Agent, also David Weilmunster, $1.00; Wm. ing conditions. R. Vokes, $5.04; R. Walker, $1.04; $4.85. came into the picture, and the Cray. $2.00; Fred Willis. $1,00; M. M. J. Watson, $1.04; J. T. Wil­ A member of the local Branch SIU officials had the situation 4. 4. 4. Mitchell. $5.00. SS ROBERT NEWELL made a trip on the ship, sailing under control from the start. liamson, 67c. SS RICHARD RUSH T. Baran, $2.02; J. Coats, $1.91; as messman. He paid off, after i. i. t Strike placards were drawn up R. Kcakbey. $20.00; J. A. Perez, $2.00. J. R. Davis, $3.00; R. Weaver, 10 days, and collected $19, after declaring that the company was SS JOSEPH A. HOLMES SS G. SHARSWOOD B. L. Robbins. $2.00; J. Smith. $2.00; having worked an average of 18 Floyd Cummings, $1.50; E. $2.86. unfair to the seamen of the SIU P. A. O'Niell. $2.00; E. E. llan.son hours a dajL Dunphy, $8.60; T. Dunphy, 18.18; .t 4. 4. Canadian District. When the $1.00; C. P. Thompson. $1.00; M. R. SS FRED C. STEBBINS This first hand report was of crew walked off the ship, the W. Fast, $9.01; D. Fitzpatrick, Reeves. $2.00; M. Gulp. $2.00. T. Garber, $4.69; G. Magoulas, great advantage in making clear action was a complete success. $9.02; N. Holopoff, 73c; D. Mor­ SS F. H. KING .85; L. L. Marsden, $31.56; Fred j. H. Emory. $1.00; W. V. Click. ton, $2,29; G. Hunt, $9.02; J. ANXIOUS PEOPLE $2.00. Janchcwitz, $5.73; Hershel Johns, Olson, $10.52; D.Caron, $4.10. SS MONROE Anxiety soon spread among $1.22; T. Poirier, $5.35; A. Rog4. 4. 4. C. J. Mvchner. $2.00; Clen McCuIloch, SS TELFAIR STOCKTON the passengers. Some were on hammer, $6.96; Joan Ruan, $5.60; $2.00; E. F. Benson, $1.00. H. J. Adams, $1.00; A. J. Dana, board, but couldn't get their bag­ F. J. Sylvia, $8.60; V. C. War­ SS SEATRAIN HAVANA GUSTAVE A. MATTSON T. Mehcnan, $1.00. ren, $7.38; W. Warren, $9.02; E. 75c; Robert Erickson, 75c; Dale It is important that you get gage on. some had sent their Griffith, $3.01; George Kelsey, Cabral, $10.52. in touch with Cezar Tyjewski, baggage ahead but now couldn't $5.29; E. J. Laitinen, $1.64. S- 5. It 1725 Thii'ty-first Avenue, Seat­ get on the ship themselves. With excited and angry pas­ SS THOMAS F. HUNT 4. 4. 4tle, Washington, or Tompings, sengers on one side, and a 100 SS WILLIAM WOLFSKILL Robert Broadus, $5.27; D. L. Rn.al & Tompkins, Attorneys. 1:6 per cent job action on the other, WILLIAM J. O'DONNELL J. R. Hamilton, $6.65; J. M. Burdick, $21.32; D. J. Caron, John Street, New York 7. N. Y. the company was finally con­ Pick up your papers at R. A. $12.05; John Jesonis, $2.70; C. F. Hicks, $2.69; Wm. James, $2.01; vinced of the gravity of the situa­ Lawson, $17.03; Z. F. Mynes, Arthur Johanson, $2.76; F. H. Nichols, brokers office, in Phila­ ANYONE S. LAMEGO tion, and they took stops to sott.le Knott, $3.36; II. F. Murphy, $7.65. delphia. $22.14; R. Owen, $5.63. Your wife is very anxious to the matter. it 4. Shear from you. The president of the company, SS THOMAS JOHNSON 5. t i. Eric Wharton, had flown in from A. M. Brickhouse, $3.88; J. K. JOHN L. MAHONEY Miami and, after the sailing had Cole, 25c; G. W. Harding, $4.40; Get in touch with A. J. Kelle- been held up for three hours, Bengt Hedberg, $10.12; 11. E. her. D. C., 6 Pleasant Street, Mai­ signed a statement that the com­ Hicks, $3.64; H. Johnson, $8.80; den, Mass. pany would be willing to nego­ M R. C. Johnson, $29.31: ' George ' itsIdavian, Arthur J 1.46 tiate if the crew would return to Mangels, Rudolph W 2.41 Kittlcy, $4.40; J. F. Mangeri, WILLIAM MAJOR WEST Idavian, Ai'thur J. .74 Mansell, Cecil A the ship. This was accepted. 4.82 Write to your mother, Mrs. C. Igaz, William F 1.59 Mansfield, Marshall M. . A standard SIU passenger con­ 4.84 S. West, 512 Maycox Avenue, tract was drawn up, and is now Irwin, Frank 6.71 Marten, Austin W 1.44 Ive, Robert ready for presentation to the 13.14 Masel, Edawrd 3.13 Norfolk 5, Virginia. company. i S. i Mason, Gordon O 63.94 J ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. WILFRED J. SHEA There is a parallel between May. Askar 18.34 BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Jacobsen. Ernest W. 73.80 these activities in Jacksonville, Calvert 4539 Your mother writes: "Please 2.69 4.74 McCarthy, Joseph B BOSTON 276 State St. Jaeome, Walteiand the proposed AFL boycott of contact me as soon as possible at 8.80 2.69 McGec, Dexter Botidoin 4453 Jairett. Paul E. . Panamanian shipping. 315 Saratoga St., East Boston, 1.44 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Jensen. Erland M. 31.73 McLinden, Richard E. . As a result of the concerted, Mass. Lost your address in mov­ 6.52 Cleveland 7391 Jock, Josepti 17.00 McNoIlagc, John support given the Canadian Dis­ ing. Activity in your case. Must CHARLESTON 424 King St. Medlin, Jack R 1.80 2.54 Joffrian. Eugene trict of the SIU, shipowners are Phone 3-.3680 see N. Y. doctor for exam." Mecks, Joseph A .74 73.80 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Johnson, Albert learning, to their sorrow, that 51.12 Superior 5175 Johnson, Donald R. .. 8.98 Meeks, Joseph A the search for cheap labor is HAROLD^ NITZ Mcleck, P. J 9.65 CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Johnson, George R. .. 8.98 1.07 Main 0147 Get in touch with Nathan more costly in the long run. Johnson, Guthrie C. 3.46 Menefee, Dale W Seamen everywhere are learn­ CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. 8.94 Berk, Counselor at Law, 270 53.54 Mickler, Charles B Corpus Christ! 3-1509 Joki, Ale.x ing that action at the point • of 2.18 Broadway, New York 7, N. Y. 5.87 Miles, Milton M DETROIT 1038 Third St. Jones, Jack C production is the only way to 1.44 ^ S, Cadillac 6857 Joyce, David 7.77 Miller, Harm achieve lasting gains. i 2.69 WILLIAM "BLUEY" CAMP bULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Judson, Harry 4.80 Miller, Kermit Pious resolutions and the tech­ Melrose 4110 Miller, R 11.45 f Write F. "Darkle" Willis, Box GALVESTON 308'/z—23rd St. K ^ Moellinger, Melvin 20.77 2243 Custom House Station, New nicalities of maritime laws will Phone 2-8448 Kahuhu, Phio P 44.00 Moller, Kaj 19.00 Orleans, La., or Union Hall, 339 never produce one pound of HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. steam on a ship whose Black 74 Mongone, Albei't 1.07 Chartres St., New Orleans. Phone 5S777 Kale, Ulrich H Gang is on the picketline fight­ 1.34 Moore, Warren B 1.11 HOUSTON 1515 75th St. Kecnan, Robert A ing for increased wages a»xd a Wentworth 3-3809 King, Irvin T 2.91 2.53 Morgan, James J. ... CHARLES^:. BRADY better standard of living. JACKSONVILLJE . . 920 Main St. Kobayashi, Masayoshi .... 5.58 5.62 Morgan, William A. Write to John C. McCullough. Phone 5-5919 3.16 Route 2, Box 38. Atmore, Ala. Kucharski, Ryszard 32.27 Murphy. John J. Jr. MARCUS HOOR I'/z W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 N L MILWAUKEE 6 33 So-Uh 2nd St 2.20 2.93 Nancurrow, Richard D. MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. La Calla, Roscoe J 9.24 1.07 Napolitano, Joseph Phone 2-1754 La Londe, Dayton Jr NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartrcs St. Law, James R 5.73 3.66 Nelson, Harold W SS JOHN HATONE Magnolia 6112-6113 Lawton, James B 1.20 35.94 Nester, Jack NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. The following men are due 31.66 Lewis, Joe B 3.67 Nielson, Hjalamer HAnover 2-2784 lodging, overtime and subsis­ 26.40 2.95 Noel, Henry A NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Lizewski, Olexartder J tence: Lee Parker, OVj hrs.; over­ Lockler, James J 7.20 Phone 4-1083 Norris, Saurgeun D 2.37 NEW YORK, April 24—The time; J. Y. Sepulveda, 9t2 hrs.; PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Lorber, Roy 1.38 Atlantic-Gulf coastwise service Lombard 3-7651 and L. T. Shelander, 5'j hrs. Lowell, Kenneth H 44.94 of the Pan-Atlantic Steamship PORT ARTHUR . . 809 Fo'rt Worth Ave. 1.34 Oden, Richard R. Newell and C. Kinzel are Phone 2-8532 Corporation, a Waterman sub­ 2.93 due just overtime of O'Donnell, Kenneth R. .... hrs. PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. sidiary, has been expanded by 74.74 each. The money can be collect­ Oland, John Beacon 4336 the addition of the three Vic­ 3.66 ed by contacting the offices of Olsaniewski, Edwai'd RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. tory ships, first of which is 16.14 Waterman SS Companj' in Mo­ Phone 2599 O'RoUrke, Albert MALLIE CATON scheduled to sail from this port SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. 5.14 bile, Alabama. O'Rourke, Albert Your papers are being held for Douglas 5475-8363 tomorrow. The additions bring .. 2.95 Ottcson, A. J 4- i- i SAN JUAN, p. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon you in the Philadelphia Hall, the total to seven ships now op­ 1.11 Owen, Robert R CAPE BRETTON San Juan 2-5996 You can call for them anytime. erating in this service. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 8 hours overtime for Good Fri­ P Operating out of New York jPhone 8-1728 day, a longshoremen's holiday WALLACE D? HAND 16.44 Panelli, Aladine exclusively, the new vessels will SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. 7.43 can be collected at the Bull Line sail every Friday for Miami, Main 0290 Please come to headquarters or Panter, Bruce A TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. 2.63 office in New York. Tampa, New Orleans and then send your book in so that it can Pariani, Albert • Phone M-1323 3.36 4. .4 4. to Mobile, Panama City and Paul, Richard R be straightened out. TOLEDO 615 Summit St. SS HENRY W. BEECHAM 2.95 Port St. Joe. Peek, Fred L S, S. Si WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. The four ships now on coastal 11.73 The beef on stowaways work­ Pellegri, Rudolph Terminal 4-3131 E. E. WITZKE VICTORIA, B.C 602 Boughton St. 26.40 ing on deck has been settled. runs will leave for the Gulf You overpaid $5.00 on receipt Percival, James Garden 8331 83.59 Collect at, or by writing to. Wa­ from Boston and Philadelphia number 36213. You can obtain Perowa, Joseph VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. 6.80 terman SS Co., 19 Rector St., with calls at the same ports list­ Petersen, Christian Pacific 7824 refund by contacting Patrolman ed for the new ships. New York. 1.46 Jimmy Drawdy, New York Hall. Peterson, Edwin H PERSONALS NOTICE! Shepard Steamship Company 31 MILK STREET, BOSTON, MASS. SlU HALLS MONEY DUE NOTICE! • Pan-Atlantic Adds 3 Ships To Coastal Fleet �Friday, April 25. 1947 (WITH A 41Am tfir>iHG) OF JRAYMOMD M. AVARS WAS VDl(;^^^OR€AMI^EeOWM.S.S(M) Gcrr siy neodE cAiscts WAS TH?CO 8V THP CONWANV weMT TO -me MMV WlNMd DOING/," SAID-me NMU 3UTNOWHE!S GOTATPIPCWROWITH i- Tlte SIU-THC UNION-THATFIGHIS US MeMSGRs'seefs AU,-IH6MAV UP ANO DOVIM UNG / � 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 April 25, 1947 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. IX, No. 17 Description An account of the resource Headlines: GREEN PLEDGES SUPPORT TO MTD IN PANAMA BEEF; BOYCOTT PLANS COMPLETED TELEPHONE STRIKERS HOLD FIRM WALL ST BOWS BEFORE UFE; WILL ARBITRATE CREW JOB ACTION CONVINCES OPERATOR TO BARGAIN WITH CANADIAN SEAFARERS BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS BRITISH SEAMEN NEGOTIATING FOR NEW WORKING AGREEMENT THREE CREWS CONTRIBUTE $44 TO HOSPITALIZED CREW SAVED AS GREAT ISAAC, MORAN TUG, SINKS IN CRASH RECORD SHIPPING IS FORECAST FOR 1947 SEASON ON GREAT LAKES KEEPING UP MORALE OF THE 'HELLO GIRLS' HOUSTON LIVES UP TO ITS NAME AS THE 'PORT WITH A FUTURE' LCA FLOODS LAKES WITH NEW MEN IN ATTEMPT TO STOP SEAFARERS NO SIGN OF SHIPPING SLUMP IN NEW ENGLAND AREA SHIPS READY TO MOVE AT BUFFALO; WAIT ONLY FOR FULL FUEL SUPPLY WRITE, DON'T GO OFF TO BUFFALO FOR A BERTH USS TRIES CAN SHAKING IN PHILLY BUT PAST RECORD IS AGAINST THEM GOOD SHIPPING CLEANS OUT PORT ARTHUR GREAT LAKES SEAMEN RESPONDING TO INVITATION TO VISIT THE SEAFARERS' HALL IN CLEVELAND CORPUS CHRISTI KEPT ON THE HOP SHIPPING MAINTAINS ITS HIGH PACE IN NEW YORK; SEAFARERS HAVE THEIR CHOICE OF SHIPS AND RUNS DOUGLAS CREW TAKES ACTION ON PERFORMERS COAL SHIPS ADD TO NORFOLK'S SHIPPING BOOM NEW SIU HALL FUNCTIONING WELL IN ASHTABULA UNORGANIZED LAKES SEAMEN HELP DRAW UP PROPOSED SIU CONTRACTS MOBILE, BOSTON MEN REMEMBER HOSPITALIZED MARCUS HOOK A FERTILE FIELD FOR THE AFL TAMPA LABOR GIRDS FOR FIGHT WITH OPEN-SHOP CITY OFFICIALS UNORGANIZED MILWAUKEE SEAMEN GET THE BUSINESS FROM ALL SIDES FRISCO SHIPPING IS STILL GOOD CREW PUTS OUT BLAZE ON NORDHOFF AT SEA COMPARISON REVEALS SLOPCHEST INEQUITIES ABRAHAM BALDWIN TOWED INTO N.Y. COAL SHIP MCBURNEY HAD 'WONDERFUL TRIP' HOUSE UNION-BUSTING BILL SEEN AS WORK OF THE NAM BEEF-SETTLING SIMPLIFIED BY CLEAN SHIPBOARD RECORD ORGANIZATION OF ALL SHIPS IS ANSWER TO MC'S SCHEME TEXAS CITY TOTALLY RAZED; SEAFARERS GIVES ASSISTANCE THE FIRST SHOP, FIRST ACCIDENT, HIT PORT DULUTH BAGGAGE ROOM CROWDED WITH UNCLAIMED GEAR PAN-ATLANTIC ADDS 3 SHIPS TO COASTAL FLEET Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/25/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/0ab7da6f9fbea3f374dcdc50bf59bed6.PDF 0c4dee089614175ac1cd3b6152dae00d PDF Text Text SIU Helps Canadians Strike Ships To Gain Full American Conditions Canadian District's March To Higher Wages Begins Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. APRIL 18. 1947 Phone Strike Gets Helping Hand Of SiU tt No. 16 WE'RE WITH YOU NEW YORK — A milestone in the history of Canadian seamen was marked this week when a Canadian steamship company, operating six ves­ sels, was forced to sign a standard SIU contract, embodying all the provisions of the Waterman agreement. The six vessels were taken over by the India Steamship Company, a Canadian company, and men were shipped from Vancouver to man the ships at the wage scale set up by the communistdominated Canadian Seamen's Union. Two o? the .ship.s are in New r — York, undergoing repairs, and four are in California for the same purpose. Those in New York are the SS Dominican Vic­ J. P. Shuler, Secy-Treas. tory and the SS Lewiston Vic­ Seafarers Int'I Union 51 Beaver StreeL N.Y, tory. No SIU Members in the ter­ The crewmembers of the ships rible disaster in Texas City. berthed in this city wei'e not We are helping in every way satisfied with the wages and we can. conditions under which they D. L. Parker worked, and they called the SIU Galveston Agent to find out what could be done Texas City Disaster NEW YORK — Reinforced by hundreds of white-capped Sea­ farers, the picketlines of the striking telephone workers bore evidence this week of the soli­ darity of labor. While assistance and support of commie-dominated unions was refused, the SIU was called on about it. to help bolster the thin lines of A special meeting of these men to win anything is to pile off the New York telephone em­ was called at the Hall, and at your ship—and whenever you do, When the Canadian seamen called on the SIU for aid. if was ployes who are out on strike as this gathering the crews were we'll be there to help you." given to them immediafely. They held a meeting at the SIU part of a nation-wide action to pledged the full support of the Hall, where they were pledged any help they needed by Paul force the American Telephone OPERATORS UNHAPPY SIU, and its strong maritime af­ Hall. SIU Director of Organization. Hall, back to camera, is and Telegraph Company to bar­ filiates. shown addressing the crewmembers of the two ships. It is expected that internation­ gain with the National Federa­ al. operators and foreign govern­ tion of Telephone Workers, an GATHERING MOMENTUM independent union. ments -will do all in their power By this time events were roll­ And New York Seafarers were ing along in snowball fashion. to break this contract because it not the only ones who were called Taking heart from the promises sets, for them, a dangerous prece­ upon for aid. In New Orleans of the SIU, the Canadian sea­ dent. the unions formed a committee men voted to use economic ac­ to plan the .strike strategy for If the SIU program is e.xtendtion, if necessary, to force better ' the telephone workers, and all wages and conditions on their, ed, all seamen all over the world possible assistance is being given Instructions regarding the ternational implications because vessels. will soon get the same wages and to the strikers. planned boycott of Panamanian forgign ships, once they docked conditions now enjoyed only by It did become necessary for the Meanwhile, the almost two- ships went out to all SIU Ports in an American port, were pre­ the Seafarers International Un­ weeks long strike rolled along this week. If, and when, it be­ vented from moving until the men to use job action, but be­ ion of North America. cause of the solid backing of with seemingly little chance for comes necessary to take such ac­ victory was won. the SIU, it did not last long and For many years the just am­ a settlement. The company turn­ tion to protect the interests of At the time foreign ship.s were the company capitulated to all bitions of Canadian seamen were ed thumbs down on a Govern­ American seamen, the Seafarers hung up during the 1946 General the demands made by the men. subverted to the aims of the ment proposal that all issues in will be prepared to jump into Strike, foreign seamen pledged In a congratulatory message communists who have captured dispute be arbitrated by a single instant action. full support to the SIU, and no at­ following the signing of the con­ the Canadian Seamen's Union. arbitration board, preferring in­ No date has been set for the tempts were made to scab ships This was recognized at the Third stead ten regional boards. tie-up, but since notice has al­ out in violation of the picketlines tract, Paul Hall, SIU Director of Biennial Convention of the Sea­ Organization, said: (A full page of pictures of ready been served on President set up by the SIU-SUP. farers, when a new Canadian "The SIU policy of economic telephone strike appear on Truman and the Congress of the District was set up. Now. however. Panamanian action at the point of production page 5.) Unted States, the boycott can ships in foreign ports will be has always been successful. We Already the move has borne In refutation of this idea. La­ stai t at any time now. are glad to see that you came fruit, and Canadian seamen have bor Secretary Schwellenbach boycotted, and this is a project All AFL Maritime Unions have quoted a report made during the pledged their active support and which has never before been off your ships in good SIU style. taken new hope from the fast We told you that the only way moving militancy of the SIU. war by a telephone panel and in cooperation in this beef, and the attempted. which AT&T had concurred. International T r a nsportworkers The main objective in the en­ This report held that it would Federation, of which the SIU tire beef will be to prevent be "unrealistic to make wage and the SUP are members, have Panamanian ships from moving, adjustments without taking into piomised that Panamanian ships or from loading or discharging account the inter-company rela- will not be worked in any for­ cargo. Once this i^ accomplish­ eign port where the ITF has af­ (Continued on Page 4) ed, it is certain that the ship­ filiates. owners will discontinue their PHILADELPHIA — Another the issue came to a vote, the This means that any action phony practice of "transferring" taken by the SIU will, in a U.S. ships, to Panamanian and company was added to the ever- NMU withdrew. Of course, with its usual dogshort time become worldwide. Honduran registry in order to lengthening string of bargaining in-the-manger attitude, the NMU Never before in the history of avoid paying decent wages and, elections won by the SIU when Last week the membership waited for six months before the merchant marine has there guaranteeing decent conditions a National Labor Relations Board withdrawing, and that deprived of the SIU went on record ben such a wide-spread tie-up to American seamen. election here resulted in a 27 to 2 the men of union conditions for declaring the Merchant Mar­ planned, and if it goes through Every consideration will be victory for the Seafarers. iners of America a phony that much longer. will mark the second time that outfit, and ordered its rep­ The balloting was held on The NMU officials boasted the Seafarers completely stalled shown to the crews of the struck vessels, since the beef is with board the SS Petrolite, a tanker many times that the SIU would resentatives to be kept off shipping on a large scale. the operators, not with the men operated by Mathiasen Tankers, never be able to wlh a tanker SIU ships and out of SIU INTERNATIONAL SCOPE sailing the ships. Arrangements Incorporated. Halls. The MMA purports to election on the East Coast. The be a fraternal organization, Certification is expected on results of this voting should The first time was during the will be made for the comfort of and has been claiming that 1946 General Strike, when, in the men once the ships have April 21, after which negotia­ force them to eat their words. it has been approved by the tions for a contract are expected The result of the bargaining answer to a ruling by the Wage been tied-up. election made the crewmembers SIU. THIS IS A LIE! They to start. Stabilization Board which would Everything is in readiness now have never had SIU indorse­ very happy. Some of them stay­ At one time the National Mari­ have robbed SIU members of for the jump-off. The AFL Mar­ ment. and the membership's wage increases won in negotia­ itime Trades Department, and time Union, CIO, was endeavor­ ed with the ship for a period of action is the answer. KEEP tions with the shipowners, the the International Transport- ing to organize this company, but eight months to insure an SIU THEM OFF SIU SHIPS AND SIU brought all United States workers Federation are prepared it soon became apparent that victory, and to them goes the OUT OF SIU HALLS! shipping to a standstill. to puU the pin as soon as the the members of the crew wanted lion's share of credit in this no part of that union, and before worthwhile achievement. Seafarers gives the signal. Even then the action had in­ SIU Prepares To Tie-Up AH Panamanian Ships Seafarers Wins Union Election On Petrolite, Mathiasen Tanker Attention Seafarers! �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 18. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 International Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG ---------- President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL --------- First Vice-President 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS WEISBERGER - - - Vice-President 105 Broad St., Nbw York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER ------ Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER - - - - Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK ------ Sccy.-Trcasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. p. SHUI.ER - - - Secy.-Trcas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Bo.x 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 15') Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Sccy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 1033 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGH MURPHY - - - - Sccy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hasting.s St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor Bosses' Offensive The present Congrcs.'; of the United States could be likened to a bunch of small boys showing off to catch the attention of a pretty little girl. When one boy stands on his head, another docs cartwheels, while the third walks aloitg a fence imitating a tight-rope walker. All for love of the pretty little girl. The men who represent us, supposedly, in Congress, arc much the same. One Senator comes up with a bill to out­ law industry-wide bargaining, another comes up with a mea.sure to prohibit the closed shop, and then another brings out his pet, a bill to combine all anti-labor measures into one bill. All for the love of big business. In the past year the SIU has made vast gains in wages and conditions. It has gone to the aid of the United Finan­ cial Workers, the Office Workers, the Telephone Workers, besides assisting its affiliates in the AFL Maritime Trades Department. None of those gains could have been made, and not one of those unions could have been helped, if the laws which are now being considered in Congress had been in effect. There is a mad rush going on in Congress to pass laws to curb labor. Senators and Representatives partial to labor are, in the minority, and in hearings on the various lav/s, labor-haters have been cordially received while labor leaders have been harassed and brow-beaten. Do these sound like the actions of men elected to rep" resent the majority—people who work for a living— rather than the minority—those wbo employ others and live by exploiting them? -ALII of the bills now being debated could have been written by Hitler, Mussolini, or Stalin. All are designed to rob the worker of his rights, and all are designed to strengthen the hand of the already too-powerful employer. If these bills go through, and the bosses are exerting every effort to make sure they do, it will mark a serious de­ feat in the history of the American labor movement. TJje time for us to fight is right now. The AFL has entered, the battle against restrictive labor legislation with all its forces. AFL affiliates all over the country are going into tliis fight together, and the fight won't be over until the dignity of labor is so well established that big business serving politicians are retired to running errands for the' companies they so dearly love. ' 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 In The Marine Hospitals These are ihe 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 writ­ ing to them. '' NEV/ ORLEANS HOSPITAL GU.S KREZTER C. MASON STEVE MOGAN R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT N. LONGTINE ED. DUDEK J. J. O'NEILL E. J. NAVARRE J. N. HULL C. TYNER C. J. COMPAN WM. H. CAO J. W. DENNIS ED. CUSTER WM. BROCE, Jr. GEO. F. DUFFY ADAM KARPOWICH C. LOCIGNO WM. MEAGHER D. LAUBERSHEIMER G. F. HART H. N. LEAVELLE S. HAMILTON » » » BALTIMORE HOSPITAL FRANCIS O'BRIEN FRANCIS BRENNAN CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES MILLER CORRIE SHARTZER BEN PRICE MICHAEL J. LUCAS MANUEL ROMERO PETER LOPEZ JOHN FOX JOHN APPLE JOSEPH PODGORSKI LESLIE BRILHART LEONARD BAILEY ANTONIO AMARAL EDWARD CAIN JR. STANLEY ROWE SALEM COPE WM. BENNETT JOHN RILEY (G. L.) JAMES McMAHON (G. L.) ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL W. R. MUIR C. RAMUSSEN J. KOSLUSKY D. MCDONALD B. HOFFMAN J. C. J. R. L. L. J. C. L. NEPONSIT^HOSPITAL R. HANCHEY LARSEN S. CAMPBELL A. BLAKE TORRES CLARK FIGUEROA SCHULTZ L. LEWIS You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. , (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) H. BURKE E. FERRER S. i- i STATEN ISLAND HOSP. O. KAELEP M. BAUCSKI E. CARRERAS R. G. MOSSELLER J. A. DYKES K. KORNELIUSSEN C. H. SULLIVAN E. E. CASEY D. NELSON W. R. BLOOM M. MORRIS ^ F. NERING H. R. BELCHER L. JILES P. REYES P. LATORRE J. BOLGEK H. A. ECHEVARIA ^ ^ BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. DELLAMANO H. SWIM R. LORD E. JOHNSTON E. MOFENE J. LEVACK -D. BURLISON T. MAYNES �Friday. April 18, 1947 THE NO SCABBING ALLOWED SEAFARERS LOG Page Three The Social Security Act, And How It Affects The Merchant Seamen By JOSEPH VOLPIAN The little man with the cap is being told in no uncertain terms that he can't go through the picketline to work inside. This picture was taken at the picketline of the office workers who are striking against the George E. Flinn Company in Brooklyn. Seafarers were called in to help, and as this picture shows, they came through. Striking, Office Workers Get Aid from Seafarers As the fund increases, broad­ er coverage may be expected, probably in the form of disabil­ ity paymdhts. UNDERSTAND LAW NEW YORK — The militant members of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union took on a new as­ signment this week when they went to the aid of the 17 office workers who struck against the George H. Flinn Corporation, contractors for the Brooklyn end of the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. Work on the huge project came to an end when the strikers, members of Local 153, Office Employees International Union, AFL, threw a picketline around the job. • The office employees quit work because the Flinn corporation re­ fused to bargain with the union, nothwithstanding the fact that Local 153 had been chosen as bargaining agent by them in a labor board election last October. Even in the face of the com­ plete stoppage of work, however, the corporation continued to stall negotiations, and it was then that the SIU was appealed to. SIU ON HAND A squad of volunteers was dis­ patched to the site of the pro­ ject, where their presence im­ mediately heartened the strikers. The Seafarers wore their tradi­ tional white caps, and carried the picketsigns of the office workers. The striking employees include timekeepers, checkers, and tele­ phone operators. Their demands are for a 44-hour week, a 15 per­ cent wage increase, and a 10 per­ cent night differential. Accord­ ing to a union spokesman, the average wage is now $43.00 for a 48-hour week. The same spokesman indicated that unless the corporation agrees to negotiate within a short time, -x-r-o- will -a similar work stoppage be caUe^'at the ' ManhMtln end of the tunnel. Blood Donors To carry on the work of returning sick and injured merchant seamen to health, the Marine Hospital on Staten Island has put out a call for blood donors of all types. All men who wish to do­ nate blood to aid their fel­ low seamen can do so by call­ ing at the offices of the Sta­ ten Island Marine Hospital. No longer could old people Special Services Representative count on being taken in by their relatives. Social legislation be­ In the early days of American came necessary to fit the needs life, we were an agrarian na­ of the changing times. tion. Family groups were close­ The Social Security Act pro­ ly knitted and security was at­ vides a measure of security for tained by each family taking you in your old age and for care of its own. The burden of your survivors in case of your caring for the aged, decrepit and death at any time. It is operated survivors of the deceased was by the government and has no accepted as a family responsi­ stock-holders to payoff. bility. Your Federal Old Age Bene­ As the nation expanded west­ fit or Social Security tax of 1 ward and machinery began to percent is really the premium replace muscles as a means of on your insurance policy. After production, the family group was benefit payments are made and no longer self-sufficient. The old the cost of administration de­ homestead became a nostalgic ducted, the balance goes into a memory. fund which now stands at seven billion dollars and is growing all the time. Side by side, an office worker and a Seafarer picket together to button up the George E. Flinn Company. • Another example of labor unity. See story on this page for more details. Inasmuch as seamen have theii taxes deducted when their ship pays off, quite often taxes are deducted on money that has been earned in the previous year. For instance, an electrician ships out in May and pays off the following January. His earnings may be approximately $2800 from which $28.00 is de­ ducted for his Social Security tax. He then ships out again in February and returns in Novem­ ber with approximate earnings of .$3500 of which $35.00 is de­ ducted. Thus, he had paid $63.00 in taxes in one year. He may then apply for a refund from his nearest Federal Security Agency and have $33.00 returned to him. The Social Security Adminis­ tration's main offices are in Bal­ timore, Md., and all records are kept there in numerical order instead of alphabetical order. The reason is that there are about 88,000 J. Johnsons in the files and there are no duplica­ tions in a numerical system. However, employers sometimes get the number of your Social Security Card wrong, and as a result someone else may get credit for your payments. You may check your account at any time by sending a card to the Baltimore headquarters asking for a statement of your account. Special po.stcard forms are available at any of their field offices. Merchant seamen, like 70 mil­ lion other Americans, are cover­ ed by the Social Security Act. It is important that the law be understood so that full benefit can be enjoyed. Unlike private insurance, in which the entire premium is paid by the workers, the Social Security tax is paid by both the w o r k e r and his employer in equal parts. This makes it possible for you DO have protection that could not be bought elsewhere for what is paid under the govern­ ment plan. BENEFITS Your share of the cost is 1 At the present time there are percent of your earnings up to $3,000 in any one year. You two kinds of benefits—retirement can get a refund on any amount and survivors. Retirement benefits are pay­ paid in excess of this $3,000. able to the wage earner when he retires at 65 or later. Survivors benefits are payable to his family when he dies no matter at what age death oc­ curs. bring results. Specifically, the retirement At the meeting I was greatly benefits are payable to: 1. The impressed by the genuine feel­ wage earner when he is 65 or ing of common interest which prevailed. The most striking older and stops work; 2. His feature of the meeting was that wife when she reaches 65; 3. His seamen's interests were being unmarried children under 18. Seafarer Watches The ITFAt Work By W. J. BRADY Attending a meeting of the International Transportworkers Federation as a rank and file member of the SIU, I saw for the first time how our interests are protected by our affiliation with the ITF—the world-wide organi­ zation to which the SIU, SUP and MM&P are affiliated. At the invitation of the New York Port Agent, Paul Hall, I attended an ITF meeting in Brooklyn this week, where the ITF took up the issue dealing with the boycott of ships flying flags of non-maritime nations— particularly Panamanian ships. The gathering was presided Willy Dorchain, representative of the ITF to Ameidc^ ^nd representative of the ITF of Belgium. Paul Hall representing the SIU and Morris Weisberger the SUP explained the American aspects of the boycott in a thorough manner. The Norwegian representative, Johansen, was quick to point out that he had already taken steps in notifying his union in Norway to have engines on stand­ by should the boycott take place. Clausen, representing Denmark, and Scott, representing England, both gave strong support to the American position on the pro­ posed boycott. This was added to by the rep­ resentatives of Greece and Sweden. A glance at the countries represented at the meeting show­ ed them to be the leading mari­ time nations in the woidd, and a boycott of Panamanian ships by these unions would be positive to (Cimtinucd on Page 14) (Contiftued on Page 9) MORE SIUBROTHERS �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Fxiday. April 18. 1947 ttWIIK.,. QUESTION: the SIU message? As a volunteer organizer, what was your greatest obstacle in getting acrpss O. E. "BUDDY" BASS, Wiper: I was aboard ihe Sovereign of Ihe Seas which is an Isthmian scow. There wasn't much prob­ lem to organizing on that ship since most of the men realized lhat without a union they were sunk. Isthmian has a long anti­ union record, and the men could see that their conditions and SOTIRIOS FOSCOLAS, OS: I was on tv/o ships as a volun­ teer organizer, and on both it was practically the same story. My first ship was the American Trader, American Trading and Production Company, and the second was a tanker that later signed with the SIU. Most of our trouble on these ships was with ihe NMU. They would come on board and spout a load of bushwah, and then when the crew found out what liars those guys •were they even resented ihe SIU organizers. We had to undo all the harm those phonies did, and after that v/e were able to start our own job. ABOUT FACE wages had stood still, while the it contrasted with the NMU. I rest of the industry had ad­ answered all their questions, but Now this same company is re­ vanced. Every time the SIU wins when an NMU organizer came on, fusing to put into operation all a new contract or a beef, it boboard, he refused to answer most arbitration plan which would comes thai much easier to do a of the questions and that - made take . into consideraton the "in­ good organizing job. Seamen are a bad impression on the men. ter-company relationships" re­ like everybody else, they want to Of course the officers tried to ferred to above. join a movement that is militant give us a hard time, but as soon Scliwellenbach took the com­ and that will win gains for them. as they saw that the men wanted pany to task in very strong lan­ And that's why the record of the to choose their own union with­ guage, but he also found time to SIU is such a good selling point out outside interference, the criticize the telephone workers. in organizing new companies. Skipper and the Mates started There was not^ much he could On the Sovereign of the Seas leaving the crew strictly alone say about them since they have the officers gave us a little trou­ on that matter. I've heard other been willing to abide by arbitra­ ble. They couldn't stop us from volunteers tell about the diffi­ tion since the negmtiations began talking union, but they could and culties they had in doing an or­ many long months ago. Never­ did stop us from making any ganizing job, but with me it was theless, the Secretary of Labor overtime. Our engineer, the First a snap. Maybe on the next ship scored the union for failure to Assistant, took over the Third's I'll have a hard time, but I think realize that "they are working watch, and he took over the du­ ,that the. SIU record speaks for for a public utility which must ties of the Wipers. He was so itself, and for that rea,son the be maintained constantly . . ." busy doing this work thai he CHARLES MISAK, OS:. crewmembers are receptive to us On another front, the telephone failed to do his own, and as a re­ I'm one of those lucky fellows when we tell them our story. workers in New Jersey were sult we almost had a serious ac­ who didn't have any obstacles to Certainly in the past few months granted an injunction prohibiting cident at sea. As it was, we had overcome when I went aboard a we have won plenty of gains for the arrest or prosecution of tele­ to stop in the middle of the ocean ship as a volunteer organizer. seamen, and we have knocked phone strikers under the drastic to make repairs. But that really When the other members of the over quite a number of new com­ new law passed by the state— wasn't an obstacle to organiz­ crew found out that I wanted to ing; in fact it helped us by show­ talk to them about the SIU, they panies. That shows that unor­ after the strike had already ing the men that their best pro- were anxious to hear from me. ganized seamen respect our Un- started. The injunction was handed toction would be a signed and They asked questions about ouriioH' and want the kind of prodown by a Federal Judge, and sealed SIU contract. Union, and wanted to know how teclion we can furnish. was based on a Supreme Coui-t decision which held that the right JOSEPH DINKINS. Oiler: to strike could not be abridged As soon as a fellow makes up by the stales unless such striking his mind that he's going to ship would result in "grave or im­ out as a volunteer organizer, he mediate danger to the commun­ starts to get nervous. I know ity." that happened to me. But once He maintained that this did I made up my mind, I decided to not hold true in this case since go through with it, and so I ap­ emergency service is still being plied for a job on an Isthmian provided. ship. I was turned down a cou­ have stock in the company, in­ On that AT&T ship, the Skip­ stead of being just plain work­ per put pressure on the crew- ing guys like the rest of us. They members to join the NMU. I go around damning all unions •wouldn't do thai, and the Skip­ and trying to talk the men into per made it so hot for me that I voting for the company in a bargaing election. BuV those people was finally forced off the ship. arp npttJnr, j xi. are Another source of trouble on or­ are getting scarcer, and they ' ganized vessels are the company so discredited that hardly anystiffs. Those guys act like they^ body listens to them any more. ple of times, but one day they needed a man in a hurry, and that was me. I was assigned to the St. Augustine Victory. As soon as I came on board I knew that there would be trouble. The Skipper, was violently anti-union, and even more het up against the SIU. He forbade any union talk, and he went all out to make sure that ibis rule was lived up to. bers of the NMU for a couple of Of course, we didn't let him years. I know we did a bang-up stop us, and we continued to talk job on the St. Augustine Victory, about the advantages of the SIU, and the NMU must have felt the and we gave out our Union same way about it because all 36 literature and copies of the Sea- votes on the ship were chal­ campaign was lenged by them. From the way successful that some NMU the men talked to me while I T. j i. j j • XL xx. men on board handed in their was on the ship I'm sure that books and joined the SIU. A few'they voted right down the line of these guys had been mem- for the Seafarers. HOMEWARD Unclaimed Gear BOUND Members whose gear has . been held for more thcui three months in the fourth floor baggage room of the New York Hall are- advised to call for it immediately, or notify the Hall where they wish it sent. Crowded conditions make it impossible to hold gear longer than three months. All effects remaining unclaimed after three months will be sent to the owner's home via express collect. Gear without addresses will be disposed of otherwise. (Cottthmed^from P^ge I) tionships which have always played a part in the wage his­ tory of the Bell System." NO EMERGENCY In regard to emergency long distance service, it came to light that the financial bigwigs in Wall Street, and other money districts the nation over, had made arrangements for long dis­ tance service before the strike started. These financiers have open long distance lines at their disposal 24 hours per day, re­ moving many lines from emer­ gency operation. But even in the face of all these maneuverings on the part of big business, the ranks of. the tele­ phone workers are solid, and the support of all honest labor is strictly on their side. Beside assistance from the SIU, the NFTW received a check for $20,000 from the International Ladies Garment Workers Union, AFL, as "a first practical token" of its sympathy with the strikers. The money was contributed for the special purpose of placing ad­ vertisements in newspapers. NEW HOURS ; - Heading up the Detroit River after. discharging-hjBir first load of aulomphiles at Cleveland, is the SS George VA Mead, a McCarthy ship. Shets an-SIU ship, and a good vessel. Everything thai floats is being made ready on the Great Lakes this year, for what Lakes seamen expect to be the greatest year in history. More cargo will probably be carried this year than during the war. Due to the large number of ships in New York calling for crews during off hours and on Sundays, the New York Hall is now operating on a new schedule of hours for registering and shipping. The new hours are: From Monday through Friday from 8:30 a. m. to 9 p. m.; Satur­ day 8:30 to 5 p. m. and Sun­ day from 10 to 3. �Frfday.'Aprtl'-18.-<d47 PtiE SEAFARERS Pade FifB LOG i 'i' /I Seme people have mors pep than others. After walking the piclretlines, these tc-lephona workers adjourned to the SIU Hall for a spot of jive. Such energy will come in handy in forcing the Bell Telephone Company to bargain honestly. Seme apples hove worms in them, and some unions have scabs to contend wiih. Take this picture above. Note the scabs scurrying out of Ihe telephone office at 104 Broad Street, New York. They've got their heads dov/n and who can blame them. The company paid good money for scabs, up to S25.CJ0 per day, but who wants blood money. ' • • •• ' V'./ -v '' ^ESTEp^jSr - a. y ipjjssp-...? .r '• - '• • Seafarers joined telephone workers on the picketlines in New York. From this point the sidewalk looks like a sea of white caps, and to the strikers it looked like real labor solidarity. Here's the strategy committee for' the New Orleans striking' phorte workers. Left to li^ht. Steely White, SIU New Orleans Port Agent; Ray Gtiidiry, 'Publicity Director, N. O. Coordinate Strike Committee; Jimrriy Mahafdy, slate di­ rector 6f the Southern Federation of Telephone Workers; and Bill 'Ranier, Secretary-'Treasurer of Local 410 of the same union. s I « . .,•> ; ?7r>v.;-cv.-T??tSS'. ^ . aj- Tsc5?-^;.y;;•- ly'.':- "H .• i . ,. • ^ • " In every stale execpf Indiana and Virginia, which have laws preventing utility strikes, telephone workers quit work on April 7, These telegrams were photographed in New Orleans. Posed in front of the telephone company office in New brleans, theise ^iretfy operators hold up the picket signs which 'tell at a glance that they are out on strike. All 6v6r'the nation the story was much the same, but the militant spirit of the lelephohe' workers was still as high'after ten days'6f strike as it was when the action first started. Pictured above are Leona Himmel end Zoe'Seigfried, in the usual 6rder. North or South, picketing is the same. - New Orleans has scabs, loo. Unmindful of the picket, these parasites go into ihe telephone of­ fice to work. Wonder if they realize that they are harming themselves in the long run? ^ �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 18, 1947 American Legion-Stooge Of Big Business What the American Legion is and what it stands for is no sec­ ret to the working people of the United States. They have pictures, clearly etched in their memories of the many union halls broken into by American Legion mobs, the union and liberal newspapers wrecked by armed goons from Legion chapters, and the distur­ bances caused by the Conven­ tions of this group. The dark days following the end of World War I saw the Legion playing a leading role in cracking heads on the picket- ny and darkness. The huge more than members of the armed tifies as the noted naval and submarine filled seas and then quantities of supplies thaJt forces in , the final analysis. military analyst of the New York make their way back through have already been brought ac­ There were no Government Times. enemy patrolled waters for more ross the Atlantic are a testi­ shared allotments for merchant Although many valiant men men and equipment. monial to the job that has al­ seamen. There were no clothing served in the merchant marine, Some only made one trip be­ ready been done." and uniforms for them either. against them must be measured a fore they went with the ship to At the same time. General There were no wages coming in great many others who "sought the long layoff, but some made Douglas MacArthur said of the during illness or injury for the the merchant marine as a soft many runs, and lived to have "heroes in dungarees," as they berth; they escaped the draft, and their sacrifices and contributions merchant seamen, were then called. they got whacking big salaries to the war effort depreciated by "With us they have shared While members of the armed and bonuses while doing it," says a smearing article in the Amer­ the heaviest enemy fire. On services received furloughs with Baldwin. ican Legion Magazine. these Islands I have ordered pay, seamen took time off withThe men who fought the war, HIS RECORD them off their ships into fox­ whether on land or on the sea, Hanson Baldwin may be re­ had only the highest respect for holes when their ships became membered as the anti-labor col­ the merchant seamen. True, there umnist of the New York Times untenable targets of altack. who. in the midst of the 1946 At our side they have suffer­ Masters. Mates, and Pilots Strike, ed in bloodshed and death. asked in print for a return to the The high caliber of efficiency good old days when Masters and the courage they display­ were able to flog seamen, and the unions had not made a sea­ ed in their part of the invasion man's life a half-way decent one. of the Philippines marked But during the war, his paper their conduct throughout the made far different points. entire campaign in the South­ On March 24, 1945, this influ­ west Pacific. They have con­ ential newspaper joined the tributed tremendously to our ranks of those calling for a Mer­ success. I hold no branch in chant Seamen's Bill of Rights. higher esteem than the Mer­ out pay when they could afford In pungent paragraphs, the Times to do so. And when gear was made the following points; chant Marine Service." lost at sea, through torpedoing or "It is .said that 80 percent of The American Legion Maga­ bombing, the seaman had to re­ those sailing since the start of zine, the official publication of plenish his own supply. No ask­ the war have been sunk at lea.st were a few men, in both camps, lines. In every community, the the American Legion, in an ar­ ing Uncle Sam for more. who were not all they should be, men of the Legion took an ac­ once. ticle appearing in the March, but thej' were few and relations tive and leading part in the CHARGES UNJUST "There is no provision for con­ 1947, issue, takes the merchant strikebreaking that was so Most of the charges contained tinued periodic treatment for between the armed services and seamen to task for daring to re­ prevalent prior to the growth in the articles are unfounded, or these men, even though the GI the merchant mariners were quest a Bill of Rights. and strength of unionism. pertain to only a small number of Bill of Rights holds out the prom­ warm from the knowledge of ATTACKS SEAMEN And they are following out the merchant seamen who kept ise that every veteran of the dangers equally shared. The article is authored by the sealanes open even before the armed services may have free But in the postwar world, the their self-designed roles of un­ ion busters in their activities William Hyatt, and is called, United States had been attacked necessarj' hospitalization for the American Legion has taken up­ since, the end of World War II. "The NMU: Paid in Full." at Pearl Harbor. rest of his life, if he is unable to on itself the task of destroying the good-will between the serv­ Although the NMU is speci­ It is well known that the Only 70 per cent of the United pay for it. ices, and at the same time deprive average soldier, sailor, and ma­ fically picked out for attack, it States armed forces saw service "Also, there is no permanent rine had no anti-union preju­ is obvious that all seamen's un­ overseas in World War H, and pension program for the disabled merchant seamen of the benefits dices. The Services tried to ions are the object of this sneak of these, not more than 75 per­ merchant mariner. The rehabili­ which are granted to any mem­ make the men in the armed for­ attempt to steal from merchant cent ever heard a shot fired in tation program promises well on ber of the armed services, no ces into union haters, but that seamen a decent postwar fu­ anger. These are official figures. paper, but there arc substantial matter how safe or dangerous his job might have been. ture. program proved ineffectual. But the soldiers, sailors and reports that the service is suf­ It .should be remembered that The main line of argument is marines who never met the en­ fering from poor administration When the was over, the American Legion took on the centered on the fact that mer­ emy are not being denied the in many states, and from ignor­ merchant seamen did not have task of baiting unions and chant seamen were draft de­ GI Bill of Rights. No attempt ance of the operation of it, rather to land in enemy territory to be­ come the target of concerted at­ showing veterans how to fight ferred, received good pay and has been made to exclude WACS generally. tack. Every time a ship ventured against labor. It is significant allowances, ate decent food, and or Waves who served their full "The results is that disabled that the largest World War II slept on white sheets. time in the safe shores of the merchant marine personnel who a mile out into the Atlantic and Pacific, it became an immediate veteran's group, the American While this was going on, the United States. need rehabilitation have been prey to the lurking Nazi sub­ Veterans Committee, is strict­ article states, all members of Why then attack merchant, sea­ discharged in large numbers from marine wolf-packs. ly pro-labor, and has attracted the armed forces were drafted. man who were the first to fight? the hospitals and have disappear­ PONDER THE FACTS many union men into its ranks. In this next paragraph may lie ed to become probable charges Let Mr. Hyatt and the Ameri­ on the community as indigents. the answer. We quote from Mr. FOR CURBS can Legion Magazine ponder over Hyatt. "At least there should be an The leaders of the American these facts. Let the memory of Legion have made it almost a ". . no merchant seaman effort to recognize the dignity six thousand dead merchant sea­ of the service and give to the life work to appear before Con­ could sign on a ship without men cause both of them to think thousands of disabled merchant gress on practically every Bill being forced to join a union. twice befoi-e writing and pub­ marine veterans some distinction that would limit the rights of As a result union coffers were lishing such irresponsible .state­ from members of the civilian labor unions, or limit the rights swollen with the tribute exact­ ments. population who have taken no of free people, living in the ed from these thousands of risk and suffered no injury conIf their object is wrecking the young men." United States of America. existing, seamen's unions, they ' nected with war." But it is significant that this In other words, the author of have bitten off much more th.ah WAR SERVICE same organization is struck the article is angry because the they can chew. dumb when it comes to fighting seamen were strong enough to More than 1500 SIU members The same issue of the maga­ against Bills which give as­ force decent demands from ship­ were lost as a result of enemy zine that carried the attack on tounding powers to big business owners who were reaping a for­ merchant seamen also carried an or entrenched wealth and power. tune from the war situation, and article entitled "Why I Joined Right now the American Le- got very little money per month, is even more angry because the The American Legion." This is gion is howling down the trail ate poor food, and slept on .straw unions had made such an im­ an interview with 20 vets who mattresses and in foxholes. pression on men going to sea for against a Merchant Seamen's became Legionnaires. Incidently, the first time that were eager to On the face of it, these com­ Bill of Rights. This legislation, merchant seamen are not eligible similar to the GI -Bill of Rights, parisons are absolutely untrue. join a union at the first oppor­ for membership. would compensate merchant Merchant seamen were subject tunity. It is a subject.^of much con­ seamen for their wartime serv- to the same terrors and hard­ It becomes more and more ob­ jecture whether these men would ship that most of the soldiers, vious as the piece continues that ice. have joined the American Le­ Outstanding Americans, sailors, and marines experienced. the author is not so much in­ gion if they had been aware that among them soldiers and sailors ^ Their lives were no different terested in withholding the bene­ the Legion would stoop low from privates up to Generals from what most Navy men went fits of a Bill of Rights from mer­ enough to attack the merchant and Admirals, have given praise through, except that an armed chant seamen as he is in doing seamen, the men who were the to aciljvities of the merchant battleship or destroyer is a lot his little bit to discredit seamen's first to fight. safer than an unarmed freighter, marine during the war. unions in the eyes of the public. action. In addition, seamen stood or a tanker loaded with high oc­ General Dwight D. Eisen­ From what is known of the One of the most serious, as well side by side with servicemen dur­ tane gasoline. hower said, in 1945, as the most unfounded, charges ing the awful days of establish­ average veteran, it is reasonable High wages is another source made by Mr. Hyatt is that mer­ ing beachheads and fighting off to believe that he would have "In behalf of the men of held his nose and hurried past my command, I thank the of contention in the article. If chant searten entered the mari­ enemy attacks. the Legion Headquarters before The odds against merchant men of the Merchant Marine the author had thought, or want­ time service so as to escape ac­ becoming a party to such a be­ seamen were practically double. for their pledge of full coop­ ed, to delve further into the sub­ tive service. trayal of all that this country ject, he could have found that eration in our common effort In this connection he quotes because they had to transport fought for. merchant seamen were not paid Hanson Baldwin, whom he iden- the troops and supplies through to destroy the forces of tyran- �Friday. April 18. 1947 T H E SEAF ARERS LO G For Small Place, Port Arthur Has Good Shipping This Wilmington Finkherder Is Riding To A Fail By HARVEY C. JAMERSON PORT ARTHUR —There isn't much down here in the way of payoffs, but for a small port this place gets more than its share of ships in transit. Each ship has a few beefs which don't amount to much, but which keep us step­ ping. Much as I hate to say it, in more than a few cases the fault lies with the crew. That doesn't mean only the Iripcarders or per-' mitmen. The full bookmen feel that they can stay drunk and foul up a ship without anything happen­ ing, but as soon as a TC or permRman goes off the beam, the full bookmen call the Hall and ask the Agent or Patrolman to come down and kick the per­ former off. You all know that the agree­ ments of the SlU are the best afloat. To keep them that way we must have a strong Union, composed of men who live up to the Union rules and furnish a day's work for a day's pay. For men with ratings, this Port is a lulu. We have shipped every­ one around here except the cowpunchers and the oilwell diggers, and we still need more men. Come on down here Brothers, and if you don't want to ship, just come in and visit. Page Seven BY CHARLES STARLING i SAVANNAH — Things in the ! Port of Savannah still look on 1 the brighter side, as v/e-are ex­ pecting quite a few .ships to pay­ off within the next month. As I said in last week's report, '.ve hu\ e two paying off this week Silence this week from the By JOHN MOGAN and are expecting about eight Branch Agents of the follow­ BOSTON — Business and .ship­ the bosun, who gave the Patrol­ more within .a month. So, .ship­ ing ports: ping in the port of Boston re­ man a bad time foi' a while in ping .-hould be I'ea! good in the Port of Sa\'annah. mains definitely on the upswing. connection with his beef. NORFOLK However, the bosun was de­ An invitation is open for any As a matter of fact, the Cham­ TAMPA ber of Commerce has been gloat­ finitely high ma.n insofar as of ou:' Brothei'.s to come down ing in the newspaper for .several overtime hours worked was con­ and ship, out at any time. GALVESTON days about the enorm.ous in­ cerned; it was the Sunday We haci quite a beef on the JACKSONVILLE crease in exports and imports watches which gave the ABs l-M'mttmk Point, here in SavanHOUSTON slight edge in total hour.s. through the port. j nah this la.^-'t week, in regard to CORPUS CHRISTI It would bo well to .see this i thi.^ fink herder in the Port of The patrolmen, and particu­ MOBILE larly our traveling man, Jim clause ciarific'd in a special ai'- ' Wilmington. Sweeney, have had a busj' week ticle in the LOG, as the dispute :I Thi.s bird .seems to be shipping CHICAGO does arise from time to time, and of it. DETROIT I all im n that he can get a hold of Brothej' Sweeney was in Provi­ no doubt wil continue to come on any and all ships, without DULUTH dence for the payoff of thtr SB up until each and every bosun ever making an effort to call our TOLEDO knows the score. ports for men. 'Well, we will be starting off This practice must stop, as it The deadline for port re­ the new week with a bang, with is involving some of our book two Watcrmans scheduled for ports, monies due. etc.. is the members who live in the port of payoff on Monday—the Simmons Monday preceeding publica­ Wilmington and also new men Victory in Portland, and the tion. While every effort will NEW starting out to sea who do not Niantic Victory, which was out DESIGNbe made to use in the current know the score. five months, in Boston. RgAR . issue material received after I am writing the SecretaryAlso scheduled for payoffs ENGINE' Treasurer a letter regarding this early in the week are three West that dale, space commitments matter, and am .sure when he Coast tankers. generally do not permit us to contacts Moran Towing and other So once more an urgent in­ do so. vitation is extended to all hands companies in the Poi't of New to come up this way for good York that this practice will stop shipping; it's heartbreaking to immediately. New Eghoto, tanker; in Port­ see a ship go out light a couple -About all that is left to say land for the SS Irvin S. Cobb; in of men, but we've seen them go is that we are having some beau­ Providence for the SS Fort Win­ that way fairly often recently. tiful weather in the port of Sa­ nebago, tanker; in Portland for Lastest dope on the Evange­ vannah. and Brother Smith and the SS Simmons Victory, Water­ line fs that she'll be ready about I are working like the devil right man, which, incidentally was de­ May 1. now. By WILLIAM RENTZ layed owing to a heavy blow out­ BALTIMORE — Like all other thing to do with it. We all I'e- side; then back to Boston for the SIU Ports, this Branch is hav­ membcr Red as New Orleans payoff of the Fort Erie, and on ing its share of trouble in get­ Patrolman for two years, and Sunday, back to Portland for a ting enough rated" rnen, espec­ we all know what kind of a Monday morning payoff of the Simmons Victory. ially in the black gang. swell job he did there. In the meantime, the SS South­ We have been saying for some Let's hope that the ships con­ By W, PAUL GONSORCHIK time that our membership is not tinue coming in here with less land paid off in Boston, with a too large for the number of jobs beefs and fewer gas hounds on lot of stuff hitting the port in NEW YORK—One of the most of the Union. You are the ones under contract, and this situa­ board. Baltimore is bearing transit, most of which had better important items of the Seafarers' ' who will in time run the SIU. tion proves that we were cor­ down on performers as these than a fair share of beefs. structure is the shipping rules. The responsibility for main­ The SS Greenville Dodge These rules, drawn up by the taining a strong union depends characters can cause a lot of rect. This does not mean that we commotion and "tftsruption in a (Grace Lines-SUP) and the SS membership, are part of the SIU's on you; and there is only one Warrior, both in port loading, foundation. should open our books. While port. waj- to insure that: a thorough called on the same day with iden­ we may be a bit shorthanded understanding of the shipping If a man expects to hold on Unfortunately, however, all at the present time, we should to his valuable SIU Book', he tical beefs—performers aboard. members are not living up to the rules. prepare ourselves for the pos­ better be sober at the payoff. FEW AGAINST MANY shipping rules, either through a The shipping rules are not hard sibility of a shortage of jobs It is a damn shame that one lack of knowledge or a desire to to understand. They were drawn It seems that oilers are claimdue to permanent lay-up of some or two men can make a ship mis­ desregard them. up by the membership in terms erable for the majority, and ships. It is hard to understand this every man can understand. Another factor that may add wherever such a condition is It wasn't easy. A gi-eat deal of lack of knowledge, as it has been to lack of jobs for merchant found the Union must crack time and effort •w.^ent into their taken for granted that all mem­ seamen is the transferring of down on the troublesome min­ preparation and the final draft bers are acquainted with the pro­ American vessels to the Panam­ ority. was voted upon and accepted by visions of the rules. anian or Hondurian flag. Now that there is a spurt of the membership. It can be seen now that too I believe we should tie those good shipping, with a consequent much was taken for granted. FOR THE MAJORITY ships up wherever they come scarcity of rated men, there are Here, where an understanding of ^ HA"VSM! HICinto an American Port, other­ A few members do not see eye those who figure they can af­ the shipping rules and constitu­ I'M MOT AIDwise our standards will be driv­ to eye on the rules and will make ford to get fired. MlC-P-feKpORM£Rf tion are a real necessity to the en down and our men put out a practice of disregarding them. But it should be remembered gaining of a livelihood, many sea­ of work. It is too bad that everyone can't that the book or permit might farers show only indifference. At the present time we have see a subject in the same light, be lost also, which is a lot more Where are the oldtimers who the MV Gadsden in Port. She but disregarding anything that serious. should know the rules and by­ is a heavy lift ship belonging to displeases one is not helpful to The Warrior also had a few the American Eastern Company. ing overtime for cleaning centi- necessary repairs due which, ac­ laws of the Union? Have they the Union or the majority of sea­ The SS Mandarin, Robin Line, fruge strainers on C-1 type en­ cording to the crew, were rather forgotten that our Union fought men who voted for them. is also here waiting to be turn­ gines. Ths is always routine duty slow in shaping up. However, for these rules and the strength An important thing about the ed over to the Bloomfield Steam­ and is to be done Without the it was learned that they will be and effectiveness of the Union ship^ng rules is the correct in­ depend on them? ship Company. This is another payment of overtime. terpretation. It is understand­ made okay, and that their new Ben Rees, formerly Dispatcher newly organized company, under AND THE NEWCOMERS able that the rules can be in­ refrigerator for the crew mess in Norfolk, has taken over as SIU contract. terpreted differently, so for this will be delivered before sailing. And the younger Brothers just Stewards Department Patrolman reason I will point out some of CLEAN AND QUIET out of school: Why are the ship­ OVERTIME PROBLEM here. Reliable Ben, or "Old Hoss" the most misinterpreted rules in ping rules so difficult to under­ Another beef which came up The City of Alma, Waterman as he is known, is right on the a subsequent issue of the LOG. recently (on the SS Southland) stand? Steamship Company, paid off ball, as always. In the meantime, if you have It has always been an accepted here on April 5. This was a Permit and trip card men are was in connection with Article 3, any questions pertaining to the good payoff, and we want to being promoted aboard'ship. This Section 12 of the Agreement re­ fact that a knowledge of the shipping rules, ask your Dis­ commend the _ three Delegates is in violation of the Union's garding the bosun being allowed shipping rules is the first prin­ who bought this ship in clean Official Shipping llules, which to make as many hours overtime ciple that must be learned to in­ patcher, Patrolman or any of state, "Section 30 — Wipers as the high man's overtime in the sure smooth operations both your officials for clarification. and with no disputes. We arc here for that purpose aboard ships and ashore. Our old pie-card buddy. Red must not be promoted aboard Deck Department. and we will gladly help you with On the shoulders of you young­ On the Southland, some of Sullivan, was the ship's Dele­ vessel, but must come off and any questions. er Seafarers depends the future the ABs had more overtime than gate, and maybe that had some­ register." Boston Covers All New England NO NEWS ? ? As Shipping Maintains Peak Baltimore, Too, is Having Trouble Finding Men For The Rated Jobs Knowledge Of Shipping Rules Called Basis Of Union Strength �THE Page Eight SEAFARERS Petty Chiseling Cheats Seamen Out Of Launch Service Money LOG Friday. April 18. 1947 ALCOA'S NEW PASSENGER SHIP By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — Last week i informed as to when the launch a situation that we will show up. we had naa a haven't had in a long time, All our members ought to be mean that a launch beef came on the watch for these chiseling up on the Cape Briton, Bull Line, tactics, and when they crop up and that's something which we wait for the launch — otherwise haven't had to contend with in the money spent Cannot be col­ lected from the company. many moons. The ship pulled out into the stream at about 6 p. m. and no launch was supplied by the com­ pany until the next morning. Some of the crewmembers, how­ ever, signaled a launch, and paid $1.00 apiece each way. , . West Coast Gets A New Probiem: Shortage Of Men least eight and J half pounds of coffee on board for each day. However, when it came time to bring supplies on board, damn if By W. H. SIMMONS coffee wasn't found to be short again. So we went to bat with SAN FRANCISCO — Shipping the company and this time ia so good out here that we are enough Java was supplied. experiencing something new for Shipping is very good down us. There is a shortage of all ratings, and we are forced to here. We have plenty of jobs Any move heaven and earth to get and not enough takers. enough men to crew the ships. rated men who want to ship out Last week we had a case in of the City of Brotherly Love are point. The Waterman Steamship invited to come on down here Company took over the Xavier and get acquainted. Victory in Coos Bay. We had the problem of crewing the ship and we only managed it by grabbing men as they came into the meet­ ing, giving them bus tickets and Members of fhe SIU have subsistence money, and sending a long record of supporting them on their merry way. other unions in a just beef. From this instance, and others For this reason, all Seafarers too numerous to mention, it can are urged not to purchase the be seen that the Gold Coast is really humming again. Vancouver Daily Province, However, although we are en­ a. scab newspaper, set up and joying plenty of activity here, printed by non-union labor. our income has dropped off The Vancouver. B. C., slightly. Atlantic and Gulf mem­ SIU Branch is supporting the bers touching any port on the West Coast, can pay their dues. International Typographers SUP representatives are carrying Union, AFL, both morally A&G Dues Receipt Books, and and physically in their eight there is an A&G office in the month old strike. Port of San Francisco. Canadian Seamen When in Vancouver show your contempt for the scabs by refusing to buy a news­ paper put out by strikebreak­ ers. This will help the ITU members to win their strike for better wages and condi­ tions. ~ •: • ^ .'I " - m - •-. - DOUBLE TALK Another beef last week con­ cerned the Skipper of the John Gallup, Smith and Johnson. This character came on board at 5:30 p. m., and ordered all hands to stand by fore and aft. He then They were told by the launch- tried to beat the men put of two tender that if they presented hours penalty time. their receipts to the company When this was brought up to they could collect the money they him at the payoff, he stated in paid him. The company refused front of both Patrolmen that the to pay, and claimed that a launch had been furnished, and some of hree Delegates had never menthe crewmembers had used the tioned the matter to him. So the service going to and from shore. Delegates came up, and then the Captain stated that he had not said anything to the Patrolmen SEA LAWYERS about not hearing from the Dele­ According to the agreement, gates on the beefs. when a ship is out in the stream Some guy. He had a split awaiting a berth, and it is ex­ tongue, and he tried to use both pected to stay there for eight hours or longer, the company parts at one time. The crew also beefed about a must furnish a launch for one shortage of coffee. We got every­ complete trip every 24 hours. thing straightened out, and the The company officials claimed Port Steward promised to put at that they do not have to furnish a launch until the ship has been at anchor for eight hours, and that they can furnish the launch anytime they please, just so long as one complete trip is made each 24 hours. Well, according to the agree­ ment, they are right, but this is awfully damn technical, and cer­ tainly the Delegates ought to be It has also come to my atten­ tion that some of our members are disregarding the Agent in Coos Bay. This shouldn't be since Jack Barton, the Agent, was put in there for both SIU and SUP protection and service. Let's stop by-passing, and go all out to give him a hand. • jj i ; — One of Alcoa's three new passenger-cargo vessels maned by a Seafarer crew, the Alcoa Cavaler is pictured on her recent trial run on the Columbia River at Portland, Ore. The Cavalier, now in New York, will make 17-day trips through the West Indies beginning May 2, while her sister ships, the Corsair and the Clipper, will sail from New Orleans on dates to be announced later. Crew quarters are air-conditioned on the 14,870-ton ships. New York Has Plenty Of Ships, But Men To Sail Them Is Prohiem By JOE ALGINA By JOHNNY JOHNSTON Getting a letter home in the 1800's was not an easy matter for a seamen. The Captain of the ship Mary of Boston, writ­ ing home to his wife in 1808 from Smyrha, comments as fol­ lows: •T send this by a Barbaiy Corsair, such acquaintance as I make here, and perhaps I shall experience as much faith in a Turk as we find in the general­ ity of Christians. He will leave it in Malta, and there I expect it may find someone to forward it on, if possible, to America." A Corsair was a privateer of the Mediterranean, usually Tur­ kish, whose activities often ver­ ged on piracy. i 4 4. There have been many stories told about the ways and means that were used by waterfont characters to relieve the oldtime seaman of his payoff when he came ashore. The most ruthless of all was the boarding-house runner. This character was paid by the Shipping Master before the sea­ man was signed on, thus the man went to sea, with his wages well drawn against. It was common practice for the landlord to charge the sea­ man double what he obtained from the Shipping Master. This meant many days of no pay be­ fore the seaman had paid his debt and was working for money of his own. ATTENTION! If you don't find linen when you go aboard your ship, notify the Hall at once. A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any good. It's your bed and you have to lie in It. NEW YORK — This port is still a beehive of activity. Not a day goes by that we don't have plenty of ships paying off, signing on, or being squared away. That goes for tankers, freighters, and passenger ves­ sels. With so many things happen­ ing at once, the Dispatcher and the Patrolmen take a real beat­ ing. A shortage of rated men is making the Dispatcher see things at night; and being kept on the run until all hours is not doing the Patrolmen any good, either. Our new companies, notably Bloomfield and American East­ ern, are adding to their fleets. That means more jobs, and so the pick of ships is good here. On Overtime All overtime must be turn­ ed in to the head of each Department at least 72 hours before the ship is scheduled to dock. But this does not mean to hold the overtime until then. As soon as penalty work is done, a record should be given to the Department head, and one copy held by the man doing the job. In that way there is less chance for things to get fouled up. Last week the SS Francis, Bull Lines, paid off after a fairly long trip. Everything went along in ] fine shape and the crew col­ lected a good piece of cabbage. Same thing on the SS Richard Rush, Robin Lines, in from a trip to South Africa. The sign on of the Waterman's SS Yaka was delayed due to certain repairs i-equested by the SIU. These have been complet­ ed and the ship is ready to leave any day fon Bremerhaven. Four Sea trains are now on the steady lun from New Orleans to New York. This is good news for many Seafarers who like the run. New York is now having a smallpox scare. In order to avert a real epidemic, all inhabitants of the Big City have been re­ quested to be vaccinated. If any Seafarers are contem­ plating coming' to New York, it is wise to be vaccinated before arriving here. In case there are any SIU men who want to be immunized here, many spots have been set up for that purpose. Here are the addresses; all city hospitals; all police stations; all Depart­ ment of Health clinics; and the Health Department's main office, 125 Worth Street. The whole business takes only a few seconds, and it doesn't hurt fellows — they tell me. The Patrolmen Say... NEW YORK—I found the ship that cannot be beat for fine food and an excellent Stewards De­ partment. She is the SS Mclntyre, South Atlantic Steamship Company. When I went aboard for the payoff, while she was in the stream here in New York, my nostrils were assailed by the in­ describable perfume of broiling steaks. It was wonderful. Never have I seen a more contented crew than the boys aboard this ship. Each meal is looked forward ho with the impatierice that accompanies the payoff. The crew found itself unable to bestow upon the cooks all the praise they felt for the fine cooking laid before them and on that point I can back them up— it sure was wonderful. The cooking was wonderful and the Steward treated the crew like kings. There waij nothing* that possibly could be done that wasn't provided for the men at chow time. From the crew and myself a rousing hand of applause to the Stewards Department of the Mclntyre. Jimmy Sheehan �Friday, April 18. 1947 THE Canadian SlU After Raise For Restorer Crew I\ SEAFARERS LOG LEAFLET Marcus Hook Blasts Mineowners Who Put Profits Above Lives By BLACKIE CARDULLO MARCUS HOOK— Everything is shaping up fine in the Port of Marcus Hook — shipping is good, the girls are beautiful, and there is plenty of work to do on the unorganized ships. Any of the boys who would like to come down here and give us a hand organizing will be welcome with open arms. We have at 1 e a s t 10 unorganized ships coming in every week, and the work involved keeps us right on the ball. We wonder if some of those Washington crack-pots and la­ bor-baiting bums, like peg-leg Pegler and his comrades, have read the paper lately—and we don't mean the jokes or the funnies. We're referring to the Centralia mine incidents, where 111 men lost their lives recently. These dead men were the same men who were asking for a raise in pay and a lousy nickel-a-ton royalty to take care of their families in case of acci­ dents such as the one just oc­ curred. These men had to risk their lives time and again to bring about correction of the unsafe conditions in the very same mine. This also includes calling of the Illinois governor's atten­ tion to the conditions. NEW YORK — Representing the Canadian District of the Seafarers International Union, Secietary-Treasurer H. Murphy this week began negotiations with the Commercial Pacific Cable Company to gain the six percent increase recently won on SIU American ships. Operators of the Canadian cableship, Restorer, the company is expected to fall in line and sign up without too much diffi­ culty. The Union demands, identical to those gained from the Ameri­ can operators, call for a six per­ cent increase in wages, overt i m e, standby, longshore, and tank cleaning rates retroactive to January 1, 1947. • Also asked for are increases in the traveling and subsistence rates from $4.00 to $4.25 and the meal allowance from $1.00 to $1.05. These rates call for re­ troactivity to March 11, 1947. The Restorer, now doing cable repair work in the Pacific, oper­ ates out of Vancouver, B.C. with a Canadian crew. Contracted to the SIU Canadian District, she enjoys the highest standard of wages and conditions of any ship in Canada. Negotiations are expected to wind up shortly when the man­ ager of the company returns to New York for a meeting with Brother Mui-phy at the c o m pany's offices. GREED Commie Union Sabotages Auto Union Demands •J- For the second time within a year, the communist-dominated United Electrical, Radio and Ma­ chine Workers of America, CIO, sabotaged the wage-increase de­ mands made by the CIO United Auto Workers on General Mo­ tors with the acceptance early this week of a I5c raise following a secret meeting with company officials. The UAW is pushing for a 23Vic raise for its mem­ bership. Last year, when the UAW was conducting its longest ond most costly strike against GM an<#was holding out for a IQVijc hourly wage increase, the UE signed a pact with the auto corporation for 18% cents in cricumstances strikingly similar to this week's settlement. Terms of the latest UE-GM agreement, which was announced just 24 hours before the opening of a special meeting of the UAW's executive board in New York City, pointed up the in­ tense degree of the " communists' hatred for the auto workers president, Walter Reuther. The UAW head, a bitter foe of the communists' destructive trade-union tactics, has been hamstrung by them in his own union in his fight to better con­ ditions for the membership. In addition to spiking the ef­ fectiveness of their brother un­ ionists' demands, the UE's action, dealt a a blow to efforts of the CIO to bargain on an industry­ wide basis. Page Nine ,KER4 IMT€i:t4«nONAl. ONION CANADIAN PISTRICT • t Reproduced above is the front page of the leaflet, "The Sea­ farers in Canada," the first in a series of organizational litera­ ture to be issued and distributed by the newly-formed Canadian District of the Seafarers International Union. , Addressed to the vast number of unorganized Canadian seamen, the leaflet explains in question and answer form the structure, policies and unparalleled maritime accomplishments of the SIU. There are 111 men dead, hun­ dreds of mourning relatives^—all because of some greedy mine owner, who wouldn't spend a few dollars to make conditions safe. We see w here some lame­ brained jerk wrote into a Phil­ adelphia paper, blasting John L. Lewis for calling a six-day mourning period. This character suggested that Lewis send the miners back to work, and that the men set aside a certain sum of money out of their pay to help support the families of the 111 dead. This stupid individual lias ab­ solved the company of all blame for this tragedy and holds Lewis as directly responsible. If the writer of the vicious letter didn't have a one-track mind he'd realize that Lewis and the United Mine Workers have organized and fought for safer conditions a lot harder than they have for pay increases. When some big shot dies, he gets big headlines and a nation­ al holiday is declared, but when 111 hard working men are reck­ lessly killed, and their co-work­ ers pay tribute to them by de­ claring a mourning period, they are bombarded. We know what John L. Lewis stands for and we are with him 100 percent, if it will just change unsafe working c o n d itions. If some of • these people who are so quick to blast the miners were made to work in these same mines, they would very soon change their tune. As far as I am concerned, I have sailed ships on all oceans and sailed all through the war, from beginning to end, and if these people were to depend on me to mine coal under these horrible conditions to keep them wai'm they would all soon freeze to death. MC School Saves 7 Million Bucks — By Closing American taxpayers will bene­ fit by a saving of $7,000,000 with the closing down of the Pennsyl­ vania Maritime Academy at Morristown. Pa., on May 31. Only 49 cadets are now enrolled in the school. It was also disclosed that work on a $6,500,000 project to establish a shore base at Morrisville already had been halted. The a n n o u n c ement of the abandoning of the training school points up the validity of the aiguments presented by the Seafarers International Union. The Maritime Commission's ti-aining program has long been the object of attack by the SIU, which contends that the entire project is a needless and unwar­ ranted drain on the taxpayers' money. Arrangements are being made for the completion of the train­ ing of the cadets at other east coast maritime academies whose wastefulness far exceeds the ex­ penditures for the Pennsylvania school. How The Social Security Act Affects Seamen {Continued from Page }) Retirement benefits are pay­ able to the wage earner and his wife until the death of both and to the unmarried children until the age of 18. Survivors benefits are payable to the following survivors of the insured; 1. Children (including adopted and stepchildren). These receive monthly payments until they reach the age of 18. 2. Widow, regardless of age, caring for a child entitled to benefits — If she does not re­ marry, she receives monthly payments until her youngest child is 18. Payments stop then, but begin again when the widow becomes 65 and continue until her death. 3. Widow, without child—she receives monthly payments when she reaches the age of 65, pro­ vided she has not remarried. 4. Dependent parents—where the deceased left neither widow nor child who might never be­ come eligible for monthly bene­ fits, his parents 65 or over may receive m o n t h 1 y benefits if chiefly supported by the wage earner at the time of his death. A lump sum death benefit is payable to the widow immediatelj' upon the death of her hus­ band. The regular monthly bene­ fits then begin when she reach­ es 65. There are .special provisions for survivors of men who serv­ ed in the armed forces if death occurred after they left the ser­ vice. Details may be had at any field office of the Social Security Administration. It is important that claims be filed as quickly as possible af­ ter death, as retroactive pay­ ments will not be made for more than three months. In order to qualify for the benefits of S(.icial Security, the wage earner must be fully in­ sured. To gain this status, the wage earner must have paid tax on $50 or more in at least half the number of calendar quarters as there are between January 1. 1937, when the program began, and the quarter when he be­ comes 65, or dies. In no case can he become fully insured unless he has been paid at least $50 in wages in each of at least six calendar quarters. You may become fully paid up for life when your record shows that you have acquired 40 of these $50 quarters—called quar­ ters of coverage. Thus, you are assured of re­ ceiving payments when you be­ come 65 or your survivors may collect benefits in case of death. This does nut mean, however, that your payments will not change. If you continue to work in covered employment after earning the 40 quarters of cov­ erage. your benefits, generally speaking, increase. If you leave covered employment, they de­ creased. CONCLUSION The Social Security Adminis­ tration maintains 450 field of­ fices throughout the United States, all of whom are there to serve you if you have any prob­ lems. From personal contact with the New York staff, we have found them to be very courteous and helpful. They seem anxious to see to it that you get what is coming to you. If you cannot call at one of their offices for assistance, they will go into your individual cas« if you contact them by mail. �Page Ten T H E SEA F A R E R S Friday. April 18. 1947 LOG SBIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS NORTH ATLANTIC STORM MAULED THE MANDAN VICTORY Crew Stages Rip-Roaring Vodvil Show Crewmembers of the SS Wil­ liam Cox shook the mothballs from their stored up talent, when the vessel tied up in Gal­ veston recently, and shaped up a star-studded shipboard show that, at least, was a screaming success. Seventeen sizzling vau­ deville acts, running the entire range from an accordion recital right down to the inevitable strip-teasing bump and grind routine sparked the night's en­ tertainment. There was little doubt as to the Seafarers' versatility when the curtain rang down on the last glittering act. The three passengers who came in on the Cox beat the drums in booming measures for the lads who shuf­ fled across the boards. Their acclaim for the performance was reported by Ray Sweeney, Gal­ veston patrolman. The heavy seas and. gales that played hell with irans-allantic traffic last month didn't skip over the Waterman vessel. In the ruckus the night of March 20. the forward mast was ripped out. went splashing over the side. Damage up forward is seen in photo above. Top n' lift laid across and creased the starboard boom. ; -s . AMONG THE BEST A ten minute intermission fol­ lowed the ninth number — a group singing of "Hail, Hail, Safely tied up at a Brooklyn dock, the Mandan "Victory presents this picture of a vessel minus her mast. After the mis­ hap. the ship heaved to and waited fd«r days for the storm to subside. The Gang's All Here," which was reported heard in some quarters of the borough of the tree and the Lipless bums. Refreshments —FREE—were served as a cour­ tesy of the Stewards Department. Then back on the boards went the spoofing and hoofing mem­ bers of the Deck and Black Gangs for the second half of the production, led off by "Teddy, the Troubador," singing "If I Had A Nickel" under a shower of coins from the responsive audi­ ence. In addition to the song, strip­ per and accordionist, the riotous program included a soft shoe shuffle, the tearful "Frankie and Johnnie" ballad, and a scintil­ lating samba sung and hipped by "Rosie" Terrill. The committee which arrang­ ed and produced the shipboard spectacle was comprised of the following: Arthur J. Moelter, Ch. Eng; Thomas Case, Third Mate; Sylvester Zygarewski, Steward; Thomas Brescia, OS; Andre Touchon, AB; Mar ice Parker, Oiler. The program states the committee was given special assistance by Ludwig Proskauer, apparently a passenger. The program distributed to the audience was as follows: At Seven-Thirty P.M. The Deck and Engine Departments present SEVENTEEN, COUNT EM, SEVENTEEN BIG ACTS OF VAUDEVILLE ! 1 featuring that sensational comedy team MOELTER & CASE and MAESTRO LUDWIG PROSKAUER (on the accordion) PART ONE That great Gershwin Classic "Rhapsody in Blue." poured sweetly from the accordion by .MAESTRO LUDWIG PROSKAUER A Hot Little Numbah, "By Mir Bist Du Schoen," a rendition by TINY. THE SINGING WAITER "A Few Words from one of the special guests of honor".. SlLLY, 2nd MATE The Black Gang Band with "I'm Sure of Everything But You" on his guitar ; MJCKY, THE PITS A Soft Shoe Shuffle to the tune of "Darktown Twisted ladder hangs lonesomely at spot where mast stood solidly before storm look a. hand. No one was hurt. Donald Herlihy. AB. who took the pictures was in the wheelhouse when the accident occurred. He said the ship was traveling light on the return voyage when she ran into the storm's fury. SS Yarmouth's Black Gang Asks Change In Quarters The Black Gang men of the SS Yarmouth, Eastern Steam­ ship Lines have urged steps to procure a change in their quar­ ters to "C" deck aft, charging that the rooms presently assign­ ed to them are crowded, poorly ventilated and . generally un­ suitable. The Engine department men, in a resolution adopted April 1, recommended that officials in the port of New York act in the beef upon termination of the present series of Nassau runs. Conditions in the quarters now a-vailable were likened to those prevailing seven years ago when the vessel Was chartered to the Alcoa Steam.ship Com­ pany. At that time the Seafar­ ers International Union fought successfully to have the Black Gang quartered in "C" deck aft. "Today, after a lapse of seven years," the resolution says, "we again find ourselves forced to occupy the original quarters un­ der even more unsuitable condi­ tions, while the licensed person­ nel have been given new quar­ ters." 'The resolution concluded with a recommendation that "we re­ quest our New York Hall to" contact the Boston branch to insure similar steps being taken in regard to the SS E'vangeline, now in the process of reconver­ sion." Maiden Comes In Ship-Shape With Militancy Marks A Crack Crew the payoff in New Orleans First Meeting On lastAt week, the Seafarers Inter­ national Union's crack, crew aboserd the SS Maiden Victory, Seatrain Ship Waterman Steamship Corpora­ Strutters Ball" by -JOE FRISCO" ZYGAROWSKI Militancy marked the first That International Two-Some in an Intimate Love meeting aboard the SS Seatrain Song, "Take Me In Your Aims" MARIE and GENE New York, one of the four new And now, to that popular show-song. "A Prettye Girl Is Like a Melody," the bumps and grinds of ROSIE, THE STRIPPER Seatrain ships, with the passage "Rainbow at Midnight," guitared and moaned by of several motions calculated to the Deck Gang hill-billy TEDDP. THE TROUBADOUR insure safe and satisfactory con­ Hail, Hail, The Gang's AH Here," Everybody raising ditions on the vessel's coastwise their voices and shaking the Brooklyn Bridge EVERYBODY!! trip. — TEN MINUTES INTERMISSION — The meeting, held April 1, FREE REFRESHMENTS I ! I FREE REFRESHMENTS I I I was chaired by Fred Lewan and (Courtesy of the Stewai^d's Department) Real Elegant Service by TINY THE SINGING WAITER and Arthur L. Smouse did the reThat Continental Concubine MADAME ANDRENEVA TOUCHON I corcling. PART TWO In the interests of safety, the Plunking and crooning "if I Had A Nickel," crew unanimously declared that a return engagement of TEDDY, THE TROUBADOUR the ship would not sail until the By Popular Demand, shuffling to the "St. Louis Blues," in his own inimitable way ZIGGY, THE FRISCO KID cargo was properly secured. Nor Lifting his dulcet voice on the wings of that would it leave until all Stewards Neapolitan melody, "O, Solo Mio" TINY. THE SINGING WAITER stores were aboard. A sizzling South American number, "Ay, Ay, Ay, I Love Under Good and W.elfare, it You Very Much," danced by luscious ROSIE TERRILL was agreed that an effort should Our illustrious Maestro, playing a medley of Russian songs on his accordion MAESTRO LUDWIG PROSKAUER be made to set up a library "Frankie and Johnnie" GENE, THE PURSER aboard ship. Also that a wash­ Rendered by that Hangover from the Gay OO's board should he placed in the At last, THE STAR OF THE. SHOW assisted by MOELTER and CASE laundry room, and that paint A Community Sing: "My Bonny Lies Over The Ocean" should be made available for "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" i he Deck and Engine Depart­ "Hand Me Down My Walking Cane" "Auld Lang Syne" EVERYBODY!] ments. tion, wound up "a very good trip" that was highlighted by an exceptional spirit of cooper­ ation amjong all hands. The vessel called at Bremerhaven and Bremen, Germany, and stopped at St. John's, New Brunswick, and Jacksonville, Fla., before paying off in the Crescent City. Patrolmen who hoarded the ship at the point of. payoff complimented the crew on the cleanliness of their quar­ ters. At shipboard meetings during the course of the voyage, mat­ ters which received unanimous support were Union control of the slopchests and measures to maintain shipboard cleahliness. The crew also concurred in the resolutions adopted at San Juan and New York meetings calling for pictures and biographical sketches of men running for Union office to appear in the SEAFARERS LOG. �I / Friday. April 18. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief SEAFARER SAM SAYS DEL MUNDO. Nov, 24 — Chairman Johnson; Secretary James Johnston. Discussed matter of payment of overtime. It was decided to check with Patrolman to find out if over­ time was involved owing to fact that deck men were called before sailing time. Deck and Engine Delegates reported all okay in their departments. Slight difficulties in Stewards Department were straightened out to everyone's satisfaction, reported the Delegate. Mo­ tions carried: to see Purser about keeping slopchest open from 2:30 p. m. to 3:30 p. m.. and from 8:30 to 7:30 p. m. to give all hands chance to be served. Discussion on number of men eating in both unli­ censed messrooms. Decided to retain status quo on seating ar­ rangements. FLORIDA. March 2 — Chair­ man Dan Thomas; Secretary Charles Cuminskey. Delegates reported good cooperation from ship's officers. New Business: Motion carried: that Deck Dele­ gate be instructed to see that all members of the Deck De­ partment stand their watches, or get someone to stand in their place if they wish to go home in port. Motion carried: that Delegate have a sign placed in crew's stairway forbidding all persons other than crew mem­ bers from entering crew's quar­ ters. Motion carried: that Deck Delegate be instructed to see Steward and inform him that messmen shall not be al­ lowed to procure native help for the messroom while in port, unless those persons have a doctor's certificate stating that they are free of all communi cable diseases. i. S. S. WALTHAM VICTORY, Jan. 11—Chairman P. A. Tumasi; Secretary P. A. Kenfield. Min­ utes of last meeting read and approved. Discussion on Stew­ ards' stores. Stores will be checked as they come aboard, with motion being carried to make purchases from a dif­ ferent chandler. Motion car­ ried to extend thanks to Third % S- t Mate Sullivan for the work he did for the unlicensed person­ Mandarin Slopchest nel. One minute of silence ob­ Got Under His Skin served for Brothers lost at sea. Thanks to shoreside competi­ i 4, 4. ROBERT R. McBURNEY, tion, Brother Laffler, AB aboard Feb. 19 — Chairman L. A. the SS Mandarin didn't have to Wright; Secretary T. A. Lau- shed his skin to purchase a suit mann. Proceeds of fines are to of underwear at the ship's slop­ go direct to hospitals. Motions chest. But he did get scraped a carried; that sand soap be is- bit in the deal. When he popped in on the Pur­ isued each week; that desk light be installed in 12-4 ser, who was doing business as foc'sles; laundry scrub board be usual at the old seagoing cliprepaired; if possible, to install stand, and ogled the price, he steam pipe in laundry room for figured he'd be trading his shirt boiling clothes. Third Cook for the cotton undies. The tar­ will attempt to change books. iff was $2.40—per pair. ShoreDecided foc'sles will be left side the price was $2.04. clean, with fresh linen on Brother Laffer wasn't going bunks for next crew. to be caught with his pants— ccratinly not without a suit of underwear. So he squawked. The Purser dropped the price somewhat. Laffer squawked some more. The price finally came down to J" S* 4" YORKMAR, (Date not given) $2.25 for the doo-dads. But they Chairman William Speaker; have got to come down still Secretary Arthur Reciniti. De­ more. The price, that is. cided to check fans and replace 4- 4. 4. missing ones. No cols aboard. Steward said they would be put aboard at first opportun­ ity. No hand soap or stoppers for sink. Several necessary re­ BRAZIL VICTORY, Maxch 2 pairs listed for action. Crew —Chairman Daniel Segal; Sec­ decided to call for additions to retary Leo M. Morsette. Delelibrary when the ship hits port. gales reported. New Business: t & t Motion carried to have messDIAMOND HITCH, Feb. 17 rooms and pantries locked at —Chairman Howard Guinier; all times to keep unarthorized Secretary H. Carroll. (Special persons out. Motiop carried to meeting) Deciding whether the have the Delegates go through ship should sail with present crew's quarters and pick up all Chief Engineer. New crewlibrary books not being read. members aboard do not realize Motion carried to instruct head­ the situation—matter explain­ quarters that when improve­ ed in detail. Motion carried ments and changes are made not to sail with present Chief they should become standard Engineer. on all similar type ships. This 4. 4. 4. would eliminate a lot of head­ DEL MUNDO. Jan. 19— aches and beefs. Motion carried Chairman Trewil; Secretary to have N. O. Agent check and Adolph Capote. (Special meet­ see if there is a penalty for ing) Charges by one of the 183 tons of butane and Petro­ crewmembers against a crewleum gas. as crew is uncertain member of another ship were whether or not this is consid­ discussed. Crewmember de­ ered explosives. nied ever making the charges. ROBERT M. T. HUNTER. Feb. 23—Chairman M. Pappadakis; Secretary Tom Williams. New Business: Motion made to donate 50 cents each to send radiogram to Sec.-Treas. con­ curring with his answer to Jo­ seph Curran of the NMU. Mo­ tion carried. Fines set up for various offenses in messroom. Money to be sent to Seafarers LOG. Two plates of night lunch to be put out, one for watches after midnight. Good and Wel­ fare: Suggestion that members refrain from removing toilet paper from one head to another. Arrangements made for each department to clean recreation room. All crewmembers to help keep library clean and in or­ der. RRANGE MUTUAL TIM6-0ff TWROOGH HEADS OF / PEPARTMENTS f X % t ROBERT R. McBURNERY. Feb. 9—Chairman L. A. Wright; Secretary T. A. Laumann. Deck Delegate reported four or five hours overtime. Engine Depart­ ment Delegate reported at­ tempting to get two or three hours overtime for wipers cleaning hot well. Steward De­ partment Delegate reported all okay. Old Business: Motion carried to make all fines one dollar, except laundry which will remain the same. XXX ARTHUR M. HULBERT, Feb. 16—Chairman O. F. Martin; Secretary Haold Evans. List of fines for offenses drawn up all fines to be donated to hos­ pital fund at payoff. The crew as a whole ga.ve credit to the Stewards Department for the splendid work they have done during the hard luck they have been having. A thorough check of the slopchest and medical supplies to be made and all shortages to be ordered upon arrival in the United States. List of repairs and improve­ ments drawn up. 4. 4. 4. EZEK HOPKINS, (Date not given) Chairman A. R. Valasco: Secretary W. T. Barber. New Business: Delegates reported everything running smoothly. All members stood for one minute in silence in tribute for brothers lost at sea: Motion carried to have OS and Wipers clean the crew's recreation room and laundry; to have crewmembers keep the messhall clean from cigarettes and matches. Each person who uses laundry to clean it after use, CUT and RUN By HANK We would like to advise the Brothers who have been and are now using the fourth floor Baggage and Mail Department for their letters, baggage, etc., that after three months these articles cannot be held in New York any longer. However, they shall be sent to home addresses, etc., or if addresses are not given, they shall be disposed of otherwise. So, Brothers, when you come back from your trips and hit the other ports down the coast, before you make an­ other trip make sure you have notified your New York Mail and Baggage Department asking for your mail, etc., and where you want it sent . . . New York shipping continues to be real good and more and more Brothers are coming into the Hall to get away from the hot summer weather which will be baking New "iork soon . . . In fact, shipping is swell down in Mobile, says little Charlie Stevens, who same in from his trip without his familiar cigar. We'll bet a deflated dollar that New Orleans is booming with ships for those Souse American voyages with plenty of cool weather and Latin jazz . . . Brother Herbert Braunstein, whose hometown is Waterloo, Indiana, shipped out for New Orleans and elsewhere. Let's hear from you, Herbert! 4- 4- 4. We would like to extend this shipmate-type of a message. Blackie Koffstein, Bosun on the Captain Knot, says that he has another dog for good old Peg Leg Anderson. Doggone it. Brother Anderson is sure lucky to have a shipmate like that, indeed . Fred Johnson, the oldtimer of a deck engineer, says that he feels like a million dollars now after working seven days on a ship which was finally sold. Now he's going to grab the first deck engineer's job he can and enjoy a trip for awhile . . . Oldtimer Paddy Nash is all set to ship out while his son Eddie Nash just came in from a trip to Nassau . . . Little Eddie KasnowskL the oldtimer of a Steward, really did think of his shipmate, little Joe Ehrhart, whose home town is in St. Louis, Missouri. The LOG is now being mailed every week so little Joe can keep up with current union activities or catch up with what happened during the months he's away on a voyage. Deck Engineer Claude Davis said last week that he was going to ship out with Brother Pete De Pietro who had just came in from a trip to South America. Let's hear from you guys how the trip is getting along ... To Steward James "Skeets"' Coyne we want to let him know that his shipmate Johnny Burke is here in New York, fresh from a trip concluded in Houston Texas. Your pal, Johnny Burke, heard that you were asking for him while you were 4^ ^ 4* ROBIN GOODFELLOW, Mar. in New York. No doubt you two shipmates will meet each other 5—Chairman Bud Bryant; Sec­ unexpectingly in the hall one of these days . . . We received a short retary Cameron. Motion car­ letter from oldtimer John Santos who is taking it easy up there in ried to take up only new busi­ Massachusetts; "I'm writing to say hello and how are all the boys in ness and farewell of the crew. New York. Okay, 1 hope. I'll be seeing everybody sometime in Motion carried to get library June." . . . Brother Blackie Vince Kane, who loves those trips to aboard. Motion carried to elect the islands, just dropped in to say hullo and confessed that he's a departmental committee to anxious to grab a ship down there again. In fact, he'll even fly down investigate stores and slop­ there if he has to. Well, as they say it down in South America, chest. All hands stood in sil­ Blackie, take it easy, boy . . . Brother Lucky Lee Luciano said last ence for one minute for broth­ week that Captain Fi-ancis Buyer is one real swell skipper and it's ers lost at sea. Good and Wel­ a pleasure to sail any ship with a man like him, indeed . . . Brother fare: Quite a few members James J. Sills, who proudly announces that his nickname is "Box­ blew their tops, mostly on edu­ car Kelly," just came in from a trip out of New Orleans and is all set for another voyage out. cation of union members. �Page 'Twalire THE S"E'A^F'A^ii'-E*n"'S Friday. April 18. 1347 LOG TWO CREWMEN AND THE MONROE VICTORY Backs Michelet's Voluntary Plan For Assessment Log'A 'Rhythms To the Editor: I have just read a letter in the LOG by Brother Macauley wherein he, like me, found Frenchy Michelet's open letter full of sound advice for the membership. However, I think that Brother Macauley misundersto od Frenchy's voluntary assessment proposal. Brother Michelet defin­ itely meant that the proposal should be submitted to the mem­ bership for referendum vote. Frenchy is a stickler for consti­ tutional procedure, as anyone who was within shouting dis­ tance of a regular meeting in New Orleans several months ago can testify. I am wholeheartedly in favor of a voluntary assessment as proposed in the open letter. No book member would be obliged to pay it unless ho wanted to from purely militant union prin­ ciples. On the other hand, it could be made obligatory in practice fur all future tiipcard members. Half of these guys arc only going to sea to skim off the cream. As soon as things get tough again, they'll head back for the farm. So why shouldn't they bear some of the costs. The money would be used to con­ tinue the fight for decent con­ ditions for those men who went to sea in the lean and hungry years, and who propose to keep right on going to sea for th'e rest of their lives. If this type of assessment had been in effect during the v/ar years, we would now have an additional two hundred grand in the treasury to fight seamen's battles. Charlie Wilson Baton Rouge, La. (Ed. Note: Michelet's propo sal was made in the following paragraph of his open letter, which apepared in the Jan. 10, 1347 issue of the Log: "Brothers, the financial re­ serves of our organization has been dangerously depleted dur­ ing our recent successful strike (Sept. 1946). The Union was forced to lay out an enormous sum to feed and flop the mem­ bership and to conduct the busness of striking. So I want to take this opportunity to urge all of my brother members tb abtively work for a ten dollar voluntary rehabilitation assessrhent.") Memo To Michelet: We Miss You To the Editor: See by the LOG tha 'Frenchy' Michelet has been 'seen' in ump­ teen more places. That guy get's to'more places than Kilroy. Next time he shows up will you please put some salt on his tail. The garig here would like to make another swell trip with him like the one we all made to Savofma on the Cecil Bean. Jimmy Judd 8E The Gang Here's Why! By "Loliia" In answer lo Vic Comb's, "How Come?" which appeared in Ihs LOG March 21. Your words have a ring as true as slecl, II lells so clearly how you big lugs feel, Bui since you can'l define Ihe reason why— I'd like lo lell you whal I Ihink— al leasl I'll Iry. Jack Tropeano, Wiper and Robert Bell, Messman. The Isthmian ship returned recently to New York after a voyage to Honolulu. Photo above shows vessel lied up in the Hawaiian port. Oldtimer Bids Young Seafarers Carry On In True Union Style To the Editor: I am one of those Seafarers who doesn't have a chance to get the LOG hot off the press, but even at this late date I'd like to answer Brother Henry Sohl on his letter "Strengthen­ ing Ties Binding New and Old Members," (LOG, Dec. 20). Brother Sohl has mixed union­ ism with money loans, and when it comes to new members I believe he has the wrong course. I have sailed with many young members, some were the finest boys I ever met. During the war I taught them to the best of my knowledge, but now I am a sick man trying to teach a bunch of back-riding tripcarders who think the Union is only a place to get a job so they won't starve to death. Many times I've had the hon­ or of acting as delegate, and serving the men was my great­ est pleasure. This trip I had to give the delegate's job up be­ cause it's impossible to be a bo­ sun, a teacher and a father to seven tripcards out of eleven men. TRYING TASK Did Brother Sohl every try to delegate a man to stand gang­ way watch during overtime hours and hear six refusals? Or did he try to teach a guy to splice and have a tripcard tell you its the Bosun's job? But when it comes to sweet overtime they stand in front of me blowing their tops and tell­ ing me "how do you expect us to be good union members un­ less you teach us?" According to them I should stand th' weekend gangway watch because I have no girl in this port or such other bilge water arguments. I suppose Brother Sohl would take it to the Mate instead of straightening it out. Of course, if you take it to the bridge you are a jerk. It doesn't matter how much you try to do the right thing, you're still a bum in their eyes. No Brother Sohl, I don't want you and the young seamen to learn the same way I learned in the 1920.S and up. I have a son, too, who may go to sea and I don't want anyone to kick him around as they kicked me.. Nor do I want him to eat from a tin 'plate covered with dirt and rust or stand watch on and watch off without making a full day. Okay you say, why don't these guys get on the ball? Okay, you see that the young jokers get on the ball then we old jokers will do the rest. The young members should realize that many old jokers died to build a union. To them we owe what we have today. Let's remember and honor our departed brothers es­ pecially those who fell during the 1934-37 struggles. Let you. Brother Sohl, write an article to the LOG about calling on them for their share instead of living on the struggles of the For decades and cenluries beyond our ken. This world has always been ruled by men. And yel behind each man, bolh small or greal, A woman always helped fo de­ cide his fale. When a man is "on Ihe make," He'll do anything for her sake— So I'm willing to wager "Baby" is now his wife. old men who are tired now. And Vic's acting male cause she's After four years of war it kind hooked him for life. of got the best part of our en­ ergy, it's time for the young seamen to start learning. It's SEAMEN'S WIVES time for them to put their hands URGED TO BACK to the job instead of standing TIGHT FOR RIGHTS' by with their teeth in their mouth like a bunch of fools To the Editor: while the old men do all the I want to congratulate you for seamen's work. the interesting articles appearing PITCH IN! in the LOG. I read every page, Pitch in, fellows! You can't and if it does happen that some­ learn with books alone. You thing isn't quite clear, I ask my must get your hands dirty. Give husband, who is a merchant sea­ a hand Brother, ask questions, men. And now a word to the forget the portlight zone just wives of seamen. for a few hours a week. When Calling all seamen's wives: the serang gives you a'job that Now that I have the oppor­ you don't know — tell him, he tunity to get my hands on the will gladly teach you. LOG every week, I realize how Remember your serang is be­ this paper can help you get ac­ tween fog and' fire. He must get quainted with your husband's along with topside and you. Co­ job. To be a seaman's wife means operate with him, and you will more than counting the days have a fine trip and bring in when he will be ashore, and until another SIU ship with fiying you will be saying goodbye to colors. him when he sails away again... We want you to keep on sail­ Stand by his side and help him ing in SIU style, the best ^ind in the fight for his rights! nothing but the best. How about "Mrs. Charles B. Martin it Brother Sohl and all the rest Mobile, Ala. of you young men? V. PEREZ SS Fisher Is Covered All Over With Rust To the Editor: I have read in the LOG that you would like good tips about different ports we hit. Well, if any of you fellows hit' Port of Spain, Trinidad, stay away from" the local doctors. If you need treatment for anything go to the Carribean Medical Center. They have a nice hospital, they give you the best "of service, and the doctors are very good. So much for my trip. We are aboard the SS'Benja­ min A. Fisher, an Alcoa pride and joy (so the Skipper thinks.) There is nothing but rust from stem to stern. The Skipper and Chief Mate- would like to get her all cleaned up but they Won't'turn the Deck Gang to on overtime, because they are afraid 'it will hurt Alcoa's bank­ roll. BELL TO BELL They only work the watch on deck,-end it is stricUy'from bell to bell. The' Chief Mate is so afraid of "his jbb that he lies awake all night thinking about it. SHUTTLE RUN • Since sailing ftdm ' Pensdcola, Florida on the 28th of JanUUry, we have made a trip' to Rdggio, Italy, with coal, and from there we went to Paramaribo, Dutch Guinea for Bauxite. Since then we've made one shuttle run to Port of Spain and back to Par­ amaribo. We don't know whether they are going to keep us down here on 'a shuttle run or send us straight home. I can be safe in saying the crew is praying they will • send us straight home. Well, I guess that is about all I know of to squawk about. I'm sorrry I haven't anything good to say about the trip other than we have a very good SIU crew. -G. "B. Gillispie ' Fbri'-bf' Spain,• B. W.^I. �THE Friday, AprU 18. 1947 S EA^F ARER S LOG AND mSEBALIi W THE EHIliIjPPlNES . Union Men Must Respect Picketlines, Says Brother To. the Editor: This article is in regards to the crossing of legitimate picket lines. We note from time to time in front of stores, restaurants, apartment buildings, small shops and various other places, one or two picket lines marching up and down. Their picket cards clearly state that such and such a local union is on strike for bet­ ter wages and working condi­ tions. SIU-SU? men sparked the. game between the crews of the SS Niantic Victory and the SS Mount Greylock. Seafarers in the photo above are, front row: 3rd and 4th from left, G. J. Miller, SIU, and L. H. Westcott, SUP; back row, left to right, Denny White, SUP; I. P. Martin, SUP; and 4th and 7th from left respectively, Bernard E. Lin lin, SUP and Julien Tomas, SUP. Page Thirteen wages and conditions. Such is not the case. The intent behind the front is to spread false prop­ aganda, and to strengthen the ideology of certain foreign pow­ ers. Let's not be misled. It is al­ ways a good policy to inquire of the pickets just who it is they represent and the object of their beef. If their beef is legitimate we .should back them. If they In spite of this, I have noted, in various cases, many people ignoring these small picket lines and patronizing the struck places. This is, in my opinion, a sorry situation. Strikes, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, should bo supported by all work­ ing people. The crossing of a picket line stamps the violator as a scab in the eyes of true un­ ion men and women. These beefs are legitimate beefs for wag^s and working con­ are simply fronts for commie and ditions and should be respected, fascist oi'ganizations making a regardless of size. Of course, it ' political line, .they should be igis well to remember that poli­ ,nored. SCORES JOB tical commie and phony fascist j Bui to be remembered is the STUNTS PULLED lines are another story. Picket jfact that regardless of how large lines of these types are pui'ely or small a picket line is, if it is BY PERFORMERS for the purpose of misleading there because of a genuine tradeTo the Editor: union people into thinking that union beef, don't cross it! they're out there for increasing Louis Goffin The practice of some men tak­ ing jobs in order to work a few STOPOVER IN THE PHILIPPINES days and then collect port pay is drav/ing a iiot ot resentment from the membership. These men sign off the ship a day or an hour before the ship sails. This practice not o n 1 causes animosity among the members but also between com­ pany and Union. I propose that a stiff fine be imposed on members who pull suc'i stunts if they fail to give a valid excuse for their actions. Seafarer Bill Willridge stretches for an easy putout. (Name withheld on request) Conditions For Unorganized Lakes Seamen Are Far Below The Seafarers' Standards To the Editor: Well, I've been reading in the daily papers lately what a num­ ber of people think of John L. Lewis. Well, here's what another one thinks. John L. Lewis has always been, and always will be for the man who works. Wish we had some men like him in Congress—in the House or Sen­ ate—and then we'd have a little more justice. We're backing Lewi.s 100 per cent. It's about time we Americans woke up, and started to really fight for our rights. Sure, the industrialists give us a raise of 5 to 8 cents an hour, but what happens? Bread goes up a cent a loaf; meat from 4 to 6 cents a pound; rent maybe $5 monthly; clothes go up 15 per cent; shoes 10 per cent; and everything rises from 5 to 25 per cent. Isn't it so? What ,we need is more fighting to have the income tax lifted from the low 'income brackets. I'm no commie! In fact, I hate them and all fascists, and all they stand for. But, there is one "ism" that I believe in—that's Americanism I We've supported some of these politicians for years on the basis of their empty promises. And ever tried to expose these Lakes most of these guys have never ' outfits like the LCA. Why, when done an honest day's work in I left the Lakes to sail on West their lives. Let them go out and j Coast ships for a while, I was struggle, and try to get along on astounded. They had three watches where I'd worked two on the Lakes, two men in a room, fed like a ho­ BOY. MVfZEULF- LOJkS tel, linen changed twice a week, MORt; fOdPcO TM-VN) j Posing in the bright sun in the port of Masinloo are five Sea­ overtime over 48 hours, and re­ farers, crewmembers aboard the SS Fairland. Left to right: lieved the watch for 30 minutes Brothers Baumgardner, Howard, Jonier, Church and Steele. for coffee and smoke anywhere and any place. On the Lakes, some ships have no coffee time or relief from 6:15 A.M. and 12:45 P.M., and no relief at any To the Editor: The headlines says, "Union time on the rivers, depending on Action Denies Vet Job on Ves­ Have you seen the latest type sel." the Skippers. of shipowners' propaganda? En­ GIVE GIs CHANCE If this guy was as American closed is an article from the New as he says he is he wouldn't want Yes, that's why I say give these kids and ex-GIs a chance down Orleans States, which at first to kick another man out of a job what they think we can. Let's in Washington. They can't do glance seems to be about some to make way for himself. If he try, to replace these parasites. any worse than the guys we have GI blowing off. But if you read has such a good background as Another thing, why don't they down there now, and will prob­ he claims in the article, why it over a couple of times you can give these GI kids a chance? ably do a lot better. doesn't he just get a job ashore, Most of these kids in the last so he could be with his two Most of those guys down there see all the holes. The article tries to say that children after being away from war are wise, not like us goofs were sitting around Washington in the first one. They pulled the' while we were going to Russia, this GI is an American, served in them for so long. wool over oui- eyes, but not these J Italy, North Africa, South Pa­ two world wars and can't get a Even so, with an NMU con­ fellows. They're on the ball, and' cific, and Japan. Now they want job as a steward because the tract those companies had the I know, because I've been withj to push us around, and cram the NMU told him their men wait­ right to hire their own Stewards, them in all zones. open shop at us. But, we won't ing to ship out would be given providing he joined the union. A number of outfits like the take that kind of pushing around. first preference. The article says If the company wanted him, they Lake Carriers are behind this We in the SIU have won all of that the guy was told by several could have had him. open shop drive, but they can't our beefs in the past^ and we'll shipping companies that he could P. A. Carlson have a job if the Union would cram their phony propaganda win against these phonies, SS Cape Edmont Robert "Baldy" McAdoo] give him papers. down our throats. No one has Hits Anti-Union Sob Stuff �THE Page Fourteen SEAFARERS Friday. April 18. 1947 LOG Seamen Meet The Queerest Characters Here Is A Whole Boatload Rank And File The Skipper Cut Gapers SeafarerSees ITF At Work By JAMES PURCELL By LOUIS GOFFIN In recollecting my experiences the ship back on its course. I have been reading with in­ in the Third Mate's room—plenty At another time, while clad with seagoing characters, I feel of noise and what have you. terest the articles in the LOG that I cannot overlook the ex­ only in a pair of shorts he acci­ At three o'clock in the morn­ about the various characters who perience I had with a Skipper I dentally locked himself out of his • have been found aboard ships. I ing the Old Man came do'WTi to sailed under many years ago. room. Realizing his predicament •wonder, though, if Louis Coffin break it up. The Third Mate be­ His career has a tragic end, but and "Steamboat" O'Doyle ever gan weeping on the Old Man's (Contmued from Page }) while he followed the sea, he was sailed with a whole shipload of shoulder, pleading with him to acted upon, not by brass or pom­ the source of much shipboard lot them have a little fun. characters at one time. My last ship, about a year ago Up stepped the Bosun and pous politicians, but by men with amusement, and at times, specu­ was just such a ship, so pull up Deck Maintenance. They asked experience at sea and experience lation. I first encountered him aboard a chair while I unravel the an­ the Third Mate for permission to with seamen's problems collec­ the SS City of Joliet in New Or­ tively. throw the Old Man over the tics of these birds. leans during the early '30's. He The first character was an Oil­ side. Just as the shipowners of the er, a collector of saponification Ye Gods! That aquavit is pow­ different countries have the same was skippering the ship and interest, so do seamen the world what a Skipper he was. erful stuff. products. , When I came aboard he was in One day, just prior to sailing Well, to show the Old Man over have a common interest. It for the other side, the boys were they meant to have some fun, was this common interest and the twilight of his career, and knocking off a few bottles of they went below and broke determination of the ITF mem­ his capers were well known to beer in the Oiler's focsle when Soapy out of his sack. Soapy, bers that left a deep impression the regular gang aboard. There was little doubt as to where he someone tried to move a body you see, could play hell out of on me. was destined to wind up, but he out of the way. It wouldn't an accordian. They told him to With attempts by large ship­ still clung to a thread of sanity, he grabbed the knob and started budge. ping interests to transfer tonnage so there was little to do but stay shaking it, but the lock held. DUZ DOES So, tne boys investigated and to Panamanian registry to avoid EVEPVTrii.^G He looked at the door, and then out of his way. discovered it loaded to the gun­ union conditions on their ships, The Officers were not so for­ addressed it yelling, "I am the wales with soap. the role of the ITF becomes one tunate as they had to obey his Master! Everyone has to obey It happened to be the body of of prime importance. orders—orders that at times me . . . that goes for doors too!" one of the Oilers who, being the (Sorry, no "Open the Door, Rich­ courted disaster. INTERNATIONAL ROLE romantic type, used to go ashore One time in particular when we ard" joke). The door however with a few bars of soap, and Just as a seaman's occupation were coming home from North ignored his order. when he found a fair damsel he is international, so are his bosses After a few minutes of this would give her a bar to clean international. For this reason, if useless expenditure of energy, up so he could see what she look­ no other, the seaman's protection he got red in the face and in a ed like. should be international. TWO BLOCKS blind rage he reared back, took If she passed muster she was To Pof?r/ No member of the SIU would a flying leap and threw both feet supplied with soap from then on. against the door. Nothing hap­ This earned him the nickname of start playing and the first time feel out of place attending an pened. he stopped—over the side he ITF meeting. It is just like a "Soapy." bunch of seamen on an SIU ship would go. Over and over again he NO EARLY RISER Soapy played, and no one got discussing their problems—only charged the door with his feet, all Then we had a Wiper whom no any sleep for the rest of the on an international scale. the while cursing and shaking one less than the Chief Engin­ night. All night long he squeezed After the meeting I began to a threatening arm at the obstacle. eer could get out of the sack. It and the sweat rolled off his brow- realize that this powerful group Finally exhausted he lay in a was a regular morning ritual. ike someone had turned a hose is almost unknown to many sea­ heap on the deck, black and blue The Oiler would call him at 7:30 from his many unsuccessful sal­ on him. What a night that w-as! men. The tremendous power of a. m. and again at ten to eight. this organization and the work it Europe, the ship was off the coast lies. GREAT LOVER Then the First Assistant would is doing should be on the lips of of Florida. The Skipper came up His wind-up performance, that Then we had a Purser, and an­ every Seafarer. call him at eight, and the Deck on the bridge and ordered the gave him a one-way ticket to the Engineer at quarter after, final­ swer to a maiden's prayer—Don Some method should be em­ Mate on watch to take the ship local bughouse, came in a New ly the Chief at 8:30. Juan himself. In every port he ployed to spread the facts about in close to the coastline. Orleans movie house. During the With this he would roll out of fell ~ in love and wanted to get the ITF and its work. EXPECTING HIM course of the picture he lit a,ci­ the sack, yawn a few times and married, but he always sailed garette, and after getting in a One of the best v/ays of mak^ When the Mate told him it was then raise hell with the Cooks leaving a broken heart behind couple of puffs he was told by ng the ITF known to the mem­ unsafe, and there was a chance and Messboy for his breakfast. him. the usher that it was against the bers' of the SIU and SUP will that the ship might be ground­ We had a Third Mate who was This voyage, on the return law to smoke. a professional wrestler. He con- trip, we carried some passengers. be through the effectivene.s.s of a ed, he only growled and said he was the Master. Instead of stamping out the Among them was a young refu­ boycott of Panamanian ships. "Besides," he told the Mate, butt, he stuck it in his coa^pockO, HE'SCHIP- I gee, a girl about 21, so the race Just as the 1946 SIU General fjMGPAiHT.' began. Stidke was an education to most "I have some friends living on et. Shortly smoke started pour­ The Purser turned on his Seafarers as to how the govern­ the coast and I want to stay 'hel­ ing out of his pocket, but he charm, but he couldn't speak her ment bureaucrats can be licked, lo' to them. They are expecting ignored the whole matter. Soon the smoke was billowing around language. The only crewmember .so will an international boycott it of mo." him like a smudge pot,.and it was When the Mate, saw that the who could speak to her was of Panamanian ships teach the only the quick action on the part Skipper was serious and the ship Soapy, who was immediately en­ importance of the ITF in beating of the usher that a panic was pre­ was heading dangerously close to the international shipowners. listed as interpreter. vented. Needless to say he was the reefs, he had no choice but Unfortunately she had a broth­ SEE IT IN ACTION soon installed in a .suite at the to grab the Skipper, chase him er on board and every time she Louisiana Retreat. out of the wheelhouse, and put disappeared he would dash all There is no better way of over the ship looking for her. learning about a thing than by NEW ADDITION This got on Soapy's nerves, so it seeing it in action. The Caliber was no soap for Soapy. Of course, of the men I saw representing tinually boasted of his prowess the Purser wanted to marry her the unions of different countries as a wrestler. before wo got in. convinced me that they are of One day the boys had a drink­ One night before we got in, the the same material that gives us ing bout in the Bosun's room. Fir.st Assistant went on watch the strong representation we re­ Among those present were the loaded to the gills, unable to ceive at home. Bosun and Deck Maintenance, stand up. The Old Man heard Our affiliation with the Inter­ young and strong Swedes. about it, rushed down and threw national Transportworkers Fed­ During the course of the fiesta. him out of the Engine Room. eration will demon.strato its the question rose as to the Mate', The First came up on Deck value by an effective boycott of wrestling ability—the next thing'and tried to get the" Deck Gang There I knew the Third Mate was slid­ to lower a boat so he and a sleepy the Panamanian .ships. ing along the alleyway on his Oiler would not have to face can be no question of its success. It now remains for all mem­ nose. charges upon arrival. bers of the SIU and SUP, as It appears the Deck Mainten­ BLONDE SHADOW members of the ITF to make the ance was a rough and tumble Of course, the Old Man had his boycott a real success, if and fighter from the paper pulp coun­ try of Sweden, and he had put faults. He had a blonde passen­ when we decide to hang them the hooks to the Mate before he ger v/ho followed him all over up. the ship. Whenever you .saw one could lift a hand. you saw the other. Well, that do to deserve this." WHAT HAPPENED made it easy for the BR StewWell, he sure did deserve it, for This week the . rew of the SS Petrolite, Mathiasen Tankers, i'he next day the Mate asked ard, because she became the cus- he was possessed of a neat little voted for the SIU to represent them as their bargaining agent. me what happened. I told him 'todian of the Skipper's room. habit of taking pot shots at the It was an overwhelming victory, with the Seafarers garnering he had tripped in the alleyway. With all these capers going on, Deck Gang with his pistol. 27 votes to 2 for the company. This picture was taken aboard the I don't think he knows to this the Skipper would sit in the Sa­ There were more characters on Petrolite, and shows her to be a clean, trim ship. Negotiations day what happened. loon, holding his head in his the .ship, but you'd go mad if I for a contract will start soon, and that's what the men are The next night the party was hands moaning, "What did I ever went any further. * waiting for. �THE Friday, April 18. 1947 W)Hoe'^\jN SEAFARERS Page Fifteen LOG Great takes Seafarers Petitions NLRB For Flections On Five Fleets By EARL SHEPPARD DETROIT — This woek the SIU petitioned the National Labor Relations Board for elect­ v., N. B. Donaho. $1.00; C. A. Kreiss. $2.00; ions aboard the ships of three NORFOLK A.. W. Gowder. $2.00; B. J. French. more Great Lakes fleets. This INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $2.00; T. Catherine. $1.00; T. E. Mcmakes a total of five unorgani­ D. P. Copes. $3.00; M. P. Powell. Henan. $2.00; A. Olanginbel. $3.00. zed outfits, with 32 ships, so $3.00; J. N. Willmms. $3.00; A. C. NEW YORK far petitioned since the start of Nelson. $3.00; W. E. Culpepper. $3;00; INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS V. E. Vlict. $5.00; W. R. Wil!inn-.s. the Seafarers current organiza­ $3.00. E. J. Clark. $2.00; Judson Lee. $1.00; tional campaign. J. W. Cox, $3.00; M. W. Drury. $3.00; H. Mathisen. $2.00; J. Soyer. $1.00; F. Considerable progress is also M. W. Cfirraway. $3.00; A. R. Beaslcy. Logan. $1.00; Hugo Reinson. $1.00; A. made in several other $3.00; W. B. Smith. $3.00; R. K. llen- Ferrara. $.50; Paul R. Smith. $1.00; J. being dcson. $3.00. Maldonado. $.50; C. Williams. $1.00; A. non-union fleets, and we expect E. Wyler. $ LOO. BOSTON to petition the NLRB on these SS DOROTHY INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS outfits in the near future. R. R. Marion. $2.00; R. B. Taylor. O. Crindahl. $5.00; R. McFarland, As fast as we secure pledge $2.00. $5.00; W. Calhoun. $1.00; M. Evans. cards from 75 percent or more SS GEORGE W. McREARY $1.00. George A. Fowler. $1.00; R. E. Hen- of the seamen, in any unorgan­ GALVESTON nessy. $2.00; G. Vidal. $2.00; J. M. ized fleet, the SIU intends to INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Hand. $2.00; A. Morales. $3.00; M. petition the NLRB for elections C. E. Finlay. $2.00; W. E. Lavier. Cidroils. $2.00; E. J. Hallinan, $2.00; W. $3.00; R. McDougald. $2.00; J. Caspard. J. Graley. $2.00; M. Garcia. $L00; J. V. aboard those vessels. That way, $5.00; C. B. Kennedy. $2.00; C. C. Ru.ssell. $2.00; H. M. Lamm. $2.00; T. we lose no time in bringing Gross. $3.00; D. E. Erase. $2.00; C. O. Cameron. $5.00; T. A. O'Hanlon. $2.00; SIU .conditions to the Lakes sea­ Cross. $2.00; J. O. Roling. $2.00; W. L. Compton. $1.00; K. E. Morie. men who want them. D. Royles. $2.00; SS Wm. Cox. $19.00; $E00. At the present rate of progress R. A. Derrough. $2.00; SS Stefanik. SS EL MORRO being made in our organization­ $12.00; SS James Jackson. $18.00; F. G. E. Muddleston. $1.00; A. J. Surles. S. Bor^owski. $1.00; T. E. R. Bach. Jr.. $E00; R. Lichon. $1.00; E. Luzier. al drive on the Great Lakes, we $2.00; John C. Spuron. $2.00; C. Wood $1.00; J. R. Albert. $1.00; W. Martin. are confident that the entire ward. $4.00; T. J. Calvert. $2.00; D. C. Jr.. $1.00; E. A. Yancy. $1.00; J. L. campaign will be a successful Lym.-.n. $2.00; 11. E. Vail. $2.00. Yakush. $5.00; R. L. Gunn. $5.00; G. one. Eventually, the Great Lakes W. L. Montgomery. $2.00; F. Fred- M.atrozzo. $1.00. .seamen will make a solid bloc reksen. $2.00; SS Winfield Scott. $17.00; SS MacINTYRE within the Seafarers Interna­ SS Cellio. $8.75; G. Portillo. $1.00; F. Karl Nikander. $2.00; M. E. Jones, H. Post. $L00; SS Hood River. $3.50; tress. $2.00; Lester W. Spence. $1.00; tional Union, AFL. W. E. Taylor. $5.00; SS King Canyon. $2.00; John Anderson. $2.00; J. G. FenToday, as never before, the $I5.50( S. E. Ausmus. $1.00; J. A. Bar- James Roberts. $5.00; S. K. McFarland. Lakes seamen are receptive to one. $2.00. $2.00; L. Welch. $2.00. the union, and their almost un­ C. F. McDowell. $1.00; SS Chas. H. SS TOPA TOPA, animous choice is the SIU. Cugle. $25.00; J. H. Moorse. $2.00; V. J. Smith. $1.00; K. V. Zeits. $1.00; P. Bergeron. $2.00; D. W. Collins. $4.00; They've had a bellyful of the H. Jacobovitch. $1.00. R. W. Clark, $1.00; A. Rocka. $5.00; open shop conditions on tha SS COLABEE E. DiPietro and Crew. $9.00; G. Lakes, and want thhe security Brown. $2.00; 1. P. Gomes. $1.00; H. and protection of an SIU con­ NcUelbladt. $1.00. tract. And, we're going to see SS WILLARD that they get it! ASHTABULA 1027 West Fifth St. SlU HALLS At the request of AFL Organizational Director Frank Fenton and President William Green, we gave all possible assistance to the United Financial Em­ ployes, affiliated with the Of­ fice Emp loyees International Union, AFL. This assistance took the form of leaflet distri­ bution in the Wall St. financial area, picketing of the Cotton Exchange, and the loaning of all our facilities to this union during their beef. It's past history how the UFE won their one day strike against the New York Cotton Exchange with SIU-SUP assistance. It's a part of the record now. and the grateful Office Employees asked SIU President Harry Lundeberg to address their re­ cent Convention in Chicago. PHONE STRIKE Currently, the National Fed­ eration of Telephone Workers is striking all of the phone ex­ changes and facilities in the country in an effort to win their just demands. Although broken up into a lot of smaller corpora­ tions, the Bell System is owned and controlled by the huge A.T.&T. trust. So, the phone workers really have a tough fight on their hands. .SIU members in a number of cities throughout the country are cooperating in every possible way with the phone workers. This cooperation has taken the form of handbill distribution, token picketing, and any neces­ sary support, these union broth­ ers and sisters need. The NFTW is composed of a number of affiliated unions scat­ tered over the country, and is an independent union with more than 280,000 members. There is also a strong possibility that they may affiliate with the AFL some time in the near future. In Detroit, we have offered the striking phone workers J. E. Utz. $1.00. 14 North Gay St. FERRIS BILL SS YAKA Calvert 4S39 B. Thompson. $5.00; M. R. Dorfman. BOSTON 276 StaTe St. As this is being written, hear­ $1.00; L. Bugajewski. $5.00; H. Calzia. Boudoin 4455 ings are being held in the Mich­ $1.00 F. R. Hall. $1.00. BUFFALO • • . ID Exchange St. igan State capital in Lansing Cleveland 7391 on one of the most drastic antiCHARLESTON 424 King St. labor bills ever dreamed up by Phone 3-3680 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. a reactionai-y legislator. This Superior 5175 ^ biH 's kuowu RS House Bill 217, CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. MAGNUS OLE SVARTER | introduced by State Main 0147 Get in touch with Rose Cohen Rcrcscntativc Chester A. Ferris CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mcsquite St. at the Baltimore Hall, 14 North of Wayne County — the county Corpus Christi 3-1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Gay St., Baltimore 2, Md. where Detroit is located. Cadillac 6857 i iDrastic provisions of this bill DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. KURT FAHRNER make it a misdemeanor for any Melrose 4110 J. W. CALLIS Get in touch with your wife at' non-employees of a company to GALVESTON 308>i—23rd St. Receipts belong to you have Phone 2-8448 2352—80th St., Brooklyn, N. Y. picket that company- Ip other HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. been turned in at the Norfolk words, no sympathy picketing in J. 4. SPJxpne 53777 Branch. HENRY E. HICKS support of our union brothers HOUSTON 1515 75th St. 35 4- 4. Contact Mrs. F. L. Ackerman, in another union will be permit­ Wentworth 3-3809 ted if this bill becomes law. JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. 60.6 W. 37th St., Savannah, Ga. MARVIN HAUF Phone 5-5919 That's why we must fight it. Your check for $25.00 is being MARCUS HOOK 1'/« W. Olh St. held in the Baltimore Hall. Con­ There is no doubt that this GLEN^E.^4ADDEN Chester 5-3110 tact Patrolman Masterson and he Patrolman Masterson, Balti­ legislation is designed solely to MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. MILWAUKEE 6.33 So-Ch 2nd St more, is holding your book. Get break up the growing solidarity will send the check to you. MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. in touch with him. between various international 4- 4- 4 Phone 2-1754 BARNEY SPEEGLE unions in fighting for a common JOHN E. KNIESS NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. You failed to pick up $125.00 Both AFL and CIO Please contact your mother, cause. Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. 1257 Lunt Avenue, Chicago 26, unions have shown an increas- due you on overtime from the ,ng awareness of tire need for Belle of the West, which paid off HAnover 2-2784 Illinois. NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. la'cor unions to cooperate with in Baltimore. Phpne 4-1083 c-ach other in all ways possible. JOHN^E.^KOENIG 4- 4- 4. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. This is a must if labor is to surGEORGE D. SMITH Get in touch with your mother, Lombard 3-7651 Please check your last cash vi3e. PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. Mrs. Eugene C. Koening, 3229 receipt. No. 56796, which you re­ Phone 2-8532 South Taylor Ave., Milwaukee 7, SIU COOPERATION PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. Wisconsin. ceived in Baltimore. Contact En­ Beacon 4336 In the past, and at this time, gine Patrolman at once. 4. 4- 4. RICHMOND, Calif 257 5tb , St. top, the record of the SIU is LOUIS E. MEYERS Phone 2599 DEWEY & BLAND Contact Mr. V. U. Hainmer- outstanding in, respect to coop­ SAN FRANCISCO 105. Market St. Douglas 5475-.8363 shaimb. Vice Consul, at the.Con­ erating with other unions on Your gear from the Fort MaSAN JUAN, P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon sulate General of Denmark, 17 any legitimate beef. Our union tanzas is being held at the Hous­ San Juan 2-5996 has always practised what a lot ton Branch. Battery Place, New York City. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. of other unions preach — co­ 4. 4. 4. Phone 8-1728 operation and solidarity. SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. HAROLD L. SMILEY Mqiin 0290 Your family is very anxiqus.to ; Our relations with the CIO TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Shipyard workers have been get in touch with you, Fdione M-1323 SS DOROTHY very successful. This union pull­ 35 A 4. TOLEDO 615 Summit St. All, crewmcmbers. of the SS ed, their mqn out in support of OECAR ANDERSSON WJLMI.NGTON ...... 440.,Ayplpi> Blvd., In Dorothy, Bull Lines, who work­ Terminal 4-i313V ^ A crewmepiber of the SS Wal­ our stride la$t September. VICTORIA, B.C. 602 Boughton St. ter Fleming in June 1944, please return, we have supported them ed April 4, 1947, have eight hours Garden 8331 contact special services office in on any of their beefs, like the overtime due them. Money can VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. strike at the Ira Bushey ship­ be collected at Bull Line Offices, Pacific 7824 Union Hall, New York on an im­ BALTIMORE PERSONALS NOTICE! MONEY DUE portant matter. '.1.1iit/.Liii-'-1,. yard in Brooklyn. 115 Broad Street, N. Y. every possible assistance. On Tuesday, we sent some pickets over to picket with the strikers in front of the Michigan Bell Building on Cass Avenue. Al­ though we didn't have a large number of pickets, due to the fact that most of our boys were either on the ships or assisting in the organizing drive, the Sea­ farers with their white caps and SIU-SUP buttons made quite a showing. They carried several signs containing the printed messages, "AFL SEAFARERS WHITE CAPS OFF TO PHONE WORK­ ERS, SIU - AFL" and "SIU AFL BACKS LEGITIMATE DE­ MANDS OF PHONE WORK­ ERS." Yes, if we let these reaction­ ary Michigan legislators get away with anything like the Ferris Bill then the SIU will no longer be able to support other unions in their legitimate beefs, and these unions will not be able to support us in our beefs. We must do all in our power to prevent any such bills from be­ coming law in any state. It's been too hard to win union solidarity between international unions to allow anti-labor legis­ lation to break up such solidar­ ity. Check To See If P.R. Dockers Are Union Men By SAL COLLS SAN JUAN—Members coming to Aguirre (Jobos) should make certain that the dockworkers and the men working in the holds and on the winches are union men. The scabbing com­ pany which handles the work there refuses to sign a contract w i t h any union representing its employes. The outfit is taking men put of the factories and off the streets to do the longshore work. See to it. therefore, that all men at work there belong to a bona fide union. This can be accomplished by asking for the union delegate before they start woi'king the cargo. 5 If the workers do not belong to a . union, call up the SIU Hall in San Juan. The phone number is 2-5996. The International Longshore­ men's Association recently tried to hit the company for a con­ tract. but was turned down with a flat refusal to negotiate. The outfit works along the same lines as the Calmar Line. It owns the factory and the property for three and a half miles from the docks, and they maintain a rigid guard to see that no one gets anywhere .near its docks. Retroactive Pay MORAN. TOWING CORP. Retroactive wages are now available for payment to all crewmembers of Moran tugs which sailed out of West Coast, ports. A.pply at the company's' office at 17 Battery Place, New York City. �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 18, 1947 Hie VICTORY ?AMK/ Ibr thedfirst time in niaritime nistom Cgntidion ^^aausnhkm bekiioia&To secims a cbtitlrcicir tnat gete -QtemAaiei:^«.T<iigges and am<^tions-through. tHe ejg^zlsof^ihe iKTERKAncNAL UNION OFNDRIH AMERICA.. SEAEAREBS IJTlEKNariONAL UNION • •• CANADIAN DISTRICT •VANCOUVER-ViCTORiA-MONTREAI. � 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 April 18, 1947 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. IX, No. 16 Description An account of the resource Headlines: CANADIAN DISTRICT'S MARCH TO HIGHER WAGES BEGINS PHONE STRIKE GETS HELPING HAND OF SIU SIU PREPARES TO TIE-UP ALL PANAMANIAN SHIPS SEAFARERS WINS UNION ELECTION ON PETROLITE, MATHIASEN TANKER BOSSES' OFFENSIVE THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT, AND HOW IT AFFECTS THE MERCHANT SEAMEN STRIKING OFFICE WORKERS GET AID FROM SEAFARERS SEAFARER WATCHES THE ITF AT WORK SIU HELPS PHONE STRIKERS KEEP LINE BUSY AMERICAN LEGION--STOOGE OF BIG BUSINESS FOR SMALL PLACE, PORT ARTHUR HAS GOOD SHIPPING BOSTON COVERS ALL NEW ENGLAND AS SHIPPING MAINTAINS PEAK THIS WILMINGTON FINKHERDER IS RIDING TO A FALL BALTIMORE, TOO, IS HAVING TROUBLE FINDING MEN FOR THE RATED JOBS KNOWLEDGE OF SHIPPING RULES CALLED BASIS OF UNION STRENGTH PETTY CHISELING CHEATS SEAMEN OUT OF LAUNCH SERVICE MONEY NEW YORK HAS PLENTY OF SHIPS, BUT MEN TO SAIL THEM IS PROBLEM WEST COAST GETS A NEW PROBLEM: SHORTAGE OF MEN CANADIAN SIU AFTER RAISE FOR RESTORER CREW MARCUS HOOK BLASTS MINEOWNERS WHO PUT PROFITS ABOVE LIVES MC SCHOOL SAVES 7 MILLION BUCKS--BY CLOSING COMMIE UNION SABOTAGES AUTO UNION DEMANDS CREW STAGES RIP-ROARING VODVIL SHOW SS YARMOUTH'S BLACK GANG ASKS CHANGE IN QUARTERS MALDEN COMES IN SHIP-SHAPE WITH A CRACK CREW GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS PETITIONS NLRB FOR ELECTIONS ON FIVE FLEETS CHECK TO SEE IF P.R. DOCKERS ARE UNION MEN Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/18/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e283b2588555169ab109db3712f30b5c.PDF bb19cd90376b28906ae2363db3ab9211 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Phone Unions Hit The Bricks Aii Over U.S. NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. APRIL 11. 1947 SIU SUPPORTS TELEPHONE WORKERS Still dressed in their Easter tinery, over 300,000 men and women, employes of the farflung American Telephone and Telegraph Company, walked out on a strike which started at 6 A.M. Monday, April 7. As in the past, the Seafarers immediately went to the aid of the strikers. The facilities of the third floor of the New York Hall were turned over to the telephone workers, and leaflets were distributed on their picketlines displaying tlie solidarity As soon as the nation's telephone workers went out on of labor. strike, the Seafarers International Union made known its sup­ port of the more than 300.000 people who hit the picketlines. AT&T, which has been des­ The above picture shows the picketline at 104 Broad Street, cribed as the richest company in New York City, with two Seafarers distributing leaflets explain­ the world, went out of its way ing SIU assistance. For other pictures see page IS, to provoke the strike. All sorts of stalling tactics were resorted to, and when the Federal Con­ ciliators were called in, com­ pany representatives refused to submit the most important union demands to arbitration. Main section of the striking workers is composed of the Na­ NEW YORK—Within 24 hours phone workers, which New Jer­ tional Federation of Telephone Workers, an independent, loose­ after the state of New Jersey sey has passed, the Bill had just ly bound group of affiliates with passed a law authorizing jail become law. about 200,000 members. Governor Driscoll had held up sentences and heavy fines for signing the bill to give the strik­ NO SCABBING telephone strikers, the Seafarers ers a chance to return to work to However, other independent International Union, New York escape penalties which range up groups throughout the country Branch, overwhelmingly adopt­ to .$500 per day for each striker, pledged support of the action, ed a resolution which character­ plus 30 days in jail for each day and remained outside the picket- ized the bill as "out and out on strike. lines once the walkout started. strikebreaking of a sort employ­ Full text of the SIU resolutions All telephone service was not ed by Hitler and Stalin to de­ appear on page 15. shut off. In areas where dial stroy their labor movements." The resolution called for full phones were in operation, ser­ vice continued, but it was ex­ support of the "striking phone pected that mechanical difficul­ workers and organized labor in ties might impair most of that New Jersey," and pledged any operation as the strike continued. assistance necessary in the fight All maintainence personnel are to have the law repealed. CLEVELAND — Meeting with included in the strikers. At the same time, another re­ At the height of the action, solution, this time attacking so- Mr. Lee G. Hinslea, general the state of New Jersey passed called "Merchant Marine Vet­ counsel of the Midland Steam­ a bill authorizing jail sentences eran Groups" was also passed by ship Company, at the Cleveland and fines for telephone strikers. the more than 1500 members in Hotel on Thursday, April 3, SIU Vice President Morris Weisber"This bill was passed within attendance at the meeting. gcr and Great Lakes Secretaryfive hours after it was sent to These phony, cadging outfits Treasurer Fred Farnen presented the lawmakers by Governor wei-e attacked fi'oin the floor-, the Seafarei-s' contract demands Driscoll, and provoked some and one operating in the Gulf to the Midland SS Company rep­ comment that the measure had area, called the Merchant Mar­ resentative. been railroaded through without iners of America, came in for a Arrangements were made for sufficient time for consideration. pai-ticular lot of censur-e. a further meeting between both Organized labor immediately the SIU and Midland during the started protests. Among the first CREWS INSTRUCTED week of April 7th, after Mr. to make themselves heard were The membership voted that all Hinslea requested further time the members of the Seafarers International Union, who, in a crews be instructed to keep rep­ in which to study the SIU con­ regular New York Branch resentatives of the Merchant Mar­ tract proposals in more complete meeting, passed a resolution con­ iners of Amer'ica off SIU ships, detail. For the second meeting, the demning the action of Governor and that officials take action to Driscoll and the state legisla­ insur-e that these people do not SIU will be represented by ture, and compared the action have access to Union Halls in Cleveland Agent Stanley Wares, Ashtabula Agent Maurice Dole with the union-busting techni­ any port. At the time the SIU took its (formerly employed on the Mid­ ques practiced by Hitler and Stalin. (Full text of resolution stand on the anti-strike bill, di­ land ships), and Secretary-Trea­ rected solely against the tele­ surer Farnen. appears on page 15.) 1 N.Y. SIU Raps Jersey Law, Merchant Marine Vet Outfit No. 15 A&G Delegates Report On The int'i Convention Decisions And Actions The Third Biennial Convention of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union of North America, convened at 10:30 March 24, 1947 at the Morrison Hotel, Chicago, Illinois, Harry Lundeberg, President of the International Union presiding. President Lundeberg spoke at some length to the delegates, outlining the problems that must be solved dur­ ing the convention in order to$keep the gains made by the Union. Credentials were in for Union delegates representing some 100,000 workers in the seamen, fish­ ermen and fish cannery work­ ers field, and in every port in the United States, as well as Canada and Alaska, reported the Chair­ man of the Credentials Commit­ Adding to their string of re­ tee. sounding victories, the Ameri­ The delegates were addressed can Merchant Marine Staff Of­ by Harry O'Reilly, representative ficers Association, AFL,wound up of William Green, in welcoming elections aboard ships of the the delegates to the city of Chi­ United States Line and the Am­ cago, and pledging the entire erican South African Lines by support of the American Federa­ completely drubbing the NMU. tion of Labor in the organization In .NLRB elections held aboard drive in the Great Lakes region, vessels of the two lines in the which the Seafarers are launch­ last fifteen weeks, the Pursers ing at this time. voted complete rejection of the Omar F. Hoskins, Commis­ NMU by giving them but 16 sioner of Conciliation, United votes of a total of 142. States Department of Labor, Of the 123 votes cast by greeted the delegates on behalf United States Lines Pursers, 81 of the Department of Labor, and favored the Staff Officers Asso­ spoke of the labor relations ciation. while 16 were for the problems in the shipping industry NMU. during the post-war period. On the American South Afri­ can Line, nineteen votes were {Continued on Page 14) cast. The AFL Pursers gather­ ed eleven, five ballots were for no union, two were blank and one was challenged. The NMU failed to pick up a single tally am/ong the Pursers aboard Amsaline ships. Reports on the results of this NEGOTIATIONS BEGIN meeting will be carried in the Tom Hill, East Coast Repre­ next issue of the LOG. Among the SIU demands were sentative of the AMMSOA, statthe following: a 40 hour work ! cd that the Pursers would begin week at sea and in port; over­ negotiations within the next few time rates at $1.25 per hour for days for wage adjustments, bet­ all time worked in excess of 8 ter living conditions, shorter hours daily. 40 hours weekly, hours and increased overtime and for all penalty overtime: a rates on all contracted ships. The victories over U.S. Line flat increase of 10 percent in all base rates; and a 30 day bonus and Amsaline' bring to eight in clause instead of the seasonal number the elections won by the Staff Officers in the last three bonus now being paid. Last of the SlU's demands was months. Some of those recently won one for job security through job seniority, the union hiring hall are the New York and Cuba Mail; Atlantic, Gulf and West and rotary shipping. This last is a must on all Indies Lines and the Puerto Rico Great Lakes unorganized ships Steamship Company. The AFL Pursers are not rest­ because its the only way that the prevailing open shop condi­ ing on their laurels. Right now they are in the midst of a hot tions can be cleaned up. organizing campaign in two lines It's also the only way that the LCA halls can be eliminated as whose names cannot be mention­ ed for obvious reasons. a threat to all Lakes seamen. Seafarers Meets With Midlantl On Demands For New Contract AFL Pursers Win Elections In Two Lines �Page Two THE SEAFARERSlOG Friday, April 11, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 luternatiomd Officers HARRY LUNDEBERG - - - President 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. PAUL HALL --------- First Vice-Prcsidpnt 51 Beaver St., New York 4, N. Y. MORRIS .WEISBERGER -------- Vice-President 105 Broad St.. New York 4, N. Y. CAL TANNER - - - - Vice-President 1 South Lawrence St., Mobile, Ala. EDWARD COESTER --------- Vice-President 86 Seneca St., Seattle, Wash. JOHN HAWK - - - Secy.-Treasurer 105 Market St., San Francisco, Calif. District Officials J. P. SllULER - - - Secy.-Treas. Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. HARRY LUNDEBERG Secy.'-Treas. Sailors Union of the Pacific 159 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif. FRED FARNEN - - - - Secy.-Treas. Great Lakes District 10.38 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan HUGPI MURPHY - - - - Secy.-Treas. Canadian District 144 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, B. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK, Editor 267 On The Move Seamen in the Canadian Seamen's Union have been the victims of one dirty trick after another. The leaders they trusted have betrayed them; the money they poured into the union treasury was used to finance Joe Stalin's schemes in Canada and the United States; and their tenyear long battle finds tliem no better off today than they Were when they first started. The CSU commenced its career with every chance for success. Beginning in the middle of the 1930s, when industrial unionism was on the upswing, the CSU could have grown right along with its affiliate across the bor­ der, the Seafarers. // OS pitat Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Stat en Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals But the leaders of the CSU refused to stick to honest trade union principles. They tied themselves to the com­ These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, munist movement, and as a result the entire seamen's or­ as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging ganization in Canada suffered a severe setback. heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ The SIU of Canada has retrieved some of the ground lost by the CSU. Starting after the CSU's charter had been picked up by the International for aiding and abetting communist trickery within the Union, the Canadian branch of the SIU has made great strides. Conditions have advanced til they are far superior to the conditions enjoyed by members of the CSU. Wages have improved, and in this category the SIU is also far ahead of the'CSU. But it is in the line of service to the membership that the SIU really has outdistanced the communist-dominated CSU. While the officials of the CSU were busily keeping their noses glued to the communist grindstone, Seafarers officials have gone quietly on their way, settling beefs and gaining advances for the membership. During the war, the CSU, like the NMU, played footsie with the government. It took the militancy of the SIU, in the United States and Canada, to stop the ship­ owners from raping seamen in the name of patriotism. Organization' of Canadian seamen into the SIU of Canada will continue; and with more force than ever. The CSU has no real hold on,the rank-and-file seamen, and where the SIU plants its banner, honest seamen are sure to flock. ing to them. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL GUS KREZTER C, MASON STEVE MOGAN R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT N. LONGTINE ED. DUDEK J. J. O'NEILL E. J. NAVARRE J. N. HULL C. TYNER C. J. COMPAN WM. H. CAO J. W. DENNIS ED. CUSTER WM. BROCE, Jr. GEO. F. DUFFY ADAM KARPOWICPI C. LOCIGNO WM. MEAGHER D. LAUBERSHEIMER G. F. HART H. N. LEAVELLE S. HAMILTON X X BALTIMORE HOSPITAL CORRIE SHARTZER CHARLES SIMMONS MICHAEL LUCAS MANUEL ROMERO ANTONIO AMARAL STANLEY MALINOWSKI SAM TOWSON TED BABKOWSKI JOHN FOX JOHN RILEY (G. L.) PETER LOPEZ EDWARD CAN JR. HARWEY WALSH JAMES McMAHON (G. L.) XXX STATEN ISLAND HOSP. R. G. MOSSELLER JAMES T. MOORE P. SYRAX K. KORNELIUSSEN C. H. SULLIVAN E. E. CASEY M. J. LYDEN H. BEECHER L. L. MOODY M. BAUCSKI M. MORRIS W. R. BLOOM J. BOLGER L. NELSON L. A. CORNWALL C. M. HOUCHINS E. CARERRAS H. L. TILLOT M. J. FIELDS JOHN A. DYKES R. RIVERA C. E. SMITH You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staien Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM MOBILE HOSPITAL M. D. PENRY MANUEL CARDANA C. A, GARNET R. H. DAVIS W. J. SULLIVAN A. SABOURIN S. P. MORRIS E. L. MYERS BRIGHTON^HOSPITAL H. SWIM E. JOHNSTON R. LORD L. DONOVAN E. MOFANE �r^ Friday. April 11. 1947 New York April 9. 1947 The recent 1947 A&G Agents' Conference, as well as the Sea­ farers International Union Con­ vention in Chicago, laid down quite an extensive program for our Union. This program covers all prob­ lems confronting the Organiza­ tion, as well as all those problems affecting the Maritime Industry, entirety will be a tough job at the best, and will require full cooperation from all officials and membership alike. The Agents' Conference fore­ saw some of these problems and as a result, adopted the follow­ ing pi oposilion which was con­ curred in unanimously by the membership on a coastwise scale: This Committee, appointed as a Committee on Operation of Union Apparatus, has made a complete study of all other Com­ mittee's Reports and actions taken during the entire sessions of the 1947 Agents' Conference. We realize that the program and policy adopted is an exten­ sive one. It is our opinion that fHE SEAFARERS LOG VBPOfRT/ Page Thre» MeMB^RSHIP ings on any vessel, the crew is t® take immediate action at a regu­ lar crew's meeting to prevent same from occurring again. Such action is to be called to the at­ tention of the boarding Patrol­ man at payoff time. Reinstatements J. p. SHULER, Secrelary-Treasurer Contracts & Negotiations The recent 6 per cent raise in­ crease has been negotiated with the following operators and has become a part of the regular con­ tract: Alcoa Steamship Company, American Liberty Lines, Bull Steamship Company, Baltimore Insular Lines, Eastern Steamship Company, Seas Shipping Com­ pany, South Atlantic Steamship Company, Smith and Joluison, Seatrain Lines, P. and O. Steam­ ship Company, Illinois Atlantic Steamship Company, Overlakes Freight Corporation, Newtex Steamship Company, Waterman Steamship Company, Mississippi Steamship Company, American Eastern Corporation, Arnold Bernstein Steamship Corporation, Arnold Bernstein Shipping Company, Inc., Calmar Steamship Company, Ore Steamship Com­ pany, and Bloomfield Steamship Company. Illinois Atlantic has signed the full Waterman agree­ ment including all 6 per cent in­ creases and working conditions and the agreement is effective as of April 2, 1947. We are now in negotiations with various other SlU contract­ ed operators on this question of 6 per cent and we expect, with one exception, no difficulty in having this raise applied to all contracts with the same retroac­ tive date. Moran Towing Company is the one operator with whom we e.xpect some difficulty in consum­ mating the 6 per cent wage in­ crease, as well as the re-shaping of some of our working rules. To this date, we have not been able to get them in a negotiations meeting for this purpose. It may be necessary in the future for us not only should these programs and policies be lived up to, for the welfare of our organization, but further, we feel that it is vitally necessary that such is done. Recognizing the necessity of this, we finally recommend that the Secretary-Treasurer be given full right and authority to en­ force not only the terms of the official's and membership's du­ ties, as per Constitution, "but also the terms of the policies and pro­ grams as laid out in this Agents' Conference. We recommend that every Port Agent be directly respon­ sible to the Secretary-Treasurer for the full enforcement of the Constitution, Policy, and Pro­ gram, as laid out by this Con­ ference. In the event this is not done, then the Secretary-Treasurer is to immediately notify the mem­ bership of such disregard of SlU Policy and Program and those persons responsible for such vio­ lations. Recommendations to cor­ rect such violations of Union Program and Policy to be made to consider further action of a to the membership by the Secre­ different nature in the event of tary-Treasurer, subject to coast­ this Operator's continual refusal wise action for immediate cor­ to iiegotiate these problems. rections of such violators and NOTIFICATION SENT violations. This operator has been notified R. Matthews of our intentions of further ac­ Ray White tions and we hope this produces E. Smith the desired results. For the benefit of the member­ Several Steamship Companies ship, the Headquarters Offices of which are now inactive, but this Union, as long as it is my which still have in effect SlU duty to remain as Sec.-Treas. of A&G contracts will shortly go the A&G District, shall, in the back into full operation. When future, render full and regular this occurs, it will necessitate the leports to the membership meet­ Union re-negotiating contracts ings, which will be carried ver­ batim in the SEAFARERS LOG. with these people, bringing the:ri This report shall be carried, up to the present wages and con­ first of all, with the intent of in­ ditions we now enjoy. Close contact is being kept forming the membership as to the current union disputes and with these operators and an­ the actions taken regarding same. nouncements will be made once It shall deal next with the con­ they have started back into op­ duct of the Union membership erations and the type of run in and officials as to the following which they will operate. Once these particular compan­ of the Union's policy and pro­ ies are back into operation, it gram on all matters. will bring approximately 30 the number of off-shore contracted companies. This will represent, along with the newly organized companies a gain of approximate­ ly 18 companies over our pre­ war status. A contract dispute recently occured affecting the SS Seatrain Texas. A Union Committee, com­ posed of Joe Algina, J. P. Shuler and Robert Matthews has met several times with the operator on this issue and as a result, sub­ mit the following report and recommendations:. CLARIFICATION, SEATRAIN TEXAS 1 p.m.— 5 p.m.—Reg. day work 8 p.m.—12 Midnight—4 hrs. overtime If he was put on the 12-4 watch: 8 a.m.—11a.m.—Reg. day work 11a.m.—12 noon—Dinner hour 12 noon— 4 p.m.—Regular wa.trh 12 Midnight—4 a.m.—4 hrs. overtime Ships Disputes According to Port Agents' re­ ports, practically all beefs oc­ curring on SlU-contracted ves­ sels have been settled at the point of production. This is the policy of this Union, whcreever possible, to settle all beefs aboard ship. There are occasions when this is impossible, due to the necessity of clarification of contract. At all other times, the crew's dis­ putes are to be handled aboard the vessel before the crew pays off. In the event disputes arise which cannot be handled in this manner, then it is to be sent to New York in care of Joe Algina. After action on such disputes, reports will then be carried in the SEAFARERS LOG in the Headquarters Reports, giving all details of disputes and settle­ ment of same. Crews are hereby notified that under no circumstances are they to pay off at the completion of any voyage until such time as all beefs have been squared away by the Boarding Patrolmen. This applies, as well, to the signing on of vessels. There have been recent dis­ putes arising because of crews signing on before ships stores are on board, and during the voyage, the Steward finds himself Settlement of dispute on S-S Seatrain Texas whei'ein the ship sailed short two Watertender.s and one Oiler, and the Electri­ cian and Deck Engineer were re­ quired to stand watches to re­ place men who were missing. 1. Article 11, Section 23, (Divi­ sion of Wages of Absent Mem­ bers) does not cover this .situa­ tion whatsover. 2. Article III, Section 21. (Boatswain or Carpenter Stand­ ing Watch) covers the Boatswain or Carpenter when they are re­ quired to stand watches due to shoi'tage of seamen. Under this section they receive overtime for all watches stood after 6 p. m. and before 8 a. m. and all watch­ es stood between the hours of 12 Noon Saturday and 8 a. m. Mon­ day. However, in addition to standing watches, they must per­ form their regular duties. Inasmuch as the Electrician and Deck Engineer are classified as Day Workers, both at sea and in port, the same as the Bosun and Carpenter are, we feel that they should be covered accord­ ingly. 3. Article IV, Section 25, sub­ section (b). Hours of Work for Day Workers) provides that "working hours at sea for all men classified as day workers shall be 8 a. m. to 12 noon and 1 p. m. to 5 p. m. Monday through Fri­ day, and 8 a. m. to 12 noon Sat­ urday. Any work performed out­ side these hours to be paid for at the applicable overtime rate, except as provided in Article 11, Section 3." We recommend that Article IV, Section 25, subsection (b) be in­ terpreted to mean that when the with insufficient food stores for Electrician or Deck Engineer are the voyage. The only way to required to stand watches due prevent this is for the Chief to sick or missing men, they shall Steward to make sure of a com­ receive overtime for all watches plete supply of all stores before stood after 5 p. m. and before 8 the vessel signs on. a. m. Monday through Friday NO DICE and between the hours of 12 noon In the event the Steward, in Saturday and 8 a. m. Monday. However, they may be required his opinion, does not find suffi­ to perform their regular routine cient stores he should notify the day work, in addition to stand­ three ships delegates as well as ing the watches, between 8 a. m. the Patrolman. to 12 noon and 1 p. m. to 5 p. m. In line with this, it is to be Monday through Friday, and be­ called to the attendtion of all tween 8 a. m. and 12 noon Sat­ members that no crew under any urday. condition should tolerate any Example:—If he was put on mernber of the crew taking ships stores ashore to sell. It must be the 4-8 watch: 4 a.m.— 8 a.m.—4 hrs. overtime remembered that we have a 9 a.m.—12 noon—Regular work tough enough time getting suffi­ 1 p.m.— 4 p.m.—Regular work cient grub on board without 5 p.m.— 8 p.m.—3 hrs. overtime some performer to carry it ashore If he was put on the 8-12 to sell it for the price of a bottle of rum. watch: In the event of such happen­ 8 a.m.—12 noon—Regular watch The membership went on rec­ ord several times that, in tho event a man is more than 12 months in arrears in dues or as­ sessments, he is not be reinstated in the Union. The basis for this action was that during the War period, many seamen quit going to sea and went to work in shipyards, etc. After the War, when the Union was successful in gaining alltime high wages and conditions, these characters decided they would like to go back to sea and accordingly, many of them ap­ plied for reinstatements while in arrears ranging from one to five years. All Agents and Patrolmen are notified as per membership ac­ tion, under no circumstances are they to collect dues from such people or allow them reinstate­ ment. Recently, there have been in­ stances where such monies have been collected by officials of this Union in direct violation of Un­ ion policy. This practice is to be discontinued at once. In the event that any official of the Un­ ion feels that the man has a legi­ timate excuse for being in ar­ rears, he should submit that rea­ son in writing to the Headquar­ ters Offices of this Union with proof of all details carried in his communication. Such cases would apply prin­ cipally to those people who fur­ nish definite proof of full time hospitalization over a long per­ iod of time. NO FREELOADERS This Union membership has ex= pressed the opinion at numerous times that they did not go out on strike nor engage in the many beefs that this Union has had for the purpose of allowing wouldbe freeloaders from cashing in on the efforts made by the Union at a time when these same free­ loaders were ashore making big dough and keeping their feet dry, all at the same time. Economy Operatilons In line with the economizing program as laid down by the re­ cent Agents Conference, all ports affected by this program have been notified to reduce its ex­ penses ,as per the Agents' Con­ ference and membership action. All Ports who have not com­ plied with the terms of this pro­ gram are hereby notified to take steps at once to guarantee this reduction in operation expendi­ tures. Further, in line with this econ­ omy program, the Ports of Charleston and Miami have both been closed as per instructions. Charleston Agent, E. R. Smith, has been transferred to Savan­ nah as Patrolman and the Port of Savannah now has under its its jurisdiction" all work and ships traffic in the Charleston Area. The Port of Miami has been closed and the Miami Ai-ea and the ships traffic is now being covered from the Port of Tampk. To this date, even though some Ports have not complied with this economizing program, ex(Contimii:d on Page b) �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Foar Friday, April 11. 1947 READY FOR FIT OUT, lakes SlUPetitions NLRB On Huron; Two Other Companies Ready For Vote conditions, conditions of employ­ ment, lay up and fit out, wages, DETROIT—Showing the first overtime, etc., are all specified results of the SIU's current or­ right in the contract. ganizing drive on the Great Lakes seamen don't have to Lakes, the SIU petitioned the depend on the company's char­ National Labor Relations Board ity and good nature when they on Friday, April 4, for an elec­ work under an SIU contract. tion aboard the two ships of the Huron Transportation Company Everything is w r i 11 e n in the the SS John W. Boardman and contract and union representa­ tives make damn sure that the the S.T. Crapo. company lives up to the terms • These two vessels are both of the agreement. used for bulk cement transpor­ SIU job security guarantees tation between the Huron Ce­ an SIU member that he has the ment plant in Alpena, Michigan right to go back to work at the and their Detroit plant. fit out or after the fit out on They carry a total unlicensed the same vessel that he helped personnel of fifty-four ( both tie up the previous Fall. ships), and arc expected to vote He doesn't have to be subject overwhelmingly for the SIU as to anyone's whims. A Seafarer the union of their choice in the knows his rights and gets them. NLRB-sponsored election. Competent union representa­ Crewmembers on the ships of tion under an SIU contract two other companies arc now makes it certain that eveiy Sea­ ready for petitioning, and we farer sailing on an SlU-contractwill see the NLRB about con­ ed vessel secures his full rights ducting elections on them later under the contract. this week. By EARL SHEPPARD All SIU members are guaran­ However, until we do file for elections with the NLRB. we teed full union representation on are not at liberty to reveal any all legitimate beefs. They can't further details on these outfits. be fired except for just cause, and subject to the grievance pro­ Our Great Lakes organizing cedure of the contract. staff is also working on sevei-al Genuine SIU democracy, pre­ other fleets at the present time, vailing in all Districts of the and concrete results are expect-^ SIU, makes it certain that all ed from these companies in the meetings of the membership are' near future. run strictly by the members Just as fast as we secure .themselves. SIU meetings ar,e. pledge cards from 75 percent or run by and for the Seafarers. more of the crewmembers on No individual or clique runs the SIU. Ask any member; he'll tell you. NO POLITICOS Another advantage of btflonging to the SIU is its freedom from any form of political group control. No groups of phonies spouting any "save the workers" philosophy gets far in the SIU. Seafarers show such phonies the door in short order, especially when they owe allegiance to any foreign power, and spout its phony propaganda. these vessels, we will petition The unorganized Lakes sea­ for NLRB - conducted elections men are really ready for SIU aboard them. organization. There's no doubts in the minds of anyone who RESULTS GOOD So far, results in the organiz­ ing drive are very good, and are keeping up to our advance ex­ pectations. With the excellent start made so far in a number of these unorganized companies on our objective list, we expect to acquire a minimum of 3,000 new members in the Lakes Dis­ trict this yeai-—not only mem­ bers, but the jobs for them, too. ' knows anything about the Lakes that at last they are going to be unionized. And, the SIU is the union that's going to do the job. 'We're really on the road to whipping the last great strong­ hold of the open shop in the maritime industry — the Great Lakes. This year we're going to achieve real results in organiz­ ing the unorganized. With the entire weight of the whole SIU, in all Districts, be­ hind us, and with the all-out support of the AFL Maritime Trades Department, it's only a question of time before "The Groat. T.akes, Ton, Will Be SIU!" Bulk carriers on the Lakes preparing for fit out at San­ dusky, Ohio. As soon as the ice clears up on the Lakes, these ships will start hauling iron ore, wheat, or coal. CSU Membership Has Made Little Progress In The Ten Years Under Commie Leadership By GENE MARKEY en by statements made by com­ mie Pat Sullivan in the expose The rank and file members of accompanying his somewhat con­ the Canadian Seamen's Union fusing resignation as president must be a very harrassed and of the CSU. bewildered bunch of men at this It has been disclosed that time. funds supplied by Joe Salzberg, Freshly emerged fi'ora the se- Canada's ace Moscow stooge, were buffeting of torpedoes, fink were in reality the initial in­ manning pools, and endless vestment in a well-engineered reams of government red tape, move by the commies to domin­ made the more miserable by ate lock, stock, and barrel, the pinch-penny wages and living entire Canadian maritime indus­ conditions, Joe Canadian Seaman try. has been hit in the face with yet another dirty blow that must surely be the climax in a series of sell-outs that have left the majority of Canadian seamen high and dry on the beach of lousy wages and "John Bull" conditions. In 1935 two small unions, then operating on the Lakes in op­ position to each other, were combined to form the CSU. The two respective leaders who had previously been very busy hurl­ ing dirty invectives and chai-ges of communism at each other eventually got together at the behest of the communist party and so the CSU was formed. That this unification was brought about by the CP for a purpose, has recently been prov­ CSU SABOTAGED While Ferguson, Lenton, Sul­ livan. Shaw, and "Chairman for the Council of Soviet Friend­ ship" Davis were all busy with the second front and Yalta, the future of the rank and file sea­ men was being left to whatever handouts the Government and the shipowners condescended to give them. These so-called leaders, who sent thousands of dollars of good union money up in the smoke of Joe Stalin's political campaigns, are directly responsible for the low standards existing in most Canadian ships under the juris­ diction of the CSU. With the total of CSU strikes producing nothing better than READY TO GREET SUMMER WEATHER REASON ENOUGH These Lakes seamen are ready for SIU unionization. They've heard about the Seafarers con­ tracts and conditions, SIU de­ mocracy and militancy in action, and they've decided that the SIU is their union. It's not hard to realize why the unorganized Lakes seanren want the SIU. For too long .they have been subjected to the con-, trol and domination of the LakesCarriers Association, and the possibility that they can be fu'ed at a moment's notice to make room for one of the b o s s e s friends or relatives. Now, they want SIU job security, condi­ tions and contracts. JOB SECURITY Under S e a f a r e rs contracts, working conditions, shipboard an eight hour day (in the ripe old year of 1945) and a 'Na­ tional Agreement' that stinks on ice and is not even recognized by the operators or their stooges in the ships, it is easy to see that under commie leadership the Union's funds and moral strength was squandered on Joe Stalin's monkey business instead of consolidating the seamen's future. How successful the commie sellout has been is evident when one looks at a Canadian ship in any port of the world. Living conditions closely parelling the old days, wages that are sub-standard to the North American way of life, and rot­ ten 'discipline' designed to pro­ tect the bosses profits, all en­ forced b5^ shipping laws written in the eighteenth century by a handful of Captain Bligh's who made good as shipowners, are the burdens Canadian seamen still have to carry despite ten years of dues paying. The .systematic robbing of the CSU treasury to provide trans­ portation and exhorbitant ex­ penses for the political fakirs who supposedly repre.sented the seamen, yet in i-eality were run­ ning all over two continents spreading the communist germ of labor sabotage, has resulted in the Canadian seamen being denied the principal objective of their organizing. CSU members should be the judges in an over-all survey of whether they have progressed under the heel of political dom­ ination or not. The SS Crapo, Huron Transportation Company, fitting out for the coming season at one of the Detroit docks. So far. the Company is unorganized, but the SIXJ has petitioned for an elec­ tion. and is awaiting word from the National Labor Relations Board. Pat Sullivan's resignation must surely be reason enough to stir CSU rank-and-filers into recog­ nizing the trickery and duplic­ ity that goes on behind the scenes. His statements as to the mis - appropriation of union funds, a figure running into many thousands of dollars, should cause the average intelli­ gent member to wonder who sanctioned the waste of this money. These men who banded to­ gether to stave off encroach­ ment of dollar hungry shipown­ ers, who joined a union believ­ ing that they were on the way to building a strong org:anization of .seamen in Canada, have been viciously sold out by the piho'niest bunch of parasites who ever infested and contaminated a labor movement. �Fri&T. A^rii n. WkT TRE SE /tF ARERS LOG Page Fiv*- Seafarers Take A Cruise On The Del Sud y' Good food and good service combine lo make Ihe Del Sud a luxury ship for lourists. Here are some of the men responsible for Ihe excellence of ihe service. Left to right. William Porter, William McConville, Richard Reinrich. Waiters, and Henry Curtis. Steward. This masterpiece of Harold Fontan, Chief Baker, won't do to sail around the world in. but it will sure make good eating. The cake shown above is a sample of the type of good food served to the passengers, and the chow for the crew was also top-notch. Off watch and relaxing, these men were caught by the camera's eye in the thick of a card game. Clockwise, reading from far left, are Ralph Subat, John Kelley, Clayton Fusileer, Pete Blanco, and Tony Santiago. Three good men to know are these Brothers taking their leisure above. That's Monk Kelley. Gloryhole Steward in the center, with Jerry Maples, Bartender on his right, and John Brooks, Crew Messman, on the left. This looks like a good way to keep house. Sweep everything under the carpet, and throw the garbage out the window. Well, that last won't work shoreside, but it's okay at sea, as Ben Perez, Utility, shows. With the Morro Castle in the background, crewmembers of the Del Sud take time out from having fun lo pose for a pic­ ture. Front, left to right, Louis Schraedie, Joe Farrara, and Dan King. Rear, in the same order, Louis Bordenave, Boogalie Foster, Ralph Piehet. Monk Esteves, Paul Arnst, and Ben Perez. "Let the Buyer Beware" should be the highsign in Havana's shops. Being very wary as they buy needed items, are left to right. Bill Porter. Red De Priest, and Babe Herold. The storekeeper got into the act. too. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 11. 1947 HQ REPORTS TO MEMBERSHIP (Continued front Page 3) penses of the Organization have dropped considerably and will drop even further within a vei'y short period of time. Headquarter.s Offices are now making plans to reduce its Of­ fice Staff and to consolidate as much as possible the business systems of the New York Branch and the Headquarters Offices. To this date, there have been maintained in the Port of New York two separate SIU business the votes were cast for our Union. The case is now in the hands of the Washington people. With­ in a short time we hope to hear the result, and we are certain that the SIU will be certified as the legal bargaining agent for the thousands of unlicensed Isthmian seamen. The organizing staff of the Union, in addition to the Isth­ mian drive, has been busy in other fi e 1 d s. Approximately twelve contracts, inshore and offshore, have been secured by the Union in the past few months. HARD AT WORK The organizers are also, at this time, attempting to extend the SIU contracts to cover other outfits. For obvious reasons, the names of these outfits and the details concerning the work being done on them, will not be made known until a later date. In line further with the or­ ganizational program laid down by the Conference, Lindsey J. Williams has been instructed by Headquarters to immediately take over full responsibility for the SIU organizational work in the Gulf Area, both of an In­ ternational as well as of a Dis­ trict nature. A full report will be made later concerning this part of our Union's structure. Telephone Workers In the past few weeks we have had to assist the United Financial Employes, AFL; a group of white-collar workers in This is the saga of a spry winning a just beef. young Seafarer who sails on the But the bosses wouldn't deal Great Lakes, and is 76 years with them until the Seafarers young. got out on the picketline and John D. MacNaughton is proud Ghowed the Cotton Exchange of the fact that he's the oldest that the UFE was not fighting Seafarer in point of years who that battle all alone. is still sailing the Lakes, and The nation's telephone work­ he can really spin some color­ ers, 300,000 strong, are now out ful yarns about the old days and walking the picketlines, and the the old conditions before there bosses are standing firm, refus­ was an SIU to bring the ship­ ing to bargain. owners to task for the lousy The National Federation of conditions on their ships. Telephone Workers is as clean a Born in Wilkesport, Ontario, union as can be found. Yet the back in July 11, 1871, Mac is of American Telephone and Tele­ Scottish descent. He first went graph Company, which has been sailing at the young age of 15. described as the wealthiest cor­ on a Canadian river tug, and poration in the world, has forc­ broke in right away as an En­ ed these people out into the gineer. streets. At that time, Canadian laws We are helping the strikers. We did not require boats under 150 have loaned them the third floor tons to have licensed men other of our New York Hall to use for than the Skipper, and that's how their headquarters and for a Mac started as Engineer. During his long and colorful resting place. Until they have settled their strike, we will do nautical career. Brother Mac­ all in our power to assist them Naughton has sailed on every kind of Lakes ship there is. further. They have a just beef, and Starting from the small river they deserve all the support we tugs, he progressed to the largercan give them. It's them today Lakes tugs. Lake Michigan pack­ —and could easily be us to­ et boats, bag rafts, sailing schooners, ore boats, river fermorrow. J. MacNaughton ries, and wound up on the D&C passenger boats. Of all the different craft he was aboard, the bag rafts were operations: that of the Headquar­ really the strangest. These rafts ters and the New York Branch. consist of a million or more feet With the thought in mind of of timber fastened together to eliminating, if possible, this dup­ form a huge boom, and pulled licate work and cost, the files, by a lai-ge Lakes tug. etc., of the two offices are now They could only travel at a being worked together. speed of about a mile an hour Headquarters is placing in from their Georgian Bay ports charge of this combined office op­ of origin to the various Michigan erations a person from the pres­ ports like Bay City, where the ent staff who shall be respon­ huge rafts wei-e unfastened and sible for all of the business work the timber processed. of the Union, i.e., files, etc. Mac sailed for awhile on the Panamanian Boycott It will take several weeks to Schooner Corsican. After he left By PAUL PARSONS The shipowners have thought make this complete change, and her, she was run down by the that they could pull a fast one should result first of all, in great­ Ever since men have earned ganization that is not tried and SS Corsica (her steam name­ er efficiency of operations and on the American seamen. They their living by going to sea true, or has nothing to offer ex­ sake) during a violent storm, secondly, in a considerable re­ felt that they could catch us off these have been vultures lurking cept a place to drink? and all hands were lost. duction of expenses to the , Or­ guard and pull us down into the in every port to graft, filch and Another one of MacNaughton's There are thousands of places ditch with other seamen the exploit them. As the years have to go without paying extra dues ships was the old Osceola, a ganization. rolled on the seaman has be­ or initiations. Lake Michigan packet boat sail­ The membership of the Union world over. come more educated to these The Seafarers know that what are to be notified of the Union's It is my firm belief that all ing between Milwaukee and program for economizing and we win becomes a standard for facts thus making it harder for members should shun these Muskegon. He was on her for should cooperate in every man­ other seamen, in the U. S. and these grafters to operate. places and the men who are its a couple of years. Today, the streamlined Mil­ These so-called friends of sea­ ner possible to fulfill this pro­ in other parts of the world. That's why we didn't fall for men must find craftier ways to waukee Clipper, a n SlU-congram. All crews are to accept as traded vessel, makes the same much responsibility as possible the latest shipowner's gag about operate and have been doing so run as the old Osceola. towards settling disputes to keep transferring their ships to Pan­ since the war ended in Europe After he started sailing for their vessels in a ship-shape man­ amanian or Honduran registry. and Japan. the Detroit and Cleveland Na­ ner. Beefs kept in lino on board The whole phony deal is to One of these is by coming vigation Company, Mac stayed ship will mean that the amount' paying decent wages and aboard and selling phony insur­ with them for 12 years. He was of energy of handling ships disdecent conditions. ance and membership to certain Fair warning has been given with the D&C when he decided pules, will be reduced to a min­ clubs ^— insurance which is not to the President and Congress to retire. And did—for 12 whole imum while at the same time worth a hoot in hades or the years! would be handled in such a man- I United States that unless clubs anything except an added But the old water was in ner as to guarantee crew satisexpense and permit to become are brought to a quick end, we inebriated upon club premises at Jack's blood, and he came back faction. will boycott Panamanian ships Seaman's expense. to the Lakes once more when Detailed r-eports as to the re­ wherever and whenever they there was a shortage of men on Whenever one of these men sults of • this economizing pro­ touch U. S. ports. the Lakes during the war, and approach any of you Brothers gram of the Organization will be That means that the longshore­ with the'so-called protection and representatives. Be sure you Uncle Sam started calling for carried in future Headquarters men, the teamsters, the licensed added enjoyment that this or know what policy you are buy­ retired seamen to resume sail­ reports. officers, the tugboatmen, and that club offers be assured that ing, and what companies sell ing. any other waterfront workers, this representative is only look­ them. He worked on the "Western will cut their arms off before ing forward to the near future Isthmian I am sure that all of our offi­ States for 3 seasons, running be­ they will work on, or touch, one when he can take some of your cials are spending their time in tween Detroit, Mackinac Island, Hearings on the Isthmian boycotted ship. hard-earned money for no pro­ dilligently caring for the men Harbor Springs, and Midland, Steamship Company ended Our action will not be con­ tection whatever. they were elected to care, for, Ontario. And, he says, he'll be this week and were referred to fined to the U. S. Through the and I am also surfe that most of in there sailing as Asst. Electri­ When you are in ports that Washington for final disposition. cooperation of the International them and the membership are cian when the D&C boats start these clubs exist, please remem­ No one will know the outcome Transportvvorkers Federation, of ber you can go in many, many opposed to the tactics and tricks up. until later, but we did our level which the SIU is a member, no clubs and bars to become tipsy I have previously spoken of. LOUSY CONDITIONS best to bring that Company country in the world will work without having to pay monthly It is also my firm belief that Mac remembers the oldtime under our banner. the cargo" of a Panamanian ship dues or initiation fees to do so, in our Halls or on our ships living conditions on the Lakes Our volunteer organizers who after we give the signal. and when they tell you that only these things should not be al­ when there was no SIU to pro­ went aboard these ships did a That's exactly what is going SIU men have joined and are lowed to happen, and if any of tect the seamen. Back in 1899, bang-up job. Many ships were to happen if the Government our pie-cards and such solicit for when he was on the Osceola brought into port to vote down doeisn't halt the "dummy" trans­ joining mark it up as stuff for it or anything else in or around the deckhands wore paid the the line for SIU, and that was fers within a reasonable time. the birds. They tell all union men the the Hall or on working hours huge sum of $15 a month. And caused by the good work of the U. S. seamen especially those in anywhere then these men should 18 Deckhands slept with 4 bunks men who sailed the ships as the SIU, are not going to allow same thing. be halted immediately before between them — did we say volunteers. Too much credit shipowners to whip us back into SIU PROTECTION your and my Brother or Broth­ "slept?" cannot be given them, or to the the wage scales and conditions You are a member of one of ers are exploited. The old messroom was a long men who directed the campaign. that we so readily remember. the best unions that was ever on I am merely passing these narrow place with no port holes. The NMU stalled and stalled. The exact date for the com­ any waterfront and all officials things on to you as a Brother, In fact, it was so hot in there They had to do something to mencement of this boycott will see to it that you are protected knowing the light of these things that the Deckhands filled their excuse the large amounts of be set later. In the meantime in every way possible to be and hoping you can go any­ own tin plates and went out on money spent on communist act­ we are completing our plans for protected by unionism and if where and become as drunk as the hatches to eat. This was on ivities while the drive was go­ the full carrying out of this the Union is not able then no you want without extra expense, the old Goodrich Line. ing on. The SIU spent much beef, if Congress doesn't stop other set is. or haying an insurance not On his deathbed, we are told less money than the NMU, but this crap — and damned soon. Why pay out dues to any or­ worth a damn. {Continued on Page 15) 'MARINERS' GRAFT, INC.' �Fridey, April 11. 1947 I) THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven SoQtti Atlantic Vessels Bring GODII Shipping To Port Savannah M'S'SfrS?!® By CHARLES STARLING SAVANNAH^The Port here old joint, waiting to be thrown is enjoying a real pick up in shipping with South Atlantic ships supplying a good deal of it. out at any time. The only bad thing about that is that we don't know which sid6 it will be—in the river or the street. With this fear hanging over our heads I am spurring my search for a new spot to rent. If we don't find something soon, it looks like we may be forced to put up a building so we can stay in busines. With this promise, shipping and business should be very Two of our brothers were re­ good for the next two weeks at leased from the Marine Hospi­ least. tal this week. This leaves us The Frederick Gailbraith paid with four brothers in the hospi­ off on April Fool's Day, and she tal and report have it that the sure fooled us, as she was one majority of them are doing fine. The Brothers here on the of the cleanest and best payoffs beach send their best wishes to I have ever handled. I think the crew of this ship Brother Hawk during his illness, rates a vote of thanks for their and hope he will soon be up and cooperation and maintenance of around. a fine ship. Also they extend congratula­ The Gailbraith signed on the tions to Brother Shuler in his 3rd, and she is now on another new position. They feel sure voyage with the majority of the that Brother Shuler will carry old crew. With most of the old on the same good work. crew still aboard I'm sure that At the moment we have five South Atlantic ships in the har­ bor, and we are expecting three more within the next ten days for payoffs. Mobile Continues Heavy Shipping; NO NEWS?? Another Ship Deluge Is Expected Silence Ihis week from fhe Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: By CHARLES KIMBALL MOBILE—The tempo of ac­ tective Union such as the SIU. tivities in the Port of Mobile has On this South Atlantic scow, slowed down but not enough to we came across a unique char­ give the local officials a good acter who should be the com­ breathing spell. pany's president instead of being Chief Engineer. His greatest Payoffs and sign ons are still above nuiinal and every mem­ concern was to operate the ship ber can view the shipping pros­ as cheaply as possible, even if he The deadline for port re­ pect for the coming weeks witli had to violate the contract. This ports, monies due. etc., is the he found unprofitable. optimism. Monday proceeding publica­ The unlicensed crew was un­ Dispatcher Jordan is now re­ tion. While every effort will animous in its recommendation , cuperating from his recent near be made to use in the current that this shipyard-trained Chief nervous breakdown caused by issue material received after extreme shortage of book mem­ be bestowed the title of "Mari­ that date, space commitments time Admiral," as his conduct bers to take jobs. generally do not permit us to and attitude fully qualified him As the shipping forecast is do so. for that position. bright and a deluge of Liberty This Chief, who apparently jobs is anticipated, I am some­ dominated the ship's Master, what apprehensive that our dis­ the next payoff will be as good spent most of his time during the patcher may suffer a relapse. as the last. The monotony of the week was We are expecting the Jefferson somewhat enlivened by the ar­ I City Victory to payoff here rival of a South Atlantic scow around the 14th along with the with above average overtime Zachary Taylor the same week. YEP / I'/VI ' beefs involving about 700 hours By HERBERT JANSEN If any of you fellows would . SHOOThs'G/ overtime and transportation to like a six or seven weeks' trip IRE SUN / CHICAGO—Shipping is on the men's problems and what the New Orleans. to Europe, drop around to our upgrade now in this port, and SIU is doing about them. Hall; you shouldn't have too WON EVERY POINT In the LOG, they never read .much trouble getting the ship in another ten days should be in The SIU, represented by Pa­ full swing. However, there are about some individual trying to you want. not many fellows on the beach boost himself up to high heaven, trolman Jeff Morrison, Brother here, and they should all be or how some political clique is. Phillip Reyes and myself, came NEGOTIATIONS ON shipped out in the very near .seizing control. These things out with flying colors and won This week I started negotia­ never happen in the SIU, where every point we pressed, proving future. tions with the Atlantic Towing Last week, the SS Gilbert the members beefs and problems again the advantages of belong­ Company. I have met with them made her first trip, and the SS get the green light, not the poli­ ing to a militant, honest and pro­ voyage on the bridge, in the for two days and we are mak­ American made her first trip tical beliefs of any individual. chart room and the Master's of­ ing slow progress, but what Easter night. Having some new ONE FOR BOOKS fice. progress we have made has been plates put on her in the South Here's one for the books. While He was virtually in control of Cliicago shipyards, the SS Rockin South Chicago during the the ship's activities all the way, wood will be calling for her from behind the scenes supervi­ crew shortly. Full aft and for'd week, I picked up a beef that sion of the deck force up to decrews are busy getting the SS some of the NMU members had. Seems that these fellows worked terming how many cigarettes a North and South American on the Inland Steel ships, and man could smoke. ready for fhe season. Both of they paid off last Fall while He w,TS nb\-iniisly proficient in them will go to the Manitowoc By W. H. SIMMONS they still had some overtime nruhgation, as he was seen quite shipyards for repairs. There's no news as yet on coming to them. SAN FRANCISCO—Well, I'm often taken sights, apparently to This beef was taken up to when the City of Grand Rapids back in the saddle again after a verify the accuracy of the of­ will call for her crew, and the their union hall for settlement, busy time of attending the ficers' computations of the ves­ MS Daniel McCool has already and some time later these guys Agents' Conference in New York sel's position. made several trips out of Mani­ were notified that their beef was and the Convention in Chicago. STRANGER TO BELOW towoc. She will resume opera­ settled. How? Simply by the After the weather I experi­ The crew's report indicated all in our favor. I am sure that tion on her old run for year.s— men involved contributing half of the overtime that was legiti­ enced in those two windy cities that this chief was seen with a when we do have a signed con­ the Chicago run. mately due them to some com­ it is sure good to get back here sextant in his hand more than tract with the outfit it will be NEW PLANS LAID pany hospital fund! The boys in the sunny Gold Coast where I with a screwdriver or a wrench. on a par with all or most other Now that the SIU Biennial were not asked to do this, simp­ can put my overcoat back in the towboat companies. He suprisingly disappointed Convention is over, and a solid ly told they had to. mothballs. the black gang one day during a Our main trouble at this time foundation laid for our future This could only happen in the Everything went along smooth breakdown of four hours, when is the new law passed in the program of handling the current NMU. Whoever heard of any during my absence and thing.s he went below. I don't doubt State of Georgia—the anti-closed seamen's problems, it looks like maritime outfit collecting money are tip-top right now. Shipping the veracity of the statement by ship law. This phony law is fairly clear sailing ahead. for a company hospital fund? holding us up in our negotia­ Every single item was work­ Don't they know that all .seamen is really on the good end here one of the black gang when he with shipping good in all depart­ said that the Chief had been in­ tions, but we hope to reach an ed out to the last detail, and are entitled to hospitalization troduced to them — such was ments. agreement in the very near fu­ when they go into operation, and medical benefits at any Mar­ ture. Most of the men who have the degree of familiarity between there won't be any slip ups. ine Hospital? him and the black gang. The members have requested That's one of the reasons why This could never happen in been spending time on the beach Two things that this Chief ob­ me to send a vote of thanks and the SIU has never lost a beef. the S4U because all Seafarers have gotten themselves a ship served religiously were the trim­ All indications point to a high­ know their rights, and their rep­ during this burst of shipping. confidence to all Agents for the ming of his Clark Gable mous­ good work they accomplished at ly successful organizing drive on resentatives back them to the CALMAR ADDITION tache and the shining of his gold the Agents' Conference and at the Great Lakes. Daily, seamen last ditch in collecting on these The Calmar Steamship Com­ braid. Oh for the life of a sea­ are coming into this Hall and the International Convention in beefs. Lakes seamen know that, pany took over another ship out taking out SIU books. Chicago. and that's why they are flocking here to add to their slowly grow­ man who has the fortune to live and work with a story book They make no bones about into the Seafarers' ranks. The membership here knows ing fleet. She is the Joseph B. character in flesh and blood, such what they thing of the SIU's set the SIU officials will continue Eastman and she crewed up here as the Chief aboard the George their fine work through the rest up to organize al of the Lakes last Saturday with a fine bunch D. Prentice. of the year as they have in the seamen into the SIU. of fellows. Note for the former crew of These guys are fed up with p>ast. All in all things are moving the Prentice: You will collect the Lake Carriers Association Check the slop chest be­ They also pledged a vote of along nicely out here on the West overtime for the entire time that fore your boat sails. Make thanks to Brother Brantley, for and all the other phony outfits Coast, which is the way I like no gangway watch was main­ sure that the slop chest con­ the good work he accomplished on the Lakes. They started to see it. tained, also Wipers are to collect tains an adequate supply of during my absence at the reading the SEAFARERS LOG, Pardon me now, I'm going out­ and finally found out what the overtime for all weekends when all the things you are liable Agents' Conference. side and soak up some of that licensed real score was on the Lakes. personnel performed to needw If it doesn't, call the HALL TROUBLE good old California sunshine—I their routine work, plus trans­ When they do read anything in Union Hall immediately. still feel a little of that New portation, wages and subsistence As for the Hall here in Sa­ the LOG, they know that they York winter in my bones. are reading all about the sea­ to New Orleans. vannah, we are still in the same BALTIMORE SAN JUAN NORFOLK TAMPA GALVESTON JACKSONVILLE HOUSTON Lakes Seamen Tired Of Bum Deal; Take Out Seafarers Membership Shipping Is On Good Ends On West Coast Check It - But 6ood �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Payoffs, Sign 0ns, And Transits Keep Boston Branch On The Run TOLEDO CENTER FOR SEAFARERS By JOHN MOGAN Friday. April 11. 1947 Toledo Forming AFL Maritime Trades Council BOSTON—Business and ship- ' of all the local seamen to Dr. ping remain very good in the McGillicuddy, and he was duly By HENRY CHAPPELL Port of Boston and the New presented with a handsome radio TOLEDO — Responses which by the hospital delegate at his England area. we have received already from During the past week we had last regular visit. the Lakes seamen have proven The Doctor was deeply touch­ four payoffs, three sign on 3, beyond any shadow of a doubt crewed up a couple of ships ed by this expression of good that these Lakes men really which had been in idle status, will by the Brothers of the SIU, want a union. and had plenty of stuff in trans­ and wishes all hands to know They aso want a voice and it, including a couple of Isth­ he is sincerely grateful for their vote in running their affairs, but kind thoughtfulness. mian ships. not under any company sponsor­ Brother Sweeney did a bit of WILL BE BUSY ed outfit or the Lake Cairier.s hopping around the country, system of representation, where All indications are that this what with the Bessemer Victory the shipowners have the first (Waterman) paying off in Sears- port will continue to be very and final word in all matters Here's a shot of the SIU Hall in Toledo. Ohio. It is located port, Maine; the New Echota busy for the next few weeks. pertaining to wages and condi­ at 615 Summit Street, and is really humming with organiza­ (Pacific Tankers) paying off in At this writing, three payoffs tions. tional activity these days. Agent in charge is Henry Chappell, Providence, R. I.; and the Ir- are delinitely scheduled for the In the Port of Toledo, we are well known to the Lakes seamen. vin S. Cobb (So. Atlantic) pay­ area this week, wth several starting a Port Council compos­ ing off in Portland. probables. ed of all AFL maritime unions, Meanwhile, the Jean (Bull) Plenty of tankers are sched­ just as they have now in Duwas paying off in Boston; the uled to come up this way also, luth, Chicago, Cleveland, De­ La Salle (Waterman), fresh out so there should be no shortage troit, and other major Lakes of the Todd shipyards, is tied of jobs for a good while yet. Of ports. up in Charle.ston with the crew course, we have the same prob­ In the case of any dispute lems as most other SIU branch­ By CHARLES KIMBALL arising which concerns one or es—a shortage of rated men, and all of these affiliated maritime particularly firemen-watertenders. Recently several members activity which this shipownerunions, all unions coordinate HoPffTBlS organization spon­ their efforts and resources in And the only members pres­ wrote to the LOG touching on dominated HeiPS Yoo SET -j^ ently on the beach have only the point of drunkenness and ir­ sored. W-E-L-L? settling the beef. That's real just returned to Boston after responsibility aboard ships. The We fought and boycotted the AFL maritime solidarity! paying off elsewhere, and in no overwhelming majorty of the USS in every conceivable phas" Bill Sturm, the Regional Di­ mood to work for a while yet. membership, recognizing our in­ of its activity. Now that our ef­ rector of the AFL in this area, So, if shipping is slow any­ creasing responsibility propor­ forts are crowned with success has promised his full support where (which I doubt), keep in tionate with our economic gain.s, by the government withdrawing in setting up the Council. In mind that jobs in most ratings are awakening to the indisput­ its financial support, this organi­ addition. Brother Sturm has able fact that performers and ir- zation is striving to keep alive by are available in Beantown. been very cooperative at any responsibles are distinct liabili­ various schemes. time we have asked him for any ties to our welfare, and should assistance of any kind whatso­ SHAKING THE CAN not be encouraged nor condoned. ever. Those, who in the past were Reports from several SIU ships Many new members have reporting that nothing on the inclined to do as they pleased, show that they are circularizing signed up in this port in the vessel is in working conditionbecause they belong to a great ships for donations, and I ven­ past few weeks. In fact, the ma­ no heat in the rooms, no hot and protective union, will have ture a prediction that other jority of the Lakes seamen water in the pipes, a galley a sad awakening when they learn means, such as dances and enter­ whom we have contacted have range that won't function right, that the Union does not belon,g tainment will be staged to raise assured us that they want the no mirroi's or other bathroom to them, and they cannot persist funds. SIU to represent them, an d fixtures, no radio, no clocks, etc. By ROBERT H. MAUPIN in their un-union conduct aboard Wed, after five days here the Our union has no desire of im­ that's why they are signing SIU BUFFALO—Just blew in from ship. La Salle finally got squared pairing or curtailing our demo­ pledge cards hand over fist. Strict observance of our con­ the Windy City, and found the With the progress that we away, and sailed for Portland to cratic pi'erogatives as Americans. organizing campaign going good tracts is necessary to strengthen have made in our campaign to pick up a load of grain, with Every member can, and should, organize all of the unorganized here. Spent a few hours in the our future program for gaining only the radio still to come. Chicago Hall before leaving, and better agreements. Be sober at spend his time or money as he Lakes seamen as SIU members, also talked with Agent Jansen. payoffs, especially so you can sees fit, but it is also fitting that it won't be long before results FINE AND DANDY While I was there, I saw quite clearly figure your pay and in­ I, as an official of the SIU, cog­ begin to show. The gang on the SS Jean had a few Lakes men drift into the telligently argue on any discrep­ nizant of the USS structure and We have already petitioned a very effective system for Hall to find out what it takes to ancy in your voucher. history, should warn the mem­ the NLRB to conduct an elec­ keeping the messroom clean. become an SIU member. Then there is another matter bership that the future existence tion in one fleet, and should be Specified violations of the clean­ This was really good, seeing so that the membership should be and program of the USS is not ready within the next few days liness rules set up at the meet­ many of these unorganized sea­ ever alert to—the activities of conducive to the Seafarers prin­ to hold elections in a couple of ing were punishable by various men wanting to join a bona fide the USS. As all of us know, the ciples, tenets and program, and others. fines. Yes, the Lakes are going SIU union. Guess they're all sick of SIU never officially endorsed, therefore should not be support­ A nice little kitty was thus the phony promises and smelly subscribed or participated in any ed. in a big way! picked up and sent to Cowboy propaganda put out by the ship­ Herzog, who had been injured owners and their finky hiring in an automobile accident .while halls. the crew was seeing the sights After leaving Chicago, I found around Searsport. like night and day. The Topa continues, but that is getting to By JOE ALGINA myself on the same bus with is justly proud of her. The boys telegraphed the to­ one of the Mates from an unor­ be an old story by this time. NEW YORK — If you smell are justly proud of her. tal take from the fines imposed ganized ship. He's carried an Rated men in the deck and en­ All Departments were praised gine departments are urgently to Cowboy at the Waldo County MM&P book for years, just smoke and feel a hot wind com­ Hospital in Belfast, Me. Minutes waiting for the day when he can ing at you from up this way, by the officers, but the crew needed. of the meetings held on board come out into the open and de­ don't think that it's the Atomic went one better and sang the We have not stooped to shang­ the Jean were forwarded to clare himself a union man. Bomb. It's only the crew of the haiing men from the Hall, but SS Mooring Hitch, Alcoa Steam­ Headquarters. that may come to pass sooner There's lots of fellows like him ship Company, raising the roof At the last regular meeting of —both licensed and unlicensed. than we think. to have the ship repaired. the Boston Branch, a communi­ So, watch your step when in When the ship came into this KNOW SIU RECORD cation was received from one of the New York Hall. port, the crew presented the the members who is now a pa­ Calls come for men all day He also told me that a num­ company with a repair list that tient at the Brighton Marine long, and the Dispatchers' of­ ber of his fellow Mates are hop­ stretched from here to there. Hospital. fice is being kept open evenings ing for the SIU to get a real The company thanked the crew In his letter he told us that and on Sunday. Hours are until .hold in the Lakes. They know and then calmly sat on the list. Dr. McGillicuddy was also a pa­ 9 P.M., weekdays, until 5 P.M. of the Seafarers' militant record tient at the Hospital. Many of But the rest period is over, Saturdays, and from 11 A.M. to and that the SIU fights for im­ the members present at the 3 P.M. Sundays. proved conditions for all sea­ and Alcoa has been warned that meeting hit the deck to speak the vessel will not sail until the This arrangement will con­ men. about the old doctor, and to improvements and i-epairs have tinue until the pressure eases. It's a good condition when you reminisce about his wonderful Overtime for Oilers and Stew­ find a bunch of officers recep­ been made, and the ship put in praises of the Stewards Depart­ .treatment of seamen over many ment. ards Department men of the tive to the Union because they apple-pie SIU order. years. When next the Mooring Hitch They claimed that the food on Northern Wanderer is now col­ know what the Union means to As a result, the old tarpaulin heads for the open sea you can the T-T was the best they had lectable at the i'^lcoa Steamship them, too. muster method was used to show Had quite a talk with Agent bet your last dollar that she will ever eaten, and far superior to Company office, 17 Battery the gratitude and appreciation McLean here in Buffalo, also be on a par with all other SIU- anything served in shoreside Place, New York. Dixon, 1551^ restaurants. irs; Gillispie, 47 hrs; Anderson,' Organizer Frank Moran. It's contracted ships. Stop pushing. Brothers, you'll 3 hrs; Chief Cook, 148% hrs; The good old Topa Topa, Wa­ their considered opinion that the port of Buffalo will go 100 terman Steamship Corporation, have to take your turn to ship Second Cook and Baker, 148 1/4 hrs; Saloon Messman, 9 3/4 hrs; percent for the SIU in any elec­ is also in this port, but the dif­ out on this one. The boom iai shipping still Crew's Messman, 138 y2 hrs. ference between the two ships is tions held here. Future Conditions Depend Upon Abiding By Present Contracts Mates Cheer For SIU Success On Great Lakes Alcoa Ship Stays Put Until Repairs Are Made te: •'•Jy- •- VL.; ;.-ul �LH: Friday. April 11. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG LEARNING THE ROPES Class In SlU Hall Prepares UFE For Strike w NEW YORK — The recent Strike poll of the United Finan­ cial Employes, AFL, showed that the members of the union are overwhelmingly in favor of Strike action that will close down the entire New York fin aneial district. For months now tho union has tried to negotiate with one of the member firms of the New Yorl: Stock Exchange, but has been met by stalling and ob­ stinate refusals. Therefore, a strike notice has already been filed, in accord­ ance with the law, and the union is ready to strike the Cot­ ton, Stock, and Curb Exchanges any lime after April 21. To prepare for this occuirance, classes in the duties of picket captains, area commanders, and various commrttees are being held in the SIU New York Hall, with experienced Seafarers act­ ing as instructors. In the recent UFE Strike against the New York Cotton Exchange, the assistance of the Seafarers was of material aid in bringing the action to a swift successful conclusion. Above, left to right, Robert Strand. C. Lundy. and Howard Hatt. members of the UFE Fi­ nance Committee, making plans for the coming strike against the New York Stock. Cotton, and Curb Exchanges. On the right, a meeting of the UFE in the SIU Hall, discus- i techniques in running a strike. Experienced Seafarers are ac­ tive in telling them how. By E. S. By STEELY WHITE NEW ORLEANS — Our photo­ grapher down here, Art Samson, wanted to take a trip, so we fin­ ally were able to get him on the shakedown run of the Del Sud sister ship of the Del Norte. He didn't have much time to take pictures since he signed on as a Messman and only took pict­ ures when he wasn't washing dishes. On ships like tlie Del Sud, washing dishes is a majortask each day. The Del Sud is a real luxury liner, with good quarter's for passengers and crew. The food is top-notch, and the men are a bunch of swell seamen and swell guys. Although the gang kept Art pretty busy, he still had enough time to take pictures on board ship and while the vessel was docked in Havana. (Those pict­ ures appear on page 5.) Shipping is so fast down here that we don't have time to sleep much less to send long columns to the LOG. We ar-e kept on the go all day, getting the ships out oi ihis port with full crews, and paying off other .ships which come in here after long trips. I hope that next week I will have a chance to write a long re­ port of what is doing here, but from the looks of things, I will have to be satisfied with an­ other short letter. ATTENTION! If you don't find linen when you go aboard your ship, notify the Hall at once. A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any good. It's your bed and you have to lie in it. v.: Some Don't Know How To Act With A Good Skipper By BLACKIE CARDULLO Philly Goes Back To Normal, Lensman Ships But Shipping Still Remains Good As Messman For Del Sud Pictures KEPT BUSY Page Nine PHILADELPHIA — After hectic spell of fast and furious shipping, things have cooled off .•somewhat, reverting to a semb lance of normality. This week's roster shows two payoffs so far' and two move cheduled, making a total of fou hips in that department. We also have several transit ships in port and they too will receiv complete coverage. I've got a couple of sore Sea­ farers down here. Brothers Char­ lie Nangle and Gillis. They're both sore at the city offiicals because according to the latest news, the city is going to build one of the most modern piers in the country. Gillis and Nangle think this is wa.ste of the taxpayers' money. They both think that the citj' should build a modern soup kit­ chen for the down-trodden sea­ men. Oh, yes—blondes as wait resses. LOCK IT UP Brother Tilley, our fast mov­ ing Patrolman, is in the lock bus­ iness these days. It seems that when he went aboard the Char­ les Crocker, Atlantic&Pacific, the clank of locks met his ears. Upon inspection. Brother Tilley found that the Captain, Joseph Grady, has the pecular habit of putting everything under lock and key. His eccentric habit comes to light everytime he sees a cloud on the horizon or when he re­ ceived an unfavorable weather report that a storm is brewing. He then orders the Mate to lock all the doors around the deckhouse from the outside with big Yale padlocks and chains. The Captain gave as his excuse for this behavior the fact that the nasty old sailors left the doors open and water stained the decks on his precious passageways. We have studied the minutes of the Agents' Conference in great detail, and to put it mildly the membership is of the opinion that it is the most constructive Hearing Ends NEW YORK. April 8 —With the completion of testimony by HIGDON members of the Seafarers In­ piece of 'A'ork that has ever come ternational Union, the final hearing in the Isthmian Steam­ from any Agents Conference. ship Line case ended yesterday If the program outlined there­ in the offices of the National in succeeds, it won't be long be­ Labor Relations Board. fore the Union will be a power The National Maritime Union, to be reckoned with. which is contesting the SlU's NUTHIN' YET victory in the election, testified earlier in the hearing. Oh yes, the weekly report on The case now goes before the my bloodhounding for a ne'vv NLRB headquarters in Wash­ hall. Sorry mate.s, nothing has ington for the final decision, come to light as yet, but in true which will be rendered on the Seafarer fashion I'm not giving up. Something has got to break basis of the transcript of the hearing, the briefs to be field by one of these days. both sides and the report of the A word to the tripcard men: hearing officer, Arthur Leff. If you want to get your book, The SIU and the NMU have see the Organizer in your port. seven days from the conclusion If you make a trip on an unor­ of the hearing within which to ganized ship you are in line for file their briefs. a book and he -will see to it that j'ou are fixed up. The Patrolmen Say,.. Read Constitution It seems to me that the first duty of a good Union man is to study the Constitution and the Shipping Rules. It is obvious that too many of our members are not doing this, and so in the past few months there have been a number of Trial Committees for men apply­ ing for reinstatement because of arrears on dues and/or assess­ ments. feit all claims to benefits and all other rights and privileges in the Union. He shell not stand suspended until six (6) months in arrears in dues, assessments or unpaid fines. This section shall not ex­ cuse any members for being be­ hind in dues and assessments while employed. Beyide.s the Constitution, which is very clear, membership meet­ ings up and down the coast have Some of the men. have had their booksk since the Union was started, and some of the men have been permit men, prn's, or what have you. Even if the man was not a full book member, there was no ex­ cuse for not knowing the rules of this Union. Here is what it says on page 9, Section 4 of the Constitution: Members more than three (3) months in arrears in dues, as­ sessments or unpaid fines, other than during the period of strikes or lockouts shall for­ been passing resolutions that anyone one year or more in ar­ rears in dues and assessments shall be automatically • rejected from the Union, regardless of his past activity. A word to the wise should be sufficient. Keep your dues and assessments paid up and then you won't have to worry about Trial committees, suspensions, etc. Ray Gonzales MARCUS HOOK — It was a pleasure last week to pay off the Ncwhall Hills, Pacific Tank­ ers. It was a double pleasure to meet again Captain Lanahan, as fine a Skipper as ever stood on any bridge. He is an fildtime member of the SUP, and he is pro-union from the word go. But his at­ titude, and his coopeiation with the crew, did not keep him from having a bad time on the trip. Some men have the idea that they can pej loi rn on board ship, and then expect the Union to back them up. They better get it thi ough their heads that those days are gone forever. When they meet up with a tough Captain, they cry their blues to the Patrolman and the Agent. When they find a good Skippe:-. they hai'dtime him un­ til he gets tough in self-defense. The membership of this Union has gone on record to deal se­ verely with any characters who insist on performing on board ship. The officials will carry out those orders, and the men who perform better take warn­ ing about that. ALL ON THE GO Business and shipping are swell down here. We have an average of three unorganized ships coming in here each day, and at least two or three con­ tracted ships touch here each week. That keeps us pretty well on the run, and we have to stay on tlie ball to keep things mov­ ing smoothly. We are still looking for a new Hall—one big enough for a man as big as I am to turn around without knocking things off tables. When we get one, we will announce it in the LOG, and hope to see some of you down here to inspect our new quarters. Last week an NMU volunteer organizer was fired off a ship after collecting six signed pledge cards. When he went to the NMU office to complain, he was told that there was nothing that could be done about it. What kind of a union do they call themselves? Maybe this guy didn't belong to the right faction, or perhaps it's the left faction, in the NMU. That reminds me. we are col­ lecting money for a fund to send communists to Russia. The catch is that we are buying them only one-way tickets. Well comrades. an\' takers? Unclaimed Gear Members whose gear has been held for more ihan Ihree months in the fourth floor baggage room of the New York Hall are advised to call for it immediately, or notify the Hall where they wish it sent. Crowded conditions make it impossible to hold gear longer than three months. All effects remaining unclaimed after three months will be sent to the owner's home via express collect. Gear without addresses will be disposed of otherwise. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Ten Friday, April 11, 1947 MV Gadsden Has Turbulent Trip SS Livermore Making Baltimore Minus Screw Captain Holds Steady Keel Punch Sparks Party Aboard The Helen (Editor's note: The follow­ ing report on the MV Gadsden's recent mishap at sea is by Bill Robinson, OS aboard the ves­ sel. An untiring shutter click­ er, Brother Robinson also took the pictures appearing with the story.) By BILL ROBINSON Revelry reigned unrestrained aboard the SS Helen at sea the The MV Gadsden, , American night of March 19, when the unlicensed and licensed shipmates Eastern s heavy lift locomotive of Seafarer Joe E. Thomas cele- carrier, made another bid for brated in his honor in rollicking Publicity on its last trip from Le fashion. Occasion for the ship- Havre to Baltimore when it lost board merriment was Brother ^^s screw 800 miles off Cape Thomas' birthday anniversary-! H^^^y and had to be towed into an event that bids fair to be re­ the Port of Baltimore. After going through ' every membered by the Bull line ves­ storm the Atlantic could dish up, sel's crew for a while to come. the Gadsden, already three days It was reported that the affair was sparked sparked by by a a concoction' behind schedule, parted with her packed with punch - designed ^^rew at a point about 25 miles and blended by the Stewards De-i"oHh of Bermuda. The mishap Action on Gadsden's deck as hands iurn fo lo rig sea anchor, partment of materials furnished at 9:20 a. m. March 15. RIG ANCHOR following loss of Ihe screw in heavy storm. by various crewmembers and of­ All hands'turned to immediate­ ficers. ly to rig up a sea anchor. The aboard when the cutter blinked a sea to take over the towing job. HILARIOUS NIGHT ship was taking rolls up to 45 message that they had lost their But the tug was having its own Everybody in attendance was receptive mood. Hilarity degrees, but after two hours of end of the cable. | troubles. A few hours out, one in a hard work, the crew rigged and Then the cable fouled on the of her firemen had taken ill, and broke out shortly after the un­ veiling of a spectacular four-tier put overboard a sea anchor which Gadsden's keel and had to be she had to return to port to disbirthday cake, complete "with kept the bow into the seas and jettisoned. The cutter reported Patch the stricken crewmember all the fixings." Secret of the eased'the rolling. that she did not have another to the hospital. No word was In the meantime, "Sparks" cable. So we passed an inch and heard from the tug, until three cake's success aside from its arhad been busy. He had contacted a quarter cable over to them. (days later when the Gadsden reseveral ships, among them the With this light cable the most ceived a report that the tug was THlS. IS THfMosopelea, a Coast Guard cutter speed that the cutter could make sending out distress calls, B ICS'S EST CAKE which was at Bermuda and was three knots. At this slow The tug's navigational instruSAWi which took the Gadsden in tow. rate, the two ships started for ments were fouled up, and she First ship at the scene, how­ Baltimore. wanted a plane to come and ever, was a Victory ship, which Trouble developed a day and a guide her. Later reports stated stood by until it was relieved by half later, when the cable snap- j that the tug was putting in at a British crusier at 2 a. m. the ped. A two-inch cable, which Puerto Rico. next day. The cruiser stood by the cutter had "found" on board, Proceeding slowly but surely, until the cutter arrived at 10 a. m. meantime, was passed to the the Gadsden finally arrived in CUTTER ARRIVES Gadsden, and with the thicker Baltimore after eight days on the With the arrival of the cutter, cable speed was stepped up. tow. The crew piled off to get a all hands again turned to to take TROUBLED TUG real meal, complete with coffee, a line from her. The Mosopelea Meanwhile, a tug had been or- butter, sugar, eggs, etc., all of chitectural perfection, was the sent over five successive mes­ dered and was expected to ren- [ which had been used before the fact that the fruits imbedded in sengers. The Gadsden crew were dezvous with the Gadsden at Gadsden reached port. about to pull the cable it had been steeped in wine and brandy for three weeks. Wine for the steeping job was sonal gear. The evening was one round contributed by Captain Curtis of fun from the time Captain Ol­ Olsen. The skipper later con­ sen and Delegate Blackie Mar-1 fessed the cake was the finest tin cut the first drink—er, rathe he had ever tasted, even if it the first slice of cake to start wasn't the kind mother used to the proceedings. make. Only item missing in the other­ High spot of the evening was wise full evening was revealed reached with the breaking of the ice in the punch bowl. Its con­ in the following lament from tents were a flavorsome and po­ one crewmember: "We had the wine and the tent mixture of ingredients de­ song, but we sure missed rived from the following: Two bottles of port wine con-, women." tributed by Tyree S. Ratcliff. Janeway Pests To Be Bombed (all shining brightly) Brandy, Charley Johnson's contribution to the festivities. And something that looks like "one concertina," according to the The war of man against man is minutes. (The LOG queried sev­ over, but the battle against the eral people as to what sort of seamen's steady shipboard pest liquid that might be. Best an­ continues. swer was one wag's: "Probably John Jillette, Steward of the something that makes you fold SS Edward G. Janeway, will lead up.") Anyway, the Chief En­ the charge on the roaches spotted gineer tossed that into the punch in the vessel's lockers and toilets, bowl. according to the Feb. 23 minutes, GIFTS. TOO with the devastating "bug bomb." Brother Thomas was given sev­ The action, calculated to wipe eral. gifts, including a "beautiful out the enemy vermin, is part of pillow slip" from John Eversely. the crew's program to keep their The Purser presented him with ship clean in accordance with some useful little knick-knacks the Union's slogan that an "SlU that make up a seaman's per- ship is a clean ship." A succes.sion of mishaps aboard the SS Samuel Livermore that would have put an ordinary skipper in a mood to bite a bear left Captain Murry S. Mills less ruffled than a freshly starched collar. For his even disposition in face of the exasperating events, the crew says he rates "honorable mention for being a good skipper," according to word' just received from the vessel, currently at sea. "To begin with," the crew's message says, "the ship broke a few pieces off her screw coming into Denmark through heavy ice." Coming out of Denmark, the Livermore lost an anchor. Things grew even hotter, when the ves­ sel was in Hull, England. There a fire broke out in the midship housing. MORE TROUBLE That's not all. Later in thevoyage, one of the crew. Brother Foster, lost a finger. Also, says the crew's letter, he lost part of his thumb to the Steward. This, they add, gave "us fresh meat for two days." Throughout alt these calami­ ties, Captain Mills remained a reasonable guy. "Under all these conditions," the letter con­ tinues, "the skipper has been the same." "He is a man any member of the crew can talk to at any time within reason." The Livermore men expressed the hope that Captain Mills .sail­ ing days would be many and good. The letter was signed in behalf of the crew by G. C. Gilliken, Ship's Delegate; Nick Mistin, Stewards Delegate; Barney Cuthrell, Engine Delegate, and Charles Foster, Deck Delegate. The cutter Mosopelea which towed the Gads­ den to Baltimore is framed between the pro peller-less vessel's capstans as she maneuvers for position prior to casting the line. Snapped just as the sea anchor was let over the side, photo at left shows hands ducking out of boom's way. Digested Minutes Of SIU Ship Meetings SAMUEL LIVERMORE. Feb. 19—Chairman C. J. White; Secretary Samuels. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried that cold cuts be put out at night and plenty of lunch be put out for men on watches. Also that the messrooms be swept out be­ fore and after each meal and mopped once a day. Motion carried that when the recrea­ tion room is fixed up that a vote be taken to decide if the crew should have ih% coffee time in the recreation room. Motion passed that all fines be sent to the LOG fund. 4. 4. 5. COASTAL STEVEDORE. March 7—Chairman Santiago; Secretary Prudenico. Motion carried to have Delegate con(Continued on Page 11) �w Friday, April 11. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief (Continued from Page 10) laci Palrolman in regard to in­ spection of drinking water, ice boxes and dry storeroom ow­ ing to illness of two men. Also carried were motions to have ship fumigated, and that screens, and windchutes be provided for all port holes to keep flues away, especially when in port. i S. S, SNAKEHEAD, Dec. 22 — Chairman George Bales; G. E. Broadhurst. Motion carried that slop chest prices be looked into upon return to the States. Crewmembers asked why Cap­ tain should use linen locker for slop chest, and why should passengers sleep in hospital when there is room in the pas­ senger quarters. Also the matter of two passengers be­ ing forced to eat in the crew's messroom. Good and Welfare: All hands pledge to keep their quarters clean and also to give the Stewards Department a vote of thanks for the swell chow that has been served dur­ ing the voyage. 4. A, i SNAKEHEAD, Feb. 16 — Chairman George Bales; Sec­ retary G. Stroecker. Good and Welfare; All three delegates to check repairs for next trip and have copies made for Agent of the Frst United States port. De­ cision to have ship fumigated. A vote of thanks to the Stew­ ards Department for a swell Christmas and New Year's din­ ner, also a vote of thanks to the Skipper Howard (Tugboat) Forbes. puted overtime. New Business: The crew suggests that a list of repairs be made up and also , other things that are needed and that three copies be made up and turn one in to the Cap­ tain, one to the Patrolman and one to the next crew. Motion carried that next crew not sign articles until stores come aboard. 4- 4. 4, Bessemer Skipper 'A Square-Shooter' WILD RANGER, Feb. 12— Chairman Sam Shatkovnick; Secretary G. Clark. New Busi­ ness: Motion to urgently request the union membership to call for a National Conference of Labor for the purpose of de­ vising plans to fight against the anti-labor legislation that is now being considered in Congress. Further, this con­ ference, in order to be effec­ tive, should be made of dele­ gates from the factories, mines, ships, etc. and representing all unions. Much discussion on this mo­ tion with no opposition to its intent. Many were of the opinion that it should be sub­ mitted to the Union for its con­ sideration as it vitally affects the whole labor movement. Motion carried. 4- 4^ 4. Nicholas Nomicos, Cook aboard DEL VALLE, Jan. 12—Chair­ the Bessemer Victory, WatermaJi man Brother Gerdes; Brother Steamship Corp., who took sick Wolowitz. Good and Welfare: when the vessel was in Germany, Motion carried to remove would still be lying in a Bremer- clothes from laundry as soon as haven hospital if it hadn't been dry and to discontinue leaving for action on part of the skipper, clothes under steam line longer than necessary. Motion carried Capt. D. Hillseth. to remove Purser for incompe­ Brother Nomicos and K. Chris­ tence and non-cooperation. A tiansen, AB on the Bessemer V, vote of thanks to Chief Mate reported to the LOG that Cap­ F. Shafer and Chief Engineer tain Hillseth was a "square I. Dana and the rest of the of­ shooter." ficers on board a vote of thanks Nomicos was confined in the along with the Stewards De­ German hospital for five days, partment for their full coop­ wnen the Bessemer was about to eration throughout the entire depart for the return trip to the voyage. It has been a pleas­ States. The skipper did not want ure to make this voyage with to leave the crew man behind such understanding men. Ack­ and had him transferred to the nowledgement of appreciation ship. Nomicos was fully recov­ of Mr. and Mrs. J. Savoca and ered before the Bessemer reach­ family for crew's donation sent ed New York. upon death of their son. Nomicos states that while he was in the hospital, Captain Hill­ seth told the Steward to send the siek man "anything he needed in the way of fruits, juices, etc." 4- 4- 4. 4. JOHN DONALD, (Dale, Chairman and Secretary not given) Good and Welfare: De­ cision that .Ship's delegate check all stores. Deck and Steward Delegates reported disputed overtime. New Busi­ ness: Decision that all disputed overtime to be settled before payoff. Motion carried that Steward be held directly re sponsible for ali shortages in regards to stores. 4. 4- 4ALEXANDER CLAY, Feb. 1 —Chairman Eldon Cuilerton: Secretary A. J. Saunders. Meet­ ing called to try to make con­ ditions more pleasant for the next crew. All delegates re­ port everything in good order with exception of some dis­ 4- 4* JOHN P. MITCHELL, Jan. 5—Chairman Jack Ziereis: Sec­ retary Albert Afaramoff. New Business: Delegates reported everything is okay in their -respective departments. Mo­ tions carried: That crew's mess and pantryman shall sweep and mop the Recreation Room early every morning, and the Deck and Engine Departments shall take weekly turns in keeping the Recreation Room clean: that the 4 o'clock watch shall clean up the messhall: for the good and welfare of the crew and for safeguarding their pro­ visions and stores, each dele­ gate shall make a list of all re­ pairs in his department before next meeting. Entire crew voted thanks to Captain George W. Zeidler, Chief Mate and Chief Steward for enjoyable Christmas. 4- 4. 4. DEL SANTOS, Feb. 22— Chairman J. Vorel: Secretary R. W. Mills. Nev/ Business: Motion carried that dirty linen be placed in some other loca­ tion as it collects roaches. Mo­ tion carried thai new water fountain be placed insde crew's messhall. Good and Welfare: Suggestion to put new light in library. Suggestion to put 16 inch fans in wheelhouse. Sug­ gestion made for all cots to be turned into Steward, so he can order sufficient number for next trip. Suggestion made that cots, irons and utensils be­ longing to crew be kept in crew's quarters. Page Eleven SEAFARER SAM SAYS iLLTHE OVERTIME SHOULD BErVRKEOiN To THE PEPARTM B NTT DELEGATE VVITHINJA PAY OQ TWO AFTER THE WORK HAS BEErvJ DOHB. 72 HOURS BEFORE THE SHIP HITS PDRT THE MEN SHOULD CHECK ' WITH THE DELEGATE TO BE SURE THATALUTHE OVERTIME HAS SEEN TURNED IN AND THAT THE MATE HAS A RECORDCF SAME A/HEN IT IS DISTUTED OR OTHERWISE. CUT and RUN By HANK Shipping continues to be real good here in New York providing you're not going to wait weeks or months for those certain ships going to Turkey, Alaska, etc., for example. Brothers, read your shipping rules—all the paragraphs—before you get fouled up and start blowing your salty top only to discover that you're still in the wrong simply because you didn't read all the paragraphs in the shipping rules or just misunderstand them. Another thing, don't take ships and then quit them before they sail. Furthermore, we think that it is the duty of all full-book men and especially the permit men (who should start appreciating and helping their own union) to see to it that ships do not sail short-handed or be held up one or two days because no man wants the job for such rea­ sons as; the ship is a Liberty, not a Victory or C-2. or she's just going coastwise or she isn't going twice around the world in slow motion. The full-book men should take these important job.s instead of allowing the ships to gel fouled while they are waiting for their special ships. That's good unionism. That's being a sailor. Permit card men should always grab whatever jobs are open to them (no matter where the ship's going or what type she is) and stay on those ship.-;. 4. 4. 4. TULANE VICTORY, Dec. 23 —Chairman Charles Gallanza: 4. 4. Secretary Edmund F. Paul. Bosun Larry Moore, ihe oldlimer, did a bit of humorous New Business: Motion carried reminiscing last week about his salad days (which we're pretty to write a letter to Steely White sure means his younger days), those days which were good in concerning the condition of the some ways and tough in other, about 15 years ago, when he was slopchest aboard this ship, also aboard the SS Walertown. Larry, who was Bosun on this shi;> enclose a price list. The let­ which had just bloomed publicly into the newspapers as a ghost ter requested the Agent to take ship, says that there was many a sailor who left the ship in immediate action on the issue. a hurry v/hen he found out she was the ghost ship Watertown Motion carried to the effect that . , . Happy-faced Carl Lawson blew into town from a. good trip windchutes be made available to Genoa, Italy . . . 'Warren Wyman, famous for tying all sorts and these be ready to come of ships knots, anchored into town last week . . ^ Eddie Mooney, aboard whne the ship docks in the Times Square bartender, just registered for shipping as a N.O. Good and Welfare: Sug­ sea-going bartender. Well, write us a letter, Eddie, explaining gestion that the three depart­ how it feels to be a floating bartender. Anyway, maybe you'B ments get together and set up even write a book on How Not To Be a Sea-sick Brother in a schedule for cleaning up the One Fast Trip. laundry. Decision to investi­ 4gate First Engineer for his finky attitude and discrimina­ Brother W. E. P;u'rott, just shipped out rtx'ently a.s electrician tory practices toward members . . . Bosun Robert Hillman and his familiar cigar shipped last week of his department. on the same ship he got off. Brother Hillman eonfesst^d that he was planning to sh.ip steady out of the port of Mobile . . . Oldtimer Frank Book really did have a new experience in his Seafaring standard of living. He really did enjoy talking about his plane ride from Curacao to Miami recently . . . Steward Fidel Lukban just came in from a trip . . . Alex Ajiderson, the oldtimer, i.s in town right now . . . Rusty Swillinger is all set to go out again for another trip after coming in recently . . . News Item: The Pan Atlantic Steamsliip Company, a subsidiary of the Waterman Lines, announced this week that its four Victory ships in the eoastwiaei service would also add Miami, Florida as a port of call. 4- foUJitWIQN / 4- 4. This is a news ilem, daled March 29fh, which we read in Ihe Journal of Commerce: The Maritime Commission announced lhat 22 Liberty ships had been approved for sale lo citizen ap­ plicants for transfer to Panama or Honduras registry. The com­ mission explained that the vessels to be selected will be those not required for American-flag operation and therefore with­ drawn from the reserve fleet from among those Libertys the commission does not anticipate using for charter operations. �Page Twclre THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 11. 1947^ THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Isthmian Ship Has All Earmarks Of A Dirty Scow THE CANADIAN CABLESHIP^ RESTORER IN HONOLULU SPANISH LANGUAGE PAGE IN LOG SUGGESTED To the Editor: With the Isthmian question in the final stages and the NMU having groaned its last feeble protest, there should be no re laxing of the organizing cam paign. Soon, other companies . will be flying the SIU banners, too. This Isthmidh scow, the Yugo­ slavia Victory, is at present dis­ charging in Honolulu, in prep­ aration for its next port of call Manila. There can be no doubt that this is a typical Isthmian ship. I.ousy overtime, the worst of chow, and a finky chief mate, who likes nothing better than putting the boots to all union men aboard. 1-MAN DEPARTMENT In a previous article I gave this character's name inaccur­ ately, owing to the fact that I was misinformed. His name is Bentley. This dynamic streak of lightning is an AB, a Deck Maintenance man, a Bosun and OS rolled into one. If he's not running a winch one minute he's fooling around with some other piece of deck equipment the next. About every five minutes our boy is tearing up the ladder two steps at a jump to see the skip­ per about some Brother who told him off. Ah! how the tears must flow. One thing you notice most here is the petty chiseling of the officers on the men's time. Having next wheel one bright $ To the Editor: Inasmuch as there are among our Brothers a number of Span­ ish-speaking fellows, I would like to suggest that one page of our SEAFARERS LOG be print­ ed in Spanish, so that these Brothers would be well acquaint­ ed with our Union activities. I myself would be very glad to do my share as far as paper work is concerned by typing once in awhile to keep myself trained. William Fontan Crewmembers load cable from Ihe Restorer onto a scow in the Hawaiian port. Under SIU contract, she's on a mission of tending and repairing trans-Pacific cables. The vessel is the only one in Canada paying wages and having overtime and conditions on a par with U. S. standards. Reports from Delegate Dick Arter, who submitted these photos, indicate every­ thing aboard ship is running smoothly* DIXON CREW SETS EXAMPLE IN COOPERATION 't' To the Editor: Sometimes, it is difficult to say what is true, but it is wiser to say it than not, especially if it will do some good. The experiences I have had as result of many years at sea, have taught me that education and common sense are needed, to keep harmony and happiness among seamen. The bureaucrats and big bosses keep things that way between themselves; certain­ ly, we should. Lack of harmony and fellow­ ship could be one of the worst enemies of the membership. In face of this, the crew of the SS, Ben F. Dixon have already start­ ed steps to bring the men closer together. The Delegates have written some material on this matter, and the recommenda­ tions made by them have been carried out by the crew, with a very successful effect upon us. One of our pamphlets, which we keep visible on the bulletin board, reads as follows: THE WAY OF HAPPINESS ABOARD SHIP night, I ambled off deck at 9:40 for my coffee time. In two sec­ 1. Keep in mind the fact that onds flat I was run out on deck everyone aboard likes and appre­ to put in five minutes at fish- ciates you on this vessel. oiling. How I would enjoy mak­ 2. Respect your shipmates, and ing a second trip aboard her yourself, too. when she is SIU! 3. Respect the licensed person­ nel and make them respect you. HAD MEETING 4. Be a clean seamen. One shipboai'd meeting to date, 5. Having lived up to all the held in typical SIU fashion has above, you can smile. netted us an adequate night Brothers, if these lines are lunch, opening of an extra head, printed in the Seafarers Log, I and one extra hour for the san­ am inviting you to write some­ itary to be used for cleaning the thing on the following subjects, foc'sles. Our delegate is Brother or others similar; The Way of S; Brown of Alcoa G. Washing­ Happiness Aboard Ship, Too ton fame. Many Bosses on Deck, How To Being a cold weather boy, this Treat Our Brothers, Your Ship's Pacific is too warm for me. Give Delegate and How to Conduct me Boston in the wintertime, Yourself in the Messroom. Julio Evans eh, Eddie? Charles Halla SS Ben F. Dixon (Ed. Note: The question of a Spanish page had been under consideration for a long time. For the present, at least, plans do not call for this addition. However, if the LOG should ever be increased to 20 pages, one of them will be in the Spanish language.) iiiiiiliilife. . In photo above, the Restorer, which for the first time is 100 per cent organized and operat­ ing under a Union agreement, lies at anchor of Honolulu. At left, some of her crew, with smiles evidently inspired by conditions won un­ der SIU contract, relax at famed Waikiki Beach. Log-A -Rhythms Andrew Furuseth By JACK (AUSSIE) SHRIMPTON The owners paid him but a pittance for his toil. His lonely seamen's trade was full of care; His far-flung travels o'er foreign soil Reaped nothing save black misery and despair. Think of this gaunt and fur­ rowed man—dungaree clad, Rebellious of spirit, cheated, abused, slop-fed; Five and twenty dolla.rs a month was all he had. Save straw filled bunk to serve as bed. Yet from his sweated strength our Union sprang. And Sailors lives look on a ' brighter hue. And we who follow after bless the manr;The fighting founder of the SIU. Andrew Furuseth was his name, as every seaman knows, "Thanks a lot, Oldtimer^—Steady as she goes!" CALLS COMMIES THREAT TO DEMOCRACY To the Editor: The commies in' the United States are on the skids, and its about time. The SIU was the first to blast the communists on the waterfront, and it is doing a good job in trying to maintain democratic in maritime. But, as they say, one man can't do a two-man job. It's time for other sources to aid in removing the commies. Not only are they a detriment to the waterfront, but to the entire labor movement, as well. Any­ one who has seen them at work, as I have, knows their "rule or ruin" tactics spell disaster for any organization that permits them to function. How they work here in the United States holds for Russia too. They have a stranglehold on the Russian people. Communism and democracy are strangers to each other everywhere. Stalin rules as a dictator who is obeyed by the people in the same man­ ner as cattle respond to the whip —by fear only. Blackie Colucci �Friday. April 11, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG ON AND OFF THE SS WILLIAM SEATON Oil drums being loaded onlo the Alcoa vessel, at the Andrew Street dock in New Orleans, prior to the vessels Southern run last December. 1 Page Thirieen Lakes Carriers' Dizzying Speedup Calls For Dynamos — Not Humans To the Editor: A number of things have been running through my mind lately. Are we such puppets as to let Ball and Taft, and the rest of the labor-haters in Congre.ss pull the strings on us? Look what Sena­ tor Ball of Minnesota is trying to do. I'll bet he got a pretty piece-off from the Steel Trust and all the rest of the big money interests! As for labor's "friend," Taft, he always was against the work­ ers. So was his father before him. Why, oh why, does the working class continue to elect the likes of him to Congre.ss? When are we all going to wake up and use our rights at the polls? Every worker should vote for the men who haven't got the in­ terests of the moneyed people al- Campfoell Refutes NMU Whitewash Of Neponsit To the Editor: Well, Brothers, here I am again, but I just had to make a reply to the writer of the article appearing in the NMU Pilot of March 28. That article stated that the food situation in the Neponsit Marine Hospital had been corrected. The poor fool who made that state­ ment should be kept where he can be watched before he is_allowed to go off half-cocked as he he did in this case. His statement also claims that the head dietician of the Public Health Service came here from Wa.shington. If she was here, none of the patients saw her. If Small boats pull alongside the Seaton in bay about five she was here, she certainly didn't miles off Port of Spain, Trinidad, to receive cargo. Tugs towed take the trouble to get the opin­ cargo-laden boats to shore. Photo taken by Cliff Richway, OS. ion of any of the patients. The article says also that two more nurses and three new cook.s were "added to the payroll." Well, that maybe so, but our beef \ is the food, for which I believe the U. S. government pays for a Purser. I propose that guys the best (whether or not they To the Editor: like him be stopped from further get it, I don't know). When it After reading Joe Algina's ar­ leaves the kitchen, it is unfit for ticle in the SEAFARERS LOG sailing. They only cause dissen­ a healthy person to eat, let alone of March 28, regarding a "few- sion and bitterness among a good sick people. phony skippers and pursers" who crew. I would certainly like to sour good New York shipping, meet this guy and give him some TASTELESS FOOD lessons on "How to get along as Even the worst cook wouldn't my conscience compels me to say a Purser with the crew.". go by the theory that food should a few words on this exalted Lord While I am writing, I might be cooked tastelessly, and just Purser aboard the Smith Thomp­ add that while I was Purser on for the calories. Food should be son. the SS Thomas Hart Benton we First, I would like to know had a good crew on board, that is prepared with the idea in mind that it has to be eaten by many this bird's name. Second, this Deck, Engine and Steward men. people and that it should have so-called Lord Purser, if he ever I can further say that the Stew­ appeal to the palate and tastes of has to go to sea for a living, will ards department really took care those eating it. Just because certainly be out of luck when it of the crew, and can wholeheart­ some foods, such as caiTots, con­ somes to SIU ships. Sooner or edly say that the Second Cook tain calories is no reason for later I think most companies will and Baker, Andy S. Himielinski, plunking it in water and boiling have agreements with the Staff put out the best cakes, pies, bread it without adding something to Officers Association, and this and pastry that the Waldorf-As­ make it appetizing. Food with Lord Purser is not going to be toria could offer. The Deck Dele­ high caloric content can be made a member of it, if I can help it. gate, Alexander D. Cameron was to taste good. All we want is Third, where does this so-called cooperative with everyone at all plain everyday food to fill our Lord Purser get the authority to times, and there were never any red pencil overtime. stomachs. beefs at any time. This beef is concerned with the He is merely there to record Throughout the entire voyage food situation only, and is not overtime, and he is to let the de­ which ran one month and twenty meant as criticism of the doctors partment heads do the disputing, days, everything ran smoothly. and nurses. They are swell peo­ if any. And furthermoi-e, who Boys had plenty of cigarettes— ple and doing their best. But it does he think he is "opposing no beefs • were registered at any seems their hands are tied when overtime for the crew." time. We had about five SIU it comes to doing anything about It is guys (phony is correct) men. in the deck gang and they improving the food. like this who give good Pureers proved to te swell guys with James S. Campbell a bad name with the crew, and whom I'd like to sail with again. Marine Hospital A. .T. DIMaggio, Purser who make people loc;k at you Neponsit, New York twice when they find out you're SS William Sealon Union Purser Red Pencils Character On The Thomson ways at heart. Let's vote for someone who has the interests of the workers close to their heart, for a change. It took LaGuardia and La Follette to bring the coal operators into the open. And, it took a church committee of a Catholic priest, Presbyterian minister, and a Jewish rabbi to bring the Steel Trust to task. They used to work 12 hour shifts in the steel rHEY I DON'T WOU KNOW ' EMOUSH TO S^y HELLO WritM \ ytou UNLOAD f mills, and 24 hours every other Sunday when they changed shifts. They even tried that system on the Lakes. A Britisher brought their system over here in 1908, and it still is on the Lakes. He formed the Lake Car­ riers Association—believe his name was Livingstone. Believe mc they really have the speed­ up on the Lakes down to a tee. Where else in the world can a ship of 13,500 tons be unloaded in from 3'/2 to 4 hours? I was on the SS Emory L. Ford when she loaded 425,000 bushels of wheat in 4 hours at Fort William—one of the fastest loads every put out there. I've been at the coal dock at Berwind— Superior, Wisconsin—where they took 10,000 tons of coal out of the big Davidson in 10 hours. You were lucky if you had a chance to get a cigarette. If you talked unionism, you were a bum! Well, I did, and got results in a way. We unloaded in Ashtabula, and were going to load coal there. When I told the Deckhands, Watchmen and Deck watches not to work down in the holds unless they got 85c an hour, they called up the LCA. What did those guys do? Sent down 12 men at 50c an hour with their meals! We all quit at mid­ night, so I can't ship out of that port any more. Another one when we were still on the old 6 and 6. We got into Lorain and were unloaded at 2:30 a. m. The company sent a whole new crew down to take all the deck department jobs with the exception of my partner and me. When we got the score, we went up to the Old Man and said, "You'd better call for two grind­ ers, too." Boy, you should have heard him roar! The upshot was that he called the Cleveland office, and we all sailed on her. When we got up above, we all quit. And did they have a hell of a time getting men up there. Once more, I was on the black list, but I got out. Anyone who thinks he can get on any of these boats up here needs a little correcting. What do you think they imported the coal and iron scabherders for? Don't forget they beat the coal miners in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Illinois, and they can do it to you. All these steel guj-s need it one look at you, and someone to finger you. Then, you are done. Guess I'll sign off for now. Robert "Baldy" McAdoo Barring 'Sally' From Galley Touched Off Brewster Beef To the Editor: This letter is in reference to an article in the Log of March 7. headlined, "Food Done to Turn on Wm. Brewster." As I was Ship's Delegate aboard the vessel at that time, it was my duty to get informa­ tion on the food beef. After checking up continuously for two months, I called a special meeting, so that the beef could be brought out in an airing. I asked all the officers to at­ tend the meeting, so that I could get' to the bottom of this mat­ ter. I asked all for their opin­ ions. They all made statements, including the Captain, which was stated in the article refer­ red to above. The Captain did not say that something was definitely wrong with the food. As a matter of fact, he praised it, as did the crew. The beef was boiled down to the fact that the Chief Cook would not let the Chief En­ gineer come into the galley with his dog Sally to get choice cuts of meat. Sally in the galley. The other officers sided with the Chief Engineer (tail follows dog). As far as the Skipper (Cap­ tain Fernald) is concerned, I'm sure that anyone who has sail­ ed with him, will give him praise, as he is just one of the boys. He is a very good union man, and did not tolerate the officers pushing the crew around. Take a beef to him and it is as good as settled. Hats off to Captain Fernald—he's the type of skipper every sailor dreams of sailing with. "Chiseler" Welch (Editor's note: Thanks. Broth­ er Welch, for the additional in­ formation, which certainly throws more light on the situa­ tion. We hope that Sally Is being kept out of the galley.) PHS DOCTOR [N HONOLULU GETS HAND To the Editor: I have read many an article condemning medical service of­ fered to seamen the world over. Such criticism I know is justifable. However, several of the men from my ship, the SS Jame.® W. Cannon, had to report for medical treatment at the Public Health Sex-vice station in Hono­ lulu. All of us were treated I'oyally, just as if we had paid the doc­ tor a high fee. I thing that such a high grade medical station should be mentioned in our pa­ per. The doctor who treated us so considex-ably is Robert B. DOXT son. Charles H. Johnstcm Deck Delegate �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG A&GDelegates Report On Derisions AndArtions Of The int'i Convention (Continued from Page 1) Joseph Borus, Regional Em­ ployment Security Representa­ tive, U.S. Social Security Ad­ ministration, addressed the dele­ gates during the course of the convention, and explained the many phases of the social secur­ ity program. He put at the dis­ posal of your delegation, as well as the other U/nions. various material pertaining to unemploy­ ment insurance tor seamen, fish­ ermen, and fish cannery work­ ers, as it applied, and this mat­ erial will in due course be printed . in our Seafarers Log for the in­ formation of the membership. Samuel Laderman, President of Local 241, International Chem­ ical Workers Union also addres­ sed the convention, stressing the fight that still lay ahead for or­ ganized labor in gaining proper working conditions, and gave an inspired talk to the effect that a Union of organized work­ ers was but a way to better life. the International was then read and referred to the auditing com­ mittee. This report showed the assets of the International to be as follows, (with no liabilities) Friday. April 11. 1947 LENDING A HELPING HAND was carried unanimously by the convention. During the Friday session, Einar Johansen, representing the Norwegian Seamen's Union in the United States greeted the del­ egates on behalf of his Union, and the Norwegian Federation of Labor. He spoke of some of the conditions which prevailed in Norway, and the need for further improvements the world over. Cash on hand and in banks ,$276,466.92 Other assets, including notes receivable fro m various Union Inventories of books and buttons, etc. 23,801.28 Total assets of $300,268.20. AFL GREETINGS Editors Note: These funds do not include any district funds—which Nelson Cruikshank, Director of are in the approximate figure of the Social Security Division of $3,000,000.00 and are handled by the American Federation of the respective districts. Labor brought personal greet­ The auditing committee com­ ing from President William mented on the growth of the In­ Green, and highlighted the soc­ ternational, both as reflected in ial security problems that the the membership figures, and in seamen had to overcome. He the fact that starting out with also stressed the Communist total cash assets of $11,800.00 in Party menace and memorializ­ 1942, and notwithstanding the ex­ ed the SIU for their continued penditure since that time of well fight in that direction. over 8300,000.00 in the field, the Nomination and Election of Of­ assets stood at $300,000.00 in ficers took place on Friday after­ round figures, although during noon, March 28, 1947, the closing the course of the convention day of the convention. COMMITTEES SET-UP much of this was "ear-marked" Harry Lundeberg was re-elect­ Routine business taken care of for various projects undertaken during the first two days proceed­ in the seamen, fishermen and fish ed as President by acclamation, "That's how the SIU helped the Financial Employes m ings of the convention consisted cannery workers field for the as were the following vice-presi­ dents and the Secretary-Treasur­ New York," is the cry as these SUP members hold up copies of of the following; coming period. er: the Seafarers LOG showing the UFE Cotton Exchange Strike. Formation of Committees, Aud­ The reading of reports by the Members of the SUP. the Models Guild, and the Office Workers, 1st Vice-President, Paul Hall, it, Credentials, Seamen's Griev­ Various Unions then proceeded all AFL unions, are cooperating in a drive to organize the office ance Committee, Fisherman-Fish including the report of the At­ Atlantic and Gulf District, SIU. employes of the Tide Water Associated Oil Company in San Cannery Workers Grievance lantic and Gulf District, SIU. Morris Weisberger, Edward Francisco. Committee, Resolutions Com­ the various Fishermen and Fish Coester, from the Sailors Union mittee, Legislative Committee, Cannery Workers Unions, the of the Pacific, and Cal Tanner, Adoption of Rules of Order for representatives from the Canad­ Atlantic and Gulf District, SIU, the Convention. ian Unions, the Atlantic Fisher­ were elected to serve as vice-pres­ During the first day'.? proceed­ men's Union, etc. idents from the seamen's field. ings, a wire was dispatched to Patrick McHugh, (Atlantic All indicated a healthy growth John Hawk, 1st 'Vice-President since the last convention of the Fisherman's Union) Andrea Go­ of the International, expressing International. "You'd think that the NMU "All NMU and unoi'ganized mez, (LA Harbor District Can­ the Convention's regret that due would have learned a lesson by men will have to join the SIU nery Workers) Les Balinger, During the rendering of the re­ this time," said Fidel Lukban, when we are certified as the to illness he could not be present, port from the Atlantic and Gulf (Fishermen-Fish Cannery Work­ "but no, they continue to lie bargaining agent, or they will and on motion of Paul Hall, At­ ers, San Diego) Les Caveny, lantic-Gulf District Director of District, Seafarers International (Cannery Workers, Monterey) about everything just the same." Organization, the following was Union of North America, the At­ were elected by acclamation to What caused this blow-off was entered in the Convention min­ lantic and Gulf Delegation ex­ serve as vice-presidents repre­ the propaganda that the NMU pressed their appreciation for as­ utes: and fish has been spreading up and down sistance extended to them by the senting the fishermen the waterfront to the effect that "We are indeed sorry to report cannery workers field. Sailors Union officials. that John Hawk, Secretary of the John Hawk, (Atlantic and Filipinos, now employed on Isth­ Harry Lundeberg, speaking for Atlantic & Gulf District, and 1st Gulf District, SIU) was elected mian ships, will not be allowed Vice-President of the Interna­ the West, Coast Delegation, of the Secretary-Treasurer, by acclam­ to join the Seafarers when the SIU is certified as the bargain­ tional is unable to be present SUP, stated that the same kind of ation. ing agent for the unlicensed sea­ with our delegation because of cooperation has been received The next convention of the men of that company. ill health. Whitey's health for, from the Atlantic & Gulf District International, which will be in some time past has been bad, and representatives on the We.st "Lies, lies, lies, that's all it is." 1949, will be held in the city of Coast. the many struggles of the past Brother Lukban exclaimed ve­ The unanimous adoption of the Baltimore. few years have contributed to­ hemently. "I started sailing on resolution on the Communist wards that illness. It appears Isthmian ships in 1923, and I SUMMARY he will be out indefinitely, and Party in the seamen's movement joined the SIU without any Your Delegation is of the opin­ trouble. That should answer the his absence will be keenly felt, took place during the Thursday as we will sorely mifirs his ability morning session of the Conven­ ion that this Convention of the NMU." tion. This resolution was pub­ International was a successful and great experience. For Filipinos who might hav" "Under his guidance and leader­ lished in full in the Seafarers one and marked a definite turn­ swallov/ed the NMU lies. Broth­ ing point of the Union's history. ship our Union ha.s made great Log. er Lukban wanted to make cer­ strides since our organizational Also inserted in the official re­ The record clearly shows that tain things clear. FIDEL LUKBAN inception in 1.938. He has indeed cord will be the report of the this Organization has grown tre­ "Finst of all," he said, "Filip­ been a bulwark of great strength Seamen'.s delegates who attend­ mendously since its original or­ inos should know that they have have to get off the ship. They in our battles witlt our enemies; ed the meeting in Washington,, ganization. the same rights in the SIU as should all feel that they have In addition to the routine as any other members. the shipowners, bureaucrats and D.C., recently, during which time a future in the SIU, and that it commies alike. they met with various unions laid out in the above i-eports, "Second, Filipinos who are is their Union." "We sincerely hope for his im­ in the maritime industry in an at­ various other important things That's the answer to NMU members have never been dis­ mediate recovery, and his return tempt Jo have unity in the sea­ were acted on by the convention. propaganda from a man who criminated against, and they all to action in our behalf." men's field on leglislative and Among them was the necessity joined the SIU of their own knows what he is talking about. The actions of two previou.s other mattens. This also was car­ for expansion in all fields, in­ As always, lies are driven out will. Executive Board meetings were ried in a recent i.ssue -of the Sea­ cluding the Canadian Area. Def­ of sight by the truth. presented to the delegates for farers Log. inite action was taken to esa copy on every contracted ves­ acceptance or rejection, and as In connection with the problem tablish leglislative offices in sel. this covered actions by the Board of the Panamanian ships, the pro- Washington, D.C. in the name of In conclusion, this Delegation over a period of three years, due po.sed boycott through interna­ the Seafarers International Union. calls upon every member of our to the postponement of the hold­ tional action of American ships All of these things show that the To carry on the work of Union to continue their efforts ing of the convention in 1946 due under Panamanian flag, through Organization is clearly aware of returning sick and injured to the seamen's strike, etc., this joint action of the Seafarers In­ the problems it is confronted with already made towards expansion merchant seamen to health, business occupied some time of ternational Union, and the Inter­ and a program to handle each of and betterment of the Union. We the Marine Hospital on Staten are quite confident that if these the convention. Island has put out a call for national Transportworkers Fed­ these problems has been made. actions are continued we will blood donors of all types. eration, was adopted both by our Full committee's reports and f LUNDEBERG REPORTS double our size and strength in All men who wish to do­ convention as well as the MTD. recommendations wil be made a short while. nate blood to aid their fel­ President Lundeberg's report President Lundeberg was also available shortly and bound low seamen can do so by call­ was then read, and was assigned instructed to make a survey of copies of the entire Convention signed: ing at the offices of the Sta­ C. Sirrimons to various committees fot action, foreign seamen's unions, wages, proceedings will be made avail­ C. E. Gibbs ten Island Marine Hospital. E. R. Smitfi after it had been concurred in. and conditions, when the oppor­ able to all those members desir­ Paul Hall W. C. Tanner The report on the finances of tunity presented itself, and this ing one, as well as having placed E. Sheppard False NMU Propaganda Backfires; Lies Repudiated By SIU Seaman Blood Donors •'-'tl �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 11. 1947 P^e Fifteen Resolutions Passed By N.Y. Membership j. Sheehan. $1.00; Henry Sohl. $2.00; C. Sndgrass. $4.00;D, P. Johnson. $2.00; John Barlow. $1.00; E. D. Jones. $1.00; W. C. Kennedy. $1.00; J. .Sobesko. $3.00; Fred Anderson. $2.00; Richard Ander­ son. $1.00; Edward Grzyb. $2.00. SS G- WASHINGTON R. E. Lewis. $2.00. SS SUNSET M. Foster. $3.00; K. A. Pugh. $3.00; D. Dalao. $3.00; M. B. Levy. $3.00; J. D. Barnett. $3.00; R. Hunter. $3.00; A. Manuel. $3.00; H. Ringo. $5.00; J. | Spearmann. $3.00; J. T. Byrd. $3.00; R. WHEREAS; The Governor of and denies the telephone workL. Wegner. $3.00; F. WagstafT. $3.00; New Jersey, Alfred E. Dri.scoll, ers their alienable right as AmeiH. D. Burdette. $3,00. SS LEO DUSTER , , , 1 u ii ican citizens to refuse to work if SS MANDAN VICTORY C. G. llotis. $1.00; j. D. Walker. has railroaded an anti-stnke bill D. M. Martinson. $1.00; Wilbert J. $2.00. .through the state legislature call-i THEREFORE, BE IT REBrudy, $1.00. SS MOLINE VICTORY L. j. Guzzi. $1.00; M. Wilik. $2.00; G. ,l Kirl'sroo"'tor "»««««• V"|SOLVED: That the Seafarers InF. Glock. $1.00; S. Pacewicz. $1.00. S. $1.00; J. E. Davis. $100; Wm. Revfincs to be imposed upon strik-' ternational Unon call upon all V. Ekstrom. $1.00; C. W. Baumgard­ telephone workers should j organized labor to oppo.se with ner, $2.00; IJ. Wykosky. $1.00; R. L. nuid.s. $100; A. Flutes. $1.00; J. E. ing jefUSC tO retum tO WOrk, ' all in its power this vicious antiMiller. $1.00; E. E. Stewart. $1.00; M. Renauld. $2.00; C. K. Kean. $1.00; C. 1 C .Smith, $1.00; j. Corriher. $1.00; G. Em,.nuel. $2^00 ; J. Morawski. $ LOO; W-j ^,^^1 jabor law, and Go.adman. $1.00; j. B. jone.s. $1.00; 1-. Levschner. $1.00; R. H-)pi>er. »2.00. C New Jersey Strikebreaking Law BOSTON Crew of SS Bessemer. $20.00; Crew of SS IrviriB S. Cobb, $3.00. NORFOLK INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS W. H. Gilbert. Jr.. $3.00; G. L. Rus­ sell. $3.00; P. .Spivey. $5.00; C. W. Mariner. $3.00; R. W. Miller. $3.00) S. Olivera, $3.00; \V. D. Wilkins, $3.00; A. J. Gaitlos. $3.00; L. A. Lee. $3.00; W. R, Oclom; $3.00; R. W. Squires. $3.00; 11. P. Rhodes. $3 00; G. Wilson, jr.. $3.00; S. D. Hodge. $3.00; G. C. Lserliart. $3.00; p. L. Goodwin. $3.00; L. W'. Hitchell. $3.00. NEW YORK Nering. $1.00; j. B. Thomassen. $1.00; j. Riabech. $1.00: C. Lee, $1.00; T. Langan. $1.00; j. 1'. Schumaki. $1.00; N. Zeyerino. $1.00; j. Hawkins. $1.00; C. Whitley. $1.00; B. B. Spears. $1.00; H. j. Gromek. $1.00; S. F. Cullison, $1.00; F. T. Moore. $1.00. SS KYSKA 11. Starr.ky. $1.00; C. tlrandler. $1.00; j. P. Palmer, jr.. $2.00; j. Alstn, $1.00; P. A. Murray. $1.00. SS HART E. j. Williamson, $1.00; W. B. Ayconk, $3.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS R. Wiseman. $1.00; G. Abbema. $1.00; L. R. Greenidge. $1.00; Charles I,. .St.ir ling. $1.00. Robert E. O'Neil. $l.0O; L. Taylor. $1.00; W. Woeraa. $1.00; C. jowers. $1.00; O. A. Michael. $1.00; P. F. McDermotl. $1.00; M. K. Clark. $1.00; C. SS WARRIOR W. Baumgardner. $1.00; B. .M. Maye. W. Peterfon. $2.00; L. Goletnbiewski. $5.00; joe Perla, $1.00; W. B. Phillips. $2.00; D. C. Cahoon. $3.00. $1.00; C. C. Reed. $5.00. SS FORT GEORGE SS SMITH THOMPSON O. L. Slepp. $ i .00. Crew of SS Smith Thompson, $19.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS SS NAMPA VICTORY Bill Manley. $2.00; Charles Eberhnrt. A. Cotol, $2.00; M. A. Gonzalez. $1.00. $1.00; Clarence Brumfiel. $2.00; R. M SS T. MEADOWS Stover. $1.00. A. .A. Pole.sel, $1.00. Charles 1 litchens, R. L. Jenkins. $1.00; Ken Ptingle. $1.00; O. Farrara. $1.00; F. A. Diaz. $1.00; A. F. Boyle. $1.00 $1.00; R. J. Stark. $1.00. Thomas P. Eppolilo. $3.00; N. G. SS STRONG Duncan. $1.00. J. O. Glenn. $2.00; R. F. Branch. H. Stillman. $5.00; L. 11. Jones. $1.00; $2.00; O. Ksonbog. $2.00; F. 13. PearC. E. Brown. $1.00; C. D. Suppa. $1.00; .sons. jr.. $2.00; j. L. Ellis. $3.00; j. John F. Sorok;ic. $1.00; G. Kasprzyk. Oliver. $5.00; j. L. O'Rouke. $2.00; j. 1.00. \V. George. $3.00; L. D. Sizemoro. $2.00; P. E. Nicholsn. $5.00; j. A. Slay. $2.00; E. Scroggins, $2.00. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: J. Warner. $5.00; s. J. DeZee. $5.00. ' WHEREz\S: Thc Govemor has SS HALF KNOT | violated the Constitution of the That the SIU give its full sup­ p.. L. Markiey. $2.00; R IT Hauber. unPed States by his actions as port to the striking phone work­ $1.00; Crew of SS Half Knot. $10.00. the Supreme Court of the United ers and organized labor in New SS MOORING HITCH K. S. Svanum. $1.00; S. Walk..-r, $1.00; State.s has ruled that Federal la-j,Jersey to the full e-xtent necesD. B. Militar. $2.00; J. Hudak. $2.00; bor laws take precedence over.sary to fight and destroy this V. P. Rivera. $2.00; L. Langam.' $5.00. state laws, and the national la- law, and SS ROBIN TUXFORD bor laws at prc.sent gfive workers BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: Crew of SS Robin Cuxford. $50.00. the right to strike, and jThat copies of this resolution be SS A. JACKSON P. J. Lannon, $2.00; S. Frankwitz. WHEREAS: This is out and ' .sent to Governor Driscoll and the $2.00; J. E. Brown. $1.00; L. P. Tabar- out strikebreaking of a sort em-; Telephone Unions of New Jerrini. $2.00; D. J. Smith. $1.00; J. J. ployed by Hitler and Stalin to scy informing them of our stand Vujtech. $1.00; Larry Jones. $2.00; G. destroy their labor movements,' on this action. Crabtree. $6.00; E. J. Laws. $2,011; M. L. Catlin, $2.00; Roy Poston. $2.00; W. L. France. $2.00; C. N, Payne. $2.00; E. \v'. McNamar. $2.00; I. P. Keycs, $2.00; C. Cox. Jr.. $1.00; L. H. Inwood. $1.00; R. D. Denzek. $2.00; C. E. Renn. $2.00; B. O. Wilson. $3.00; C. Macomber. $5.0U SS J. HEWES E. Phillip.s. $2.00. SS GREAT ISAAC Crew of Great Isaac. $12.70. SS CANON BEACH T. W. Lucor-l. $1.00; C. B. S.iwyer. $1.00; T. D. Newberry. $1.00; J. A. Ordman, $1.00. SS C. GILIAM G. Barhighl. $3.00. VOICE WITH A SMILE'' STRIKES SlU HALLS BALTIMORE Merchant Mariners Of America WHEREAS: The Seafarers In­ ternational Union of North Amer­ ica has always been opposed to phony so-called "Merchant Ma­ rine Veteran Groups," and that all officials of this Organiza­ tion stand as being instructed to make every possible effort to see to it that these people are kept off SIU ships and out of SIU WHEREAS: In the Gulf Area, Halls. at this time there is just such a.n outfit calling themselves TiuMerchant Mariners of America, who board SIU .ships and ask SIU-members to pay them $5.00 THOR LARSON initiation and $1.00 per month Get in touch with your wife at dues to become so-called mem­ 1534 Camp Street, New Orleans, bers of their group, and La. WHEREAS: There are people 4 4, S. connected with this outfit who LLOYD D. WARDEN have been previou.sly expelled from the Union as being phony Contact your father by tele­ and other.s who are connected phone, or write him at 1901 with dual Or,ganizations, and Pitcher Avenue, Joplin, Mo. WHEREAS: The real purpose 4 4 4 for this Organization, among REINHOLD HOLM other ones, is to sell phony in­ Please get in touch with Mar­ surance policies, thereby making tha Shanlcy, c/o Hotel Kinney, it nothing but a racket, 410 Eddy Street, San Francisco THEREFORE, BE IT RE­ 9, Calif. Phone Graystone 0894. SOLVED: That we go on record as branding this outfit as being phony and informing all of our membership of this action through the medium of the SeaAnyone who has seen, or who fexers Log, and knows the whereabouts of the PERSONALS 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHARLESTON 424 King St. Phone 3-3680 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. Corpus Christ! 3-1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Melrose 4110 , . 308Vz—23rd St. GALVESTON Phone 2-8448 . 16 Merchant St. HONOLULU Phone 58777 . . 1515 75th St. HOUSTON Wentworth 3-3809 .... 920 Main St. JACKSONVILLE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: seamen's papers belonging to Phone 5-5919 That we instruct all crews to Donald McNeil will please forFor all to see, these striking telephone workers carry signs MARCUS HOOK 1'/z W. 8th St. keep these people's representa-1 ward them to the address given Chester 5-3110 giving their reasons for walking the picketline. The Bell Tele­ tives off SIU ships and further, in the papers. MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. phone Company may have wanted to bust their union, but all MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. it got was the "busy signal." Phone 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. HAnover 2-2784 (Continued from Page 6) 127-129 Bank St. NORFOLK Phone 4-10S3 that the head of this outfit, old PHILADELPHIA . 9 South 7th St. man Goodrich was quoted as Lombard 3-7651 saying, "I never pay a Deckhand PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. more than 50 cents a day, and Phone 2-8532 PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. feed 'em all on stew." Beacon 4336 These were some of the old RICHMOND, Calif 257 Sth St. Phone 2599 conditions on the Lakes back a . . 105 Market St. few years when there was no SAN FRANCISCO Douglas 5475-8363 SIU. If you don't belieye us, ask 252 Ponce de Leon Mac any time you run into him SAN JUAN, P. R. San Juan 2-5996 He'll tell 220 East Bay St. in the Detroit hall. SAVANNAH Phone -8-1728 you all about the old days. 86 Seneca St. SEATTLE . . . Many of the oldtimers on the Main 0290 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. Lakes remember these lousy TAMPA Phone M-1323 - , . 615 Summit St. conditions and they want no part TOLEDO 440 Avalon Blvd. of them again. That's why the WILMINGTON Terminal 4-31.31 Lakes seamen are going for thc . . 602 Boughton St. VICTORIA, B.C. Garden 8331 SIU in such a big way, and After walking a picketline, there's nothing like a comfortable place to sit. The SIU turned 144 W. Hastings St. VANCOUVER that's why "T:H:E GREAT over the third floor of fhe New York Hall, and the SUP did likewise, so that the striking tele­ Pacific 7824 NOTICE! —a. Meet The Seafarers LAKES, TOO, WILL BE SIU." phone workers would have some place to relax and rest. �Page Sixteen Friday, April 11, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG 0 Ar^SlU OovfTiracrt" is sung —— (MurguaraKt^ o^^bsecuniij ~sh»p|3m<j Fiqkts—-the besta)orkmt^ Goi\d»tions- unioi^ FepKesenftectiovx —job jwtrfection —uniow democracc/— cmd-tbe su-ppoKtof ^fioopoo A.F.L. imerv>b6ns / ^ 'S£> r% i/ifmjmMAi i/M/M eitSAfT lAf(S$ VfSTKffir � 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 April 11, 1947 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. IX, No. 15 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PHONE UNIONS HIT THE BRICKS ALL OVER THE U.S. A&G DELEGATES REPORT ON THE INT'L CONVENTION DECISIONS AND ACTIONS AFL PURSERS WIN ELECTIONS IN TWO LINES N.Y. SIU RAPS JERSEY LAW AFL PURSERS WIN ELECTIONS IN TWO LINES SEAFARERS MEETS WITH MIDLAND ON DEMANDS FOR NEW CONTRACT ON THE MOVE REPORT FROM HEADQUARTERS TO MEMBERSHIP LAKES SIU PETITIONS NLRB ON HURON; TWO OTHER COMPANIES READY FOR VOTE CSU MEMBERSHIP HAS MADE LITTLE PROGRESS IN THE TEN YEARS UNDER COMMIE LEADERSHIP SEAFARERS TAKE A CRUISE ON THE DEL SUD 'MARINERS' GRAFT, INC.' SOUTH ATLANTIC VESSELS BRING GOOD SHIPPING TO PORT SAVANNAH MOBILE CONTINUES HEAVY SHIPPING; ANOTHER SHIP DELUGE IS EXPECTED LAKES SEAMEN TIRED OF BUM DEAL; TAKE OUT SEAFARERS MEMBERSHIP SHIPPING IS ON GOOD ENDS ON WEST COAST PAYOFFS, SIGN ONS, AND TRANSITS KEEP BOSTON BRANCH ON THE RUN TOLEDO FORMING AFL MARITIME TRADES COUNCIL FUTURE CONDITIONS DEPEND UPON ABIDING BY PRESENT CONTRACTS MATES CHEER FOR SIU SUCCESS ON GREAT LAKES ALCOA SHIP STAYS PUT UNTIL REPAIRS ARE MADE CLASS IN SIU HALL PREPARES UFE FOR STRIKE SOME DON'T KNOW HOW TO ACT WITH A GOOD SKIPPER PHILLY GOES BACK TO NORMAL, BUT SHIPPING STILL REMAINS GOOD LENSMAN SHIPS AS MESSMAN FOR DEL SUD PICTURES PHILLY GOES BACK TO NORMAL, BUT SHIPPING STILL REMAINS GOOD PUNCH SPARKS PARTY ABOARD THE HELEN MV GADSDEN HAS TURBULENT TRIP MAKING BALTIMORE MINUS SCREW SS LIVERMORE CAPTAIN HOLDS STEADY KEEL JANEWAY PESTS TO BE BOMBED FALSE NMU PROPAGANDA BACKFIRES; LIES REPUDIATED BY SIU SEAMAN RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY N.Y MEMBERSHIP MERCHANT MARINERS OF AMERICA Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/11/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/30c99f00496ea7436d92d49934110da7.PDF 16d59a6f6940e9ef958f271418d12686 PDF Text Text it Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf and Great Lakes Districts, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. APRIL 4. 1947 New fntl Officers Elected At Biennial Convention CHICAGO. Mtfich 28—Harry Lundeberg, secretary-treasurer of the Sailors Union of the Pa­ cific, was today re-elected president of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union by the dele­ gates to the international's third biennial convention. John Hawk, secretary-treas­ urer of the SIU. Atlantic and Gulf District, waa elected sec­ retary-treasurer ^f the Inter­ national. Paul Hall. SIU New York Port Agent and Director of Or­ ganization. was elected first vice-president. Other vice-presidents elected were: Morris Weisberger. SUP New York Port Agent: Mrs. Andrea U. Gomez, of the Los Angeles Harbor Cannery Workers Union; Patrick McHugh. Atlan­ tic Fishermen's Union. Boston; Lester B a 11 i n g e r . Cannery Workers and Fishermen Union of San Diego. Cal Tanner, SIU Mobile Port Agent; Lester Caveny. Fish Cannery .Workers Union of the Pacific, and Edward Coester. SUP Seattle Port Agent. The delegates also unanim­ ously voted to hold the next convention in Baltimore, Md. Seafarers Testify Before NLRB On Isthmian Election NEW YORK — Final hearings in the Isthmian Steamship Lines' election case are now in the sec­ ond week before the National La­ bor Relations Board. Testimony by members of the NMU, which is protesting the results of the elected won over­ whelmingly by the Seafarers In­ ternational Union, has been con­ cluded. Officials and members of the SIU are now testifying before the board. Upon conclusion of the present hearings, all testimony will be assembled and submitted to NLRB headquarters for a final ruling on the case. The NMU has been doing eveiything in Its power to pre­ vent Isthmian seamen from en­ joying the advantages of the representation they chose by bal­ lot. When the results of the elec­ tion to determine a collective bargaining agent for the Isth­ mian men were first announced, the NMU immediately filed pro­ test to hold up certification of the SIU. The case then went before the regional office of the NLRB. The NMU's charges and challenges held no water in the opinion of this body, which ruled that the Seafarers had won the election. The desperate NMU again chal­ lenged the NLRB decision and appealed to the national office for further hearing and review of the case. The hearings now being conducted are a result of latest NMU appeal. With the NMU having shot its last bolt in the way of legal technicalities to withhold from Isthniian seamen the. collective bargaining agent of their own choosing, final judgment now ap­ pears in view. Men who sail the Isthmian ves­ sels should shortly be able to join their Brothers in receiving the best wage and working con­ ditions in maritime under the banner of the SIU. Testimony of seven Seafarers heard this week by the NLRB appears on page 4. SIU Convention Plans Expansion; Gaiis For End To Panama Transfers CHICAGO — The third biennial convention of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union of North America, AFL, came to an end on Saturday, March 29, after having outlined definite plans for the future of the Union. Without dissent, the delegates, representing over 90,000 seamen, fishermen, and fish cannery workers, voted to boycott Panamanian ships, and to ask similar ac- NIRB To Hold Union Election (h Mothiosen PHILADELPHIA—As a result of SIU action, the unlicensed personnel of the SS Petrolite, a tanker operated by Mathiasen's Tanker Industries, Incorporated, will have a chance to be repre­ sented by the Seafarers Inter­ national Union. For a period of more than three months the Union has been petitioning the National Labor Relations Board for such an election. When the Petrolite ne.xt ar­ rives in a United States port during the month of April, the election will be held, with the choice lying between the SIU and "no union." It is hoped that the Union will win by a large majority. AFL Maritime Trades Dept Holds Successful Meeting in Chicago CHICAGO — With representa­ tives from four AFL Maritime Unions, and observers from other AFL and foreign unions present, the AFL Maritime Trades De­ partment held its second national meeting here fallowing the SIU Convention. The most important item of business taken up by the meeting was the resolution on Panaman­ ian ships adopted by the SIU. Without a dissenting vote, this also became the position of the Department. (See separate story for text of the resolution.) Delegates from the Masters, Mates, and Pilots, the Interna­ tional Longshoremen's Associa­ tion, the International Brother­ hood of Firemen and Oilers, and the SIU were in attendance, with observers from the the Team­ sters Brotherhood, and the Int e r n a t i onal Transportworkers Federation also present. President Lundeberg, Paul Hall, Morris Weisberger, and Ed No. 14 Coester were the elected dele­ gates from the Seafarers. No constitution was adopted at this meeting, but this item is scheduled for action at the next meeting. John R. Owens, Secre­ tary-Treasurer of the ILA, will continue to sej ve as Executive Secretary of the Maritime Trades Department. ELIGIBILITY DEFINED Membership in the Depart­ ment was confined solely to the four Unions having representa­ tives at the meeting, plus the Commercial Telegraphers Union and the International Brother­ hood of Teamsters. The last named, while at pres­ ent not Affiliated to the MTD, gave assurances, through its ob­ servers, that this would be dis­ cussed at the next Teamster Convention. Cognizance was taken of the fact that many organizations, (Cottiimed om Peg* J) ttion from the AFL Maritime ^ Trades Department, and the Internat ional Transportworkers Federation, if the practice of transferring ships to Panaman­ ian legistry is not brought to an immediate halt. At the meeting of the Mari­ time Trades Department, which followed the SIU Convention, this i-esolution was unanimously CHICAGO — With the certain adopted. The Convention started off on knowledge that continuation of the wave of the most successful the shipowners' present practice year in the Union's history. of transferring ships to Pana­ Much progress has been made manian registry would result in since the last convention, both throwing thou.sands of United in organization and in gains for States seamen out of work, the the membership. Third Biennial Convention of the With past progress as a basis, Seafarers International Union of the Convention made many plans North America adopted a resolufor expansion, and the organiza-1 tion calling on the Government tional work among seamen, fish­ to halt such transfers. ermen, and fish cannery work­ Meeting in Chicago, after the ers, as well as in allied fields. conclusion of the SIU Convenwas assured success by the en-1 tion, the AFL Maritime Trades thusiasm of the Delegates. j Department concurred wholeGREAT LAKES i heartedly with the resolution. In the event that the GovernSpecial emphasis was placed on the present organizing drive nient dpes not take the necessary on the Great Lakes. Here, it was' action, the resolution called for a pointed out, the SIU has a great boycott of the fink halls sending chance to unionize seamen who! seamen to these ships, and for have not had the advantages of picketing of Panamanian ships wherever and whenever they an organization before. ^he touched U. S. ports. To bolster the drive This action, if entered into, is Lakes, a member of the Log Staff wa.s as.signed to work full | to be brought to the attention of time with the organizers, and the | the entire American Federation President of the SIU was in­ of Labor and the International structed to notify all ports and Transportworkers Federation. The text of the SIU and AFL affiliates of the necessity for full MTD stand on the subject of support in this campaign. U. S.' ships transferred to Pana­ REI>ORTS READ manian registry appears on Reports of various committees page 6. were read by Brother John Mogan, SIU Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ trict, who was elected reading clerk. These reports, and the ac­ tions taken on each one. follow: To carry on Ibe work of The report of the Credentials returning sick and injured Committee was accepted as read. merchant seamen to health, Reports of the two Executive the Marine Hospital on Staten Board meetings of March, 1945, Island has put out a call for and August, 1945, were tabled blood donors of all types. with certain sections referred to All men who wish to do­ various committees. Before the nate blood to aid their fel­ convention adjourned, these sec­ low seamen can do so by call­ tions were acted upon. ing at the offices of the Sta­ President Lundeberg's Report ten Island Marine Hospital. was accepted with the amend- Marine Bept Backs SIU On Panama Ships Blood Donors (Oomtirmfd on Pout 5) �J'""' Page Two THE SEAFARERS Friday. April 4, 1947 LOG SEAFARERS LOG Vnblishcd Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 4* S* HARRY LUNDEBERG ... 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. •••1 President JOHN HAWK Secy-Trcas., Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. FRED FARNEN Secy-Treas. Gt. Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan 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 Setting The Pace There's every indication that things arc going to boom on the American waterfront from now on, and most of that booming will be done by the Seafarers International Union of North America. The SIU Convention, which last week finished its deliberations in Chicago, made plans which will set the maritime industry by its heels. Of course, the itcin most under discussion was the question of transferral of American ships to Panamanian registry. This maneuver was scon for v/hat it actually is— a plan by which United States shipowners can thumb their noses at the law, and eventually ruin the living standards of U. S. seamen. To this the Convention answered with a flat "no." Too lon^ have American seamen fought to come out of the rut into which they have been forced by the grasping bosses. They are resolved never to return to the days of pitiful wages, moldy food, and blue sheets. And they didn't keep their distaste to themselves, either. They let the people of the United States, and the World, know cxactl)' hov.^ they feel abcjut the "phony" transfers, and they called upon the President of the United States and the Congress to take steps to halt any more such illegal deals. Then they took a position which has to bring action. If Congress and the President don't put a stop to this business "within a reasonable length of time," then the Convention has gone on record to boycott Panamanian ships wherever and whenever they touch U. S. Ports. The Convention did not confine itself solely to the issue of Panamanian transfers. The Great Lakes Organiz­ These are ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, ing Campaign was thoroughly discussed, and all .sections as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging of the International pkdged full support to the drive to heavily on their huida. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ make the "Great Lakes SIU, too." ing to them. Organizational apparatus was tightened, and the en­ NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL ERNEST SIDNEY thusiastic Delegates laid down a program for increased EDWARD CAIN, Jr. GUS KREZTER activity in this field. From the requests for affiliation MICHAEL LUCAS C. MASON which come into the International, the excellent record of MATHEW CARSON STEVE MOGAN SAM TOWSON the SIU has made its Tnark on the American labor move­ R. B. "BOB" WRIGHT JOHN LYTUS N. LONGTINE ment. JOSE AQUIAR ED. DUDEK It will be two more years until another SIU Conven­ WILLIAM JOYE J. J. O'NEILL tion is held—the next one will be in Baltimore, Maryland. E. J. NAVARRE TED BABKOWSKI JAMES McMAHON (G.L.) In that period of time the American labor movement faces J. N. HULL JOHN RILEY (G.L.) great trials. We in the Seafarers arc prepared to fight to C. TYNER protect the gains won so far, and to press for eveft greater C. J. COMPAN 5. i i. WM. H. CAO advantages for the seamen, fishermen, and fish cannery J. STATEN ISLAND HOSP. W. DENNIS workers who make up our International. » ED. CUSTER Men Now In The Marine Hospitals Doing Their Share This week's edition of the LOG carries more about the fishermen and fish cannery workers than ever before. Not too many members of the SIU know that the Inter­ national is composed of fishermen and cannery workers as well as seamen. These other groups in the SIU have done their share in building this Union up to its present high plane. It's a real pleasure to carry news of the activities of our Broth­ ers and Sisters in the International, and it is our hope that they will send us more news, from time to time, to be car­ ried in the columns of the Seafarers LOG. WM. BROCE, Jr. GEO. F. DUFFY ADAM KARPOWICH C. LOCIGNO WM. MEAGHER D. LAUBERSHEIMER G. F. HART H. N. LEAVELLE S. .HAMILTON % X BALTIMORE HOSPITAL JOHN ASHFORD JOHN APPLE JOHN ROX ALBERT HAWKINS ANTONIO AMARAL CHARLES SIMMONS R. G. MOSSELLER JAMES T. MOORE P. SYRAX K. KORNELIUSSEN C. H. SULLIVAN E. E. CASEY M. J. LYDEN H. BEECHER L. L. MOODY M. BAUCSKI M. MORRIS W. R. BLOOM J. BOLGER L. NELSON L. A. CORNWALL C. M. HOUCHINS E. CARERRAS H. L. TILLOT rz. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tue.=day—1:30 to 3:30 pan. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 pan. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 pan. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) M. J. FIELDS JOHN A. DYKES R. RIVERA C. E. SMITH GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM 4. MOBILE HOSPITAL M. D. PENRY MANUEL CARDANA C. A. GARNET R. H. DAVIS W. J. SULLIVAN A. SABOURIN S. P. MORRIS E. L. MYERS �m I 'i Friday. April 4, 1947 AFL Maritime Trades Dept Holds Confab (Continued from Pege 1) other than those noted on the eligibility list, have applied for membership in the various Port Councils. However, it was pointed out that the Department was created solely for the purpose of banding together AFL Maritime Unions for the specific purpose of fight= ing common problems, and for that reason it was thought best to deny membership to any Local union whose International Body was not affiliated to the Mari­ time Trades Department. The Port Councils came in for great praise. In every Port where such a Council has been established, the cooperation of the groups has been of the high­ est, and this factor has contri­ buted to the success of each in­ dividual port undertaking. Since the department was formed, its cost to the SIU, or to the other Internationals, has been virtually nothing to speak of. Charters for Port Councils cost $25.00, this charge being made to cover printing and mail­ ing. Contrast this with the fantas­ tic sums of money expended by the late-but-unlamented Commit­ tee for Maritime Unity. While they spent a fortune and accom­ plished nothing, the AFL Mari­ time Unions won overwhelming victories without draining the re­ sources of any of the affiliated Unions. THE SEAFARERS LOG On The Ball Last week the SUP won the Tankers of Standard Oil of California: a smashing victory. Above is Serge Novp., one of the International Organizers who did the job. White caps off to him, and the others who brought this big company into the SIU camp. Seafarers Makes Expansion Plans; Calls Halt To Panama Transfers (Continued from Page 1) ment to refer parts of it to the various committees for their con­ sideration. The SIU Delegates Report on the London meeting of the Joint Maritime Commission was ac cepted as read. The same ,was true of the Report of the Mari time Section, International Labor Office Conference, held at Seat tie, Washington. In the case of the Report of the International Labor Office meeting of Special Committee on Chief Stewards If your requisition is cut. or if the food is not up to par. notify all three Delegates at once so that the ship will not sail until the matter has been straightened out. It is the responsibility of the Steward to check the stores before the ship sails, and any complaints made far at sea won't do the crew any good if they have to eat short rations or poor food. No Reforms Yet At Neponsit Despite Ballyhoo In Pilot Inspired by a self-appointed new cooks were hired to fill the ho.spital delegate, Alfred Claus­ positions of cooks who had left. en, whom it is rumored has as­ Thus the number of cooks re­ pirations of becoming a Patrol-, mains the same. man in Corpus Christi, the NMU According to the seamen there, Pilot last week printed a story the Chief Dietician, during her claiming that the deplorable visit talked to none of the pa­ food situation at Neponsit Mar­ tients, but devoted all her time ine Hospital has been corrected to conferring with the Hospital and is now satisfactory to the staff trying to discover means of seamen patients. pacifying the patients without However, the deluge of phone making any concrete reforms. calls received by the SIU from The fact that no new cooks burned up patients, both SIU were added and the appropria­ and NMU, point to the contrary. tion was insufficient to raise According to the Pilot story, the standard of the diet is the feeding of the men has been proof enough that nothing was improved through the appropri­ done for the seamen. ation of more money. However, The NMU, which only became the appropriation was only five aware of the problems of sea­ cents per man and that was men in the marine hospitals made at the beginning of last within the past few months after year. the SIU had been fighting for Since the appropriation of the better conditions all along, has money, the cost of food has gone failed miserably in this attempt­ up 50 percent and wiped out ed white wash of conditions at Neponsit. the small increase in funds. It is one more case of the In fact, the hospital is having NMU trying to pull the wool difficulty maintaining even the over the eyes of its member­ low level of food that has been ship and make them believe served the patients. that they are going to bat for As chairman of the Neponsit their sick brothers. hospital committee, Clausen, who Seamen at the hospital have fabricated the story, claimed now received the crowning blow that the Head Dietician from the to the phony Pilot story. Surgeon General's office was This week NMU Secretary called in, studied the situation Ferdinand Smith sent a letter to and made corrections by the ad­ the U. S. Public Health Service dition of three new cooks. thanking them for the reforms The truth of the matter is brought about. that no additional cooks wei-e The seamen at Neponsit are added, but due to the big turn- still trying to find out, what re­ ov^er in hospital personnel, three forms Smith is talking about. Page THree By JOHNNY JOHNSTON Continuous Employment, Entry,, District and the Pacifc District, Training and Promotion, held in I were discussed, and the CommitLondon, it was the Delegates tee on Seamen's Organization wish to refer this report to the and Grievances voted to reaffirm Legislative Committee. the positions taken by the SIU In close order, the Reports of Nation-Wide Seamen's Confer­ the Atlantic and Gulf District, ence, held in Chicago from March the Pacific District, the Great 19 to March 23, 1945. Lakes District, the * Cannery Before the convention adjourn­ Workers Union of the Pacific, ed, elections were held, (see sepa­ Vice-President Morris Weisberg- rate story for results) and Balti­ er, and International Representa­ more, Maryland, was picked as tive Earl Sheppard, were read the site of the next convention. and accepted. Where applicable, AID MINERS' SURVIVORS certain sections of the reports were referred to specific commit­ The sum of $1,000 was donated tees. to the support and maintenance of the dependents of the 111 ALL SECTIONS miners killed in the Centralia, Il­ All other sections of the Intei'- linois, catastrophe, and President national reported before the end Lundeberg was empowered to of the Convention. draft a telegram to President Besides the resolution on boy­ Truman, asking for- the resigna­ cott of ships transferred to for­ tion of Secretary of the Interior eign registry, the Convention Krug. also took stands on other issues After six full days of planning, of interest to the International. hearing and acting on reports. Among these, approval for the' and holding Committee meetings International to loan $40,000 to to implement the interests of the the Cannery Workers and Fish- SIU membership, the Convention ermens Union of San Diego, adjourned Saturday evening, California, this money to be used' March 29. in the purchase of a building in All action taken at the Con­ San Diego. vention is subject to the approval The loan is for the period of or disapproval of the membership four months, which is the time of each component union com­ necessary for the collection of an prising the International. assessment. A complete transcript of the regarding reciprocal convention, when prepared, will Rules shipping and hospital benefits; be placed aboard every SlU-conbetween the Atlantic and Gulf traded ship. The luxurious presidential yacht, the Mayflower, has had a strange and varied career. At one time or another, this vessel has been a fleet flagship, a plea­ sure cruiser, a decommissioned hulk, and an armed escort. But now the ship whose decks were trod by five presidents. King Edward VII of England, and Kaiser Wilhelm of Ger­ many, has been sold for $20,000 and will soon see service as a seal hunter. 4. Upon receipt of the State ab­ For tnose seamen who want to The gallant old ship was vote in the coming elections, here sentee ballot, execute it in ac­ bought by the Navy in 1898 and are seven rules that must be fol­ cordance with instructions which fought several actions in the lowed, otherwise your vote may accompany it. Where permitted Spanish-American War. She was not be counted. A merchant sea­ by State law, as indicated on the at one time Admiral Dewey's man is eligible to vote in the ballot or accompanying instruc­ own flagship. State in which he has voting resi­ tions, the oath may be taken and Theodore Roosevelt took her dence, but he must first obtain attested by a Warrant or Non­ over during his presidency. Fol­ an absentee ballot from the Sec­ commissioned Officer of the lowing this she saw much ser­ retary of State in the capital of Army or Navy, or by Masters, vice, particularly under Cool- the State in which such residence First Officers, Chief Engineers and Pui'sers of vessels document­ idge. President Hoover, however, is maintained. ed under the laws of the United had her decommissioned as an Hold on to the following rules States. economy move. so that there will be no question 5. If the State ballot material The grand old ship served in on procedure when the time is so firmly stuck together when any role that was assigned to comes round to elect new local received that it has to be opened her, and now she waits patient­ and national Government offi­ forcibly, open it in the manner ly at the dock, ready to go to cials: ' least injurious to the material. sea again. After executing ballot, seal S- 5- 4' nstriictions For Obtain- the envelope in the the most prac­ The first shipment of crude ng and Voting A State ticable way and write the follow­ rubber to Gulf Ports since Pearl ing statement on the back of the Harbor came, into New Orleans Absentee Ballot by A envelope: "Envelope flap was on the SS Azalea, which arrived lember of the Merchant stuck when received, requiring on March 18 from Malaya. forced opening before voting." Marine 4- 4- 4. This statement should be signed During the past year we have 1. Obtain a postcard application by the voter and the person ad­ had quite a few members who from any of the sources indicated ministering the voter's oath. thought that they had the right below: 6. Mail the executed ballot (and to salvage if their ship ran Office of the United States Mari- oath if on separate paper) in the aground and they helped to un­ return envelope provided there­ liine Commission load cargo or worked to get the with, free of United States post­ Office of the United States Ship­ ship afloat. That was incorrect, age including airmail, to the ad­ ping Commissioner and led to many misunderstand­ dressee named on the envelope Local Union Headquarters ings. or in the instructions. Here is the law laid down by United Seamen's Service Clubs 7. An application for a State the Courts of Admiralty con­ Seamen's Institutes. absentee ballot may also be made 2. Fill in every item on the by means of a personal letter cerning salvage. postcard, being careful to print mailed to the Secretary of the Salvage is an allowance given your name, the name of your State in whicli the applicant has to volunteers who assist in sav­ ship and operator, the address to his voting residence, or in such ing a ship or cargo or a por­ tion of it. The salvage is based which the ballot should be sent, other manner as may be pre­ on the extent of the prevailing and then sign it with your full scribed by the law of such State. hazard, and the labor and peril name under oath. If a member of the merchant of saving the property. From 3. Mail the postcard (airmail marine desires further informa­ one tenth to one half the value postage free in United States tion with respect to registration, of the goods is paid. The crew mails) to the Secretary of State or his eligibility to vote, he should of a ship can claim no salvage at the capital of the State in write to the Secretary of the for saving their own vessel or which you have a voting resi­ State in which he has a voting dence. her cargo." residence. VOTING RULES FOR SEAMEN �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Four Friday, April 4. 1847 No Collusion Shown At isthmian Hearing NEW YORK—On Monday the National Maritime Union, CIO rested its case before the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board and with the questioning of its witnesses, it became obvious that the NMU had not substantiated its charges of collusion between the Seafarers and the Isthmian Steamship Company. Once the NMU had rested, the SIU took the offensive. Attorney Ben Sterling, and Attorneys Henry Kai.ser and James A. Glenn, from the office of Joseph Padway, who represents the Na­ tional AFL, tore the NMU case to shreds with testimony from many witnesses. The first seven witnesses to be <3uest:oned for the SIU were Mi­ chael R, Baal, Charles Joseph •jDougherty, Joseph A. Torrisi, John Carmello, Raymond Kosch, Homer Leslie Ames, and Roland Julius Strom. . Each was asked specific ques­ tions as to whether or not he had been sent to the Isthmian Steam­ ship Company, for a job, by any SIU official, and to a man they refuted the charge. DIGEST OF TESTIMONY Here is the way their testi­ mony shaped up: Michael Baal was asked whether or not he had been .given a note by the SIU when he went down Jo the company office for a job. When he answered "no," he was then asked whether he gave any sign to the hiring officer that he was from the SIU. Question: (by Mr. Sterling) Did you receive any instructions from anybody at the SIU how to get the job? Answer: No, I didn't. I happen­ ed to be in the Hall and some one asked me there if I wanted to take 'an Isthmian ship. I need­ ed the money so naturally I took the job. In questioning Charles Dough­ erty, it was brought out by Mr. Sterling that the reason Dough­ erty applied for an Isthmian job was because he saw signs in the SIU Hall asking men to "Ship Isthmian" and he therefore went to the company office to fill out an application. He took sick soon after being assigned to the Cape Orange, and did not vote on that ship or any other Isthmian vessel. NO SECRET SIGN In each case the NMU lawyer tried to force an admission from the witness that he had to give a secret sign to the hiring master of the company before he was as­ signed to a ship. But each time 1; the manuever was unfruitful. The questioning of Joseph A. Torrisi brought out that although he had applied for a job at the Isthmian Company office on sev­ eral occasions, he had been uni­ formly unsuccessful. Question: (by Mr. Sterling) Now, were you ever employed aboard any of the Isthmian Com­ pany ships? Answer: No. Q, Have you ever made any ['efforts to try to get a job with Isthmian? A, Yes, several times. Cross - examination by Mr, Kosenfeld, the NMU Attorney, only strengthened the fact that repeated visits to the Isthmian office had not ended up in a job for Torrisi, ~ Testimo'ny by John Carmello TESTIFIED FOR SEAFARERS BEFORE NLRB the Poland Victory, but Strom countered with, "why not? I do not see any crime in that, I have been a union member since 1914, which I have proof of right here." Further questioning failed to disclose anything that might be remotely considered collusion, and the witness was excused. There is no doubt in anybody's mind that the NMU case is built on air, and that the present hear­ ings are being employed only as another stalling device to save face for the union. JOHN CARMELLO LESLIE AMES CHARLES DOUGHERTY followed closely on the same lines of those who preceded him. He reiterated that going up to apply for an Isthmian ship was his own idea, and that his many attempts had been unsuccessful. Question: Did you apply for a job? Answer: Yes, sir. Q. Did they ask if you belong­ ed to any union? A. Yes. Q. What did you tell them? A. I told them I did not belong to a union. Q. Did anybody give you a note to the Isthmian? A. No. Q. Did anybody tell you to hold your SIU pin or button in your left hand or in your right hand? As in all cases when this ques­ tion was asked, the answer was "no." so he had gone down, on his own hook, to see whether or pot he could land a job. When questioning Homer Les­ lie Ames, the NMU Attorney tried to get Ames to state what companies the SIU is organizing at this time. However, Ames and Sterling were too clever for the NMU, and that move was quickly squelched. the same day was assigned to the Poland Victory. Subsequently he joined the Sea Triton and the Sea Fiddler, and each of those jobs was as the result of applying at the Isth­ mian office, NMU CASE COLLAPSED In cross-examination of this witness, Mr. Rosenfeld went over the testimony several times, but each time it became clearer and clearer that the "pattern of col­ lusion" which the NMU is trying to build up, exists solely in the minds of various NMU officials, Raymond Kosch, another SIU member who was refused em­ ployment by Isthiman was also a witness. He testified that he had gone down to the company of­ fice for a job, but had been turn­ ed down. Kosch's reason for trying to ship Isthmian were substantially the same as given by other wit­ nesses. He had seen signs in the SIU Hall "Ship Isthmian," and This dog in the manger atti­ During the cross-examination of this witness, Mr. Rosenfeld got tude of the NMU will not be for­ an admission that Strom organ­ gotten by working seamen of the Ames also testified to the fact ized for. the SIU while on board United States. that when he considered ship­ ping Isthmian he had to go down to the company office himself, wtihout any aid from the organ­ izers, and filled out an applica­ tion. He was successful in landing a job on the George M. Bibb, but paid off after approximately 11 days to take a job on another ship making a longer run. CHARGES UNFOUNDED Again examination proved how unfounded the NMU's charges are. Question: (by Mr, Sterling) Did they (the SIU) tell you to say that you were from the SIU? Answer: No, Q: Did they tell you to wear your pin or hold your pin in either hand? A: No. Q: Did they give you any high sign to anybody at the Isthmian? A: Just told me to go over and ask for a job, Roland Julius Strom, a veteran of 36 years seatime, disclosed that he was put aboard the Poland Victory, an Isthmian vessels, by the War Shipping Administra­ tion. He had registered there in Norfolk on August 23, 1945, and SEAFARERS WITNESSES JOSEPH TORRISI PROUD OF RECORD In an open letter to the NMU membership, printed in the Pilot of March 28, President Joe Curran states that the NMU has lost the Isthmian election, and places the blame for this on the fact the organizers were instructed to or­ ganize for the communist party, rather than concentrate on the Isthmian Line. (See story on page 6 for full details. The hearings before the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board will soon draw to a close, but until that happens thousands of Isth­ mian seamen are deprived of the right to be represented by the Union of their choice, the SIU, RAYMOND KOSCH Radio Watches safety requirements and condi­ tions in force in other countries. The wartime practice of con­ tinuous radio watch has been suspended in Norway, as it has already in several countries, but the substitute plan being put into operation has brought a storm of protest from the country's sea­ men's organizations. Figures issued by the U, S, Maritime Commission for ships of 1,000 gross tons or over, shows that 164 vessels totalling 868,855 tons were on the register of Pan­ ama on June 30 last. Before the war, 130 ships of 719,041 gross tons flew the Panamanian flag. Instead of providing sufficient radio officers to set up the threewatch system, Norwegian ships will have one radio officer. In some instances, the duties of the radio officer will be handled by the Chief Officer. The seamen's protest pointed out that one-and-a-half hours listening watch, which is present­ ly practiced, is insufficient, and poses potentially great dangers. They cited the recent case of the 11 Norwegian seamen who lost their lives in a hurricane. With the war over, ship opera­ tors are not returning to their or­ iginal registry. It is believed the situation might lead to trouble if action is not taken to cut off this escape for shipping interest seek­ ing to operate under sub-stand­ ard conditions. Continuous Employment A plan to guarantee continuous employment to France's mer­ chant seamen has ben drawn up by a joint committee represent­ ing the shipowners and the French Seamen's Federation, The disaster could have been Now being studied by a special averted had there been a con­ sub-committee, the plan, upon tinuous wireless watch on board, final adoption, will become the the seamen's organizations con­ subject of a collective agreement. tend. It is expected that the new A continuous radio watch is re­ scheme, which applies to un­ garded as an absolute safety licensed personnel only, will be measure to Which seamen are en­ made operative when the existing titled. The Norwegian unions reserve pool scheme, together asked how many more lives with the Government requisition would be lost before the neces­ of the merchant fleet, ends on sity of a 24-hour watch was Mar, 1, realized and enforced. Two-fold purpose of the pro­ posals is to deal with: Beating The Law 1, The stability of employment Shipowners who operated their generally, vessels under the Panamanian 2, The special problem of sea­ flag during the war, because the men who cannot be fully em­ American Neutrality Act prohib- ployed until France has brought . ited American ships from enter- her merchant marine up to pre­ . ing the war 2one, are now using war level, but whom the indus­ ' that flag as a refuge from the try does not want to lose. J �r--». Friday. April 4. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Scenes Of Activity From Two Gulf Ports 0, I The busiest place in the Port Arthur Hall is the Dis­ patcher's Desk. Above are two Seafarers inquiring about ship­ ping, and trying to figure out if they want any of the ships listed on the board. With shipping on the upgrade, there are quite a few ships to choose from and these men want to get a ship that's to their taste. Leon "Blondie" Johnson. Port Arthur Agent, now start­ ing his second year in the post. Under his direction Port Arthur has expanded, and much organ­ izational work has been car­ ried on there. Plenty of tank­ ers hit this spot, and that means work galore for Blondie and his staff. Also, in the past two years, the Port has built up its recreational facilities. This is the Port Arthur Hall, from the outside. Oh yes, in front of the Hail are the Sea­ farers who happened to be around when the pictures was being taken. That Texas sun sure makes for good pictures. Although shipping is good in Port Arthur, and the sun is bright a.nd warm, don't make a beeline for there unless you get in touch with the Dispatcher first to find out if there are any jobs available. You can save time and money that way. i i 3^ Shift to New Orleans and the Cuba Victory. On the left, the Stewards Department, consist­ ing of left to right. W. T. Malvenan. H. E. Fossett. L. J. Richey. A. Zeringue. M, J. Dwyer. A. Elchuk. J. Kennair, and E. Smith. Picture on the right is of the Deck Department and shows, left to right, kneel­ ing. E. Metros. J. Satalanotto. R. Ferrara, and A. Hatch. Standing, in the usual order. H. Broussard. R. Lapp. J. Gravitt, A. LeFleur. R. Betters. J. Bellino. N. Funken. J. C. Flippo. and J. Barrios. 4. 4. 4. Dispatcher Harvey Jamerson also acts as Patrolman. Here he discusses some problems with Johnny Ward, who is assigned to the Port as an organizer. Between them they'll cook up some solution, and the upshot of it all will be smooth sailing in Port Arthur. Cooperation of this sort is always found in the SIU. There s always something to do in the bright recreation room. No need to hang out in the beer-joints when you can meet your friends at the SIU Hall, and enjoy yourself while waiting for a good ship. Far cry from the old days when a. sea­ man had little choice between ginmills and the can-shaking in­ stitutes. It's the Union that did it! �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Complete Text Of Resolution On Panamanian Ship Transfers WHEREAS the American Mer­ chant Marine, during World War II was built up to approximately 50 million tons by American tax­ payers, at a cost to them of ap­ proximately 20 billion dollars, and WHEREAS the American Mer­ chant Marine todaj' is rapidly de­ creasing and if nothing is done by the Maritime Commission and Congress to stop this decrease of American ships we wiU find our­ selves with an American Mer­ chant Marine of less tonnage than we had prior to the war; and WHEREAS in 1936 the Mer­ chant Marine Act was passed by Congress, which had for its pur­ pose the building and maintain­ ing of a large and substantial American Merchant Marine to take care of the commerce of this country and to establish na­ tional defense, and WHEREAS in the last few months millions of tonnage of American built ships, built by the American taxpayers money, have been bought for foreign op­ erators and transferred to for­ eign flags, including the Pana­ manian flag, and also American capital has transferred a number of U. S. Government bought ships to Panamanian registry; and WHEREAS today the Republic of Panama has a merchant ma­ rine tonnage twice as large as it had prior to the war; and WHEREAS the Republic of Panama is not a seafaring nation and does not by any stretch of the imagination need this type or tonnage in connection with the export and import trade of their country; and WHEREAS American capital and foreign countries who trans­ ferred their ships under the P i ;amanian flag obviously did this for several i-easons; namely, to save taxes, to operate ships with cheaper crews, and to avoid regu­ lar steamboat inspection services; and WHEREAS this condition not only weakens the American Mer­ chant Marine and puts thousands of seamen and American ship­ yard workers and longshoremen out of work, but also weakens the national defense of the United States of America, now—there­ fore, be it RESOLVED that the Maritime Trades Department composed of 250,000 American maritime trans­ portation workers affiliated with the American Federation of La­ bor hereby go on record demand­ ing that the Maritime Commis­ sion which is charged by Con­ gress under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 with promoting and safeguarding and building a firstclass American Merchant Marine for economic and National de- Curran Blames Commies For Loss In Isthmian Vote Ever since the end of the Isthmian election, the SIU has maintained that the only object of the NMU in making its flimsy charges of collusion was to stall and save face. This is borne out by Joe Cur­ ran, President of the NMU, in his column in the Pilot this week. Curran charges that the NMU organizers, who were hired lor the Isthmian drive, spent most of their time in assuring that communist party candidates would sweep the NMU elections. Here is what Curran has -to say, word for word: "The communist party was fortunate in that the Vice Presi­ dent in charge of the Organiza­ tional Department of the union was also a member of the na­ tional committee of the com­ munist party—Frederick Myers, and at that time had full auth­ ority to appoint as many or­ ganizers as he needed to organ­ ize the Isthmian Line. "Myers • proceeded to appoint only those organizers who were members of the communist party . . . some of whom did not even have the qualifications of two years at sea. "Dozens of organizers were put on. Thousands of dollars were wasted and as you know by noyr we lost the Isthmian Line. Myers' instructions to these organizers throughout the country were that the important thing was not to organize Isthmian but to or­ ganize the union's election and insure the defeat of non-com­ munists." has a poor record on the water­ front, and with organizers spend­ ing most of their time on con­ tract ships, lining up the vote for the commies? Here's what Curran has to say about this: "Records exist in the union showing that organizers, instead of organizing Isthmian ships, particularly in the Gulf spent much of their time in the union halls, influencing members and going aboard contract ships, smearing and discrediting noncommunist officials and advis­ ing the members why they had to vote for communist candi­ dates." The lie which so many com­ munists use that they are good trade unionists is blasted by Curran in his statement that "communist party officials who were officials of the union, when­ ever it became necessary to at­ tend party functions or commit­ tee meetings, never hesitated to leave their jobs in the union to attend these meetings-." CP CONTROL One more charge by Curran serves to prove conclusively that the NMU is controlled by the commies from top to bottom. "Within the union," says Cur­ ran, "approximately 107 of the 150 elected officials of our union are communists who are more interested in assuring that your union becomes a stooge union of the communist party than they are in. keeping it an in­ strument belonging to the rankand file seameh who built it." That's what the SIU and the NO CHANCE TO WIN Log have always staled. Coming How did the NMU expect to from the President of the . NMU, win the Isthmian election, in it backs up what honest seamen view of the fact that the union already know. Friday. April 4. 1947 Volunteer Organiiers fense reasons, immediately take steps to stop the sale of ships to There were a few Seafarers non-maritime nations, and/or to standing around near, the or­ buyers, either American or for­ eign, who transfer American ganizers room in the New York built or purchased tonnage, to the Hall, and one said to the other, Republic of Panama, or other "I understand that the National non-maritime nations, and be it Labor Relations Board has or­ FURTHER RESOLVED that dered an election on the Mathiawe immediately put this problem sen tanker, the SS Petrolite. before Congress, through the Let's try to niake that ship, so House Committee on Merchant we can be sure she goes SIU." Marine and Fisheries, and the Those words were enough to Senate Committee on Interstate perk up the ears of the Log and Foreign Commerce, and re­ photographer, and before either quest that they immediately take of the men could say "Mathialegislative steps to plug any loop­ holes in the Ship Sales Act which creates a condition of disposing of American tonnage belonging to the American taxpayers in such manner that it depletes the American Merchant Marine and allows foreign or American speculators to grow fat at the American taxpayers' expense, and be it FURTHER RESOLVED that if no action is taken with a reason­ able length of time by Congress and the Maritime Commission on this very important and vital sub­ ject, that the Maritime Trades Department, affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, take steps to close up all fink shipping halls which are used for shipping seamen to Pana­ manian vessels, and further to EDWARD J. RONAN boycott Panamanian flag vessels in all American ports, to wit: sen, too, will be SIU," they were That they be picketed until such up in the Log office, having time as transfers of American their pictures taken and being vessels to Panamanian flag has interviewed. ceased, and until such time as the Thomas P. O'Sullivan, Bosun, condition meets the approval ot the Maritime Trades Department, is a veteran of 27 years seatime. He served for twenty years in and be it the British Navy, achieving the FINALLY RESOLVED that we rating of Chief Petty Officernotify the American Federation Torpedo Gunners Mate. of Labor of our program and His companion, Edward J. that it be widely publicized. Ronan, AB, is a good bit young­ er, both in age and service. Ed started sailing four years ago, and all his time has been on SlU-contracted ships. That is, up until now. Marine Accidents Higher Than AH Other indnstries solved to do their share in this election. O'Sullivan joined the SIU in 1941 mainly because he was fed up with the way seamen were being treated on unorganized ships. ' 'I believe in the right of a working man to lead a decent life," he explained wrathfully, "and I came to the conclusion that the only way to bring that about would be through a strong union." That was about the same sen­ timent expressed by Ronan, who joined the Union as a full book member early in 1944, although he had sailed on a permit pre­ viously. CONFIDENT OF OUTCOME Although O'Sullivan has never sailed tankers before, Ronan has had a bit of experience aboard them. Both of them expect to bring the ship in heavilv proSIU. "The NMU must have realized that they can't organize any­ thing on the waterfront now," said Brother Ronan, "so that's why they withdrew from this election." "The SIU would have swamp­ ed them anyway," was the way O'Sullivan summed up the situ­ ation. Both sailed all through the war. Brother O'Sullivan, who insists by the way that his name means that he is decended from Scottish royalty, was torpedoed twice, each time in the Mur­ mansk run. Ed Ronan was luckier. Al­ though he had his share of dan- FIRST TRY For both of them, it was their first ci-ack at an unorganized • Plying the seas in ships is the ship. most hazardous of all ways of "Why is that," they were ask­ making a living. The number of merchant marine accidents is ed? "How come you decided to fully 500 per cent above the aver­ ship out as volunteer organizers age of all other industries com­ now?" bined. The answer was quick in com­ ing. "I war: t to do somethThg This excessive figure is not the claim of a seafaring union—it for the Union, said Brother was revealed by Rear Admiral O'Sullivan. "The SIU has done Edward H. (Iceberg) Smith, com­ a lot for me, and that's the least mandant of the Third Coast I can do to reciprocate." "Same thing goes for me," Guard District, speaking before the Greater New York Safety chimed in Ed Ronan. Council. READY NOW It should be pointed out that They had both heard of the in spite of this excessive per­ centage of accidents at sea, the conditions and wages prevailing men who sail the nation's mer­ on unorganized ships. They had chant marine are not compen­ also heard the story of how sated on the basis of risks to life much trouble was encountered in the drive on the Isthmian and limb. Stearhship Company, and while Proof of the shipowners re­ fusal to recognize the occupa­ they were unable to do any­ thing at the time,'they were re­ tional hazards involved in is their outcry every time an attempt is made to raise wages commen­ surate with the value of work performed. In view of the overwhelming­ ly greater dangers of making a livelihood at sea, the fight of the Seafarers to win higher wages and better working conditions is more justifiable than ever. THOMAS P. O'SULLIVAN ger, he was never on a vessel that was sunk. The Mathiasen Tanker Cor­ poration only has one ship at the present time, but is expect­ ed to add to its fleet in the near future. Therefore the activities of Brothers Thomas P. O'Sulli­ van and Edward Ronan, will as­ sist the Union in expanding and staying strong. "That's what we want to do," they said. "If each man does his part, the SIU will continue to be the strongest, most milit­ ant union for seamen." From the way organizing is going on now, on the Great Lakes and in other areas, the two Brothers are absolutely cor­ rect. i �Friday. April 4. 1947 1.^ i ' V 'i THE SEAFARERS LOG Shipping Is Bad On Gold Coast; Try Other Ports Page Seven Corpus Christi Is Enjoying Good Shipping By E. H. TEAGUE By J. S. WILLIAMS ^ v.NVi.X SAN FRANCISCO—Things on C'ORPU.S CHRISTI —The past the old Cold Coast arc beginning week wa.s one of good shipping and bu.sines.s in this port with 1o liven up a bit with Agent Rod .several .ships in for payoffs and Simmons back in town. All the replacements. regulars out heic arc glad to In addition to the ships in for see Red back on the job as he is Silence this week from Ihet payoffs, we had quite a few un­ soiiK.'what of a landmark out organized tankers hit port. All Branch Agents of the follow­ NORFOLK — The GI Bill of of the,crew o^each ship should were contacted by the organizers ing porls; here on the coast. Righis went into eiTect Septem­ •b.e an ambassador to other na­ who put our literature and Logs ber, 1940, but today—more than tions, a real representative of BALTIMORE During his absence things aboard. six and a half years later—the the best in America. A wellwent along smoothly with no dif­ BOSTON As a result of the organizers' ficulties of any si^e, and so with Merchant Seamen's Bill of Righis educated seaman is the best SAVANNAH hard work in contacting these gathers dust in the House Mer­ ambassadoi'. things in good older the reins of ships, quite a few of the boys TAMPA the SIU San Franci.sco Hall are chant Marine and Fisheries The Merchant Seamen's Bill aboard saw- the light and signed Committee. GALVESTON of Rights could help make Am­ returned to Brother Simmons. up with the SIU. JACKSONVILLE According Ic the Army-Navy erican merchant seamen the best Shipping, however, had rcWe had the Hood River, Pa­ Bulletin, action on the bill was educated in the world. We can HOUSTON inained slow for the past several cific Tankers, in for a payoff weeks with little or no .signs of postponed to give the Maritime gel all the.se benefits if all of the this v.-eek. Myself and Brother The deadline for port re­ an immediate pick up. What Commission time to prepare evi­ unions will unite in a real allBlackie Ellis, the SUP Agent ports, monies due, etc., is the out drive. ships have hit the port have been dence for the committee. from Galveston, handled the Monday preceeding publica­ This Union should' draft a handled in true SIU fashion with Surely, there has been time to payoff. There were only a few tion. yfhile every effort will all beefs squared away. prepare evidence — time during resolution calling for coopera­ minor beefs aboard and they be made to use in the current which merchant seamen did theii tion in a drive to have the Mer­ were all .settled on the line. issue material received after DON'T COME part for their country in World chant Seamen's Bill of Rights FORTY-THREE BUCKS that date, space commitments If any of you Seafarers are War II while being denied bene­ favorably reported out of com­ One of the beefs was a hang­ generally do not permit us to thinking of coming out to the fits enjoyed by others under the mittee, and copies of the reso­ over from Europe. It seems that do so. lution should be mailed to the sunny clime of the Gold Coast, it GI Bill of Rights. the French Customs found about policy.^cuiiiMiitlee of the SIU. is my advice that you take into three caidons of cigarettes hid Certainly, if any body of men aboai'd the ship and they had consideration the slow state of risked their lives during the laved a forty-three dollar fine shipping before you head west. war, it was the merchant sea­ on the ship. We're glad to see the boys from men. At first the' merchant sea­ The bucko Skipper aboard was far and wide drop into the Hall, men put to sea unarmed, and going to levy a one dollar fine but we don't want to see anyone even at a later date \yithout on each crewmember aboard to get stuck with'a long stay on the heavy armament. Too often their pay the s.hip's fine. beach while most of the other ships were sitting ducks. As .soon as we got the drift By CHARLES KIMBALL ports are booming. The chief protection lay not of what he was trying to pull As soon as shipping takes a in steel and shot but in favor­ MOBILE — The tremendous fic in the port, every beef has we hurriedly straightened him turn for the better, we'll pass able weather and the skill of lead which Mobile took in ship­ been taken care of and settled out. As a result, when the ship the word along through the pages the mariner. The job was not ping is still undiminished and the to the satisfaction of all. sailed there was a new skipper of the Log, so until then, those done with false heroics. R was need for all ratings will continue Delegates Lewis and Morrison aboard and a happy crew. fast and furious ports on the part of the work of winning the indefinitely. are receiving numerous com­ .Another tanker in this week, Gulf and Ea.it Coast are the place war. Thi.s can be attributed to the mendations from the ships' crews the Wolf Creek, Los Angeles for a man with a liankering for Every man in the merchant large number of laid-up ships for their speedy handling of pay­ Tankers, was the opposite of the the sea. ^ Hood River. She had no beefs, marine, like every man in the being placed in active service. offs and beefs. And that's the way things are trenches, in the Navy, in the We are begging for more men to I would like to bring to the a good Skipper and a good crew. this week on the Gold Coast. and attention of the membership, Air Corps, or any other branch dlleviate this condition of the service was conscious of members who can, by any means, ship's delegates in particular, the the risk involved, but did his make this port will spend no idle necessity of having all overtime days after arriving here. sheets, whether approved or dis­ job. The Dispatcher has been so puted, submitted to the shore DESERVE EQUALITY lard-pressed to crew the ships delegates upon the ship's arrival. It is the policy of this port Merchant seamen do not be­ available that I swear there are By ED LARKIN grudge these servicemen their a few more grey hairs sprouting to have a Union official meet the ship immediately upon arrival, privileges under the GI Bill of around his temples. MILW'AUKEE — Organizing Rights, but they do feel that A special added attrav-b-.. to unless other work is more pres­ in this area is getting well un­ they are entitled to similar the Seafarers who come to this sing and requires immediate at­ der way. Quite a few boats By R. W. B.TRMINGHAM privileges. They have won them ".City of Five Flags" is the splcn- tention. around Slrugeon Bay are still MIAMI — Business for the by the same type of service. dor and beauty of the blooming If no Union official is at hand laying idle with fit-outs not month of April in this port' is The Merchant Seamen's "Bill of azaleas, which at this time of upon the ship's arrival, the ship's being started as yet, but the expected to shape up pretty Rights will never get out of year are nature's most ^31'olific delegate should call the Hall at men are hanging around the town. well. It looks better now than at committee if merchant seamen offering. I GLUB -GUS] I understand that some of Another inducement is our any previous time, what with sit idly by without evidencing these boats work the men a 12 new and spacious Union Hall, so, any interest in its fate. the P&O scheduling fifteen trips hour day. with no overtime at don't fail to tread our welcome If we, the men most concern­ during the month to Havana in all. Sure is a nice setup for the mat which 1 hereby lay before ed by its provisions, do not place of the usual twelve. bosses. you. have sufficient energy to work After being aboard one unor­ We expect the first Pan At­ for its passage, we can't expect The officials of the port are so ganized ship in this port, and lantic vessel to dock here on others to champion our cause. busy at times that they have to seeing the men. their conditions, April 20. This ship will be the We have the opportunity to sacrifice the sanctity of coffee and how they live aboard ship, first ship connecting Miami with get this bill out of the commit­ time. It is not uncommon for it's a cinch that they really need the northern ports since the tee where it is pigeonholed, if them to eat their lunches in the AND IT'S rue unionizing. Clyde Line went out of exist­ each of us — and our parents, office, so heavy is the pressure The crewmembers on some of ence. GUT, Too! relatives and others—swamp our of their duties. All they ask is these ships sure take a beating, The Pan Atlantic Company Congressman with letters asking that the boom continues. and the men in the fireroom will be operating this run under for passage of the bill. Our re­ Despite the heavy run of traf­ once and determine when the really work like horses. a temporary permit, pending final quest cannot be ignored. This particular ship is laying .ship will be contacted. action on its application to make a couple of miles from nowhere, MANY BENEFITS The ship's delegate then must Miami a regular port of call. and the men are so broke that be aboard when the Patrolman As the permit has been grant­ Many seamen are not aware they ha\e to stay aboard the makes his contact so as to make ed for six months it will be a of the benefits that can be de­ DETROIT — Great Lakes vessel. his oral and written report. little while before we learn rived from this bill. Under it Seafarers mourned the pas­ Under an SIU contract, this whether or not this run will be they would be able to obtain a Under no circumstances should company would be forced to sing of Brother Tony Sedtke, overtime sheets or written re­ provide or pay transportation permanent. college education or a loan to G859, at the Marine Hospi­ ports be locked up in such a for these men. The first vessel on this run, start business. The educational tal last Thursday, March 27. manner that would defy a Houthe Grange Victory, will leave benefits are probably the best after an illness lasting only These Lakes men in this port dini to produce them in the event are set on an SIU contract giv­ Boston April 13, and will call at part of the bill. one week. He had been ill the ship's delegate is unable to ing them the kind of wages, New York and Philly on the This part is important, not ' for several months, apparent­ be present during the Patrol­ hours and conditions that they way south. ly recovered his health, re­ only to us, but to our govern­ man's visit. sumed sailing once again, and should be getting. They know That's all the dope up to the ment as well. Spokesmen for then suffered a brief re­ By following this simple and that they can rely on the Sea­ minute from this winter vaca­ the Federal Government say lapse. Brother Sedtke joined helpful suggestion, settlement of farers to get them that kind of tion paradise, where just about that this nation should have the the Seafarers in 1939. overtime beefs would be facili­ a contract and that's why they, everyone looking for a sun tan largest merchant marine in the tated greatly. are all for the SIU. world, and that each member got it—at a price. Seamen's Bill Of Rights Needs NO NEWS ? ? Backing Of Seamen Everywhere Mobile Shipping Still Booms; Rated Men Are Still In Demand Milwaukee Gets Under Way Miami Expects Added P&O Runs During April Final Dispatch �Page Eight T HE SEAFARERS LOG Duluth Area Maritime Trades Council Elects Its Officers Friday. April 4. 1947 ANOTHER PORT COUNCIL FORMED By EINAR NORDAAS DULUTH — The Duluth, Ash­ land, and Superior area AFL Waterfront unions were further solidified recently by the elec­ tion of permanent officials for the Duluth-Superior Maritime Trades Port Council. Plans were formulated for un­ ified organizational activity spearheaded by the full scale drive of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union on the Great Lakes. Elected at the meeting, held in the Superior Labor temple, were . the following officers: Matt Anttila, ILA District Council, Pres­ ident; Clarence Erickson. Super­ ior Coal Dock Workers' Local 1343, Vice President; David Gib­ son, Duluth and Superior Grain Processors' locals. Secretary; Einar Nordaas, Duluth Port Ageqt SIU, Financial Secretary; and Joseph Tucker, Superior Grain Trimmers' Local 1320, Sergeant-at-Arms. Others elected were: Trustees: Art Anderson, Superior, 3 year term; Bert Nesgoda, Duluth, 2 years; and Hjalmar Tast, Ashlandi 1 year. E. I. Slaughter, AFL Organizer and ILA Vice President, v/as elected as Legi­ slation Representative and Or­ ganizational Advisor. ganization. Thomas F. Simpson, temporary president of Local 47, outlined a nine-point program which provides numerous bene­ fits not now enjoyed by unor­ ganized officers on the Lakes. Assisting with the MM&P or­ ganizational drive is ILA Vice President E. L. Slaughter, who stated that the NLRB will be re­ quested to conduct elections for 1,000 eligible bulk' freighter of­ ficers. not now represented by the union. Petitions requesting these elections will be filed on May 1, according to Slaughter. ACTIVITIES COORDINATED Lakes Men Tired OfOldDeaLWant SIU Contract With the formation of the Port Council, waterfront activi­ ties of 22 AFL Unions in the area ranging from Ashland to Two Harbors will be coordinat­ ed. This action supports the cur­ rent efforts of the AFL to in­ crease membership in these By BOB DODD unions. In further actions, the & JERRY LICHTMAN new Council, which represents ASHTABULA — Contacting a over 3,000 members in the area, affliated with the Minnesota and number of Wilson Transit ships Wisconsin Federation of Labor. laid up in the ports of Sandusky, With the permanent organiza­ Ashtabula, Huron and Cleveland, tion of this council and the we were greeted with a good election of such responsible of- reception by the men aboard ficials, AFL maritime activities | these vessels, most of whom are should be coordinated in such a : acquainted with the record and manner that the cause of all AFL achievements of the SIU. Unorganized Lakes seamen maritime unions will be improv­ have been subjected for* years ed. to all sorts of intimidation and In addition, the current organ­ izational drive of the SIU in the pressure by the bosses. They Great Lakes area should be have had no job security whathelped considerably, as will the soever, and were subject to firorganizational campaign of the ing at any time to make room Masters, Mates and Pilots. I for the friends and relatives. They put in long hours of Recently, the MM&P announced a full scale drive to organize overtime work with no extra 1,000 eligible men into their or- Pay> and did all kinds of penalty work between he hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. with no overtime al­ lowed. Now, they want these conditions changed. They want the protection of ASHTABULA — For the an SIU contract which gives convenience of Great Lakes them job security, union rep­ SIU members and for the as­ resentation on their beefs, and sistance of the Seafarers or­ job seniority with the right to ganizing campaign on the fit-out and ship on the same Lakes, the SIU has opened a vessel that they laid up last new hall in the Port of Ash­ Fall. tabula Harbor, Ohio. The QUESTIONS ANSWERED new hall is under the direc­ SIU organizers are contacting tion of Agent Maurice Dole, all of the unorganized boats on who is assisted by Robert the Lakes. We'i-e answering Dodd in charge of organiz­ their questions, and helping ing for the area. them out with their problems, Located at 1027 West Fifth and we'll continue to do so until St., Ashtabula Harbor (some al of the unorganized vessels on five miles from Ashtabula the Great Lakes are under SIU proper), the hall will remain contracts providing SIU wages, open for the balance of the hours and conditions. Lakes sailing season. Tele­ These vessels will be contact­ phone number is 5523. All ed consistently, and we'll see SIU members and unorgan­ that the unorganized men get ized Lakes seamen are in­ Seafar'ers Logs and organiza­ vited to visit the new quar­ tional material that tells them ters. the real facts straight from the shoulder. Ashtabula Hail Shoregang Work Is Plentiful In San Juan By SALVADOR COLLS Above are the officers of the AFL Maritime Trades Council —Duluth, Superior. Ashland Harbors, and vicinity. This Coun­ cil is composed of 22 AFL Waterfront Unions, with a combined membership of approximately 3,000. Reading left to right, Jo­ seph Tucker, Sergeant at Arms; Einar Nordaas, Treasurer; Clar­ ence Erickson, Vice-President; Matt Anttila, President; David Gibson, Secretary; and Bert Nesgoda, Hjalmer Tast, and Art Anderson, Trustees. At the left is Einar Nordaas, SIU Agent at the head of the Lakes Area, and also Vice-President of the Council with E. L. Slaughter, ILA Vice-President who organized the Council. Hurry! Hurry! Hurry! New York Needs Rated Men In Black Gang By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—It's very sel­ dom that shipping continues to be good for as long a time as it has lately. It seems that each week the shipping business in this port gets better and better. We need rated men in the black gang, and we need them bad. If there are any men do­ ing gin-mill duty in the outports because of slow shipping. New York is the port where they can obtain a ship in a hurry. From the looks of things, this port is going to continue busy for some time to come. We have a Night Dispatcher now, in fact we have had one for the past few weeks, and so we arc shipping men until 9 P.M. at night and on Sundays until 3 in the afternoon. The Alcoa Cavalier, a new passenger ship, just blew in from the West Coast. She will be here for approximately one month, during which time she will be made ready for service. The Caviller is a damn nice ship, and the quarters for the crew are the best I've seen in a long time. GOODBYE, VOYAGER Another Alcoa ship, the Voy­ ager, is being sold to the Ar­ gentine Government. She is an old vessel, but the crew has been happy aboard her, and they are sorry to see her go. We've mentioned this be­ fore, but some men still haven't gotten it straight. Remember, copies of overtime sheets are to be turned into department heads 72 hours before the ship docks. In that way, there's time to iron out anything that may hold up the payoff. 1 see by the newspapers that a certain Captain Conwell, who worked for the American Trad­ ing and Production Corporation, told a convention of safety ex­ perts that American merchant ships are manned by "untrained, irresponsible personnel, ignorant of, or indifferent to, safety prac­ tices." I don't know who this Captain Conwell is, but if he had the intelligence that a man in his position should have, he would realize that accidents are caused mainly by two reasons. One is in the carrying out of hazardous duties at the direction I'DOM'T CARS IFI WEVERGET UP)) of an officer, and the second is caused by circumstances beyond the control of the officers or the unlicensed crew. It is certainly not negligence when an accident takes place because the company wants to save money and refuses to in­ stall simple safety measures. But Captain Conwell refuses to take this into account. Why should'* he, since he is a com­ pany man from the word go? SAN JUAN—Well it's back On the Isle of Rum and Coke for me after a l)u.sy week in New York at the Agents Conference. During my absence Brother Butts held down the port and everything went along rath e r smooth. At the rnonieJil we have the Monarch of the Seas, a C-2 docked at the Waterman Term­ inal. When 1 went aboard 1 found she was shorthanded four men. two ABs, a Fireman and a Wip­ er. 1 fflled the jobs and got in touch with the ship's delegate, and as usual there were no beefs. Shoregang work in this port is really, booming. We sent out 25 men to work on two ships, the Francis and the Arthur Huddell, and we have three more ships expecting men for shoregangs. BEEFS SQUARED AWAY We had the MV Ponce in last week with a few beefs which Brother Butts squared away. We had a few replacements to put aboard the ship, which was done without any difficulty, in fact there were no difficulties at all on the ships. The crew is a good one, keeping her clean and shipshape. 1 have contacted a few unor­ ganized men off the tugs work­ ing around the Island, and with the support of the ILA in Puerto Rico, we are going to go ahead to organize them. The ILA has been organizing the tugmen and, due to the fact that they are unable to crew up the tugs, they are willing to turn them over to the SIU. SUP Brother George A. John­ son died at sea recently about eight miles off the coast off Aguadilla, P. R., while aboard the Alanson B. Houghton. He was bui-ied at Santurce, P. R. His family has been notified and we are sending his gear to the Commissioner's Office in San Francisco as requested by his widow. Good sailing Brother Johnson; here's hoping you find good mates Up there. Seafarers Contract Assures Security, Protection For Seamen By EDWARD JANASZAK TOLEDO — In the short time I've been on the Lakes, there's been a good opportunity to get a fairly complete picture of the set up. Working with a couple of Lakes men has taught me the .score, and talking to these unorganized seamen has thoroughly acquaint­ ed me with their problems. So far in our organizational drive, we've been able to sign up all of the men that we've con­ tacted, or definitely interest them in the benefits of SlU unioniza­ tion. Our activities in this port have been a little slow due to the fact that only a few ships have been fitting out so far. Now they're all preparing for what promises to be one of the best seasbns the Lakes have seen. All of you Lakes seamen who have been sailing on the unor­ ganized boats should drop into your nearest SIU hall. Talk to the Organizer there, and give him your suggestions for needed improvements in your conditions and on your vessel. SIGN PLEDGE CARD Then fill out an SIU pledge card and take out membership in the Seafarers International Union—AFL. When you've signed a pledge card, and designated the SIU as your representative to bargain collectively with the company, you will be as a group, strong enough to demand and receive recognition. Then, and then only,-you can secure the same contract gains as all SIU members enjoy, and you have the guarantee of SIU job security and job protection. �m Friday. April 4. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG NEW HOURS By JOSEPH VOLPIAN The Constitution of the United States provides that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, 1 < t,i i * Should the Hearing Unit offic­ er take a dislike to you for per­ sonal reasons, and decide not to believe you, he can convict you solely upon the unproved state­ ments in the log. "Due process of law" has been The shipping laws provide reg­ construed to mean that a per­ ulations requiring log-entries to son shall have the right to cross- be made by the Captain for cer­ examine witnesses who bear tain offen.ses. These laws state how these testimony against him. entries should be made and Where a witness testifying when they arc to be made. Howagainst a person in any court in evei', if the captain who made the United States refuses to be the entries is not at the hearing cross-examined, his entire test­ to tes^ify, it then becoire.s im­ imony is stricken out. possible to show by cross-ex­ However, in the Merchant amination that the log entries Maiine Hearing Unit where a are improper because of the seaman's papers (his- property) captain's failure to comply with are on trial for an alleged in­ the law as to time of entry or fraction of the shipping laws, we the cii'cumstances surrounding the entrj' in the log book. seem to be in a foreign land. Due to the large number of ships in New York calling for cre^s during off hours and on Sundays, the New York Hall is now operating on a new schedule of hours for registering and shipping. • The new hours are; From Monday through Friday from 8:30 a. m. to 9 p. m.; Satur­ day 8:30 to 5 p. m. and Sun­ day from 10 to 3. All Signs Point To SlU Success On Great Lakes By HENRY CHAPPELL Page Nina Philly ILA Wins Unemployment Pay For Idleness During SlU Strike By E. S. HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — Since the To this the crew got together end of the 1946 General Strike, and told Brother Tilley that they the ILA longshoremen in Philly would only sail if the dog was have been trying to collect unem­ aboard. ployment compensation for the Brother Tilley asked the Mate, time they spent in idleness due | who had ordered the dog put to our strike. This week they fin- ashore? The Mate replied that it ally won their case. was the Captain's order. The Stevedoi-e bosses and the To this Tilley retorted .that it shipowners based their argument was damn funny, for not" ten on the fact that the men are en­ minutes earlier the Captain had titled to collect unemployment informed him that the dog could money only if they are out of stay. work due to causes beyond their It seems in this case the brass control, and although the sea­ got their signals cros.sed, and was men were on strike, the long­ the Mate s face red — the dog shoremen could have crossed the sailed. picketlines and worked if they FIREMAN SAILS had wanted to. Our other Patrolman, Brother "We of the SIU appeared at a meeting called by the Pennsyl­ Colhns, .-ettled ;i beef on the vania Unemployment Compensa­ Muncie Victory recently concern­ tion Bureau at the request of the ing the Chief Engineer. The ILA, and the upshot of the whole' Chief had fired a Fireman be­ matter was that the case was cause he could not speak English well enough to satisfy him. ruled in favor of the ILA. The crew immediately called a The Unemployment division meeting and politely but firmly decided that it would have been told the Chief Engineer that all dangerous for the ILA men to would not be serene if the Fire­ cross the seamen's picketlines. All long.shoiemen who did not man was fired. So, the Muncie cross the picketlines are now sailed and the Fireman is still due to )cceive about S40.00 apiece aboard. I am still scouting around for for their time lost during the a new Hall, but to date I've had strike. no luck. I am beginning to think DOG'S LIFE that there is nothing big enough The other day Brother Tilley for us in this town at the price went aboard the .A.lfred Moore that we are prepared to pay. of the Waterman Line for a sign Shipping has finally slacked on. While he was aboard, the down to a steady flow now, and Mate .spotted the crew's dog and the Hall seems to be filling up immediately called the gang to­ again. For awhile the members gether to tell them that they were afraid to come into the Hall could .stay aboard but tjie dog for fear they would be greeted had to go. with shipping cards. TOLEDO — If the results we have seen here in the last few days are any criterion, the SIU's current campaign to organize the unorganized Lakes seamen sliould be very successful. All indications point to a suc­ cessful season for the SIU in bringing in new members and contracting new companies as The remedy lies in complete the Lakes seamen become bet­ The provisions of the United States Constitution, it seems, abolition of the Hearing Unit ter acquainted with the SIU. Once in a while we run into are unheard of in this august and in giving the powers of some fellow who believes that subpoena to the Shipping Com­ tribunal. all of the gains that the sailors missioner to question the skipper There, the rules of procedure have won since sailing days have alow a log entry (or even a copy on the merits of his loggings. been given to them by the com­ Whenever the merits are trifl­ panies out of the goodness of of a log entry) to be put in evidence against a seaman and ing or unjustified, the Commis­ their hearts. without any further evidence or sioner may cancel the log. These guys don't seem to re­ testimony of any witnesses At present. Commissioners alize that, unless these unorgan­ whatsoever, to establish a case only rule out logs that are il­ ized outfits were scared stiff of against the seaman which de­ legal. unionism spreading among their prives him of his certificate. employees, the unorganized men would never secure any gains. And even if the seamen test­ ifies to the full facts and, by un­ Only when the gains are writ­ contradicted testimony, over­ ten into a contract, in black and comes the charges in the log, he white will' all those gains be per­ has in some cases been con­ manent. Any time an "unorganized victed. company gives their men one .single thing without it being in a These are statements of actual contract, then they can take it occurrences at Hearing Unit away any time their fear of the "trials." By LEON N. JOHNSON By FRANK MORAN union lessens. NO DEFENSE PORT ARTHUR—After being This temporary gain is just a BUFFALO — Unorganized I unless they see the handwriting away to-New York to attend the subterfuge which merely lulls Lakes seamen now have an op- on the wall. You cannot cross-examine a Agents Conference I have re­ the men into a feeling of false portunity to see the SIU mem­ log entry. If the captain who Investigate for yourself, then turned to this old Gulf Port to security. bers and SIU democracy in act­ join the only union for un­ made the log entry absents him­ find everything running along MAJORITY FOR SIU ion through the invitation which licensed men on the Lakes that self from the hearing, because pretty smooth. The vast majority of the Lakes has been extended to them to he doesn't want to be cross-ex­ can and wil do something about There have been several ships seamen that we have contacted visit the SIU Halls m all Lakes bettering your pay and securing amined, the attitude of the Hear­ ing Unit seems to be that "the stop off hei-e in transit, but no in the short time we have been ports. better conditions. payoffs. Among the ships were in action this Spring realize that The Seafarers maintains these Captain can do no wrong." There will be other years the Fort Matanzas, American an SIU contract gives them real Halls for the convenience ot ^, . , . when shipping isn't so good, and His log entry is final as far Pacific: Fort Stanwix, Pacific security and protection. . the unlicensed men wil be fac­ as they are concerned, and they That's why they are anxious reation rooms and ther faciliTankers; and the Milan R. Steing the prospect of watching will accept it whether or not fanik, which is taking on a cargo to get in the SIU, and help us to ^ ties while the boys are waiting their jobs go to the bosses' he testifies as to the facts it bring SIU conditins and con- to ship, of wheat destined for Portugal. friends men while they stand contains or the circumstances Also in was the Salvador Brau, tracts to all Lakes ships. If you'i'e aboard an unorgani­ on t.he docks. under which it is entered. Men on the Midland ships ex­ zed vessel, or have been sailing Arnold Bernstein Steamship This is nothing new to the It seems to me that this is a Company, which is loading coal pressed this feeling last Fall on one. drop into the nearest definite violation of a funda­ for France. All the ships men­ when they voted overwhelming­ Seafarers Hall, see the organ­ L.aices men, a? they have seen it happen many times in the mental right that every Ameri­ tioned were contacted and ly for the SIU. izer there, and ask him any r.ast. And they'll see it hap­ can citizen has, whether he be squared away with all beefs be­ Although there are around GO ouestions you may want to rea merchant seaman or a bank ing of a minor nature. ships in this port, shipping out gaiding .SIU contracts, wages, pen in the future unless they do something I president. of here has been slow so far. hours and conditions. Block thc-se open shop pract­ CB & C But the SIU has so many mem­ Under this practice a Captain He'll be glad to answer your ises by joining the SIU. Then bers in this area now that some questions and see what he can can make a mountain out of a When 1 climbed aboard the Sal­ have managed to get aboard do about solving youi- problems your company, too. will be under molehill, and magnify petty in­ vador ^rau, an unmistakable an SIU oijntract which wdl pi-efractions of the rules into serious aroma of corned beefs and cab­ practically all of the open shop for you. Then you can begin to vent such abuses. charges, or he can even make bage hit my nostrils. There was boats. realize the benefits of SIU Get in the organizing drive In fact, it's damned hard now unionism. entries without any foundation something different about the today by telling your shipmates of truth, and in this way put odor, so I investigated and found to look around any of the sailors' Lakes seamen who have been the burden of disproving these in the galley, the one and only hangouts without seeing several sailing lor a number of years about the benefits in unionism— SIU stvle. SIU members. That's another charges on the seaman. Frenchy Michelet. are already well aware of the indication of the Seafarers rapid­ Feel the sati.sfaction of telling The seaman as a general rule He extehded me an invitation ly growing strength on the Lakes. benefits of real unionism, and your buddies, :.fter your ship are flocking in increasing num­ can not afford to pay a lawyer to stay for dinner, but I had to Dan Dwyer, an SIU oldtimer has b.'^en organized, "J helped bers into the SIU Halls. to defend himself against these decline as business called me on (he Lakes, is working with us organize that ship under the You might as well join the charges. elsewhere. I sure hated to pass now in this port. He was for­ best union contract ever seen on parade, and see for yourself how His guilt is based upon the up that invite, but I'll be back in merly Port Agent in Detroit and these Lakes." easy it will be to organize your log entry and he must prove his domain one of these days to has a lot on the baH. ship under the SIU banner Then reap the benefits of SIU himself innocent. But when the take him up on the offer. Eddie Janaszak, from the East organization. BOOM SEASON I'll close this report with the captain who made the charge is Coast, is also in this port pitch­ on shipping here, ing, and the results of our wellnot at the hearing to back the lowdown This year promises to be a Don't forget, visit the SIU Hall charge up, it is very difficult to which I'm happy to report is so laid organizational plans should boom season on the Lakes for in. your area. Get first hand in­ prove your innocence because good that we are suffering from begin to show as soon as more of the shipping interests, but it formation from the organize- in you have no one lo cross-ex­ a shortage of men. So if you want the crews come in to fit out, and will only be another season for (harge as to now y ur ship, too, to ship, come down Texas way. we contact them. the men who man the boats, can be SIU amine. Ships In Transit Are Keeping Port Arthur Busy Lakes Seamen, Visit SIU Halls And See Democracy In Action �THE SEAFARERS LOG F«ge Tan SHIPS' MINUVES AND NEWS MOHAN'S 'DOCKING AREA' Finds 10 G's, Gets Reward Of 50 Bucks There'll be no mourning among the crew of the SS Fort Frederica-if the vessel's Third Assistant Engineer one day finds himself landlocked. In fact, the Seafarers aboard the ship are in favor of hasten-t bers on his watch," the crew ing that day. charged. Said engineer shot off out of In view of this character's the wrong side of his mouth, and openly stated position, the men the crew took action in the form of a resolution at the shipboard meeting of March 14 to set him straight. According to the ship's /o WO.^GIMMF, minutes, submitted by Chairman A f iMKV CfJGw/ Leroy Clarke and Secretary L. P. I CAM CAbb MY Breaux, the guys have had a OiMM — I bellyful of this character's mouthings. Seafarer George Wetzlcr, a bed­ room steward aboard the SS Florida is a pretty placid guy. It takes a helluva lot to ruffle him as he goes about his job of smoothing out stateroopis. But. his eyes nearly popped out of their sockets on a recent morning at a sight he rarely sees in the Florida's beds. • Fort Frederica's Bucko Target Of Crew's Blast It happened shortly after the This hazardous condition ship arrived in Miami from Ha­ Anca.pa had to contend with vana. Brother Wetzler was cleaning one of the passenger When the lads of the MV Anastaterooms. Neatly wrapped in a capa, a Moran sea-going tug, handkerchief lying on the mat­ speak of walking the planks, tress was a wad of cash big they're not just kidding. The zig-zag pattern of loose planks pictured above is the "dock" SO/\), SOO¥£S? where the Anacapa and another Moran tug, the -Sands Point, have been tying up in Mobile, Ala., for the past month, writes the Anacapa's Engine Delegate, Clyde Riddle. A. ! is what the crew of the MV when they docked at Mobile. Getting ashore or aboard by means of the dilapidated pa^h work structure meant risking their necks each time. Exceed­ ingly dangerous was the task of hauling stores aboard. The Mo­ bile Dispatcher managed to get a promise from the company that stores would be brought along­ side by boat. Finally declared unsafe, the "dock" is now being torn down, says Brother Riddle. . IS A MENACE He and his kind are a menace now, "and will prove to be a much greater menace to organ­ ized seamen in the future," the crew decleared. The resolution grew out of the unsavory remarks uttered by the Third Assistant in regard to his preference of crews. He is re­ ported to have stated befoie wit­ nesses that he would rather sail with "fink crew or an NMU crew in preference to an SIU crew." Good militant union crews are evidently not to his liking. Besides his anti-union re­ marks, the bucko engineer hurled "physical threats and deliberate­ ly persecuted certain crewmem- of the Fort Frederica have re­ solved "that members of the SIUSUP now employed on this ves­ sel shall henceforth refuse to sail any ship on which this Third AST sistant Engineer is employed in any capacity." The resolution concluded with a recommendation "that a motion be placed before the first pos­ sible membership meeting signi­ fying this membership's desire that no SIU-SUP crew shall be furnished any ship on which the aforementioned is employed." Longfellow Crew Can't Eat Ship's Rolls enough to stuff the yaps of three blustering buckos. In short, it contained $10,025 in crispy, crunchy, oh-so-lovely pieces of lettuce. When Wetzler cam.e . to, he gabbed the green stuff and sprinted onto the dock, where the occupants of the richly furnish­ ed stateroom—Mr. and Mrs. An­ thony Messa, of Havana—were waiting for a taxi. He gave them their $10,000 caboodle. He was rewarded with a $50 bill. Dick Birmingham, Miami Act­ ing Agent, who reported this rich item to the Log, didn't say who got the handkerchief. A rolling ship gathers no cake. This sea-going maxim emerg­ ed from the ship's galley aboard the SS Henry Longfellow. It sums up the defense offered by the Night Cook and Baker to charges intended to get a rise out of his cake-making. The matter was rolled out at a special meeting held at sea re­ cently to sift the charges. Specifically, cake was the beef. The crew said they couldn't eat the stuff. "It wasn't baked prop- well done when it was served. But the doughty Night Cook and Baker retorted somewhat logically that the fault was not his. "The ship had been rolling too much, was his^rt reply to the criticism of his tarts. ROLLING SHIP Referring to the four or five nights when cake was absent from the menu, he said that the heavy rolling of the vessel made it impossible to do whatever bakers do when they make cake. When he did make cake the roll of the ship spoiled the rolling of the dough. He couldn't do it pi'operly, he said. Solomon-like, the crew made a wise and notable decision. Since the Longfellow was scheduled to make port the next day, shipmates of the Night Cook and Baker withheld judgment. The ship won't be rolling when we are in port, they said, "and we'll give him a chance to prove himself in baking then." If while in port the man pro­ duces, the whole matter will be forgotten. If not, the crew say they would consider further ac­ tion. SS SMITH TH03IPS0N ICE-BOUND IN DENMARK . TVlis SHIP'S ear // VTU ENOUGH POLLS C»: / fA ' Bourn Men Urge Strike Fund Vote A proposal that a $15 special erly and it was doughy," they strike fund assessment be placed claimed. The crew also brought forth at before the membership of the the meeting that for four or five Seafarers International Union in nights they didn't get any cake the form of a referendum was at all. When they finally got urged at a recent meeting aboard their teeth into one of the Night the SS Benjamin Bourn, Missis­ Cook and Baker's concoctions, sippi Shipping Co. they were disappointed. Recommending that the matter WORKED ALONE be decided by secret ballot, the Bourn crew pointed to the cost The Longfellow men took into to the Union of the strike last consideration the fact that the fall in protest of the War Stabili­ baker worked alone in the galley zation Board ruling. The men from two a. m. until ten a. m. felt it urgently necessary that the But that was no excuse for not strike fund be built up quickly having any cake at all, the crew so that the Union would be pre­ contended, adding that it was no pared for any emergency. excuse for the cake not being ' ? 'LE- - This photo was taken in the Copenhagen harbor in late February, after the vessel had spent about a week in the ice. A Danish ice-breaker cut a path through the frozen waters and enabled the Thompson to make port. Chick Fisher. Deck Delegate, submitted the picture fol­ lowing the payoff in New York on March 17. �Friday. April 4, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleyen SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief I <' CHARLES A. WARFIELD. Feb. 9—Chairman W. K. Harde­ man; Secretary E. L. De Parlier. New Business: Discussioni on signing on and meal sub­ sistence due. Some men have three days, others less. Stew­ ard said Purser knows about subsistence and is including it in payroll. Good and Welfare: Steward suggested that slopchest be looked into, and that it be seen to that some Camel cigarettes be placed aboard. Discussion on misunderstand­ ing that Officers come first on mail, and after they are through, the crew can have theirs. Suggestion that Union get onto the Alcoa Company as to launch service to ships lying at anchor in Trinidad. It seems that the 4-8 watch is being screwed out of shore leave due to the launch schedule. Motion carried that company have steam line or hot water line run aft to fantail so crew can have a place to wash clothes. Under present system crew must lug water back to laundry. TWIN FALLS VICTORY, March 2—Chairman Killman; Secretary not given.) New Bus­ iness: Motion carried that Chief Cook get keys for storerooms. Crew laundry should be open­ ed for crew's use and kept clean by a rotation method by the Stewards, Deck and Black Gang Departments. . Motion carried. Good and Welfare: Black Gang heads and show­ ers should be repaired; every department told to use own heads and showers; Shower nozzle needed for Deck De­ partment shower; Chief Cook complains on food; More dish­ es needed; Sinks need fixing in pantry and galley; Linen to be drawn by one man from each department evety Friday. New Business: Mention made of working rules and overtime on Isthmian ships. Chairman re­ minded each man to keep over­ time sheets. two electricians be given suit­ able quarters aboard this ves­ sel; that rationing of clothes and cigarettes be investigated; that no one use sinks for soak­ ing clothes—buckets are pro­ vided. 4. 4. 4. ROSWELL VICTORY, Jan. 18—Chairman Schevaland; Sec­ retary Sam Kosfeld. Delegates gave their reports. H. E. Perkinson selected Ship's Dele­ gate. Suggested that ship's delegate see if it is possible to get galley stove repaired. Stove in such condition that it is im­ possible to cook complete meal. If stove is not repaired soon, ship will have to go on subsistence until repairs can be made. Sug­ gestion to investigate why man who has been tripcarder for three years has been refused pro book—matter to be brought to attention of SIU patrolman on arrival in States. Suggested that soap be issued with linen according to union agreement. s. 4. iXXX JOSHUA HENDY, Dec. 30-^ GADSDEN, Jan. 26—Chair­ Chairman Henry C. McDilda; Secretary Robert E. Merritt. man M. Shipley; Secretary O. Rowe. Motions carried: to have X X Good and Welfare: Crew agreed Deck Delegate contact the to cooperate in keeping door CHARLES A. WARFIELD, master and have meal hours, slamming and noise in general Jan. 5—Chairman R. N. White; settled in New York; to get down to a minimum. Due to Secretary H. B. Brown. New foc'sle hangers, wash basing the fact that the trip will be Business: Steward brought up plug and new lockers for Stew­ longer than expected, the Stew­ matter of pillows and mattress­ ards department; to install ra­ ard informed the crew that he es. Any members of crew wish­ dio; to have sufficient line on may run short on some perish­ ing to receive or exchange to hand to last for entire trip; to able foods. He stated that re­ become known as he had some contest overtime worked by quisition will be made for these extras on hand. Also brought stowaways painting in the al­ items and promised that every up matter of not receiving some leyways; to have slopchest effort would be made when the stores that he ordered. Good checked by crew delegates so ship reached Antwerp to obtain and Welfare: Discussion as to as to get better assortment of these items. keeping messroom clean, pick­ items. 4. ,4. 4. ing up dirty dishes, etc. Motion 4* X 4carried to purchase, with fine They're In A Stew DEL SANTOS, Jan. 28— money, books and magazines Chairman Clarence Umberger; and give the remainder of the Over Erin Secretary Carl Cruzlic. Dele­ money to brothers in hospital. Green with rage, the brawny gates reports read and accept­ Motion carried to set up ship's lads of the 88 De 8oto burped a ed. Motions carried: to elect fund separate from fine money vigorous protest over the alleged new engine delegate—Irving out of individual donations. Irish stew served them at a re­ Ashbrock elected; to open PC The money to be used for help­ cent m'eal. messhall; that each crew mem­ ing shipmates in distress and The stew itself was harmless ber be given a key for show­ balance to be given to Patrol­ enough, but—shades of the sham­ ers and heads. Suggestion man upon arrival for distri­ rock—the inference that it was made to claim overtime for all bution to hospitalized Broth­ Irish was a masquerade and an work done by shore gang in ers. affront to the legion of Ireland's Buenos Aires. kings—and to the De 8oto men, too. The ship's worthies, being sticklers for pedigree, vehement­ ly charged that the stew served them could not lay claim to being 4. 4- 4. Irish. Only degree of resemblance DE SOTO, Feb. 15—Chairman XXX was that it talked back to them. Archie Korbach; Secretary A1 That should just about drive Stansbury. GEORGE WASHINGTON, Motions carried: March 8—Chairman Crosby; the snakes out of the De 8oto's To get carpenter aboard ship Secretary Robertson, New Bus­ stew. in Honolulu to repair screen iness: motion carried tor a new doors; "to order replacements station bill or revise the old for slopchest shortages in Hono­ one. Give a number and card lulu; that windchutes be or­ to each man with a number and dered; install steam line in place that he is assigned to for laundry; that messroom be fire and boat drill. Motion car­ painted white; that halfhooks 4. 4* 4* ried that scuttle butt be re­ be installed on all doors. paired and the water pressure DEL AIRES, Jan. 19—Chair­ XXX man J. Lecke; Secretary Ste­ be increased. Motion carried ROBERT R. McBURNEY, vens. Minutes of last meeting that forecastle and heads be Jan. 10—Chairman T. A. Lauread and accepted. Delegates painted. Motion carried to re­ mann; Secretary D. Zappi^. gave their reports. Motions pair all broken lockers for all Motions carried: Due to short­ carried: that Engine Delegated departments. Motion to repair age of inside paint, heads, report be turned over to Pa­ all door locks and if impossible showers and messrooms are to trolman and handled as he may to repair them, then install new be painted before foc'sles: to direct; that all hands stick to­ ones. Good and Welfare: Have retain same system of fines for gether and -not payoff until Brothers quit tampering with minor infractions as prevailed everything is squared away the clocks. Gave the Steward on previous voyage; that dirty with Patrolman; that Delegates a vote of thanks for his coop­ linen be placed in front of lock­ of each department make list eration. Decision to refrain er by 6 p. m. Saturday; that of repairs to be handed to heads from bringing friends and exclothes are not to be left in of respective departments: that crewmembers aboard. laundry room overnight. URM VOUR 0^/SRTI^AF Sne'ETS iNi To X^PARTAA&MT HEAOS 72 HOURS SEfoRe VOODOCK M)t> K€e?A WUCAfdCOFY VoURSELr. CUT and RUN By HANK We don't know how many brothers are doing it but we would like to see some of the crew of every ship in all our ports taking aboard a few piles of Logs before they sail—to save them for those favorite bars in foreign ports, for other 8IU ships and especially those unorganized shps. The more the Logs get aiound, the better informed our own brothers are with up-to-date union activities and the better our organizing efforts are helped. How about this, brothers, before you sail, take a few piles of Logs from two or three weeks and save them for distribution overseas? You can't break your back or waste your time doing this little thing for your own Union, your shipmates and those non-union sailors . . . The follow­ ing oldtimers came in from a trip on the American Press: Bosun Luke Collins, who confessed with a smile about gaining five pounds, or more, of weight; "Whiskey" Bill Thomas, who bought a new pair of brown walking shoes which are too tight on his dogs for walking or even standing before the shipping board for those jobs; and AB Earl Larson, who is going straight out again for another voyage while he has the urge, the time and the opportunity while shipping is red hot. 444. The "Champ" of the SUP, Brother Eggie Worth, just sailed in from a trip around the world and was merrily and swiftly shanghaied right out again as Bosun on the Seairain Texas . . . Oldtimer John Campbell probably grabbed a messman's job this week . . . Steward Patrick Nash just registered for shipping . . . Thomas Murphy, smiling citizen of New York, isn't worrying wtih a smile on his face, about not getting the Log he's sup­ posed to be getting. We assured Brother Murphy his Log was being mailed faithfully every week, indeed . . . Bosun Ray Sparrow is in town right now . . . Oldtiiper William Brady just came in from a trip on a ship which lost her foremast getting through the iron curtain of North Atlantic stormy weather. The ship took 18 days without ballast, trying to get to Maine for a load of potatoes , . . Verrill Swearingen, Gulfer oldtimer, is in town right now. Where's your pal, O'Connor, or Brother McCoskey? 4. 4. 4From Italy we received the following letter from our shipmate and volunteer organizer of non-union ships. Jimmy "Blackie" SalibUj aboard the SUP ship, William Gushing: "The weather over here is pretty warm, the sun is always shining and the girls are very so­ ciable. We left Boston and sailed into Trieste. Now we're in Leg­ horn. The trip over was darn good and smooth sailing all the way. I'm in the best of health, still going strong and I'm- thinking of go­ ing native for I'm beginning to talk a little Italian. How are things back home and how is shipping? Good, I hope! I'll probably be in New York around the fifth of .kpril. We have a darn, good Chief Mate and a good crew. I'm Bosun on this SUP ship, too. Gi.ve my regards to Joe and your wife.'' 4. 4. 4We have the results of a contest perfumed (the joke is, the word should be performed, if the girls were not involved) by the girfs of Baltimore and New York to select the pretties? and the cutest brothers in our Union. The winnahs in this harmless fe­ male-clamored male glamor contest are: Pretty Boy Charlie Star­ ling and Cute Jimmy Hanners. Ah, we hope these dames don't start another contest to select the Funny-Face members . . . because we won't print the results . . . Brother Harvey Hill just blew into town from his North Atlantic trip . . . Little Jimmy Crescitelli will probably sail out of New_ York without the million dollars he needs to retire on. With his slightly visible mustache still faithfully hanging on, Jimmy will no doubt shang­ hai his poker-faced shadow of an alter ego. Brother George Berry. Well, two can dream better than one, about a million dollars some day, while out there on the ocean, indeed! �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Fxida7« April 4, 1947 SPEAKS s O ISTHMIAN MEN DEPLORE LACK OF CONTRACT IN MEMORY OF *THE EMANCIPATOR OF SEAMEN* To the Edilor: We, the crew of the SS Citadel Victory, celebrated Feb. 12. Lin coin's birthday, by holding a meeting with ail other Isthmian vessels which are here in Cal cutta at the present time Throughout the meeting we dis cussed all beefs which we have had, and are having, in our voy­ ages on these Isthmian scows. Log'A' Rhythms Cargo In The Hold By R. E. D. Sitting here in a gin mill. Slowly swallowing beer. Couple of -dollars in my pocket. Know my time to ship is near; My time to ship is near— I can feel it in my soul, I hear it from the juke box, I can almost smell the hold. TOOK BEATING We are quite dis.satisficd by not having an agreement as yet with the Isthmian SS Company. Joining with us for this meeting were the crew of the following ships: Steel Artisan, Beaver Vic­ tory, Memphis City and Alle­ gheny Victory. We who have ridden these scows, and who are riding them at the present time, have decid­ ed that we have taken enough of a beating on these scows by getting poor food which come from two-pot galleys. We object, too, to getting beat out of'a lot of legitimate overtime, which would arouse no question on a union ship because of an agree­ ment between the company and a union. We want union representation and union working conditions. We resent working under the present conditions, whereby company officers can work us as they please without any con­ sideration for the men or their labor problems. After all, we are skilled workers, and on get­ ting union representation we feel we will be treated as such. Now we are treated no better than mules who are to produce without questioning the work­ ing conditions. Signed by entire crew MEMBERS MUST DO PART TO MAINTAIN BEST CONDITIONS To the Editor: If the officials are expected to beat their brains out to find ways and means to get better condi­ tions and higher wages for SIU seamen, then the Brothers have to get together themselves aboard each ship and live up to their contracts to the letter. This is necessary now, more than ever, because with the war over the shipowners are taking over. They are dropping all the wartime skippers, mates and en­ gineers, keeping only the oldtime company stiffs, who are out there . trying with everything at their command to break down the fine conditions seamen have ever known. So Brothers, tripcarders or full books, live up to that contract. Do your work, stay sober, and when the day comes to pay off and you have a "bird-dog cap­ tain" and a mate who are hardtiming you, your Agent or Pa­ trolman can handle them in a wa^ they won't forget. The year of 1946 brought the SIU many victories. Let's make 1947 a greater year! Ray Pulliam Members of the SIU-SUP gather at memorial to Andrew Furuseth in San Francisco on 93rd anniversary of his birth. Floral tributes to the man whose battles won so much for sea­ men the world over came from the SIU. SUP and Local 90 of the Masters, Mates and Pilots. I can see the hatches Full of Cargo for the world. From Trinidad to Timbuctoo, Marib to Mailburd, I see the docks in Baltimore, The piers in Shanghai, And I hear the juke box saying. My time is almost nigh. I've finished up my dollars. And I hear it plainer still. The call is getting stronger And I guess it always will. The juke box is saying. In a sweet and sickly song: possibilities of making Start heading for the water­ and were all set for clear sailings with front;" for then on out, you're all wrong. Honolulu without mishap. We ran at full ahead for tv.'o And I know it isn't wrong. NASTY MASTER days until they had to cut her We have a typical Waterman down as the fans were acting up Skipper on here. One of the fam­ I'm walking along the wharfs. agian. ous 'T - am - God - who-are-you?" Smelling the shipping smells, type skipper. This would-be Cap­ I see the ripple of the tide tain Bligh goes under the name And hear the shipping bells. of William Patterson, and myself And suddenly it comes to me and the rest of the crew feel that Like a flash of gold— there is no reason why members of the Seafarers should have to My time to ship is here. sail with such a character as this For I smell cargo in the hold. phony happens to be. 4* The Chief Engineer is an exSeafarer. That "ex" means exThe Night Before union man as well. Every time I see the Mate and the Captain 'Twas the night before payoff. together they remind me of that And all through his gear song that goes something like He hunted in vain. "There's a ring around your nose For the price of a beer; So Ed, we limped on mio Pan­ and it grows and grows and ama to stay there for two days grows." Not a greenback was stirring. and then off we went again. So Milton B. Williams Not even a buck— far, we have had* clear sailing. The gods were off duty. That send folks good luck; La Semmes Seems A Troublesome Wench Needing Careful Caressing To the Editor: Here's a little note to let you in on the ups and downs of the Raphael Semmes. Well, Ed, this Waterman scow left that fairsized city of New York on a sup­ posedly four month trip to the Far East, with the first stop beng Panama. We left New York on Jan. 31, and things went along swell un­ til! sometim'e on the twelve-tofour watch on the second of Feb­ ruary when our jinx caught up with us. The boilers had lost water and cracked the tubes. So we hauled her around and put into Savannah for repairs. We put in first at one dock and then another until the 16th of February when we left the dock at 3 A. M. We steamed along fine until 7 A. M. when bingo, the fans let ga We drifted around outside within sight of the lightship for 27 hours before we got a tow. Here we really had to hand it to the cooks. The Deck Mainten­ ance cut up an old oil drum for a stove and we rigged up the forge for a frying stove. Then Tony Bender, our Chief Cook, fried us some of the best south­ ern fried chicken any of us had ever tasted. I'd send you some pictures of Tony working at his make-shift galley, but I haven't any de­ veloped at this time. REPAIR MADE We got alongside the' dock around 8 P. M. on the 17th, and repairs were. made. We were supposed to sail on the 21st when the feed pumps broke down. The old Raphael Semmes sure must like the docks in Savannah. Well,. Ed, we finally got clear of Savannah at 8 A. M. on the 22nd and steamed at full ahead for Panama. But if you think we had enough trouble already. Vet Prefers SIU On Lakes To the Editor: The following letter, received from a vet who is now hospital­ ized at the Milwaukee Veterans' Hospital, indicates how the unor­ ganized seamen on the Great' Lakes are going for the SIU's or­ ganizational drive. These men now realize that the SIU is the only Union for them on the Lakes, and are joining up in in­ creasing numbers, now that the opening season is just around the corner. Herb Miller, Patrolman Detroit, Mich. Dear Friend: I arrived here back in Mil­ waukee, and what a trip! I was so lame and sore, but it was the only thing to do—coming back to this town. Am now in the Veterans Ad­ ministration Hospital, and get­ ting along fine. I expect to leave this place on, or about, April I. Would you be kind enough to do me a favor? Please send me that package which I left in Detroit to the enclosed ad­ dress. It contains cooks' aprons, and as I now have the sailing fever once again, I certainly would like to hit the ball. And those aprons would come in very handy. So forward, jump forward, oh Time, In thy flight— Make it tomorrow. Just for tonight. CANADA BRANCH LAUDED BY EWELL CREW To the Editor: Sometime during the com­ ing Lakes shipping season I'll dropping in to Detroit. I'll cer­ tainly drop in to say "hello" to the gang. I also intend to join the SIU, and get a boat out from Detroit. Wilh every good wish for the SIU's organizational drives. We, the sailors of the Richard S. Ewell, wish to extend our ap­ preciation for the maintenance of the Hall in Vancouver, B.C. Brother Murphy, the Port Agent, is a very competent man. He has helped us straighten .out sev­ eral beefs. We left British Columbia, a much happier crew because of his efforts and good results. Gust A. Melin. Signed by 10 crewmembers �Friday, April 4. 1847 THE SEAFARERS LOG Brighton Marine Hospital Stamped Okay By Seafarer Page Thirleen THE CITY OF ALMA VISITS THE CITY OF ANTWERP To the Editor: gardless of race, creed or color, and this is as it should be. In the March 14 issue of the , When it comes to feeding, I Log there appeared an article of have this to say: I have been a comment on conditions in the patient in Marine Hospitals in U. S. Marine Hospital, Chicago. New Orleans, Mobile, and Staten Alter having read Brother MauIsland at one time or another pin's account of conditions there, during the past ten years, and and since I have been a patient this hospital tops them all when here at the Brighton (Mass.) Ma­ it comes to variety of menu— rine Hospital, I think it only fair quality and quantity of well-pre­ to relate my findings of condi­ pared food, and a system of serv­ tions at this place. ice that can't be beat. All per­ In all fairness to the United sonnel in this department know States Public Health Service, it is no more than right that credit their worlc and do it in a pleas­ should be given where and when ing way. This could go on for each and it is deserved, and in this case I every unit throughout the hos­ feel it is most deserving. pital, and no doubt there are Here the entire medical staff, as well as all personnal in any many persons responsible for But the fact way connected with the many such efficiency. is that each and every individual functions of the many depart­ deserves a share in the smooth ments throughout the hospital, arc tops. This holds true for each way they make this hospital func­ and every department. From the tion. I agree with Brother Maupin time one enters this hospital, un­ that the meal hours are not di­ til the day of departure, treat­ vided as many of us would want ment and personal comfort are accorded each and every one re- them to be, but the system in use has proven to be of necessity. To compensate for the long hours KEEP MEMBERS' between supper and breakfast, milk and fruit juice is served to WELFARE TOPMOST, tide one over, as well as aid in SAYS BROTHER body needs. Dear Editor: MEETS REQUIREMENTS Years of medical research in I read the article of W. J. Brady and Louis Coffin in regards to nutritional needs have proven the division of meal hours to meet politics in the Log of Jan. 25. all bodily requirements, and if heartily agree with "Ropeyarn's the diet is properly balanced— answer and I wish to state that as I know it is here—one is very our success is due chiefly to a apt to be and feel much better no-party advocacy. because of it. We are strictly interested in The set-ups in all U. S. Marine] ' the welfare of seamen, in regard to health, wages, and the right Hospitals are very -much alike to work, and not to mind the but the functioning of the insti­ tution is the most important part other fellows affairs. I think we have enough to of the program. We have our worry about in cur own field, x-ray department, the dental, witiiout worrying about the poli­ physio - therapy, occupational therapy and many other units, tics of the nation. such as the work carried -on by We all come from different the Red Cross and the Social parts of America, and if we look Service division, which furnish after our jobs, our homes and health, we'll sure have a big entertainment and the usual ne­ cessities and it can be said that enough job on our hands. We can see the discord in rival all these operate in a most satis­ unions due to politics—-right and factory manner here at Brighton. I'll close in saying that the left wings, and this will destroy them. Let's not mix in politics or opinions expressed are not mine religion, and I think we will alone, as I have talked to many come out on top, if we follow the of the patients here and they original Preamble of our By­ agree that as hospitals go this is laws. Again, I must agree with tops. Edwin D. Johnston "Ropeyarn." Brighton Marine Hospital Charles J. Hartman MARINE ARROW CREW WAS TOPS, MANLEY SAYS S. S- 4. Luis A. Ramirez, FWT. writes that the vessel ran into one of the worst winters experienced in the Belgian port since 1891. A wee drop in temperature would have necessitated use of ice-breakers in river shown at left. Snow and ice impeded land traffic too. but trucks and cars kept rolling onto Antwerp roads from the Ford assembly plant (photo below). Ramirez says things are on the upgrade in Belgium, vrith her ports among the busiest in Europe. Once scarce items axe more in evidence, including gals. Credit goes to Ship's Dele­ gate Red Sullivan, says Ra­ mirez, for .making the Alma a model ship for cleanliness. To the Editor: I should like to correct a mis­ understanding resulting from a story which appeared in the Log of Aug. 9, 1946, concerning a trip I made. In regard to the Marine Ar­ row crew mentioned" in the ar­ ticle, I would like it to be known that these men were one of the finest groups I have had the pleasure to sail with. It was a real pleasure to sail with them. Bill Manley Attention! Passage Of 'Bill Of Rights' Depends On Seamen Backing To the Editor: WILLIAM J. STEWART Friends of William James Stewart will please inform him that his father, William L, Stewart of 304 Book Building, Detroit 26, Mich., is extremely anxious to get in touch with him, and is awaiting word at the above address. All merchant seamen who are interested in a Bill of Rights for the men who sailed the ships during the war, should start making knots and write to their Congressmen, urging him to en­ dorse bill IIR 476. The bill is no\v in the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Commit­ tee. It doesn't take much time, and you don't have to be a fancydandy with the fountain pen. Just let him know that you are in favor of early and favorable action on the bill. Explain to him that the merchant marine lost more men proportionately than did any branch of the arm­ ed forces. Merchant seamen's pay (bonus included) was on a par with U.S. Navy pay, and we had to buy our clothes, got no family allotments, had to pay our de­ pendent's hospital expenses, and had no time off between trips. We had to pay full fare on trains, buses, etc., whereas the service man had the benefit of furlough rates. Write your Senators and re­ quest them to urge early and favorable action on Bill S. 429. This bill will give the seamen who sailed during the war practically the same rights as the GI Bill gives the "veteran." When and if aboard ship, write to the Chairman of the comittees handling these bills, and have every member of the crew sign his name anJ^ address to it. Bill S. 429 is in the Senate Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce at the pres­ ent time. Walter A. Foster The Stanwix May Not Be Pretty, But Crew Finds Her Good Feeder To the Editor: The crew of the Stanwix (it desn't even resemble Barbara) have requested that I forward an article to the Log. So here goes the anchor chain: She'.s not a bad rustbucket (Ed note: You mean the ship, not Barbara, we take it. Right?) for most of the crew are homesteading her and the wi'iter wonders whether they like the continual coastwise run or whether they are staying because Johnny Byrd, the Steward—or Bellyrobber—is keeping all hands so fat that when we do hit port we are too obese to get our gear ashore. BUTTON-BUSTER She's a feeder, and the Chief Pumpmen has threatened to sue .Tohnny for some new clothes if he continues to put on weight. A suggestion to the Pumpman: Cease eating one and a half fried chickens with all the trimmings to the meal, and my advice to you is that the ordering of full houses at each and every meal will most certainly not bring on reduction of the waistline. A very congenial crew, and so help me St. Paddy, there has not been even the semblance of an argument or fight among the members of the crew. Yours truly lias been on board since the early part of February. In other words. Brother Editor, a full belly makes for good feelings among all men. Anyway, isn't that something of a record? The crew is about half SIU and half SUP. This shows that our two great Unions are not on­ ly affiliated with each other, but the membership can and will stick together. There are no beefs aboard, so far, but on our last visit into Baytown, Texas, we informed the Agent in Houston, Brother "Cot­ ton" Haymond, about a few necessary repairs and the re-adjustment of the watch system on deck. We are positive it will be taken care of soon. Here's a good. one on Ray White, Agent in the Port of Nor­ folk, Va, (This is supposed to be factual.) ASPIRIN FOR RAY It seems there was a young lad that kept bothering Ray contin­ ually for about two or three SH& AiM'T SO PORrV, ^sHe scifte GAi^ OOOKI weeks about getting a tripcard. After that length of time, there being a shortage of messmen in Norfolk, Ray issued a TC to the guy. The Bozo thanked him very nicely, saying: "Brother White, do you know that I have had a headache ever since I started trying to get an SIU tripcard. Now that I have one, I have lost the headache." Ray replied: "Lost it hell. Now I have it." This great city that we're nowdocked in is as slow and lazy as "Ole Man River" at ebb tide. And to top that off, the natives around the waterfront have developed the same symptoms. When you ask them how to get any certain place, you must wait 15 minutes before they reply in the slowest drawl. NO NOISE FROM BELOW You don't hear much growling from the Black Gang at meal time. The reason is they have the talle.st messman in the whole SIU-SUP, Sam Vincius. He's 6 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs a mere 247 pounds ringside, and not an ounce of fat on him. You're darned right. Editor, that he and I are buddies. When he dropped 97 simoleons in the dice game a few nights past, the gang immed­ iately nicknamed him "Old 97." Better luck next time. Old 97. There are a few crawfish eat­ ers from New Orleans on board this tub, and they all send their regards to the "Chief Crawfish Eater," Joe "Volpian. Law and order is what we want, Joe. You dish it out in your column, and we know that your word is your bond. There are copies of the Sea­ farers Log coming aboard in all ports, but some of the SUP bpys are wanting West Coast Sailors also. What do you say Morris Weisbergcr—can do? Regards and smooth sailing te all SIU and SUP Brothers, from the crew of the SS Fort Stanwix, and to Brother Editor: Keep the Log going as great as in the past. Bill Utley Stewards Dept. Delegate (Editor's note: Thanks, and to you and the rest of the Stan­ wix crew, continued smooth sailing.) �1/ Page Fourleen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, April 4, 1947 New Wage Scales Under 6% Pay increase The increased wage, overtime, standby and other rates of pay won by the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union in its drive to off­ set the increased cost of living New Rate resulted in supplementary agree­ ments that arc tops on the water­ Present Wage Increase $217.30 front. DECK DEPARTMENT 204.05 In addition to an "across-the- Bosun $225.00 $13.50 190.80 board" increase of six per cent in Carpenter 225.00 13.50 217.30 the monthly wage, overtime, Bosun's Mate 205.00 12.30 209.35 standby, longshore and tank- STEWARDS DEPARTMENT cleaning scales, the Union, nego­ Chief Steward $325.00 $19.50 198.75 tiated increased travel subsis­ Asst. Chief Steward 225.00 13.50 182.85 tence and meal allowances. Second Steward 220.00 13.20 182.85 Companies which have so far Third Steward 185.00 11.10 182.85 signed the supplementary agree­ Cashier 175.00 10.50 159.00 ment granting the increases are: Checker 170.00 10.20 Alcoa Steamship Company, Inc., Telephone Operators 150.00 9.00 A. H. Bull Steamship Company, Linenkeeper 165.00 9.90 $312.17 Baltimore Insular Lines, Seas Head Cafe Man 182.50 10".95 241.15 Shipping Company, Inc., Eastern Service Bar Man 172.50 10.35 243.80 Steamship Lines, Inc., Smith and Cafe Waiter 150.00 9.00 217.30 Johnson, South Atlantic Steam­ Chief Cook 260.00 15.60 251.22 ship Lines and the American Lib­ Second Cook 220.00 13.20 217.30 erty Corporation. Third Cook 195.00 11.70 285.67 180.44 Also the Waterman SS Corp., Fourth Cook 10.80 251.75 175.00 Mississippi Shipping Co., Inc., Assistant Cook 10.50 231.61 205.00 Overtakes Freight Corp., Newtex Crew Cook 12.30 209.35 Lines, Inc., Arnold Bernstein SS Galley Utility 150.00 9.00 217.30 Co., Illinois Atlantic, American Butcher 222.75 13.37 201.40 Eastern Corp., Calmar SS Co., Baker 250.00 15.00 206.97 195.00 Ore Line, Peninsular & Occiden­ Head Pantryman 11.70 188.15 Second Pantryman tal SS Co. 180.00 10.80 188.15 150.00 9.00 The receiit negotiations amend­ Pantry Utility 188.15 Messman 150.00 9.00 ed the agreements now in effect 177.55 150.00 9.00 . with the above companies, with Gloryhole Steward 185.50 Porters 152.50 9.15 the provisions that: 175.00 10.50 1. The monthly wage scale shall Stewardess Deck Steward 155.00 9.30 be increased by six per cent. $233.20 Office Man 150.00 9.00 2. The overtime rate of pay 217.30 Bath Steward 150.00 9.00 shall be inci'eased by six per 217.30 Night Bellman 150.00 9.00 cent. 196.10 Head Waiter 205.00 12.30 3. The standby rate of pay 185.50 Captain's Waiter 150.00 9.00 shall be increased by six per cent. 159.00 Dining Room Steward ... 150.00 9.00 4. The rate of pay for long­ 159.00 Waiters—Bedroom Stewards.. 150.00 9.00 shore work shall be increased by six per cent. 5. The tank cleaning rate shall be increased by six per cent. (The foregoing increases are all retroaclive lo Jan. I, 1947. The following increases are reloactive lo March 11. 1947): New Rate 6. Travel subsistence shall be Present Wage Increase increased from $4.00 to $4.25 per STEWARDS DEPARTMENT day. $249.10 $325.00 $19.50 7. Meal allowance shall be in­ Chief Steward Asst. Chief Steward 217.30 .... 225.00 13.50 creased from $1.00 to $1.25 per Second Steward 238.50 meal. 220.00 13.20 Third Steward 185.00 11.10 The new wage rates for pas­ 195.00 11.70 senger ships, but which are not Storekeeper $343.44 152.50 9.15 listed will receive wages as Printer-Porter 287.79 Deck Steward 155.00 9.30 listed under freight ships. 263.41 .. . 150.00 9.00 The overtime rate for unlicen­ Asst. Deck Steward 150.00 9.00 sed personnel receiving less than Bath Steward 175.00 10.50 $200.00 per month shall be $1.06 Stewardess $344.50 150.00 9.00 per hour. For all ratings receiv­ Assistant Stewardess 233.20 ^ 150.00 9.00 ing $200.00 or more per month,, Gloryhole Steward 275.60 150.00 9.00 the overtime rate shall be $1,325 Officer's Room Steward 233.20 Porter ... 152.50 9.15 per hour. 206.70 Linenkeeper 165.00 9.90 190.80 Telephone Operator 150.00 9.00 217.30 Night Bellman 150.00 9.00 217.30 Bellman 150.09 9.00 265.00 Head Cafe Man 182.50 10.95 Rating New Rate Service Barman 223.93 172.50 10.35 Deck Department 236.12 Cafe Waiters 150.00 9.00 Bosun : $224.80 159.00 Chief Cook 260.00 15.60 Carpenter 224.80 164.30 Second Cook 220.00 13.20 AB Maintenance 206.25 Third Cook 164.30 • 195.00 11.70 Quartermaster ^ 190.35 169.60 Fourth Cook 180.00 ao.8o Able Seaman 190.35 Assistant Cooks 159.00 175.00 . 10.50 AB Cardeckman 190.35 159.00 Chief Butcher :. 222.75 13,37 Ordinary Seaman 166.50 164.30 Second Butcher 190.00 11.40 Engine Department 206.70 Chief Baker 250.00 15.00 Electrician $253.65 174.90 Second Baker 211.25 . 12.68 Deck Engineer 253.65 159.00 Crew Cook 205.00 12.30 Engine Utility 224.80 Galley Utility 159.00 150.00 9.00 161.65 Oiler—Steam 195.65 150.00 9.00 Messman Watertender 195.65 161.65 195.00 Chief Pantryman 11.70 185.50 Fireman 185.05 180.00 Second Pantryman 10.80 159.00 Wiper , 193.00 170.00 Third Pantryman 10.20 206.70 Stewards Department 150.00 9.00 Pantry Utility 174.90 Chief Steward $245.70 205.00 12.30 Head Waiter 174.90 Chief Cook 224.80 150.00 9.00 Captain's Waiter 159.00 Night Cook & Baker 224.80 150.00 9.00 Dining Room Waiter : 159.00 3rd Cook 193.00 150.00 9.00 Bedroom Stewards f 185.50 Messman 166.50 159.00 Utilityman 166.50 (Continued on Page 11) EASTERN STEAMSHIP LINES NEW FREIGHT SHIP SCALE DECK DEPARTMENT Present Wage Rating Bosun Bosuns Mate—Day Work Bosuns Mate—Watch Carpenter Storekeeper A3 Maintenance Quartermaster Able Seaman Vl^atchman Ordinary Seaman $205.00 192.50 180.00 205.00 197.50 187.50 172.50 Ii2.50. 1|;2.50 loO.OO Increase $12.30 11.55 10.80 12.30 11.85 11.25 10.35 10.35 10.35 9.00 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Chief Electrician Asst. Electrician Jr. Engineer-Day Work Jr. Engineer—Watch Plumber—Machinist Deck Engineer Chief Reefer First Reefer Second Reefer Storekeeper Engine Utility Evaporator—Maint. Oiler—Diesel Oiler—Steam Watertender Fireman-Watertender Fireman Wiper $294.50 227.o0 230.00 205.00 237.00 205.00 269.50 237.50 218.50 197.50 205.00 190.00 195.25 177.50 177.50 177.50 167.50 175.00 $17.67 13.65 13.80 12.30 14.22 12.30 16.17 14.25 13.11 11.85 12.30 11.40 11.72 10.65 10.65 10.65 10.05 10.50 STEWARDS DEPARTMENT $220.00 205.00 205.00 185.00 175.00 150.00 • 150.00 Chief Cook Night Cook and Second Cook .... Third Cook $13.20 12.30 12.30 11.10 10.50 9.00 9.00 Passenger Ships — Overnight Service New Rate $238.50 238.50 217.30 $344.50 238,50 233.20 196.10 185.50 180.20 159.00 174.90 193.45 182.85 159.00 275.60 233.20 206.70 190.80 185.50 217.30 159.00 236.12 265.00 206.70 190.80 159.00 159.00 159.00 161.65 185.50 164.30 159.00 159.00 159.00 217.30 159.00 159.00 159.00 MISSISSIPPI SS COMPANY EASTERN STEAMSHIP LINES Del Norte Type Passenger Ships — Off-Shore Present Wage Increase $235.00 205.00 225.00 $14.10 12.30 13.50 $324.00 271.50 248.50 $19.44 16.29 14.91 .5325.00 220.00 2G0.00 220.00 195.00 180.00 205.00 205.00 250.00 211.25 222.75 150.00 155.00 155.00 .160.00 150.00 1.50.00 1.55.00 19.5.00 165.00 150.00 150.00 152.50 152.50 175.00 150.00 195.00 165.00 165.00 150.00 150.00 175.00 150.00 $19.50 13.20 15.60 13.20 11.70 10.80 12.30 12.30 15.00 12.68 13.37 9.00 9.30 9.30 9.60 ' 9.00 9.00 9.30 11.70 9.90 9.00 9.00 9.15 9.15 10.50 9.00 11.70 9.90 9.90 9.00 9.00 10.50 9.00 DECK DEPARTMENT Eo.sun Bosun's Mate Carpenter : ENGINE DEPARTMENT Chief Electrician Second Electrician Third Electrician STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Chief Steward Second Steward Second Third ( Fourth Crew C Night ( Chief E Second Galley Utility . Deck Steward . Smoking Room Steward Saloon Steward Bedroom Steward Night St Gloryhole Stewards Chief Ste SEATRAIN LINES New Rate $344.50 238.50 233.20 196.10 206.70 161.65 164.30 159.00 159.00 185.50 159.00 159.00 159.00 161.65 174.90 159.00 159.00 159.00 193.45 182.85 159.00 275.60 233.20 206.70 190.80 185.50 236.12 201.40 265.00 223.93 217.30 159.00 159.00 206.70 • 190.80 180.20 159.00 217.30 159.00 159.00 159.00 �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 4. 1947 Wage Scales Under Recent 6% Increase SlU HALLS BALTIMORE ALCOA STEAMSHIP COMPANY Passenger Ship — George Washington Present Wage DECK DEPARTMENT B„sun $225.00 Carpenter 225.00 STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Chief Steward $325.00 Second Steward 220.00 Storekeeper 195.00 L^nenkeeper 165.00 Bartender : 185.00 Deck Steward 155.00 Lounge Steward 155.00 Stewardess 175.00 Assistant Stewardess 150.00 Captain's Steward 150.00 Head Waiter 205.00 Waiters 155.00 Smoking Room Steward 150.00 Dining Room Utility 150.00 Bedroom Stewards 150.00 Bellman 150.00 Night Waiter 150.00 Crew Pantryman 162.50 Asst. Crew Pantryman 150.00 Messman 150.00 Officer's Bedroom Steward .. 150.00 Glorviiole Steward 150.00 Bath Steward 150.00 Chief Cook 260.00 Second Cook 220.00 Third Cook 195.00 Fourth Cook 180.00 Fifth Cook 175.00 Night Cook 175.00 Crew Cook .' 205.00 Chief Butcher 222.75 Second Butcher 190.00 Chief Baker 250.00 Second Baker 211.25 Galley Utility m. 150.00 Ciiief Pantryman 195.00 Second Pantryman 180.00 Third Pantryman 170.00 Night Pantryman *170.00 Pantry-Utility 150.00 Stewards Utility 150.00 Increase New Rale $13.50 13.50 $238.50 238.50 $19.50 13.20 11.70 9.90 11.10 9.30 9.30 10.50 9.00 9.00 12.30 9.30 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.75 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 15.60 13.20 11.70 10.80 10.50 10.50 12.30 13.37 11.40 15.00 12.68 9.00 11.70 10.80 10.20 10.20 9.00 9.00 $344 .50 233.20 206.70 174.90 196.10 164.30 164.30 185.50 159.00 159.00 217.30 164.30 159.00 159.00 159.00 159.00 159.00 172.25 159.00 159.00 159.00 159.00 159.00 275.60 233.20 206.70 190.80 185.50 185.50 217.30 236.12 201.40 265,00 223.93 159.00 206.70 190.80 180.20 180.20 159.00 159.00 ALCOA STEAMSHIP COMPANY Passenger Ships — Cavalier Type Present Wage DECK DEPARTMENT Bosun Carpenter ENGINE DEPARTMENT Second Electrician STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Chief Steward Second Steward Chief Cook Second Cook Larder Cook Third Cook Crew Cook Chief Baker Second Baker Butcher Galley Utility Deck Steward Lounge & Smoking Rm. Std. Saloon Steward Waiter Room Stev.'ard Night Steward Chief Pantryman Ass't Pantryman Night Pantryman Dishwasher Messman Bellman Porter Bartender Gloryhole Steward Linen-Storekeeper Captain's Waiter Officer's Room Steward Steward's Utility Stewardess $235.00 225.00 $271.50 Increase New Rate $14.10 13.50 $249.10 238.50 $16.29 $287.79 $19.50 13.20 15.60 13.20 13.20 11.70 12.30 15.00 12.68 13.37 9.00 9.30 9.30 9.60 9.00 9.00 9.30 11.70 9.90 9.90 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.15 10.50 9.00 11.70 9.00 9.00 9.00 10.50 $344.50 233.20 275.60 233.20 233.20 206.70 217.30 265.00 223.93 236.12 159.00 164.30 164.30 169.60 159.00 159.00 164.30 206.70 174.90 174.90 159.00 159.00 159.00 161.65 • 185.50 159.00 206.70 159.00 159.00 159.00 185.50 • $325.00 220.00 260.00 220.00 220.00 195.00 205.00 250.00 211.25 222.75 150,00 155.00 155.00 160.00 150.00 150.00 155.00 195.00 165.00 165.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 152.50 175.00 150.00 195.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 175.00 Page Fifteen 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHARLESTON 424 King St. Phone 3-3680 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 BOSTON CORPUS CHRISTI .. 1824 Mesquite St. SS BILLINGS VICTORY Corpus Christi 3-1509 R. L. .McKenzie. $2.00; H. C. Michels, DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 S5.00; A. Mnrtinsen, $1.00. SS DAVID B. BURNETT DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. C E Gierczit;. $1.00; W. J. McMelrose 4110 GALVESTON 308 tz—23rd St. Waters. $1.00. Phone 2-8448 GALVESTON HONOLULU ......... 16 Merchant St. I.NDIVIDU.AL DON.ATIONS Phone 58777 Steve Harrison. $1.00; W. J. McNeil HOUSTON 1515 75th St. $2.00; D. E. McNeil, $2.00; H. E. HimWentworth 3-3809 kamp, $2.00. JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. NEW YORK Phone 5-5919 SS ROBIN GOODFELLOW MARCUS HOOK 1'/, W. 8th St. F. E. Parker. $1.00; J. I-.. McLranie. Chester 5-3110 $1.00; G. Cameron $2.00; J. Ackerman. MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. $1.00; C. H. Keckley. $2.00; H. G MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St, Coronea.s. $1.00; E. M. Bryant. $2.00; Phone 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 339 Cliartres, St. A. B. Lynn. $1.00; R. Coleji. $2.00; ij. Kite. $2.00; W. J. Phillips. $2.00. Magnolia 6112-6113 S3 COASTAL STEVEDORE NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. |I J. Luma. $2.00; J. Rodriguez, $1.00; HAnover 2-2784 ' NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. M. Santiago. $1.00. SS J. FISKE Phone 4-1083 A. E. Burris. $1.00; L. C. Harper. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Lombard 3-7651 Lampley. $5.00; J. W. Brackett. $5.00; PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. C. P. Fletcher. $1.00; E. M. Felker. Phone 2-8532 $1.00; V. Rackley. $1.00; J. H. EmerPORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. ick. $1.00; L. Mite. $1.00; W. F. Hunt. Beacon 4336 R, P. Cierczic, $1.00.. SS CAPE HATTERAS RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. F. Molina, $1.00; William J. I lavonr, Phone 2599 SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. Jr.. $1.00: J. E. Bonilla. $1.00. SS MAYO BROS. Douglas 5475-8363 H. Lancour. $2.00; C. I ludanich. SAN JUAN, P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon San Juan 2-5996 $2.00; E. Canonizrido. $2.00; F. W. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. Erlgelt. $2.00; G. H. Proctor. $2.00; T. Phone 8-1728 W. Hill. $2.00; .S. Ahrnham. $2.00. SS KING HATHAWAY SEATTLE 86 Sencca St. A. r .Simpson, $2 25; F. P. Furhs. Main 0290 TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. $1.00; R. C. Ennis, $1.00; J. R. Balduc. Phone M-1323 $1.00; H. Vf. Smith, $2.00; F. I.antiere. TOLEDO 61.5 Summit St. $2 00; S. L. Polizzi. $1.00; H. Walls WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. and Deck Dept.. $15.00; E. \^'entz. Terminal 4-3131 $1.00; B. Haf:..-r. $1.00; P. R, CalcVICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. haugh. $2.00; W. D. Rinehart. $1.00; Garden 8331 J. L. Simpson. $1.00; D. Bissett $.1.00; VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. D. E. Whit.-, $1.00; R. Eigueroa, $2.00. SS T. LOUVERTURE Pacific 7824 C. L. Southwick. $1.0'J. SS BLUE ISLAND VICTORY n. As.sa;d. $15.00: R. L. Rose. $2.00; C. .M. Moss. $1.00; J. H. Gurganus. William E. Halby would like to $50.00; E. H. Gates. $2.00; J. Sheets, have some of his old shipmates $2.00. D. C". Thompson. $2.00: John E. Robertson, $2.00; drop him a line. His address is Rushing. $2 00; J. R. Dixon. $2.00: \V. B. Palmer. Ward "B,' Dade County Hospital, $2.00. K 11. Price. $2.00; V. \V. King, Kendall, Fla. $2.00; t). Yealvs. $2.00; E. II. Thoma- NOTICE! son, $2.00; A. Jensljy. $2.00; L. Smith, $2.00; E, L. Waters. $2.00; O'Connor. $2.00; T. Wheeler, $2.00; B. L. Winston. $2,00; H. S. Winston, $2.00; C. D. Westman. $2.00; L. M. Moore. $2.00; R. C. Beahm. $2.00; J. C. Cambrel!. $2.00; William H. Lewis. $2.00; J. C. Casey. $2.00; N. Okray, $2.00; J, W. Altstatt, $2,00; L. L. Siarkowski, $2.00; T, D. Foster. $2.00; R. N, Mahone, $2.00; A. Frudge, $2.00; J. R, Alsobrook, $2.00. PERSONALS JAMES M. SAVELLE Please write to your family at Silver City, Miss. i i- 5" DANIEL McNULTY Get in touch with your sister, Mrs. Katherine Ebsary, 9 Har­ vard Street, Charleston, Mass. S. 4. 4. RAOUL PEPIN Get in touch with your father, 1826 Covin Blvd. E., Montreal. 4, 4. 4. JACK (J. O.) SMITH Get in touch with your sister, Mrs. Billie Odom, P. O. Box 17, Keyes, California. 4. 4. 4. CLYDE E. SCHMIDT Get in touch with your father, H. L. Schmidt, Sanger, Texas. 4. 4. 4. JOSEPH T. GEHRINGER Get in touch with Margaret C. Gchringer, Capitol Hotel, Mul­ berry Street and Park Avenue, Baltimore, Md. 4. 4. 4. JOSEPH F. WELSH m touch with Mrs. ShirGet in ley Wessel at the Seamen's Church Institute of Now York, 2.5 South Street, N. Y. 4. New York. She has an important message for vou. WITH THE SIU IM CANADA By HUGH MURPHY glad to be back home and are in ist can be duped by such tripe. After many years away from no ways anxious for another trip Sullivan has gone the way of all commies and will be remembered home, the SIU crews who deliv­ to England. Pat Sullivan, longtime commie, and despised by all. ered the twin vessels. Prince Da­ Secretary-Treasurer of the Trades vid and Prince Robert, to their The cableship Restorer, afternew owners in England were and Labor Congress of Canada many delays finally got away on and president of the commie-con- her mission of tending and re­ very disappointed and perhaps little disillusioned by the state of frolled Canadian Seamen's Union, pairing trans-pacific cables. affairs as they existed in Britain has followed the usual line laid The Restorer, at present under down by past bigwig stooges of SIU agreement, is the only ship today. The boys found that after two the Stalinist doctrine by double in Canada paying U.S. wages, years of peace the "Old Sod" was crossing his cohorts in dramatic overtime, and having conditions still a pretty miserable place to fashion. His actions have set the on a par with U.S. vessels. party boys back on their heels. Other agreements must be be. His expose of the role he has brought up to this standard. Re­ Shortages of the bare necessit­ ies of life, coupled with the lack played in the labor movement in ports from the ship indicate that of sufficient fuel, light and gas Canada as a pawn of the party everything is running smoothly, for domestic purposes, as well as and the death grip the party has with the exception of the Stew­ the snow and zero temperatures on a section of the Labor move­ ards Department. made their homecoming very dull ment is not news to most bonaThe quantity and quality of fide trade unionists. food served the crew is not-what and dismal. The desii-e to be on the way It should serve, however, as it should be. This will have to home to Canda was heightened an eye opener to lots of people, be rectified when the ship re­ by these conditions. particularly those who are dom­ turns. This is the first time this ship This was graphically illustrat­ inated by the commies. Sullivan is weak. That's why has been 100 percent organized ed by Brother Bill Ramsay, Chief he was a communist. The party and under Union agreement. It Steward of the Prince David In boys shouldn't be surprised. They may be sometime yet before this cartoons depicting a "Happy know what he was before, and vessel returns to 'Victoria which Scene in a London Pub" and his arrival home in Glasgow where during his association with them. is her home base. Keep her he shows himself leaving Central He did exactly what they expect­ "steady as she goes," fellows. (Pictures of the Restorer, which Station in "Welcome Home Stup­ ed him to do; he wouldn't have been a good communist if he had accompanied this article, came in id." too lata to be used in this issue. Returning to Canada on the done any different. It is incredible that any honest- However, they will be printed Aquitania," the boys had a fairly smooth trip in all, but are thinking and sincere trade union­ next week.) �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. April 4, 1947 J ••?>v % %&Seofarer&h^e¥nd&iom\ Union Great l^kes Pis+nct* ^ � 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 April 4, 1947 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. IX, No. 14 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU CONVENTION PLANS EXPANSION; CALLS FOR END TO PANAMA TRANSFERS SEAFARERSS TESTIFY BEFORE NLRB ON ISTHMIAN ELECTION NLRB TO HOLD UNION ELECTION ON MATHIASEN MARINE DEPT BACKS SIU ON PANAMA TRANSFERS AFL MARITIME TRADES DEPT HOLDS SUCCESSFUL MEETING IN CHICAGO SETTING THE PACE DOING THEIR SHARE NO REFORMS YET AT NEPONSIT DESPITE BALLYHOO IN PILOT VOTING RULES FOR SEAMEN NO COLLUSION SHOWN AT ISTHMIAN HEARING SCENES OF ACTIVITY FROM TWO GULF PORTS COMPLETE TEXT OF RESOLUTION ON PANAMANIAN SHIP TRANSFERS CURRAN BLAMES COMMIES FOR LOSS IN ISTHMIAN VOTE MARINE ACCIDENTS HIGHER THAN ALL OTHER INDUSTRIES SHIPPING IS BAD ON GOLD COAST SEAMEN'S BILL OF RIGHTS NEEDS BACKING OF SEAMEN EVERYWHERE CORPUS CHRISTI IS ENJOYING GOOD SHIPPING MOBILE SHIPPING STILL BOOMS; RATED MEN ARE STILL IN DEMAND MIAMI EXPECTS ADDED P&O RUNS DURING APRIL MILWAUKEE GETS UNDER WAY DULUTH AREA MARITIME TRADES COUNCIL ELECTS ITS OFFICERS SHOREGANG WORK IS PLENTIFUL IN SAN JUAN HURRY! HURRY! HURRY! NEW YORK NEEDS RATED MEN IN BLACK GANG SEAFARERS CONTRACT ASSURES SECURITY, PROTECTION FOR SEAMEN ALL SIGNS POINT TO SIU SUCCESS ON GREAT LAKES SHIPS IN TRANSIT ARE KEEPING PORT ARTHUR BUSY LAKES SEAMEN, VISIT SIU HALLS AND SEE DEMOCRACY IN ACTION FIND 10 G'S, GET REWARD OF 50 BUCKS FORT FREDERICA'S BUCKO TARGET OF CREW'S BLAST LONGFELLOW CREW CAN'T EAT SHIP'S ROLLING BOURN MEN URGE STRIKE FUND VOTE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/4/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/29f982aeeaaa392deba9de9046a9fbc7.PDF eae14ef3a245b8daa038985024392fa7 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf and Great Lakes Districts, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. MARCH 28. 1947 MAKING PLANS FOR THE SEAFARERS \ * ' Panama Transfers, Great Lakes Drive Highlight Convention CHICAGO — Charging that certain people in the State Department, among them Under Secre­ tary William L. Clayton, are "more interested in giving American ships away to foreign countries than helping to,build a powerful merchant mar­ ine," Harry Lundeberg, President of the Seafarers International Union of North America, highlight­ ed the Union's third biennial Convention with a 1!^ Tribute Te Hawk The first Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America since 1944 is being held this week in Chicago. Representing the Atlantic and Gulf Districts, the Sailors Union of the Pacific, the Great Lakes District, the American Merchant Marine Staff Officers Associa­ tion, and the British Columbia Seamen's union, are the Brothers pictured above. Front row, left to right. Earl Smith. John Mogan. Harry Lundeberg. R. D. Thompson, and Charles Brenner. Sec­ ond row, in the usual order, John Massey. W. H. Simmons, Bob Dombroff. Sonny Simmons. Paul Hall, Morris Weisberger, and Ed Coester. Rear row. L to R. Red Gibbs. Einar Nordaas. Fred Farnen, Cal Tanner. Tom Hill, Herbert Jansen. and William McLaughlin. Agents Conference Proposals Accepted By Coastwise A&G Membership Meetings f No. 13 NEW YORK, March 27 — At regular meetings last night of the Atlantic and Gulf District, the membership approved in full the recommendations of the Agents Conference. Out of the conference came many plans whi'ch will help to consolidate the gains made by the Union during the past year— gains which led the way for all other waterfront unions. In the week-long conference, which ended Saturday, March 22, decisions were reached which will make possible the further expansion of the Union. In this waj', seamen may see their dreams of "one big seamen's un­ ion" come true. Among the decisions reached were proposals to immediately survey the Union's strike appara­ tus, and to make any changes which are needed to bring the apparatus into smooth running order. It was the feeling of the Agents that 1947 might see some sort of economic action on the water­ front, and they wished to see the Union in as good position for any coming action as it was for the 1946 .General Strike. The organizing campaign was "We are indeed sorry io report that John Hawk, Secy.Treasurer of the Atlantic and Gulf District, and First VicePresident of the International is unable to be present with our delegation, because of ill health. Whitey's health for some time past has been bad, and ihe many struggles of the past few years have contributed towards that ill­ ness. It appears he will be out indefinitely, and his ab­ sence will be keenly felt, as we will sorely miss his abil­ ity and great experience. "Under his guidance and leadership our Union has made great strides since our organizational inception in 1938. He has indeed been a bulwark of great strength in our battles with our enemies; the shipowners, bureaucrats and commies alike. "We sincerely hope for his immediate recovery, and his return to action in our be­ half." (From Report to Convention by Paul Hall) Shipping rules were discussed, analyzed, and a suggestion was made whereby the Seafarers and it was decided to allow them could organize any unorganized to stand as they were last amend­ maritime craft. ed by the 1946 Conference. In the matter of education and publicity, the Log was appraised in regard to its organizational use, and was highly praised. More Within the next few days educational features were recom­ the National Maritime Union mended by the conference, and will finish questioning its several new pamphlets and book­ witnesses in its flimsy collu­ lets will be issued in the near sion charges against the Sea­ future. farers. Other matters which were dis­ After the SlU has had a cussed, and decisions regarding chance to refute the charges, them apear on page 9. and all testimony has 'been It was with deep and sincere heard, the evidence will be regret that the Agents accepted OTTAWA -- The Canadian submitted to the headquar­ the application for a leave of ab­ Communist Party, and the CP ters of the National Labor sence from Secretary-Treasurer Relation Board for final dis­ John Hawk. For reasons of health tlie world over, received a body position. Hawk asked for a six months blow last week when J. A. "Pat" Up to this point, the NMU leave, and this was granted by Sullivan, head of the Canadian has submitted little that can the conference. J. P. Shuler was Seamen's Union, quit his job in be termed real evidence— named Acting Secretary-Treas­ disgust over the way seamens' mainly because such evi­ urer. rights were being subverted to dence does not exist. As soon as the sessions ended, the communist cause. Besides the SlU officials many of those pi-esent at the "My decision to take this step and members present at the meeting left for the SIU Conven­ was re .ched," he said, "when I hearings, the Union is repre­ tion in Chicago which convened became convinced that the inter­ sented by Attorney Ben on Monday, March 24. ests of organized labor were be­ Sterling, and by lawyers Some will stay on in Chicago ing subverted by the agents of Kaiser and Glenn, from the after the Convention ends to at­ communism to their own ends." office of Joseph Padway. tend the meeting of the AFL Mar­ This revelation was all the AFL Attorney. itime Trades Department. This is due to start Monday, March 31. more striking because it came Isthmian Hearing request that the Convention adopt a program designed to halt the transfer of American ships to Panamanian- registry. "American capital has trans­ ferred United States governmentbought ships to Panamanian reg­ istry ... to save taxes, to operate ships with cheaper crews, and to Reporting for the Atlantic and Gulf District. SlU. As­ sistant Secretary J. P. Shuler. and Director of Organization Paul Hall, stated that the Union had experienced much growth and a great deal of success since the last Con­ vention. Shuler's report ap­ pears on page 3. avoid regular steamboat inspec­ tion service," President Lunde­ berg said. The statement urged Congress to take proper steps to safeguard the interests of the American merchant marine, and "that if no action is taken . . . we inaugur­ ate the policy of boycotting all Panamanian ships sailing in or out of American ports." This recommendation follows {Continued on Page 14) Canadian And U.S. Communists Have Complete Control Of CSU from a labor leader of long standing, one who has headed the CSU from the day it was founded in 1935, and from one who followed the communist party line for many years. Sullivan never made a secret of the fact that he was sym­ pathetic to the communists, and even went to jail for a stretch from 1940 to 1942 when he was imprisoned with other commies for his anti-war stand. This of course, was when the commies condemned the war as "imperialist." Later, when Rus­ sia was attacked, he became an (Continued on Page 6) �THE SE AE ARERS LOG Page Two Friday, March 28, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 i. s. i. HARRY LUNDEBERG . 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. President JOHN HAWK Secy-Treas., Atlantic & Gulf District P. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. FRED FARNEN Secy-Treas. Gt. Lakes District 1038 Third Street, Detroit, Michigan Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, atjhe Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act.of August 24, 1912. GEORGE K. NOVICK,' Editor 267 Illegal Transfers It is high time that the Congress of the United States, and appointed officials in high places, came to the realiza­ tion that their job is to represent the majority of the peo­ ple, not the fortunate few with wealth and position. For the past few months the American people have been shocked to hear that the American merchant marine, which was built up at a sacrifice during the war, was be­ ing transferred to foreign registry so that a few U. S. capi­ talists could add to their already overflowing bank accounts. These ships were built by the Government, and paid for out of the taxes of the people. They were operated by private companies during the war, at exorbitant prof­ its, and later bought by these same companies at a small fraction of the original cost or actual worth of the vessels. Not satisfied with this, American shipowners figured out a new dodge. They started transferring ships to Pana­ manian and Flonduran registry so that they could avoid payment of decent salaries to seamen, and avoid paying taxes to the United States Government. Practically ever) action of the shipowners in these "dummy" transfers is illegal. So there must be connivance from highly placed officials who allow such maneuvers to take place. Before the war, the American merchant marine had shrunk to a mere 13 million tons. During the war, it sky­ rocketed to 50 million tons, and many promises were made' that the merchant marine would never be allowed to dis­ integrate again. -"i^oday, only a short time after the end of the con­ flict, the total tonnage has dwindled to 30 million. Those ships which have been transferred to foreign registry are competing in the American trade. They sail These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, in and out of American ports, carrying American goods, as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging but there the similarity ends. heavily on their hwds. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Panamanian seamen are sailing those ves.sels, drawing ing to thsm. lower wages than those paid to United States seamen. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL JOHN RILEY (G. L.) JAMEg' MeMAHoN (G/ L-.) Regular steamboat inspection, required under. U. S. law, J. NAVARRO WILLIAM RYAN (G.L.) is avoided. In the long run this will mean the loss of many P. DAUGHERTY WILLIAM, GILES J. RETOUR lives due to faulty equipment. CHARLES WENDEL G. KRETZER Etut the main importance to American seamen is that ft t ft C. MASON this business of moving ships from one country to another MOBILE HOSPITAL S. MOGAN like checkers is the opening wedge in a campaign to drive W. BROCE, Jr. MARION D. PENRY down the earnings of U. S. merchant seamen. J. ROONEY MANUEL CARDANA Right now our wages and conditions are the most E. CUSTER C. A. GARNET advanced in the entire world. The seamen of other coun­ R. E. MULHOLLAND R. H. DAVIS H. H. HAMILTON W. J. SULLIVAN tries look to us for leadership. The shipowner would like J. W. DENNIS A. SABOURIN nothing better than to force us to cut our standards so as R. B. WRIGHT S. P. MORRIS to meet the competition of Panamanian seamert. R. B. KINAIRD E. L. MYERS The shipowners, and the Government officials who 4' if' t 4 have assisted in this piece of trickery, are in for a rude STATEN ISLAND HOSP. BALTIMORE HOSPITAL shock. The Seafarers International Union will not just R. G. MOSSELLER JAMES T. MOORE make protest against continuing the practice and let it JOHN McLEMORE P. SYRAX JOHN FOX go at that. K. KORNELIUSSEN Action will follow if Congress does not take steps ERNEST SIDNEY C. H. SULLIVAN EDWARD CAIN JR. to halt the illegal transfer of American ships. A boycott of E. E. CASEY SOLOMON (SUL) HARB Panamanian ships has been asked for at the SIU Conven­ STANLEY HOLDEN M. j. LYDEN H. BEECHER tion in Chicago, and if it is instituted, it will become world­ ALBERT HAWKINS L. L. MOODY wide through the cooperation of the International Trans- ANTONIO AMARAL M. BAUCSKI CHARLES SIMMONS portworkers Federation. M. MORRIS PETER LOPEZ Boycott is a resounding answer to those who would TED BABKOWSKI W. R. BLOOM steal away the seamen's livelihood. Boycott it will be if the J. BOLGER WILLIAM HOWELL L. NELSON MICHAEL J. LUCAS transfers are not stopped. Men Now In The Marine Hospitals Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing tiftiCs: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—^^1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 pun. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) III L. A. CORNWALL C. M. HOUCHINS E. CARERRAS H. L. TILLOT M. J. FIELDS JOHN A. DYKES R. RIVERA C. E. SMITH if 4 if GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM 4 if if MOBILE HOSPITAL E. L. MYERS S. P. MORRIS M. D. PENRY �Friday, March 28, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three J.P. Shuler's Report To Int'l Convention m M: The Atlantic and Gulf District of the Seafarers Internation Un­ ion, since the last Convention, has been very active. For brevity, as well as clarity's sake, we will deal with these activities seriatuin. MEMBERSHIP, tion all other trade unions to as-1 Workers that are not covered by; tied up approximately 40 ships sist us in this drive. unemployment insurance, we' on the East and Gulf Coasts beThe membership of the Union If no citizenship can be grant­ recommend that the Convention fore the issue was broken, which at the present time .consists of ed our.alien members, we go on of our International be instructed was in favor of the SIU. approximately 30,000 duos pay record once again to fight for to im.modiatcly draft a program Our membership feels that ing members. This includes the their rights to sail American ves­ calling for specific action aimed these various Government Buvarious categories of books, pro sels until they can become citi­ at providing for seamen's unem-'reaus are just as much our enemy bationary, permits and tripcards zens of our country under the ployment insurance, effective as I as the shipowners inasmuch as We have, for some period of time prevailing naturalization laws. soon as possible. CONTRACTS they continually line up on the had our membership books same side of the fence with our MC TRAINING PROGRAM In the fall of last year, we were closed, except under certain con- SEAMEN'S BILL OF RIGHTS T • <• 4U X . 41 operators. For that reason, our able to negotiate contracts which Our organization has actively In view of the fact, as recently i u' „ •, tions. u,. T-.4 membeiship has gone on record were a great improvement over for a number of years fought for reported by our International Qualifications for membership repeatedly for the use of ecoour previous ones. Not only a Bill of Rights for Seamen. Our Officers, the Maritime Conrimisnow are that in addition to 12 . , w , , nomic action wherever possible were we able to raise our wages main objective, of course, has sion was granted million dol+ tu u months on a permit, a man must 10..4. Z ..._ ^ stop to the bureaucratic for all ratings, but the working been to protect seamen who have lars for a training program, we attacks against Union men. rules in all departments were have as well at least one trip on been injured during the war. feel our Union should take im­ an unorganized vessel in which The greatest beef resulting improved to a considerable de­ It is our opinion that these mediate action to stop same. the Union is attempting to or­ from coming into conflict with gree. men should be guaranteed medi­ We should request the AFL Government Bureaus and Agen­ This ha.s' resulted in several ganize. Thus we have been able cal and hospital treatment for as and other affiliates in the Mari­ to at this time prevent over­ cies, etc., was the 1946 General things. First of all, is the reac­ long as they are in need of such time Industry to assist us in makloading of the Organization with ^ ^ Strike which culminated from tion of our membership. They care. There is also the question ing every possible effort to put' ,, ^ r a heavy membership. . : interference on the part of the like our contracts very much, of providing for next of kin of j these characters out of business We are now in the process of Wage Stabilization Board. and as a result, take a much merchant seamen who were in- for all times. We feel this entire greater interest in the Organiza­ making a complete survey of all jured during the war and who set-up should be declared as 1946 GENERAL tion itself than ever before. our available jobs and in the fu­ were direct providers for their phony and every possible effort Secondly, our contracts assisted ture, admission for membership STRIKE be made to discourage the con­ families' welfare. us to some degree in improving will be governed by the number tinuance of it. In addition, there is the ques­ The General Strike was enthu­ our relations with the operators of available jobs under contract. tion of providing compensation As long as such so-called train- siastically received by our memin the business of handling dis­ for seamen injured during the ing programs are in existence, bership; principally because of GOVT. BUREAUS putes. Finally, our new contracts war who find themselves now there is always the fear of them the fact that it was not a surare a great aid in organizing the AND AGENCIES unable to make a living. being used as fink factories .»in prise move, but something that unorganized men under our ban­ Our Union has, along with case of strike. each member of the Union had We reaffirm our Union's pre­ ner. other District Unions in the sea­ vious position on this question. WASHINGTON participated in bringing about. Various points which had been men's field, had many hard strug­ The AFL Legislative Committee I The entire apparatus, the me­ confusing in previous contracts gles with the various Government is now working with us on this chanics and the directives which were clarified in our present Inasmuch as the various Con- governed the strike had been agreement, thereby making it Bureaus and Agencies. As a re­ problem. Our organization has notified gressmen and would be union worked out through a period of more simple to settle disputes. sult of these various disputes, This, in turn, Iras been a saving our recently concluded Agents' all Congressmen and Senators wreckers are now busy in Wash- six months by our Organizers, of energy on the part of the Un­ Conference adopted the follow­ from all coastal ports of our po- ington trying to cram their anti- with membership participation. ion and has enabled us to apply ing proposals on Government sition and our desire for passage labor legislation into effect, this consultation and group meetings. of a bill that will be fair and Committee feels that the SIU j We were faced with problems our energy into other fields in Agencies and Legislation: just. should have representation in' different somewhat from that of the Union itself. COAST GUARD We recommend the continual Washington as soon as possible on ' other areas. During the period The position of our organiza­ pressing of our program for this a permanent basis. of the War, the "shipowner perBINANCES tion towards control by the Coast bill and enlisting the aid of all This Committee recommends the NMU, the commies While the record shows an in­ Guard of the American seamen unions towards achievement of that the subject be taken up at i succeeded by infiltration in crease in available funds in com­ through the U. S. Steamboat In­ this end—A Complete Bill of the International Convention in securing themselves a strong poparison to previous years, this, spection Service, and through Rights for Seamen. Chicago to place such a repre-1 sition both within the MMP and in every respect of the word, is the U. S. Shipping Commission­ sentative in Washington. the MEBA. The CMU was at not a true analysis. MARINE HOSPITALS er's Office hcis never changed. We further recommend to the the height of jte The income of the Organiza­ We recommend that it be We have been, and are actively tion since the last Convention was fighting, for the return of this brought to the attention, as often International Convention that ^lory and the SIU was looked upgreatly increased due to the fact function back to the Department as possible, to Surgeon General they study the possibilities of on unfavorably and regarded by that we caused to be opened var­ of Commerce where it belongs. Parron of the Public Health Serv­ working out a joint program, many as an extremely "small, ineffective" Union. ious new Branches and placed of­ The control of American mer­ ice, of the'many instances where with other AFL Maritime Unions, Although the Seafarers were ficials in them. This was done chant seamen by the Coast Guard seamen because of being on the a system for joint support of such the spearhead of the 1946 Gen­ to prevent "freeloaders" from puts the seamen under control beach over 60 days have been de­ legislative offices and represen­ eral Maritime Strike by winning riding SIU . vessels and paying of a military department of the nied hospital privileges, although tatives in Washington. our strike in short order, we no revenue for the privilege. Government. It takes away cer­ in dire need of same. This, we feel, is very important ^ , , . . found ourselves in the beginning This, however, at the same' time, tain privileges and rights enjoyed ^ In some ports, at the present at this time and unless it ,s done, increased our expenditures. Ad- by seamen. It adds a heavier time, this 60 day ruling has been phonies may slip something over possiblities of ditonal expense was undergone burden on the American taxpay­ extended to 90 days; but even on us. If we are not at all times Unions being taken when we purchased our own er and should be changed. this, in our opinion, is not suf­ informed of what they are shap- over by the comrades. To eliminHalls in the Ports of Boston, Nor­ Our organization has already ficient. ing up in the vvay of trying to immediately lent aU folk and Tampa. Incidentally, put our position before all the We should press immediately destroy the trade union move-' resources to the this is along with our New Or­ members of the Committee on the point that as.Iong as a man is ment in maritime. ' launched an all-out leans Hall which was purchased Merchant Marines and Fisheries in this industry, seeking his liv­ While not going into complete drive against the commie clique before the 1944 Convention, and and has received assurance ing, he should at all times be details on this, we feel it is im-' dominating the MEBA. broii,ght to four the number of through the AFL that it is help­ qualified for treatment at USPHS portant to point out a couple of During the entire course of the our own establishments. and Marine Hospitals, regardless disputes resulting on the East Officers' Strike, we continued this ing us _ •Ills uo in ill our uui fight. iisiiv. One further expense of the Ortransfer of the Steamboat of the length of time on the and Gulf Coasts between our-1 program with the result that ganization over the past two Inspection and U. S. Shipping beach. selves and various Bureaus and within a very short period of years has been that of organiza­ Commissioner's Office back to We further recommend a com­ the results of same. time, the communists within the tional work. This was attributed the Department of Commerce plete survey, as has been going In the Port of New York, after MMP were ousted and a counter­ to Isthmian Steamship Company must be done through an Act of on, by the SIU of all Marine Hos­ long persecution at the hands of balance of power established and later expanded to various Congress. pitals and investigation as to con­ the Coast Guard, the Organiza­ within the MEBA. other unorganized companies This Committee recommends ditions of same. tion finally tried the use of eco­ A great amount of credit must Then too, there wore the very that, in the final analysis, in the In the event of case^ of mis­ nomic action to prevent same be given to the ILA, both Long­ heavy expenses of the 1946 event of failure of the introduc­ treatment or of bad ho.spital con­ and tied up the SS Helen of Bull shoremen and Harbor Workers, Strike. tion of proper legislation to ditions, notice of such treatments Steamship Company. The Com­ who worked closely with us dur­ In spite of these heavy expen­ handle, this matter, that we set are to be called to the attention ditures, however, the Organiza­ forth a proposition to all mari­ of Surgeon General Parron or pany was forced to pay the men ing the entire strike and who, in tion at the present time is in a time unions, regardless of affili­ Assistant Surgeon R. G. Wil­ complete standby wages from the work hours actually were on time they lost their papers to strike as supporting factors sound condition. ation, the possibilities of all un­ liams, Chief Bureau of Medical the time they received them back longer than we were. We find it nece.ssary at this ions using economic action at the Service, Public Health, Washing­ from the Coast Guard as a result It can truthfully be said that time, however, to economize ijoint of production, as in the case ton, D. C. of economic pressure. Since that the General Strike of 1946 was throughout the entire structure of the SS Helen in the Port of We further recommend that our action, no SIU contracted oper­ the primary factor in organizing of our Union so as to operate on New York this past year, if not International Union, take steps ator, or its employees, have nationally the AFL Maritime a full peacetime basis. for the elimination of the Coast to place our entire International called the Coast Guard into any Trades Department, although This has been considered by Guard then at least, the toning Union on record for increased ship's beef. theoretically, it had been in ex­ both the membership and the of­ down of their dictatorial methods subsidies to the Marine Hospitals istence for some time previous. The Operation Division of the ficials of our Union, as well as of so-called disciplining of Amer- and the USPHS, so as to increase WSA during 1946 refused to alIt ^vas the strike that gave birth our Agents' Conference. The re­ can seamen. their facilities and service to U. low the Union and its contracted tu the concept that alone any sults of this consideration was S. Merchant Seamen and, if at operators to use collective barMaritime Union was powerless, ALIEN SEAMEN that a program was laid down in all possible, to their families. gaining to secure a proper rider. that united they were indesOur organization is on record regards to the finances of our UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE As a result of this interference tructible. Union, calling for retrenchment. to fight for citizenship for alien The NMU, MCS and certain In view of the fact that the sea­ and meddling on the part of this By following this program, the seamen who sailed on American particular Government Bureau, sections of the MEBA tried to use men are one of the few, if not Organization will be in a solid Flag Ships during the war. We the last, section of American the SIU used economic action and i {Continued on Page 14) reaffirm this position and petifinancial position. �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Groundwork Laid In Lakes Drive; SlU Rank And File Participate Friday, March 28, 1947 Volunteer Organizer do the job, but with a solid basis large "number of :^IU-contracted set up, the rest is simply a mat­ companies. The organization drive on the ter of hard work, with man­ When Fran Krabavac made Seamen in this region have no Great Lakes has now passed its power the backbone of the drive. reason to respect the NMU, the the Zane Grey, Isthmian Steam­ third week — three weeks of so-called union that called a ship Company, as a volunteer OUTLOOK GOOD hard work that have broken the strike up here without author­ organizer eighteen months ago. ground for a real all-out cam­ That's the way it shapes up on ization from the men sailing the he thought he would make one paign to unionize the many men ships. Those men lost their bon­ trip and then ship out on a con­ who sail under shipowner con­ the Lakes. The SIU has the or­ uses, and wages, and received no tract vessel. ^ ganization to dp the job, but it ditions. Today, after eighteen months takes men to contact the ships, material gains in the long run. It hasn't been easy to do the talk to the men, and get the They also have no reason to on Isthmian ships, he is deter­ necessary spadework. The NMU, SIU message across. respect the Lake Carriers As­ mined to continue shipping Isth­ with its selfish strike last fall, sociation, or the other phony mian until the company signs a This may sound like an un­ made lots of Lakes seamen bit­ company unions that exist up contract with the SIU. necessary invitation to most ter. But the Seafarers came in here. Lakes seamen know that He was on the Zane Grey less with a spotless reputation, and SIU members. It probably is, they have been sold nut time but if there are any men with than a month. After that fol­ that has made the majority of and time again by groups that lowed ten months on the Ed­ Great Lakes experience, who the Lakes seamen listen to us want to participate in the drive worked with the bosses and mund Fanning, then seven with interest. on the Lakes, they can do a against the seamen. months on the Sea Hawk. He's The Great Lakes seamen have good job by contacting the SIU This time the story is changed. still on the last named. been assured that the SIU had repi'esentative in the port they This time the seamen have a Brother Krabavac got his sea nothing to do with the NMU want to ship out of. chance to pick a Union that has training sailing Yugoslavian phony strike. It is to our credit a reputation for protecting and ships. Twenty-three years ago There's a big job to be done, that our work has been good fighting for its members. With he started out to sea, just to see and the same spirit that won a FRAN KRABAVAC enough for these men, and they such a choice, it's a good bet what it was like. He enjoyed his resounding election in the Isth­ have received us very whole­ that they will pick the SIU. experiences so much that he up by a United States vessel mian Steamship Company (NMU The next few months will tell heartedly. stalling to the contrary) can the story. The SIU has a good decided to make the sea his and brought to this country. This section needs organiza­ In his native land Krabavac knock over the anti-labor Lakes chance to organize many sea­ career. tion. No flash in the pan could had been a member of the sea­ operators. SUNK BY NAZIS men who haven't had the oppor­ men's union, and so it was nat­ Right now the situation shapes tunity to sail under decent con­ Only once did he come close ural for him to want to join a up in the following manner: ditions. They want to. but they to regretting his decision. That union in the U.S. was when the President KopajSeveral companies have start­ have to be contacted first. "Our union in the old coun­ ed early fit-out operations. Be­ It is our duty to do that job. tic, a Yugoslav ship, was sunk try was a good one," he recalls, cause our men are on the ball, Come, hell or high water, the in the Carribean in 1941. "but not as strong as the SIU. and willing to go all out in the organizing drive will go on — Fran was on that ship, and So I joined the SIU." drive, those ships are now prac­ and to a really successful con­ the survivors drifted for a few tically solid SIU. days before they were" picked SETTLED PERSONAL SCORE clusion! He sailed many ships during The Union will be calling for Charging flatly that anti-closed the war. usually right into the contracts in these companies shop laws were unconstitutional within the near future, or pet­ danger zones, because as he puts it, "I had a personal score because they nullified the "right itioning the National Labor Re­ to settle with Hitler. His troops lations Board for elections. of contract," AFL President Wil­ ovei'ian my country." We know that a fight is in liam Green last week told AFL Brother Fran more than set­ store for us. We are ready and unions that they would be justi­ tled the score. The supplies waiting, confident in the fact TAMPA—Winning a bargain­ day. One of the important sub­ carried on ships manned by fied in ignoring such laws in thai cooperation from the Great ing election in this state means jects for discussion will, be the Krabavac and other merchant states which have enacted them. Lakes seamen has been excel­ absolutely nothing. It's not very organizing of a prograr," design­ seamen made possible the vict­ The statement was made by lent so far. difficult to organize the workers, ed to beat Attorney-General Tom ory over the Nazis in Europe. Green at the convention of the In­ especially into AFL Unions, but Watson when he runs for Gov­ SIU IS CHOICE When the war was •finally ternational Brotherhood of Paperonce the election has been held, ernor. won, Fran still wanted action, so So good has been the help the courts take over. makers, which met in Chicago. Labor never had a more bitter he volunteered his services as .T-.T 11 J i , 1 given us by the Lakes seamen The AFL has already started , \u ^ The injunctions , which have enemy than Watson. He has laid an organizer. He was told to ^ ^ ,, , „ , I themselves, that our organizers test cases of the open-shop law, . J ,u ^ ,u OTTT • been issued in Florida are some­ his plans carefully to advance try to make an Isthmian ship, , . .. I are convinced that the SIU is in Nebraska and several otheroverwhelming choice of the thing to see. No picketlines are himself politically by trading on and if successful, there would be states, but It may take close to allowed, the closed shop has been labor. plenty for him to do. outlawed, and labor is straitjacktwo years before the first chal- -^g The State Federation of Labor JOB WELL DONE lenge reaches the Supreme Court. He was successful, and thus It's impossible to state right etcd if and when a strike is call­ will have to do the big job in campaigning against Watson be­ started eighteen months of hard Until then, 'the AFL v/ill chal­ at the start how good an organ­ ed. The employer hires scab la­ cause the CIO is very small po­ work. lenge the validity of the laws," izing drive might wind up. But Brother Krabavac was on the Green said. "The Supreme Court j if .spirit is any indication, the bor, and the police escort the tatoes in Florida. In Tampa the Seafarers is tak­ Edmund Fanning when the ship has upheld the closed shop and next few months will see plenty scabs through picketlines. They will again so decide." ! of Lakes companies joining the have done it so often lately that ing an active part in the fight was voted in Baltimore, Mary­ it appears that strikebreaking is against Mayor Hixon and his ma­ land. The NMU was sure of this the biggest job for Florida police chine. . one; the NMU organizers had men. We have had some pretty bad already put it down in the win School teachers, the most un­ experiences with Hixon, when he column. derpaid people in the state, and took the lead in breaking the But the work of Krabavac and perhaps even in the nation, are taxi drivers' strike. the others proved too much, and in the middle of an organizing We are going to supply plenty ^^^en the balloting was completNEW YORK — Cheered by a cago convention of the Office campaign here. of cars and drivers to take voters rolled up betpledge of unqualified support Employes International Union, of They are meeting with plenty to the polls and home again on ^er than a three to one majority, from Harry Lundeberg, president which the UFE is an affiliate. of opposition from the press, the election day. "That did my heart good," of the Seafarers International "If there is any place in Amer­ politicians, and civic leaders. said Fran. jg ....... "On unorganized It is no secret that labor Union, the United Financial Em­ ica where high wages and better FII^THY SLANDER • ships a seaman is not treated rallying voters against Hixon, ployes, AFL, stepped up its plans working conditions should pre­ Editorials in the papers ac­ for a strike against the Wall vail," Green said, "it is in the tually slander the teachers, and and it is no secret that the labor- decently, and all that will when the SIU gets a conStreet exchanges and brokerage money-making establishments" of call them malcontents, rabble hating. machine is plenty worried T c*+1-» »VM o tract TtrifV* with Isthmian.' over the outcome. houses and announced April 21 Wall Street. rousers, and worse. All this to Krabavac gave some instances as the walkout date. Prior to his address. Green honest people who arc 'trying The picture is black, but Tom of what he means when he says Lundeberg gave assurances of conferred privately with Lunde­ to obtain decent wages and con­ Watson and the other labor-bait­ that seamen are "not treated SIU backing to M, David Keefe, berg and Keefe. ers have forced us to band to­ decently." ditions. UFE president, when the two met The projected strike stems A Citizens Committee has been gether to beat the people who "First of all, the food is poor, in Chicago last week. from the refusal of A. M. Kidder set up, and they are trying to hate the workers. and scarce," he stated. "Quart­ The SIU official said that be­ and Company to negotiate a con­ show the teachers that a union is From now on its a finish fight, ers are small and they try to cause the UFE was militant in tract with UFE. The street-wide unnecessary. But the teachers and labor is going to keep right crowd >men into the- foc'sles. pressing for its just demands it walkout will cut off the possibility are not going to be mislead by on battling until victory is won. Overtime is just a word on those merited Seafarers support, which of business being conducted for anything that this group prom­ ships, and a man rarely gets ultimately would aid the entire Kidder by the Stock and Curb ises. time enough to eat a full meal." labor movement. exchanges or their member firms. The feeling is that nothing was It was for reasons such as A similiar pledge from William The UFE scored a major vic­ done before the teachers started those that Isthmian voted over­ Green, AFL president, said his tory recently when — with full organizing, and that if their un­ whelmingly for SIU representa­ entire organization would stand SIU support—it struck and par­ ion fails, the civic authorities tion. And it is for such reasons with the financial workers "until alyzed the New York Cotton Ex­ will not increase wages or better that Fran Krabavac became a they win victory," change. The union won a con­ conditions. volunteer organizer, and is going Green announced the AFL tract after one day on the picketThe Florida Federation of La­ to stick at it until a contract is backing in a speech at the Chi­ lines. bor Convention started on Mon­ [signed, sealed, and delivered. By EARL SHEPPARD Green Advises Unions To Ignore Open Shop Laws Florida Labor Gets Ready To Oppose Tom Watson Lundeberg Pledges Int'l Support To UFE In Wall Street Strike '-i-i.Vl �l: Friday. March 28. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Delegates Gather For SIU Convention ( • t; It M'ji 1 11:' Above is the Atlantic and Gulf District delegation to the Convention. Standing, left to right, John Mogan, Lindsey Williams. Sonny Simmon,, Paul Hall, and Red Gibbs. Seated, in the same order. Earl Smith, W. H. Simmons. J. P. Shuler. and Gal Tanner. Fishermen and fish cannery workers had their representation. Left to right, Joe Perry and Lester Caveny, Fish Cannery Workers Union of Monterey, Cal., and John Crivello, Seine and Line Fishermen's Union of Monterey, Cal. The SUP had the next largest delegation to the A&G Dis­ trict. Seated, L to R, Bob Dombroff, Harry Lundeberg, and Morris Weisberger. Standing, John Massey, R. D. Thompson. Charles Brenner, and Ed Coester. The Great Lakes District was well represented by Fred Farnen, Larry Martin, and Herbert Jansen, seated left to right, and Einar Nordaas and William McLaughlin, standing. McLaughlin is from the British Columbia Seamen's Union, f I Vi Delegates came from as far away as Alaska. Above, on the right, is John S. Amayo. President of the Alaska Fish Cannery Workers Union. Beside him s George Issel. representing the Fish Cannery Workers Union of the Pacific. San Francisco Bay Area. The Fish Cannery Workers and Fishermen's Union, San Diego, California, was represented by \ Frank Currier. Business Agent; C. H. Burns. Fisherman; and Lester Ballenger, Secretary-Treasurer. ' �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six Friday, March 28. 1947 /ts True — Rhode Island Pays Bonus To Soamon Lakes Seamen Sullivan Says Invited To Visit Commies Have UETERATIS' BOTIUS BOARD Buffalo Hall Control Of CSU of trail ^rab&mn ^pisntBtions STATE HOUSE (Continued from Page 1) ardent supporter of the Second Front. In his statement, Sulivan, who was also secretary-treasurer of the Canadian Trades and Labor Congress, ad;nitted that he had been a member of the CP from 1937 until three months ago. The CSU has always reflected the Kremlin line, and it was for that reason that the charter of the union was revoked by the Seafarers International Union in August. 1944. PROVIDENCE 2. FL I. Merchant Marine Application For Bonus Under Chapter 1721, Public Laws of 1944 All Answers Must Be Typewritten or Printed In Ink 1. Name under which applicant entered the aervice 2. Present name (if different) 3. Mailing address (present) —.JLQ. Z^£.ltLillg.-AY9-i—C^nStOO -B,-!-. Na SiTHt Cl^orum r.O. Zmm Sma Sex-Male (3 Female • No. and location of Draft Board where applicant regiatered —S»5 aiTer.ATe. ,—PrnTldwnflH, H. I • Period served in Merchant Marine: i v.,.-!, a. Date of entry into service 5jL._iSli5 Place gaW YOrk b. Date of discharge or relea.- r from service —St ill IP jS.9rTlP9—Place i c. Serial Number Dd you serve on an army transport or merchant ship operated for the United Sutea War Shipping AdminiatiatioD between the dates of December 7.-1941 and September 2, 1945? Yfl8 4. 5. e. 7. t/iP llAlll.KY ttm , IM 8. Name war zene areas where served? 9. Place of birth...-Pro Jlldeaa«.»_JEU.L. JtiHh hkn at h. ATHKM aaMOa .. No ifdUarranaan -Mlddla-gajl.,. 10. Date of birth— MANY IMPLICATED 11. Length of LEGAI. RESIDENCE in Rhode Island IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO ENTRY INTO SERVICE Sullivan implicated many 12 LEGAL RESIDENCE at time of entry into service -70 Perk^» ATai...,-.-PXOal.diUiaj.,_ R. T. rso. Btrtia Otp or Tova Stato people in his blast against com13. LEGAL RESIDENCES for period of six mcotha immediately prior to entry into service Prn¥l dWIlfia^—R.l. • FROM TO munst machinations in the CSU, and in the Canadian labor move­ ment. He named Fred Rose, a form.er 14. AddreigivenM time of separation from aervice citi member .of Parliment, who was 15. Name and legal addrpsees of parents at time of entry into service _ 1&7.S w. PrQTld(uiga._Bal. sent to jail in the atom bomb plot, as one "of those who used 16. If married at time of entry into service, name and legal addreMoI wife (or husband) fl UTI hmugh the seamen to further the ends 17. Hav?^Tecri>^a^Veter^''bM«urori«i^^ bom this or any other ^te becauae ol service srith the Armed Forcct or the of the communist party. Merchant Marine in World War II? ^ He also named Alderman J. B. If "Yes" what State — —— Salsberg as a party member who PENALTY PROVISION: Ch. 1721, Pub. Laws ol 1946, "Whoever knowmgly makea a false atatement. oral or written, rdtfing to a material fact in supporting a claim under the proviaicns of thia^ ahail bemoni^of not mat than SSCO^ or by transmitted funds to him from imprisonment (or not more than one year, or both.*>^^*^/' ^^ ^ the party in order to finance • the 1937 strike against the lake Subscribed and sworn to before me thir_,.V^^Z5 ; <l»y of——fftbTlWry ship owners. "In the period from 1943 on­ NMsryPyblk wards." Sullivan stated, "the DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE executives of the seamen, the CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL same as lots of other unions, It is certified that this application meeU all requuemeoU of ChapiCer 1721 Pulic Laws of 1946 and it ia recjuested that pay. have been gradually in the pro­ ment ol the State Bonus oU200.00 be made to the following person: Cfftificate No. . N^of cess of taking into their ranks, either knowingly or unknowing­ ly, members of the communist party — for instance, in Halifax, AppfOTsd-Stnta Bonus C. H. Meads, who was an Amer­ ican seaman, but who had never sailed in Canada, was drafted in ORIGINAL DISCHARGE OR RELEASE MUST BE ATTACHED HERETO from the NMU and is now in complete charge of the east coast for the seamen and gen­ eral secretary for the fishermen; Some time ago the Seafarers Log ran a story regarding payment of a Bonus to Rhode Island whose wife, at the same time, is merchant seamen who had sailed during the war. At that time there was not too much known about the provincial secretary for the this, but now the Log has first-hand information from a veteran seaman who has already filled out communist party, the necessary application for some of that Bonus money. On this page we have reproduced the CP IN CONTROL application form. Sullivan stated flatly, the same as Joe Cur ran has done in In order to be eligible for ^uch payment, the applicant must be a legal resident of the State the NMU, that the CP placed of Rhode Island, and must have been a resident of that state at the time of entry into wartime men in the national office of the merchant marine service. If those two qualifications are met, then it is just another short step to CSU to direct party work. "In the national office," he filling in the form and- collecting the $200,00. said, "the communist party, of Application forms can be obtained by writing to the Veterans' Bonus Board, State House, course, has taken full control, Providence 2, Rhode Island. where they have placed Jerry McManus in as secretary but act­ ually his work is to direct all political activities within the or­ ganization." Waste of seamen's ,money was another point on which Sullivan By RAY GONZALES The crew may allow the ship find the real cause of difficulty took the commies to task. to sail short of supplies expect­ lying witli the eunipany purchas­ "The executive officers ar i During the past years we have ing to pick up the shortages in ing agent. running all over both Canada fought long and hard to bring and the (United) States, sup­ conditions on our ships to what a foreign port. Therefore, let us cooperate However, when the ship ar­ 100 percent with our Chief posedly to be doing union work. they are today. .... In all those cases, the rives in a foreign country, the Stewards, Chief Cooks and dele­ In every battle we have en­ usual run of Skippers produce gates. seamen are footing the bill. The only work that McManus was tered, whether it was private' a letter from the company tell­ Of course, this does not mean doing was floating money from ship operators, commies or the ing them not to buy any stores that if a Steward is a phony we the NMU into this country and' government brass hat agencies, in foreign ports due to the high should pat him on the back and warn him to be a good boy from laying the groundwork for the we have always won and we cost of food. NMU coming into this country will continue to win our battles We all know that lack of ad­ now on. There is only one good way in order that they could take through the coperation and sol­ equate food causes a great deal idarity of the membership. of dissension among the- unlic­ to handlcthis food situation, and the CSU over." However, things are far from ensed personnel. Let these final words from that is when you arrive aboard perfect yet. After an extensive Sullivan make their own point. The Chief Steward is power­ your ship, call a meeting and "I also stated (at the 1946 con­ survey, I have noticed that food less to cope with the ftgh-handelect a delegate to contact the vention of the CSU) that I was and other supplies put aboard ed policies of many of the com­ Chief Steward,, This delegate should confer undecided whether or not to run our ships, purchased by penny- pany purchasing agents, and he pinching company agents, are of usualy winds up behind the with the Chief Steward and re­ for reelection," says Sullivan. "I was quickly told by Sals­ second or third grade quality. eight-ball. quest him to produce all requi­ In several instances, there The outcome of the company sitions and confirmations. berg that it wasn't a case of The Delegate should check whether or not I wanted to run have not been enough supplies sponsored difficulty usually finds as they, the communst party, put aboard for the expected dur­ the crewmembers slapping these carefully for quantity and had made the decision. Com­ ation of the voyage. In other charges against the Chief Stew­ quality. If he finds any short­ munist party discipline does not words the companies have delib­ ard or voting him off the ship. age or inferior grades, he should I think we should look before Immediately notify the Union alow for individual thought and erately shorted the crew of food we leap, and we would usually Hall, party orders must be obeyed." necessary for the trip. By FRATIK MORAN BUFFALO—Lakes seamen of all ratings, regardless of wheth­ er you have a ship to go to or not, are invited to drop into the Buffalo Hall, meet the local Or­ ganizer, and discuss your ship­ ping problems with him. You will meet plenty of oldtimer.s, and some of the younger Seafarers, who all know and will tell you of the advantages of real unionism, SIU style. In the SIU Hall, there is no waiting around, like there is in the company offices and LCA halls. SIU members register for jobs at the Union Hall where ship­ ping is conducted strictly on a rotary basis. They also have job security, guaranteed b y SIU contracts. Seafarers have preference in shipping on the same boat that they laid up last Fail, if they so wish, and don't have to wor­ ry about the bosses' friends tak­ ing their jobs. Unorganized Lakes .seamen don't know whether they have' a job in the Spring or not. Re­ gardless of whether they laid up some vessel or not, they don't know whether some friend or relative of the bosses will have their job when they look for it at the fit out. SIU contracts mean job security. • SIU CRE'WING UP In the Buffalo and Erie, Pa, areas, the shipping activity has been confined to SIU ships crewing up. The Local Agent for the SIU has bccH quite busy crewing up these boats, so it looks as though the SlU-contracted vessels will lead the parade out of this port when the initial sailing begins from here in the near future. Don't forget, all unorganized men are invited to help organ­ ize their ships into the SIU. Contact the local SIU Halls whenever possible, and give them yoUr suggestions for mak­ ing your ship an SIU .ship. In the SIU, you're backed by 65,000 SIU members, and the 8 million Brothers in the AFL. With this combination and sup­ port, you can't go wrong. Go SIU today! Some Companies Still Try To Chisel On Fooii Unfoi'tunately, in many* cases crews have neglected Lo report such beefs in time for the Pa­ trolmen to take action before the ship sails, or sometimes no­ tification is given just a few hours before she is to pull out. In these cases when a Patrol­ man comes aboard after the crew has held up the ship, and tells the company about the shortage or poor quality stores, the company will always scream "breech of contract!" "You've given us no time to replace the stores. You're hold­ ing up the ship, "We'd give you the stores if you'd notified us in time," •Well, lets see if they really mean what they say. Lets get our beefs into the Hall well in advance of sailing time. If they mean what they say the storerooms will contain first grade food and plenty of it. If they're pulling a fast one we'll pin their ears back! �Friday. March 20. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven Payoffs And Shipboard Playboys Keep Port Pbiladelpbia Active By E. B. TILLEY , PHILADELPHIA — Shipping as was necessar,y here. here is still bouncing along at a There has arisen a misunder­ good clip with a steady flow of standing on .some of the ships ships in and out of the port. that come in here pertaining to The past week ."^aw the paying- feeding while the ship is in port. off of four ships and the signing It seems that some of the Stew­ on of three, in addition to the^ ards Departments think that several ships we contacted in when their ship hits the dock transit. they don't have to work anymore. Silence Ihis week from ihe There were minor difficulties This is bad, for the rest of the Branch Agents of the follow­ By JOHN MOGAN aird beefs on a few of the ships ciew then wants subsistence and ing ports: but they were handled at the the companies yell bloody mur­ BOSTON—Business and ship­ ory and the Fort Winnebago BALTIMORE point of production and cleared der. They say that the food is ping is definitely on the increase (West Coast tanker) and the up in short order. NEW ORLEANS there for the Cooks to use. why in these parts. Upon my re­ four other ships in that port. turn to Boston from the Agent's One of the ships that came in don't they stay aboard and cook SAVANNAH In Boston, two Eastern ships Conference (for a breather be­ (the .Sam Johnston and the for payoff was the SB Chemawa it? SAN JUAN fore going on to Chicago for Falmouth) paid off during the They're right in that respect, of the Beacon Hill Company. Her NORFOLK the- International Convention) I week also, with the SS Sam troubles took a little time to so the in.si.stence of the Stew­ JACKSONVILLE learned that none of the boys Parker also scheduled for Fri­ square away. She had been out ards Departments in knocking had any chance to do any rest­ day, but held over the weekend. PORT ARTHUR on a nine month trip and for off in the galley is leading to ing while 1 was gone. nine months the crow had to put complications which will have to The deadline for port re­ The Falmouth has seen her up with the wild west antics of be ii'oned out. And, too, it appears that the last days as an SlU-contract ports. monies due, etc.. is the a Skipper who thought he was coming week will also be a busy ship — unless we can sign up On the other hand, we are Monday proceeding publica­ a real pistol packin' hot shot. one for all hands, with plenty of the Greeks — and the crew very happy over the cooperation tion. While every effort will ships scheduled to arrive in this certainly piled off her with This yokel, according to the that the ships' delegates are giv­ be made to use in the current area for payoff. crew, used to come out on deck ing us. Almost every delegate much regret. issue material received after Acting Agent Sweeney didn't twirling his 45 around his index calls the Hall as soon as his ship that date, space commitments She was old, she was cramped, get a chance to do any acting but crew and officers got along finger and yelling to the crew (as arrives and we have been cover­ generally do not permit us fo while 1 was gone. He spent the first-rate. if they didn't know it) that he ing them all in true SlU fashion do so. before the pay-off begins. entire time in Portland, which was the Skipper. On the Sam Johnston, there is enjoying some unprecedented Up and down the deck this were a few hours disputed for prosperity — thanks to 100.000 male Annie Oakley would parade some of the black gang, which tons of surplus potatoes. trying to impress the crew with is now payable. And since three ships were his pistol prowess. In the general confusion, an scheduled to pay off in Portland EXPENSIVE JOKES SUP ship (the Springer) came on Monday, (SS Purdue Victory This wasn't so bad, but he had in and paid off without repre­ and SS Ethiopia Victory, both another pleasure, sadistic at that, sentation: but the Delegate in­ By BLACKIE CARDULLO "Waterman and the SS Umatilla, which caused him amusement. formed the Patrolman on his He enjoyed it, but to the crew MARCUS HOOK — Shipping the worker's paradise — for him. a West Coast tanker) . and two others were slated to sign on ,, T , . it meant only the loss of cold is very good down here in the Oh. well, 1 guess his memory (the SS David Burnett, an Hook — so good in fact, that we cash. is short. American-Pacific scow^ and the He would listen attentively to haven't any men left on tiie SS Billings Victory, another To get away from the Pilot beach to put aboard the ships. a crewmember report.his misfor­ With all the boys out on the and the NMU 1 got a hot tip to Waterman) , Brother Goggin ac­ tune in a shoreside caprice with companied Jimmie Sweeney to the ladies, and then send the poor ships I'm getting kind of lonely pass along. All you members Portland on Sunday to try to guy ashore to some sawbones j^^t sitting here looking at the can look for a new Hall to be line this deal up. who would give the guy a shot hoard with no one to talk to, opened soon in Marcus Hook. Well, it would have been of penicillin for a 40-buck fee. j that's the way it is, and Believe me, it is going to be somewhat of a feat, if this pro­ TVT , 11 the victims • .• Ti 1.^ ex-'I who- am I to kick if shipping Naturally didn't s is second to none. Stand by for gram had been knocked off in good. announcement of the grand one day. what with the Umatilla actly throw the Skipper bouquet: opening. According to the NMU Pilot, for this trick, and the guys were berthed over in South Portland Joe Curran is giving Joe Stack a at the pipe-line; but the ship­ P.S. Got a letter today from visit that they paid off in good hard time, and is trying to throw fAHOY ' -AKD I ping commissioner weakened (or Frank Snyder commenting on style, with no overtime disputes, him out on his ear. I AViPPeef so the boys tell me) and the but with a real beef about the It seems as though Curran has the .piece we had about him in Ethiopia was carried over to Steward. reached the point where he this column. He told us he is Tuesday. The MC&S Patrolman ordered doesn't like his colleague any now a salesman for good unionGOODBYE, PLEASE this character to pack up when more. He should remember that made cigars. "Well Frank, just Brother Sweeney remained in the boys told him their beef. when you play with fire you're remember, Blackie smokes cig­ Portland, where he took care of bound to get burnt. GOOD BUNCH the payoffs of the Ethiopia Vict­ ars too. A funny thing about the Pilot The manpower situation would is its conspicuous absence on have been critical were it not the Marcus .Hook waterfront. for the fact that the turnover on ao.Mo' WAIT're SAcr Could it be that they don't want WATER MlT3 THEM CA110U3E.S the Waterman ships was rather the Sun Oil men to see that all light. is not serene with the NMU? hot and bothered about it when The Purdue Victory, for ex­ Could it be that they would the ship hit Philly. ample, signed on with virtually the same crew, only a couple of At the payoff the men who had be admitting that they are hav­ By CHARLES KIMBALL ing difficulty keeping their own the men leaving. been victimized put up a squawk in protest over the 40-dollar ride house in Order let alone bring That will just about deplete MOBILE—Again this week the This ship, incidentally, carried unorganized seamen under their the Skipper had given them; our laid-up fleet here. all book men, and as nice a bunch Port of Mobile can report the wing? however, there wasn't anything of guys as anyone would want best of shipping for any and all Could be. NEW HALL TOPS that we could do in the matter to meet. The crew was also for­ "We hear a lot of talk about comers. In fact, some ships have We have just about settled into tunate in having heads-up Del­ so we settled the beef the best the commies and their activities, our new Hall, and everybody egates, who had everything ship­ sailed shorthanded. way we could and crewed up and most seamen agree that they seems to enjoy coming up here shape for the payoff. the ship. One day last week we had are of the same class as the fas­ and sitting around. In the old She is now on her way to Gal­ As a result, the ship paid off cists — both a menace to dem­ three ships sailing and each need­ Hall, you couldn't pay a man to veston where Brother Sweeney in perfect style, and a vote of ed two Firemen. The Dispatcher sit around. We are going to buy ocracy. will no doubt run into this char­ thanks is due the crew and the However, the Pilot is always and 1 went out and made all the new furniture as soon as some delegates, not only for their acter and have to climb on him blasting the fascists, but remains spots, but our time was wasted. can be found. splendid cooperation, but also very silent whenever communist for a donation to the members Of course, we don't intend to It was as if someone pulled double-dealing is exposed for in the Marine Hospital in the buy this new furniture until the a Paul Revere on us, going on some strange reason. amount of $34.00. Due lo Ihe large number ahead to warn the men on the shipping boom is over, because if we make the boys too comfor­ However. Waterman is expect­ SHORT MEMORY of ships in New York calling beach that the Dispatcher was table, they will never want to ing another dozen or so ships for crews during off hours The other night, the Agent- coming. ship out. into Portland in the next 15 and on Sundays, the New Organizer of the NMU in the We prowled about for quite Just one final word: If there days, and if there should be a York Hall is now operating Hook was down the street in a on a new schedule of hours ginmill blasting a local veter­ some time, but it did very little are any member in Ports where heavy turnover on any of these, good, and the ships finally sailed shipping is slow, get in touch we'll be up against it for men. for registering and shipping. ans organization. shorthanded. with this Port and we can prob­ As it is now, we find it neces­ These boys are all returned The new hours are: From This shipping boom is going to ably find berths for all who need sary to issue too many permits. veterans and a better bunch Monday through Friday from Latest information about the would be hard to find. I guess continue for quite a while yet, as them. 8:30 a. m. to 9 p. m.; Satur­ we have received another notice Our new address is 1 South Evangeline is that she will be this character forgets that they day 8:30 to 5 p. m. and Sun­ crewing up sometime befox-e that 24 more ships are due to Lawrence Street, Mobile 10, Ala­ were the fellows who fought the day from 10 to 3. April 15th. bama. war and hblped to save Russia— come out of the boneyard soon. NO NEWS?? ti ¥ Boston's Future Is Still Bright For Tbe Next Few Weeks, At Least Marcus Hook Is A Lonely Port; Fast Shipping Has Hall Empty ')[i Mobile Asks All And Sundry: Come Down And Get Fast Shipping \ * NEW HOURS �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Few Phony Skippers Anil Pursers Sour Good New York Shipping By JOE ALGINA Unclaimed Gear Members whose gear has been held for more lhan three months in the fourth floor baggage room of the New York Hall are advised to call for it immediately, or notify the Hall where they wish it sent. Crowded conditions make it impossible to hold gear longer than three months. All effects remaining unclaimed after three months will be sent to the owner's home via express collect. Gear without addresses will be disposed of otherwise. Friday, March 28, 1947 Canadian Seafarers Demand Probe Of Ship Transfers To Panama VANCOUVER, B. C. — De­ nouncing the transfer of Cana­ dian vessels to Panamanian reg­ istry as a shipowners' subterfuge "to operate ships with cheaper crews, pay less taxes and to avoid regular steamboat inspection," Seafarers in this port called upon the Government for an investiga­ tion into the practice. forwarded to Prime Minister Mackenzie King and to the Min­ isters of Labor, Transport, and Mines and Resources. The Patrolmen here in New NEW YORK — With forty or fifty ships in port during the York have been kept running past week shipping and business with the large number of ships remain good in the Port of New to be covered. They have made On another front. Brother Har­ York. With this continued run all the ships hitting the port and ry Archibald, Member of Parlia­ of good business, we are still have squared away all beefs. ment and a Seafarer, is pressing pleading for rated men in all There is no rest for the weary for government action in the for the Seatrains have started departments. Parliament, in order to win cor­ We had the Yarmouth in their, runs to the Gulf ports and rection of the injustices to Cana­ during the week on her second will be" pulling into New York dian seamen and the merchant trip and she is beginning to soon. They shouldn't pose too marine stemming from the trans­ In a resolution adopted at the fer of vessels to other flags. shape up very well. All the much trouble, but who can tell Feb. 17 meeting, the membership differences are being ironed out when ships have just started in­ The resolution pointed out that and she will soon be a smooth advocated a boycott of all Pana­ a considerable number of Cana­ to service. running ship. manian and other flag ships, dian ships, built by taxpayers' It takes a little while to get touching Canadian ports, which money, have been transferred to everything running ship-shape fall below prevailing conditions Panama and other registry. This on a vessel just out of cold stor­ condition, it said, has thrown age, but the Yarmouth has had in this country, unless the Gov­ thousands of Canadian seamen, a minimum of difficulties and all ernment takes steps "to safe­ shipyard workers and longshore­ in all she is shaping up nicely. guard the Canadian merchant men out of work. The L. Duster, American By HENRY CHAPPELL marine." Putting the responsibility for Range, brought in a log-happy The resolution was to be sent the situation up to the govern­ TOLEDO—We expect that this majority of large American in­ Skipper when she hit port re­ to the Maritime Trades Depart­ ment, the proposal urged that cently. This guy was a real port will be well represented in dustries belong. If they don't mend their ways, ment of the American Federa­ maritime policy be changed to clock watcher. He inust have the AFL's plan of expansion. In tion of Labor for proper action. prevent continuance of the abuse stood at the gangway with a line with this, we expect to they'll be lucky to have beans The meeting recommended that "until such time as Panamanian stopwatch, for the Patrolmen have a newly formed Maritime to eat! the proposal be introduced at the flag and other foreign registered Trades Port Council operating in found that he was logging the NMU VERY QUIET Seafarers International Union ships running in and out of Can­ this area very shortly. men two for one if they were The NMU still remains very Convention in Chicago for the adian ports, pay the prevailing only forty five minutes late. Already the Dredgemen have quiet up here on the Lakes. purpose of setting up a policy to scale of union wages" and abide promised any support that we TAKE DAY OFF Maybe they can see the hand­ be carried out by East and West by the manning scales and work­ He wasn't content with just may need, and the ILA officials writing on the wall. They are coast AFL seamen. ing rules in effect on Canadian logging the men, for after pull­ are being contacted for their so bankrupt that they have no ships. support. Copies of the resolution, which ing this trick he tried to turn program to offer, and they cer­ is similar in nature to SIU Presi­ The resolution concluded with Brother Bill Sturm, Regional tainly can't criticize the SIU. the logged seamen to. If you're dent Harry Lundeberg's message a request for support from the unfortunate enough to ship with Director of the AFL for this Unless they have changed a to the American Congress, were American Federation of Labor. this kind of Skipper and get area, has been very cooperative lot, they will be in there pitch­ logged for being one ^ hour late, with us in the past, and has ing, trying to see if they can you might as well turn around made it a lot easier for us to and take the full day off as you contact the various unions and make plans for getting things lose a day's pay anyway. SHlffcM/AteC Another guy who thought he started. {ATlM'SeAMS? A number of ships have al­ was God was the Purser aboard the Smith Thompson, South ready begun to fit-out for the - TAMPA — Shipping slowed Port loaded to the scuppers with Atlantic. This jerk wasn't happy 1947 season, and men who have down slightly this week, and its ' giggle juice. unless he had a red pencil in his been home and down to the a good thing that it did. Anyone We were able to get a few of hand writing "disputed" across Coa.sts are beginning to drift who even looks like a seaman the fellows out of the bucket, but back to Toledo. They will all be all overtime. has been shipped, and we could too many have been thrown in This self styled lord of the aboard the ships, soon now. still use men. the pokey where we can't help overtime was a real pain in the True to expectations, the ship­ Some ships have had to leave them. neck to the crew. Not only was owners are stalling around on here short in several ratings, and The police force is composed he opposed to giving the men the contrapt negotiations. How­ with five ships due in here this mainly of young fellows who overtime, but he told the crew ever, these details will be ironed week, it looks very much like want to lead in the amount of that if he had to belong to a out before shipping starts. we won't be able to do anything arrests. That means that they disrupt the SIU's campaign. We union to go to sea he would quit Some of the shipowners' pick up anybody who even looks sailing. Well, for the record I phony proposals are in line with have handled them before, and for them. We have only eight men on the we can handle phonies like them drunk. can say that we'll take care of Ralph Robey's statement to the beach, including Tripcards and again. this guy as far as his shipping press recently. It costs $15.00 a head, .so be Permits. In the long run, only the sail­ out on SIU ships is concerned. cai-eful how much liquor you This guy is Chief Economist ors suffer from the NMU's at­ Waterman Steamship Company It has been bought to my at­ take on when in Tampa. for the National Association of has taken over the coastwise tempts to rule or ruin. But, tention that when the Nampa They don't like organized labor Manufacturers, and follows their these party-line followers don't trade, and two to four ships com­ "Victory was tied up at the Army in Tampa, and the gendarmes care what happens to anyone. ing in each day. Alcoa and Bull Base here in New York for a policies. • know very well that the Seafar­ That's why they constantly are also very active, but Water­ CAN EAT BEANS ers International Union is well man really dominates. Recently, Robey was asked, battle the SIU in our attempts organized. There is talk of Waterman op­ poISHAPE"How is a man to live on the to better the wages, working and L They have it in for us on that erating a passenger vessel to Ha­ living conditions of all seamen. UP BeAunaverage weekly earning of score, so any chance they get, Fuiiy r vana, but this is just rumor. That's why all seamen are fed $45.83?" up with their phony propaganda, Don't believe it until we get more they will really rub it into us. Robey replied, "Let them eat The best advice is to be damnand look to the SIU for the information. beans." We are still having trouble careful here, and do the celebrat­ only honest, democratic leader­ This brainy executive made with fellows who come to this ing someplace else. this statement to the press just ship for all unlicensed seamen. after he had polished off a feed that must have cost $20. Robey also maintains a summer and winter home in West Virginia job of organizing becomes in­ ganized into the SIU long before By EDWARD JANASZAK and New York. creasingly easy. now. But it's easy to see why the TOLEDO—Results are begin­ Robey's remarks remind us of Despite the bad impression NMU has met with such little the French Queen (Ed. note: ning to show in the Seafarers' created on Great Lakes men by success. pay-off, the CID men came Marie Antoinette) who, when current drive to organize all of the NMU's phony organizational aboard to shake her down. These According to my information, told that her subjects had no the unorganized seamen on the strike, the SIU can and will or­ agents in their shakedown took some of their officials are not bread to eat, said, "Let, them Great Lakes. ganize the Lakes. a lot of the men's personal gear even organized themselves. In One factor that we have had Quite a few of the ships up without giving them a receipt. eat cake!" It is phonies like him who to overcome was the resentment here have begun to prepare for addition, the Lakes seamen are ; DECLARE STUFF produce such fertile grounds for created by the NMU as a result the fit-out, and according to what wise to the commie line used by \ I contacted the head of the the commies to work on in this of their phony Lakes strike last we see and hear, more will start the NMU — where the party : comes first and the union mem­ CID and was assured these men country. And he represents the year. in a few days. bers come last. would receive receipts for their NAM, an outfit to which the This made certain men definitely SHOULD BE SIU anti-union, but when they under­ property taken by the CID, how­ Everyone here is confident The majority of the men so far that the SIU drive will be suc­ stand the aims and program of ever, I was told that they would the SIU, they are all for our contacted are reacting very fa­ cessful this year, apd that even- ' get no receipts for contraband. vorably toward the SIU, and are tually the entire Lakes will be Baggage which was checked at Union. So if you buy stuff overseas, As the unorganized Lakes sea­ in favor of our Union. This under the SIU banner. It's going my advice is declare it -to Cus­ the USS Los Angeles has been toms. If you bring weapons transferred to the Seamen's men become acquainted with the should be a good season of mu­ to be a big job; but then, so was back to this country don't ex­ Church Institute, 101 South Har­ SIU's policy of direct represen­ tual benefit to both the Lakes Isthmian. With the help of all | pect a receipt, for it will, be bor Boulevard, San Pedro. The tation on their beefs, our work­ sailors and the SIU. It's hard to understand why SIU members on the Lakes, The your fanny if you're nabbed USS Los Angeles ceased opera­ ing rules, and the way that we these Lakes have not been or- Great Lakes. Too. Will Be SIU! deal with the shipowners, our with the stuff. tion on March 1. Shipowner Stooge Says Seamen Can Get Along On Small Salary Tampa Really Hungry For Seamen; Only Eight Men Are Left On Beach TOLEDO SHOWING RESULTS IN UKES DRIVE NOTICE! �Friday, March 28. 1947 THE SEAEARERS LOG Page Nine Agents Conference Reconiniendations Contracts And Negotiations While it is true that our Union has recently consummated the very best contracts in Maritime history, we see that there are still several small differences in Various contracts. We recommend that at the termination of our contracts which all terminate at the same date, September 30, that these various differences be squared away so that one SIU general contract for all type vcs.sels can be covered in one content. The reason for this is obvious —-^irst of all, saving of expen-ditures—second, to reduce maxi­ mum amount of trouble by hav­ ing all contracts interpreted in the same manner. work on board ship, but have thrown their part of the work on their fellow shipmates. There are further instances of various fellows getting drunk after shipping on a vessel, and thbn deciding not to take such job or even to report back to the Union Hall on same. This practice creates a bad situation by trying to place com­ pany finks on board the vessels on the excuse that the Union has refused to fuimish them a man. There is no question but that these practices must stop. Everything this Union has it owes to fighting for it the hard way, by the use in practically every instance of economic ac­ tion, not only to gain our condi­ tions but hold them. We cannot allow any small group of performers or drunks to throw awaj' the efforts made by these previous struggles by our membership in gaining the finest contracts in the Industry. .Agents' Proposals Out of deliberations at the recently concluded Atlantic and Gulf Agents' Conference came many reports dealing with the Union, its structure, problems and future opera­ tions. On this page are printed some of the reports passed by the conference. The complete reports of the Agents' Meeting have since been submitted to, and ap­ proved by, membership meet­ ings of the A. & G. ports. Shipping Rules, Constitution The Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico, recommended that the Un­ ion purchase voting machines for the .various hails for use in an­ nual elections. This we deem inadvisable in­ asmuch as, first of all, it would entail a teirific expense, and second, the system now used in the SIU as to voting procedure is one that has been in use for a long time, not only by this Union but by many other unions, and has proven to be efficient and honest. Strikes And Strike Apparatus We therefore are not in accord Vvfith the recommendation from the Puerto Rico branch. The Port of New York has recommended to this Conference for action, a proposition calling for each candidate in annual elec­ tions to supply a photograph of himself with details as to Union activities. • While we are in sympathy with such a proposition, we do not feel it is necessary or advisable to amend the Constitution as such. We do recommend, however, that full and proper riotice be gi\"en in the Seafarers Log and various minutes, and that prior to our next annual elections such photographs and biographies shall be supplied by each candi­ date foi- office, along with his cre­ dentials to t)ie Credentials Cornin the Headquarters Of- The 1946 General Strike, in this crack down on this Union as well Committee's opinion, was with­ as all others. On the subject of the various out a doubt the most important This Committee recommends new companies who have been event in the entire history of the that each Port Agent, upon his signed to an SIU clo.sed shop con­ Seafarers. return to his particular Port, tract this past year by the SIU A study of the complete strike make an immediate survey of the Organizing staff, it is to be noted report from each Branch Agent's strike facilities of his Port and that there are several small dif­ report, as well as strike files, give a full and detailed report to ferences in these contracts as re­ Such photographs and biogra­ will show that in every port the the Headquarers Offices of this gards our regular previously con­ phies are then to be run in that SIU, during the period of the Union concerning the local situa­ tracted companies. issue of the Seafarers Log im­ CHECK ON GASHOUNDS Strike, was able to take over and tion. mediately following the findings It is understandable to this Each agent should size up the We, therefore, recommend to complete leadership of the of the Credentials Committee, and Committee the necessity of such the Agents and membership that entire Maritime Industry. amount of gear he has on hand upon issuance of their report. small differences, and we concur The problems, although differ­ for use in ca.se of Strike, such as a close check be made on this and in the .organizing staff signing SHIPPING RULES that all gashounds and perform­ ing in size, according to the size kitchen equipment, cots, etc. these various new companies in We further recommend that ers be brought up on charges be­ of the Port itself, were pretty We have studied various Shipsuch a manner as they did. fore the members on the basis much the same all over, and the upon the receipt of such reports Rules recommendations subWe recommend that these dif­ of tearing down Union condi­ strong and weak points of the that we follow the procedure as mitted from various Ports and laid down last year prior to our Strike Apparatus that showed in ferences be corrected, along with tions and contracts. 1946 General Strike. That is. to have studied same. Most of these our other contracted operators as This Committee further recom­ one Port showed in practically instruct the Director of Organi­ complaints originate not so much previously recommended at the mends, whenever possible, when all Ports. zation of this District and the from the lack of good Shipping termination date of our new con­ other means have failed on the In regards to the possibilities Rules, as from, the lack of proper tracts which is also September 30. proper handling of negotiations, of a Strike in 1947, it seems to be Organizational Staff to immed­ enforcement instead. iately make a complete study of We recommend that Headquar­ that the continued use of eco­ the general consensus of opinion all reports and recommendations We. therefore, recommend that ters Offices be charged with the nomic action be used to maintain of the various Branch Agents, and then make any changes as the Shipping Rules stand as they as well as the membership itself, responsibility commencing as our present conditions. are needed in our Strike Appar­ are and that every official of the soon as this report is acted on, in This, by no stretch of imagin­ that 1947 may see some sort of atus, subject to membership ap­ Union be instructed to see to it keeping files of all disputes aris­ ation, means wildcat action on the economic action on the water­ proval. that they are enforced. ing from, our contracts part of any individual crew, but front. We feel veis stiungly and re­ We further call upon the memThis committee is of the full peat once again that while this bership to assist in this program These files should contain clari­ concerted action through coop­ fications of all disputes arising eration by crew members and opinion that the Organization Committee is certainly not in by seeing to it that any violamust be prepared in the event favor of making and, immediately upon claidfica- shore-side officials. additional j tions or misadministration of the one does become necessary. It expenditures for strike gear, each Shipping Rules by members or To prevent disputes from pil­ tion of such disputes, the mem­ bership should be notifed both ing up, every crew is urged to is well that we remember that in Port should be able to, upon very officals are brought to memberthrough bulletins to all Ports, never payoff a vessel until the some respects 1947 can be com­ short notice, mobilize itself for ship meetings for action, and the medium of the Seafarers all-clear signal is given by the pared with the year. 1921 after all-out economic action. the first World War. boarding patrolmen. We further point out that be­ Log. This like comparison of the cause of our pre-Strike prepara­ B.y the same token, every crew We feel that if this point is various situations calls for the tions in 1946 that we had less adopted, all interpretations of all should be instructed not to sign organization, above everything Secretary-Treasurer, John disputes will be made in a uni­ ship's articles until such time as else, to be very careful and not confusion in administering our strike than any other Maritime requested a six he has been again given the allform manner, and such action be jockeyed into any ill-advised Union. clear signal. . , , , , ,, month's leave of absence due to should result in the betterment This we feel was due to the recoverv, and Thus, by taking care of these moves by the operators. of conditions for our membership. We definitely do feel that, if fact, as stated before, of previous recommends that the full responproblems we can reduce the KEEP CLOSE CHECK Secretarv-Treasamount of contract and negotia­ the opei-ators feel they have suffi­ preparation and this, if nothing^ tions problems by using this cient Government backing, they else, offers a good reason for con­ urer's office be turned over to the On the subject of wage nego­ may attempt in some fnanner to tinued preparation of same. simple process. Assistant Secretary-Treasurer, as tiations, it is to be pointed out per Constitution, immediately, that although we * recently re­ pending the concurrance of this ceived a 6 po.r cent wage increase recommendation. He further through the efforts of our Wage stales that at the end of this six Negotiating Committee, it may It is this Committee's opinion he is to immediately contact the The Committee on Organiza­ months, if his health is not im­ be necessary in the near futui'c, tion and Expansion, submits the that tanker operators hold a key Coast Repiesentati\e. proved and that he needs a in the event prices continue to go This C o m mitt e e further position and are of vital impor­ following points: change in climate, that he will upwards, that we once again open the policy 1. Organizational work and tance to the Organizing and Ex­ recommends that negotiations with our contracted Expansion of the Union is vitally pansion program. adopted in the Isthmian Drive of tender his resignation. We, the undersigned Commit­ operators. necessary. We therefore recommend that issuing membership books with tee. ri-alize that after many years We recommend that our Wage 2. The Union should maintain the Organizing Department be the Initiation Fee and certain of continuous duty to the SIU Negotiating Committee stand in­ a permanent organizing staff. permitted to select and employ Assessments remitted, be con­ that Brother Hawk's health has structed to keep a close check This staff should consist of a Di­ competent tanker organizers in tinued. failed. We feel that Brother on this matter and, if in the fu­ rector of Organization, one East sufficient number to properly The same policy of the remis­ Hawk should be given a vote of ture such a necessity for wage Coast and one Gulf Coast repre­ carry on the necessary organiza­ sion of dues to members sailing thanks for the many years of ser­ unorganized ships to also be con­ increases arise, the Wage Nego­ sentative. tional work in this field. vice to the Organization and that tiating Committee is immediately tinued. The Isthmian election is over The selections should be sub­ he be granted this request of a to make recommendations to the and the victory by the Seafarers It is to be definitely under­ ject to the approval of the Di­ membership of same and com­ means that the last unorganized stood, how-fever, that the remis­ six month's leave of absence im­ rector of Organization and the sions shall be for the organiza­ mediately and that his pay be mence action. dry cargo operator of any great membership. •• tional period only, and that upon continued for this period of six This Committee has been re­ size in the off-shore trade has AGENT RESPONSIBLE certification or the signing of con­ months. ferred several letters and com­ been eliminated. tracts all members shipping shall We further recommend that In Ports where no organizer is munications from ships' meetings, It is therefore recommended do so as on contract ships, and the Assistant Secretary-Treasur­ stationed, the Port Agent is to be dealing with the question of Un­ that the permanent organizing er, J. P. Shuler, immediately as­ that crew members of these ships held responsible for all organi­ ion responsibility on the part of staff handle the business of con­ sume full and complete authority who failed to avail themselves of zational work, and is to submit our membership towards uphold­ tacting all new companies as and duties of the Secretai-ythe opportunity of joining dur­ daily reports of all organizational they are brought in under the ing our contract. Treasurer, as per Constitution, ing the precertification or con­ activity conducted in his port. It has been shown that a few expansion program^ and to take for the successful carrying out of tract period must join in the In the event of any unusual gashounds and performers not such action as is necessary to the Union's program. regular fashion. developments or excessive work. bring them under SIU contract. only have refused to do their Sick Leave Organizational And Expansion Program �im THE SEAFARJSRS LOG jpage Tea Friday. March 28. 1947 •^1 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS SIU Crew Aids Striking Foundry Men SIU Wins Damages And Pension Pilot Butte's For Injured Canadian Seafarer Cook Dies In Turkish Port First-rate Union representation pays off. Take it from Canadian Sea­ farer Alfred Brunet whose per­ sonal experience is another sol­ id indication why the Seafarers International Union's beef-hand­ ling for its membership is tops on the waterfront. A few years ago. Brother Brunet, who has been sailing the coastal vessels of the Cana­ dian Pacific Railroad for many years, suffered a serious injury which impaired the sight of both his eyes. The case came up be­ fore the compensation board in Vancouver, British Columbia. No precedents were upset at the hearing. As usual in cases involving seamen, Brunet got a rough deal. Fortunately, how­ ever, he still had an ace up his sleeve. His Union — the SIU — would put up a terrific fight in his behalf. Brother Brunet headed for the Branch office at 144 Hast­ ings Street, Vancouver. There he saw Brother H. Murphy, SIU Port Agent. Gathering all the Seafarer Alfred Brunet looks over sailing ship model, facts. Murphy decided to pitch a which he recently presented to the Vancouver Branch. Despite battle to win what Brother Bru­ impaired vision as a result of shipboard accident, he still pur­ net justly deserved. He peti­ sues his hobby. tioned for a review of the case. The result was gratifying. But there's more to the~ story ship models, one of which he Everything that Brother Brunet than just the compensation presented recently to the Union. was entitled to was won—and award. Port Agent Murphy says paid to him. And, in addition, he Paying dues in the SIU, Sea­ is being paid a small pension, that Brother Brunet is still sail­ farer Brunet will assert, is the which he will receive for the ing on his ship. And, in spite of his handicap, he is still able kind of security investment that rest of his life. to pursue his hobby of making pays off dividends in many ways. The Brotherhood of the Sea, in the persons of the crew of the SS Caleb Strong, came ashore this week to lend a help­ ing hand to fellow trade union­ ists walking the picketlines. It all came about when a member of the Caleb Strong crew, J. M. "Windy" Walsh, went ashore in Brooklyn and found pickets around a plant near the waterfront. The pickets, he learned, were members of the International Moulders and Foundry Workers, Local 87, AFL, on strike against the Doran Foundry. In the' course of a conversation with the men on the picketlines, "Windy" learned that their union did not have a strike fund and due to the length of the strike the funds of many of the men were exhausted. The pick­ eting foundrymen, he found, were not too concerned with their own welfare, but those men with families were worried about their wives and children. When Seafarer Walsh heard of this he went into a huddle with himself. If a few bucks will help these fellows stay on the picketline, then let's help them out, he decided. Back to the ship he went, and in a short that the men of our plant, who time the whole crew had learn- are out on strike, were badly in need of money not only to feed themselves, but their wives I2K3rtT WITH and children . . . took it upon himself to take up a collection kEPP IT dPl among the crewmembers of the Caleb Strong, which totaled $72, which, as per agreement by the seamen, was to be distributed among married men with chil­ dren who are in need of finan­ cial assistance, which was done. "Words cannot express my ap­ preciation or feeling for this kind deed performed by an out­ side affiliate of the AFL. ed of the situation and contrib­ WISHES TO THANK uted $72 for the families of the "If permission can be granted, strikers. The men then handed the money over to the Union's I would like an invitation for myself and a committee to at­ strike commitee. tend the next meeting of the CREW'S FINE DEED SIU, so we can voice our ap­ In response tjo the demonstra­ preciation and thanks. tion of union solidarity by the "I am writing this letter hop­ crew of the Caleb Strong, Fred ing you will publish it in the Van Hansen, Chairman of the Seafarers Log so as to thank Foundry Workers' Strike Com­ Brother Walsh and all the sea­ mittee, wrote a letter to the SIU men who contributed to the thanking the crew for "this fine prosecution of our strike and deed performed by an outside the aid of our families. affiliated Union of the AFL." Fred Van Hansen He also assured the men who Chairman Strike Comm. donated the money that it had Local 87. IMFWA." been distributed to those mar­ Seafarers aboard the Caleb ried men whoe families were in Strong, who contributed to the need of the assistance. aid of the Moulders and Foun­ Brother Van Hansen also stat­ dry Workers are: J. M. Walsh, ed that he wished to attend the next membership meeting of the Louis P. Sivert, Gordon Hansen, SIU to voice his appreciation E. D. Scroggins, M. S. Spytko, and' thhnks for the fine gesture Allen George, Bob Branch, J. O'Rourke, Joe DiGrazio, Jack by the Strong crew. Th^ text of Brother Van Han­ Branch, Uno Wirkeban, Clyde Patterson, Leon Sizemare, Har­ sen's letter is as follows; old Rency, Jerry Kirzmann, "Dear Brothers: Thurman Little, W. C. Nicholsen "A Brother of your Union, and Fred Pearson. Joseph M. Walsh, upon finding dp*. ;; Seafarer Charles Stawinskie, a Chief Cook, who died sud­ denly while ashore in Istanbul, Turkey, was buried in a ceme­ tery in that city, according to word just received from his shipmates aboard the SS Pilot Butte, which returned to the States this week. . ••S - i; Brother Stawinskie was strick­ en in the company agent's office and died a few moments later. The burial service was attended by the Pilot Butte's skipper and the crew. The late Seafarer, who held Book No. 29911, signed on the Pilot Butte in Galveston, July 1, ,1946, for a trip to New York. There he signed on foreign ar­ ticles, Aug. 1. CREWS PRAISE A statement from his ship­ mates said "he always had the best of intentions, and they were always carried out to the best of his ability." An ardent ad­ vocate of solid unionism, he spoke often of its advantages, the crew said. Extremely modest, and a hard working union man. Brother Stawinskie cared only to be "a regular fellow among seamen," the statement added. The late Charles Stawinskie (left) with a shipmate in the Butte's galleyk Photo at left shows flagdraped casket reposing in Istan­ bul church prior to funeral service. SS Ovid Butler Crewmembers Call For End Of Coast Guard Jurisdiction Over Seamen Scoring the Coast Guard's jurisdiction over merchant seamen as "an encroachment upon the democratic rights of civilian labor by a military force," the SIU crew of the SS Ovid Butler pushed for the return of authority to the Department of Commerce. The proposal was contained in a resolution submitted with a copy of the ship's minutes of the Feb. 23 meeting, held at sea. power over seagoing civilians, the Seafarers declared that they recognize "this as the first at­ tempt toward the regimentation of all American labor." Transfer of control over the In view of the Coast Guard's strenuous efforts to retain its civilian maritime effort to the Commerce department would serve the better interests of the United States and, consequently, the SIU, the Butler crew point­ ed out. In support of the proposed change, the statement recalled that the civilian governmental body once did administer the af­ fairs now conducted by the Coast Guard. It implfed, therefore, that (Continued on Page 11) 1. ."i • •£ �Friday. March 28. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief ll FAIRISLE, March 2—Chair­ man A. E. IBourgot; Secroiary R. W. Simpkins. New Business: Molion carried io have fresh wafer lanks cleaned and inspecled before new crew signs on for next trip. Motion car­ ried that all crews quarters be painted and all bunks repaired. Also have hooks and mirrors placed in all quarters. Motion carried that all vent systems be checked and repaired throughout crev/'s quarters. Good and Welfare: General discUssiiig by all concerning ship, quarters etc. A repair list made out to be turned over to shore delegate at the pay off. A. J. FORT WINNEBAGO. Feb. 11—Chairman J. O'Malley; Sec­ retary R. Hanna. List of repairs for each department and gen­ eral repair list read. List to be presented to Patrolman. Deck Department beefs heard and it was agreed to present them to Patrolman when ship reaches port. No beefs from Engine or Stewards Depart­ ments. General discussion on cleaning of passageways and messroom. |) / 4- S" t MONROE. Feb. 9—Chairman Hansen; Secretary T. Randall. New Business: Motion carried to have radio removed from chart room and put in radio room so Radio Man can handle it. Motion carried that ship's repair list be read; list ap­ proved. Motion carried that medical chest be checked be­ fore next trip, also slopchest. Motion carried that First Offi­ cer be removed from ship due to his bucko conduct and in­ tolerant attitude. Motion car­ ried that all beefs be settled before payoff. Motion carried that American money be given in foreign ports. Motion car­ ried that two messmen amid ship be removed to spare room aft. Motion carried to remove padeyes from deck to prevent injury to crew. SAMUEL LIVERMORE. Jan. 2G—Chairman C. J. White; Secretary Samuels. New Busi­ ness: To remove soiled towels and soiled clothing from wash­ rooms. Also to remove cups and dishes used at night. Each man to place gear used in scul­ lery. Messboys to serve men going on watch first. To re­ serve four seats at mess table for watch going on. No clothes to be washed in wash basins of wash rooms at anytime. Each Department to use heads and washrooms alloted, and main­ tain cleanliness of same. Butler Crew Proposes End Of Coast Guard's Control under the jurisdiction of the (Canthiued from Page 10) the job was more satisfactorily department of Commerce; and WHEREAS: The disciplinary handled under the previous au­ power granted to the United thority. ^ ^ States Coast Guard over the The Butler men, in their re­ civilian employees in the U. S. solution, called upon the Union merchant marine was a form of membership to pledged all their protection in a period of na­ resources to effect "the removal tional emergency; and of the United States Coast Guard WHEREAS: The period of or any other military organiza­ national emergency has been tion from having jurisdiction • declared officially over by the over our only means of liveli­ President of the United States; hood." In this direction they recommended the election of a and committee of five members to WHEREAS: An attempt is gather data on the Coast Guard being made by the Coast Guard regime in its relations with mer­ to maintain this miliary force chant seamen. The results would over the civilian employees of be turned over to the Secretarj'- the merchant marine; Treasurer, the statement added, THEREFORE, BE IT RE­ for presentation to "the parties SOLVED: That we members of concerned in Washington." the merchant marine recognize The text of the resolution, this as the first attempt in the bearing signatures of the Butler regimentation of all American labor; and crewmembers, follows: FURTHER, BE IT RE­ TEXT OF RESOLUTION SOLVED: That a committee of WHEREAS: We members of five be elected at a joint mem­ Ihe Seafarers Internaficnal Un­ bership meeting in New York ion of Norlh America, as mem­ to gather all data regarding un­ bers of fhe crew of the SS Ovid justifiable actions of the Coast Buller, fully realizing fhai fhe Guard, which proved detri­ marifimfi labor movement id mental to the efficiency of the foremosl in fhe American lamerchant marine in its effort tbor movement; and, to contribute the most to the WHEREAS; We feel that an war effort; and encroachment is being attempt­ BE IT FURTHER RE­ ed up on the democratic rights SOLVED: That upon comple­ of civilian laboro by military tion of the arrangement of this force; and. data, our Secretary-Treasurer present it to the parties con­ WHEREAS; We feel that an cerned in Washington; and encroachment is being attempt­ BE IT FINALLY RE­ ed upon the democratic rights SOLVED: That the entire mem­ of cililian labor by military bership of the SIU pledge its force; and, every power toward removal of WHEREAS: Firmly believing the United States Coast Guard that the better interest of the or any other military organiza­ United States and the life of tion from jurisdictional rights our organization can be served, over our only means of liveli­ as in the past, by an organisa­ hood. tion of seafaring individuals A GUIDE TO THE PORT OF NEW ORLEANS STAY ON, rHE JOB/ Fr?, IREMENMUST STAV yVlTH TWElR PLAhtTlS UmiL RBUBVBV BY RePUGEMe^^r FROM THE HAIL . CUT and RUN By HANK Shipping in Nc-\v York (and .several other ports) is so good that many brothers are wisely and happil.v grabbing those jobs off the boards to avoid all that day-to-day (and even weeks) waiting ai'ound which they know only gi\-es them an unprofitable period of laziness, boredom and decreasing cabbage. So if you hat to be broke, to be lazy, forget about waiting for that special trip to Alaska or Turkey and grab those jobs while shipping is hot and the weather is cool. To avoid getting yourselves fouled up. the ship, and the men on the ships, yoti Brothers should I'ead the shipping rules or have them explained (if it finally comes to that) by responsible people. Another important thing. Before you take any job make certain >'ou want to sail the ship. Ships have to be sailed, not tossed around like bad tomatoes. Be a sailor. Brother, and a good union man, not a luxury-liner baby dreaming of no work, all over­ time and a goldmine with dancing women waiting for you in That foreign port. That ship and the trip can be swell if you stay on it and want to make it that way. So how about it, Brothers, use your common sense—not those half-baked quick-triggered decisions which seriou.sly and foolishly foul up a lot of things. S. 4 Last week we talked with Jimmy Mulligan, his cheerful wife, and Jimmy's shipmate, Charlie Henry. Jimmy v/as sure glad to chew ihe seafaring fat with Brother Henry after their eleven month trip together with another shipmate, Brotnei Bishop, who is not in town right now. Jimmy's wife is so proud of her husband that she said she wouldn't like to hear any bad words about Jimmy, indeed. Especially after St. Patrick's Day. we might say . . . Deck Engineer Claude Davis exhibited to the union hall last week his shipmate of a seagoing rabbit. George, and confessed that this big eared sailor of two years on our ships, couldn't make the last trip because he had a tooth pulled. Say, Claude, does George clean those winch beds for you on the trip or what? . . . Electrician J. McHenry is ready for a long circuit of a trip we presume . . . Laymon Seay, the Oiler, is merrily in town, to grab a ship . . . Ozzie Okray and Leo Siarkowski just came in from a trip to Germany. The trip was okay, they confess. i5iSteward J. J. McGrath i.s presumably ready to ship out after celebi-ating St. Patricks Day. Is it a trip to Glocca Morra in Ireland, you're thinking of, Brother McGrath . . . Little Paddy McCann just came into town from his home town of Jacksonville, Florida. Ah, Paddy, we knew you wouldn't miss the Irish parade for any­ thing in the world—even a ship to Ireland, too . . . Here's some of the oldtimers here in New York right now: Gulfer Chester Jowers; Bosun v., Acabeo: Gulfer O. G. Pederson: Bosun Roland Strom; Dan Bissett: John Bilinski: Bosun Joseph David Rose: K. Kain; F. Nering: J. Stickney: AB F. Borst: Salvatore Volpi: W, J. Newhoff; and A. De Forest. i- "Because many of the members who hit this port find it difficult to find their way around." A. L. "Steve" Stephens, New Orleans Dispatcher forwarded this map of the Crescent City, pointing out the location of the SIU Hall in 339 Chartres Street. It is suggested that Sea« farers clip this and keep it for future reference. S- S- Alcoa Sfeamship Company is charfering 16 more Liberty ships and buying two more C-2s lo bring the total fleet under its control up to 78 vessels. Alcoa's charter fleet will then total 59 vessels and with her 17 company owned ships plus two two C-2s. she will control the operations of 710,000 to ns of shipping . . . The Mississippi Company, which is operating the first and is about lo receive the second of its three passenger liners, has now decided lo build a fourth. Each of these vessels, which are air-conditioned and of advance design, carries about 120 passengers . . . Bull Line has decided to resume its coastwise services and will do so as soon as it can charter the right kind of vessels. �•1 ? THE SEAFARERS LOG Pag® Twelve Triday, March 28. 1947 THE MEMBEBSHIP SPEAHS NMUers Should Get ; Men Aboard William Bryant Lowdown On Cause Warn Of Safety Violations Of Current Battle To the Editor: j result of the internal trouble that exists in the NMU today. Judging from the current is­ In my opinion, all the oldsues of the NMU Pilot, all is not timers who fought the CP on well in the Moscow paradise up both the West and East coasts on West 17th Street. Joseph should come out with articles Stack, who so prominently dis­ telling the younger elements of played his character in this the NMU just what happened in present beef, is a well-known 1939. So that they get .something opportunist who in 1938, was beside the blarney fed them in run off the Houston waterfront lying pamphlets strewn about by'the rank and file. At that the waterfront by paid agents of time I was a member of the the communist party. Pacific Coast Marine Firemen We of the Seafarers Interna­ with Book No. 4015. tional Union are not perfect, be­ What I cannot understand is cause it is human to err. But we why Joe Curran, who knew the can assure you men of the NMU character of Joe Stack, did not that our Union officials are sin­ expose him to the membership cere rank and file men who will before this present split in his work in every way humanly union. Giving Curran the bene­ possible to keep your ranks fit of the doubt, it could be pos­ intact. sible the pressure was too great, Should you NMU men go on because the communist party did believing the lies of such people practically control the editorial as Joseph Stack who seeks to use staff of the Pilot. you principally to feather his own nest, you can then be as­ HAD GOOD PURPOSE sured you will find yourself We of the Seafarers Interna­ sold for 30 pieces of silver. tional Union, who fought people Joe Buckley such as Stack in order to expose them to the members of the NMU —not to tear down the structure of the union, but to make them understand that we have much in common with them as sea­ men—deemed it our duty to assist them in cleansing their ranks of People staying on the shore. such-characters in the hopes that Believe the life at sea. we could create a unified pro­ Is one of fun and frolic, gram to fight the common enemy A great big jubilee. —the shipowner. Three squares a day, a nice clean It is our duty, as union men, to bed clean out the political element Why should they want for that has infested the ranks of the more, ranks of the NMU for the past A seaman's life is wonderful. ten years. For it has always been He sees the foreign shore. the policy of these people to de­ He sits on deck in sunshine stroy that which they cannot And has the ocean breeze. rule. Why should he want more I do not relish the idea of re­ m.oney. hashing old stories. But that is He lives a life of ease. what the split in the NMU is forcing many oldtimers to do in That all sounds swell, my lands­ man friend the attempt to prevent the ship­ But let me put you right. owner from using the NMU as a About the things far out at sea. wedge to smash all unions, as a That go on day and night. Then lend a ear, I'll make it clear. HEADS FOR ITALY The truth about the sea. AFTER 12 MONTHS The way the ocean really is. The way it's bound to be. ON BAUXITE RUN So make a trip on a liberty ship To the Editor: Out on the ocean blue. And by our side, you'll take the I've been on the bauxite run ride for thd past 12 months dodging And we'll show it all to you» tli.e North Atlantic, but at this To ihe Edilor; We have been shuttling down here between the Port of Spain and Georgetown since January. During all this time, the ship has been running with her hatches open when light. This practice has been a source of irritation between the Deck Gang and the Chief Mate. A man going up to the bow on lookout at night, or even walk­ ing about on deck is in danger of falling into one of the holds. Then, too, if we run into any kind of sea, we may shig, water. Can this practice be stopped? As you probably know, on this run the crew handles the hatches and beams. The amount of money from handling afore­ said runs into a goodly sum. So far, we have have made seven Deck Gang aboard Alcoa's William Cullen Bryant. Photo shuttles from British Guiana to submitted to the LOG by Augustin Rodriguez, Dock Delegate. Port of Spain. We have come to the conclusion that had these It is our opinion that a ship the longshore overtime rate. If hatches been properly secured, running two days in open sea the insurance companies con­ we'd have at least $100 more in with its holds open isn't proper­ done such stunts, it is our op­ overtime. Taking this into con­ ly secured for sea. The only inion that they are endangering sideration, we've entered this possible reason for such an ex­ their policies. money on our disputed overtime periment (since that is all it is) Knowing full well the advansheets. We call it 'proxy money.'is to do the Deck Gang out of {Continued on Page 13) Log-A -Rhythms time I am heading back for Italy. Shipping is so good here in Mobile, it's almost a job to keep from getting shanghaied. Johnny Reed shipped on the Alcoa Pil­ grim headed for "rum and cocacola" Trinidad. We left him there on the Pioneer. Blackie Mason is still out on one of Alcoa's Liberties—the Wirt, I think. He is still carving wood into beautiful plaques and getting a beautiful piece for them. Would appreciate it if you would put me on the Log mailing list. Then I won't have to wait until I hit New York to check up on the back copies. Paul Gladden We are two days out and it's just grand The sun is shining bright. We sit out on the hatches. And watch the stars at night. Morning comes without the sun, A bit of fog appears. The blasting ship's old whistle Goes piercing through your ears. The ship begins to roll a bit. The wind is getting strong. The bow dips down just slightly. As we proceed along. Deeper and deeper the bow digs down To cut the waves in twain. From port to starboard rolls the ship An she seem to groan with Men At Sea By CHARLES KULL pain. "Keep on your course you so and so," Howls the mate to the man on wheel. And tries to keep the wave tossed ship Upon an even keel. Now we have hit the storm in full. She rolls and then she dives. As she starts her rolls in rhythm. On degrees of forty-five. ing sea. They do not think of fear. The ocean waves get higher And swash across the deck. That doesn't even stop them. They're wet from feet to neck. Until their work's completed. For them there is no rest. That's when you find a deckhand Is at his very best. Sweat shines his face like brass For he must keep his eyes upon That bobbing water glass. The storm still kepps a-raging. Here's the quarters of the crew Some of them have one port hole And others they have two. But when the sea is rolling high. The port holes must be closed. Unless you want to take a swim. We look in on the Black Gang, While at slumber you repose. The engine room's his place. The quarters are hot and stuffy. The Oiler at the crossheads. And you're tossed by the roll­ Sweat dripping down his face. ing ship. His one hand holds the oil can. You feel as long as you can't The other, the guide rail, sleep A dive into the crankpit. You'll cool off .with a dip. If his grip did fail. The Oiler gets an oil splashing. Its time for chow my hearties. JRight across his face And cookie's on the ball. He cusses out the engineer, As seamen sway the passageway. "Don't let that damn thing To reach the old mess hall. race." Seated at the table. The ship still rolls like heck. The engineer on watch is seated. A towel around your middle. Four hands would not be quite You sway the passage way. Before the butterfly. enough. And go into the shower stall. To keep her from racing. When your grub heads for the And everything's okay When her stern comes up too deck. You turn on the faucet high. At last you get your coffee, And then to your surprise. Now and then he misses. A little left in the cup. You find a bit of messy soap He pulls at it too late. Then comes the mighty question. And the racing of acentrics. Has gotten in your eyes. Just how to drink it up. Splashes up the clean floor While striving to remove it. To port the ship has rolled. plate. You've got t'S time the rolling. Again the Oiler cusses. Next thing you're lying on the And open up y9ur trap. deck He knows it is his job. And if your late a second. And almost knocked out cold. To keep the engine floor plates It's on your chest and lap. clean. The messman must be careful. We don't have any movies. As he reaches for the swab. With firm feet on the deck. We can't go to a dance. Over here we have' the fireman, We only see more water. To make sure that order A boiler oh each side. Don't go down your neck. Which ever way we glance. But sometimes things do happen. Some of our shipmates seem to And when the ship's in trouble think Strange as it would seem. We can't get out and walk. He's here just for the ride. My shipmate got a hair rinse. We always take these chances. Don't you let them kid you. Of gooey cold ice cream. Do you blame us if we squawk? His job is not all hay. Now my friend and landsman, He keeps the fires burning. Out on deck the deck-hands I'm sure you will agree, Secure the ship's loose gear. To keep us under way. A seaman's life is no roses. They brave the storm and wash­ He turns the valve for extra feed. Away out on the sea. •1 �Friday, March 28, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen SEA-GOING 'BUGS BUNNY' WON'T, WORK OVERTIME—OR ANYTIME QJf0j.g CoftSt Gllftrd AllSWeF To Its Budgetary Problems To the Editor: Two years ago in Wellington, New Zealand, Deck Engineer Claude Davis, struck up a friend­ ship with "George," a snow-white rabbit. They've been sailing together ever since. "George" allows no one to push him around. In photo above, he stares menacingly at lens held by shaking LOG photographer. At left, the tough hare struggles while his owner. Brother Davis attempts to oblige the lens man. Explaining his white-haired friend's temperment, Davis said: "For two years he's been feeding aboard ships, but no one has been able to get him to turn to yet." According to an item printed recently in a New York news­ paper, the poor mistreated Coast Guard has liad its budget cut from over a hundred million to around ninty million bucks. This reduction, they moan, will severely hamper their life-sav­ ing operations and put a crimp in their program for the coming year. Well, I woud like to make a suggestion in their behalf that will enable them to get along very easily on the ninty million alloted to them, The procedure would be for them to unload three-quarters of the dead wood that has been on their payroll for a number of expenses and carry out the work years. Also, in order to decrease that they were originally organ­ ized to undertake, they should relinquish their control over American seamen. ment agency, namely the De­ partment of Commerce. If they did this they would be able to trim themselves down to a smaller, but more compact outfit engaged only in the work for which they are qualified. They .should realize that it is time that the mess they created in the Merchant Marine needs cleaning, for we all know that the Cdhst Guard is guilty of creating this mess. The Coast Guard should be anxious to return to peacetime operation and leave the duties of handling the Bureau of Marine THIS fJFADWOOP^ BRASS.' A SOLUTION This they can do very easily by turning over their control of the Bureau of Inspection and Inspection and Navigation to the Navigation to another Govern­ people who are more qualified to handle it. If the Coast Guard consoles itself with iceberg patrols and the aiding of navigation, instead the company if we Chief Fleet­ of trying to take unto itself the ricians were to supply our own duties that rightly belong to an­ tools for additional compensa­ other department of the govern­ tion such as is now granted the ment, the taxpayers of the coun­ Carpenters (Article 3, Section 1). try can rest assured that the ninty million appropriated to I suggest that all Electricians, them is ample money to carry including assistants, drop a post­ out their duties and protect the card to Robert Matthews. N.Y. sea lanes, instead of devoting Headquarters. Register your beef the majority of the time and with him and he'll go to town. money to lording over the sea­ men as they have been doing. Book No. 425 Louis Goffin Brother Puts In Plug For The Electricians To the Editor: trican. There is no verbal or written examination given to ob­ The Engineers of most ships tain an assistant's rating." are under the impression that And to quote Commander the ships carry two electriciar.«. Bridges, N.Y. Examiner, USCG: the Chief and 2nd 'Flcctrician "An Electrician's assistant is re­ who also has a Chief's rating. garded by the Coast Guard Ex­ To offset'this wrong impression, aminers as being in the same we must constafttly remind them class as a wiper, with no rethat the Chief Electrician is the .sponsibility but with a little only electrician on board. more money as an inducement The Assi.stant is not an Elect­ for an apprentice to learn the rician, and does not do any eltrade. The Mauitime Commission ectricial repairing except under instituted the idea because it the immediate supervision and should prove more proficient watchful eyes of the Chief Elthan maintaining a government ecti-ician. Always remembei- that school," the Steamboat Inspectors and Examiners will tell you when Remember that the duties of a you possess a rating above wiper Chief Maintenance Electrician is (i.e.. Fireman, Oiler, W.T. Deck to test, repair and/or clean all Engineer, et all.) "You are in- electricial equipment that comes telligently qualified to sign ar- under his heading as such, but tides to assist the Chief Elec- ^ not to operate. Bryant Men Score Dangers Created By Open Hatches {Continued From Page 12) tages and value of a marine newspaper, we hope you can find a spot in the Log for this as soon as possible. We want to warn our Brothers to be on the lookout for such practices. TOUGH BABY Now to get to the Mate. At first he seemed to be a pretty nice guy. He is only 21 years young. We had no difficulties until the overtime started rollng in. Hear this: we worked hard for every shekel. He did not throw us an hour. When we tui-ned our overtime sheets in, he changed the hours and time of turn to and knock off to suit himself. He has disputed nearly evry penalty hour we got. After our Delegate told him to stop playing with the sheets, he sawrfthe light. How he uses the red pencil, and he can use it. We want to remind our Brothei-s to make a duplicate of all overtime, so that if they run across a gent l|ike this one, they'll know what they have, and not what he wants to give them. In closing, we wish to say that on the whole we have a militant crew. For the mterest of men on this run, you can obtain copies of the Seafarers Log at the British Merchant Navy Club in Port of Spain. By the way, when reading a recent issue of the Log, we came across Paul Hall's comment on the pos­ sibilities of a hall in Trinidad. We give him a vote of thanks for bringing this question into the limelight. Such an office, we think, would certainly clear up a lot of beefs on the spot. John Tobin Auguslin Rodriguez SS William C. Bryant P.S. We are scheduled to ar­ rive in New Orleans about March 28. (Editor's note: The matter of open hatches should be taken up with the Patrolman at the payoff.) The assistant is simply a helper, called upon only when the Chief Electrician requires his as­ sistance. If the Engineers want the assistants to carry out the responsible duties of a compet­ ently qualified 2nd Electrician let the company pay for it — then we'll get some of our El­ ectricians off the beach. Another thing. I believq that it would be more economical to Seafarer Says There's No Ship Meaner Than The SS Arosemena To the Editor: Mexicans are known as redbean lovers, and the Chinese are fantical in -their love for rice. What would anybody who had to endure both items for six months be? Please contact the last crew of the broken down Liberty wagon, Justo Arosemena, if you happen to know who it belongs to. We'll keep any information strictly confidential, since we wouldn't blame any company for refusing to acknowledge ownership, although the crew su.spects it is an outfit otherwise known as the 'Coastwise" Pacific Far East Line." Next time I shall have to choose between them and the breadline. Anyway, here goes: NEW ORLEANS SIGN-ON Signed on in New Orleans on Aug. 24 last, and left for Gal­ veston, where we picked up cot­ ton for our dear friends in Kobe, Japan. (Wonder in what form we are getting it back). Arrived there after 30 long, long days at sea, and found out that life is nothing but a great joke, only sometieies one fails to see it. We got the cotton off fast—35 hours, after which we were to go back to the U.S. But out of a clear sky comes a fata mor­ gana—something new has been added. We had to shove off for Honolulu, where we arrived Oct. 28 to pick up a pile of coal to be delivered to China. Then all the fun began. We were starting to run short of practically everything. With the exception of fresh fruit, because they were either rotting away or thrown deep six long ago. We stuck around for three weeks, and finally got loaded— the vessel, I mean. COAL? If it was coal that we goaded, as they claimed it was, then you can formulate your own opinion. io9\ ive'/?e ^_^_La^ED NOW.' The "coal" had been laying on the ground in the port of Hono­ lulu since the days when the Navy was coal-burning. By pure accident—or maybe it wasn't, since we wouldn't sail without fresh meat and veget­ ables—we got some stores aboard. The food situation was really snafu, but we were prom­ ised more stuff—rice—in China.We arrived in Tsingtao Dec. 5, and of course, "no can do," ex­ cept for a little sugar. We stayed there until Dec. 22, when we left for the Philippine Islands, celebrating Christmas at sea. Please, if there are any Brothers who spent any Christ­ mas in German or Jap concen­ tration camps, I should like to compare notes with him. BAGGED BED-BUGS We hung around the P.I. and picked up cholera, also bed bugs. So now, beside the customary rice-beans, we had bed bugs. Finally left and got on our way to home sweet home. Now and then we did get some steaks and chops. Chicken we had enough of. Somewhere I read that Columbus had a big chicken feast after he discover­ ed America. I guess the things we had must have seen that party, for they sure tasted like it. The regular coffee cookies looked like, and tasted like, brown clay, and even the cock­ roaches refused them. All to­ gether. this was an experimental trip. Everybody lost weight. So in case you should ever see the Justo Arosemena with S. E. Millbourne as the Skipper —take your own grub with you. You'll need it! Signed by: Arne Larsen, Carpenter and nine Deck Dept. Men �Page Fourleen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 28, 1947 J.P. Shuler's Report To Int'l Convention The Organizing Staff within INTERNATIONAL LONGinstai>ce only recently, we as- various booklets, leaflets, pam­ (Continued from Page 3) our Union intend.? further and sited the United Financial Em­ phlets, etc. SHOREMENS ASSN. Among them are: the strike as a CMU football. But full action in the off-shore trade. ployes in their successful strike "Order!—How To Conduct a Un­ We have very good working re­ instead of kicking, they got kick­ ed, with the result that today We feel if we work hard enough lations with the ILA in all Ports, against the Cotton E.xchange in ion Meeting On Ship and we shall bo able to expand to a Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. In most New York. We have been re­ Ashore;" "This Is The SIU;" there is no longer a CMU. largci- point than we now are. Ports, regular meetings are held quested to lend further assis­ "Here's How Brother;" "SIU It is of no use to speak about The actual value in numbers of between the Seamen and the tance. both by President Harry Organizer's Handbook;" "History victories won unless by victories joiis as made accessible to the Longshoremen to iron out various Lundeberg, and - Frank Fenton, of the SIU;" and "Strike and won we can gain a lesson for Union will not be made known problems. We receive coopera­ AFL Director of Organization. In Strike Apparatus." We have the future. The strike w^ bene­ until sometime in the future tion from them in every manner. their coming strike against the found the use of these publica­ ficial for the following reasons: when these newly organized opNew York Stock and Curb Ex­ tions of a great advantage as a RADIO OFFICERS UNION a. It proved and demonstrated ertaors reach their peak of op­ changes. medium of education. the overwhelming strength of the erations and final disposition is This affiliated Union has assist­ We have assisted the Food and AFL on the waterfront. made of Isthmian Steam.ship ed us every time we h&ve asked Hotel Workers, AFL, numerous PERSPECTIVE FOR b. It proved that despite dif­ Company. We intend, and laid for same. We, in turn, have gone times in various Ports and most SIU ATUVNTIC AND ferences, Unions—CIO, AFL and programs accordingly at the to bat for them on any occasion recently in the Port of Tampa, Independent—can and will co­ Agents' Conference, to continue demanded. GULF DISTRICT where our Union backed these operate on issues involving wages an all-out effort aimed at ex­ AMERICAN MERCHANT MA­ people up in several strikes, all Our last three years have been and standards of living. panding our Organization into RINE STAFF OFFICERS ASSN of which they won. very tough ones. We have battled c. It established a precedent of the off-shore field. Good relations exist beween the In the coming year, we in­ the shipowners, the bureaucrats general maritime stoppage of In addition to the off-shore or­ SIU Atlantic and Gulf District tend attempting to establish closer and the commies alike in our at­ work in defense of the demands ganizing work done, we also have and this Union. We have been working unity with our various tempt to keep our Organization of a section of the Industry. been operating into the Inland of some assistance to them in affiliates. In our opinion, it is to alive and make it stronger. The d. It increased the prestige of and Tug unorganized field and some of their organizational xyork immediate future holds no pros­ the Seafarers International Union signed six Inland operators to and they, in turn, have helped our Union's great advantage to pect for easier days for us. We assist all of our affiliates when­ on an international scale. contracts and arc activ'ely work­ us every time possible. know that to live as an Organiza­ ever and wherever possible as a e. It won. ing in other unorganized com­ tion, we must be prepared for the safeguard for the future. BROTHERHOOD OF panies. hard struggles immediately TEAMSTERS EXPANSION AND ahead, In the Atlantic and Gulf PUBLICITY AND It is to be noted that at the Although the Teamsters are not ORGANIZATION District, not only do we expect present time there arc approxi­ officially affilated with our Un­ EDUCATION to have to battle the shipowner, mately 600 actual Tug jobs un­ The Union, as a result of the ion nationally, in many Ports in Our Union is now putting out but also to meet the full might 1945 Agents' Conference held in der contract to the SIU in the the Atlantic and Gulf District of the Communist Party machine. Gulf area. New York caused to be set up an they are affiliated with our Port a 16-page edition of the Seafarers We have met them before and Organizing Staff within our Un­ The Inland Tug Field on the Councils. Cooperation between Log on a weekly basis. While have not yielded one inch to ion. This Staff didn't officially Gulf Coast is one of a peculiar ourselves and this Union, as for this has been a very expensive them. We will not do so in the begin operations as such until nature. The records of previous instance, during our strike, they item for us to' maintain, we feel around July of the same year. SIU Conventions will show that supported us all the way. Our it has been worth every cent ex­ future for as long as the mem­ Their activities cover among the Organization for a period of most recent aid to them was in pended in view -of the results ob­ bership in our Union continue many others. the following years did not develop favorably their Teamsters Strike in Tampa tained. There are several recom­ the good fight that they have points: where we contributed physically mendations to be made to the carried for the last three years, in' this field. Convention pertaining to our ISTHMIAN STEAMSHIP CO. Since the inception of the Or­ and financially in their beef. we believe that not only will we In addition to direct affiliates paper. This will be made at the The details of this Drixe are fa­ ganizing Drive of the Atlantic be able to hold our Organiza­ proper time. miliar to all those present inas­ and Gulf District in 1945, we in the Maritime Trades Depart­ In addition to our weekly tion as is, but to expand it even much as all of the Seamen's Un­ have been able to more than ment, we have very good rela­ paper, the Union has put out further. tions with other Unions, .as for ions affiliated to the Internation­ double the size of our* organized al participated in one way or an­ Tug Fleet, however, we still feel other in this work. After winning we have not made an all-out ef­ the election itself, we have been fort to expand our Organization through several hearings before in that direction. the NLRB. We are now in the Therefore, our Agents' Confer­ final stages of this work and ence proposed that the Interna­ what should be the final hearing tional take up the question of Lakes, Lundeberg stated, "We dian Seamen's Union made an of this entire case is now in ses­ various charters and sub-charters (Continued from Page 1) sion in the Port of New York. issued by the International in close on the heels of a similar have got the National Maritime appeal for help in ousting com­ We should, unless something un­ the Gulf Area. This is to be call for action made by Lunde­ Union, CIO, hanging on the munists from the Canadian Sea­ foreseen happens, as a result of done with the thought in mind berg at a recent meeting of the ropes and it's up to us to knock men's Union, and thereafter this hearing, be fully certified of working out a satisfactory Coordinating Committee of the them out of business completely. bringing it back into the AFL as the Bargaining Agent for Isth­ charter arrangement so that the International T r a nsportworkers It's a tough set-up here on the fold. The charter of the CSU was Lakes, but I'm sure we can lifted by the SIU in 1944 for re­ mian Steamship Company. position of these Tugs within the Federation. fusing to repudiate the commun­ framework of the International President Lundeberg pointed knock it over." AMERICAN-PACIFIC will be clarified. The SIU President referred to ist party. out how the American merchant STEAMSHIP CO. We aLso recommend to this marine has shrunk from a war­ the NMU and Harry Bridges' CSU'S JOB This District's Organizers, act­ longshoremen's union as "politic­ time high of 50 million tons to a Convention that in clarifying ing under instructions from Pres­ This appeal was answered by al auxiliaries of the communist ident Harry Lundeberg, cooper­ those charters thought be given present low of 30 million tons. a promise of cooperation to ex­ He protested that much of this party," and called the leaders of ated with SUP officials along the to the various other unorganized pose the communists in the Ca­ shrinkage was due to the prac­ those two unions "Wagner Act Atlantic and Gulf Coasts in or­ workers in the Gulf Area. It has nadian union, but called on ganizing the first vessels crewed been our sad experience that in tice of American shipping inter­ unionists" who built their unions members of the CSU to take the by this Company. The culmina­ getting to the unorganized off­ ests of transferring their ships to by relying on government help initiative in cleaning out the tion of this was the signing of a shore and inland Tugboatmen in the Panamanian flag so that they from Washington, but who "nev­ party-liners. contract with the SUP, which, the Gulf Area, our Organizers oc­ could be operated under wages er did any real organizing in The fishermen's unions and the as a final result, wound up in the casionally come across fields of and working conditions below their lives." fish canners unions all reported Lundeberg predicted that be­ Coos Bay Beef. In a supporting unorganized workers who are a American standards. great progress in the field of or­ In his legislative report to the cause both the NMU and the action of the efforts already put detriment to reaching our objec­ ganizing. With fishing and can­ fifty Convention delegates, rep­ ILWU are weakened by being into the manning of these vessels, tive. ning reaching great heights, communist-dominated, the ship­ Therefore, the need not only for resenting approximately 92,000 our Union, at the request of our these unions feel that the SIU owners would center their attack affiliates, extended this Coos Bay clarification on Tugs, but to all seamen, fishermen, and fish can­ will enroll thousands of ne-w on them. Beef into various East Coast other allied workers of the Mari­ nery workers, Lundeberg stated members in a very short time, Later the attempt might be Ports. The final result.? of this time Industry, should be con­ that at the rate American ships and become one of the most im­ sidered and studied in the event are being bought, up by foreign made to bust the SIU, he said, beef are known. portant factors in the Interna­ issuance of such charter is made. governments, or being placed un­ "but they won't get away with AFL MARITIME TRADES der Panamanian flag, "it will not it, because we're not Wagner tional. DEPARTMENT The legislative program recom­ be long before the Amei-ican sea­ Act unionists! We did our own AFL AFFILIATES mended to the Convention b.y Assi.sting in forming thi.s new men will be in the breadline with organizing." SAILORS UNION OF THE department of the AFL was William McLaughlin, SIU Rep­ President Lundeberg included an the highest wages in the world, PACIFIC classed as an Organizational ob­ resentative of the British Cana urgent request to Congress to but with no ships to sail." take steps to help alien seamen, jective and was handled as such. LAKES DRIVE REPORT The SUP on the East and Gulf who served through the war, ob­ Through cooperation of our af­ Coasts has at all times cooperated President Lundeberg also an­ tain their citizenship papers, as filiated Unions in the Interna­ in every manner possible with nounced the inauguration of an payment for their service and tional, we were successful in es­ our Union in handling various intensive organizing drive along loyalty to the United States dur­ tablishing AFL Port Councils, disputes. They have, as well, as- the Great Lakes. Harry O'Reilly, Send in the minutes of ing the war. commencing with New York and sited us greatly in all other types AFL Regional Director of Organ­ your ship's meeting to the Other points in the program expanding into every Port on the of our work, particularly .so in ization, promised the complete New York Hall. Only in that called for passage of a Merchant East and Gulf Coasts. way can the membership act cooperation of his office, and to­ the unorganized field. Seamen's Bill of Rights, an end Our Union, in addition has on your recommendations, ward that end offered the SIU MASTERS. MATES & PILOTS to Merchant Marine Training signed other off-shore operators and then the minutes can bo the facilities of Radio Station Program; and for placing the su­ We have close working rela­ WCFL, operated by the Chicago to contract, but are not making printed in the LOG for the pervision of the merchant marine the names of these operators tions with this Organization and Federation of Labor. benefit of all other SIU back under the jurisdiction of known at this time until further we assist one another wherever crews. In discussing the plans for or­ the Department of Commerce. possible. details can be given. ganizing the seamen on the Great Lakes Drive, Panamanian Transfers Highlight Seafarers IntM Convention Send Those Minutes ill] �ii MONEY DUE ShepariT Steamship Company Chun, Paul S. V Clark, Adelbert E. ... Clegg, Harold Corsey, Ernest E Cosgrove, Robert B. . Coutant, Wilbur E Cowen, Thomas DECK DEPARTMENT Cronen, Robert J * , A Cronn, George C Adams, Norman L $ .80 Cummings, Alfred Adamonski, Joseph 10,00 Curtin, Cornelius Alkafer, Raymond F 12.61 Czarnecki, Frank Alman, Eugene E 4.48 D Alder, Edwin E 7.50 D'Angelo, Vito D Anderson, Arne B. 5.07 Davies, Raymond G. . Anderson, F. H 13.94 Davis, Earl Anderson, E. H.# 4.44 Dennis, Donald Anderson, John W 2.54 DeSouza, Henry Anderson, John W 1.26 Dey.senroth, Albert M. Ander.son, Laurilis 2.28 Dixon, John Ander.son, Walter R 22.37 Dgyle, Thomas G Ainold, Clarence W 13.96 Drain, Robert C Arnold, L. R 8.86 Drever, Robert Aiigustyn, Peter 5.14 Dutot, Frank J B Dzura, Mike Bagg, David J 42.38 E Baker, Robert 6.08 Edmondson, Ralph Baker, Walter J 5.04 Edson, Chester Baldi, Salvatore 18.38 Edson, Clarence J Bales, Leon 5.88 Edson, Floyd W Bauer, Robert G 2.95 Ei.ser, Edgar L Baunaeb, John R 1.11 Elrnd. Norman D Behrend, Paul 1.44 Elwood, Lonnie E Bell. Frank R 2.20 Emm-son, Howard F. .. Bell, Raymond 2.20 Ericsson, H Beuecka, Joseph 6.60 Eriksen, Gunnar Benecka, Joseph 26.40 Est by, Fi ederick Benecka, Joseph 59.12 F Bornberg, Philip 3.59 Ferranido, Anthony Beyer, Richard W 5.68 Billingsley, Beverly 2.69 Fetsko, Edward Bishop, Lowell J 73.80 Fisher, Harry Unclaimed, relroactive. over­ time and vacation wages are open on the books of the Shepard Steamship Company. 31 Milk St.. Boston. Massi as list­ ed below: Blanchard, Richard F Boyle, Edward R. Boyle, Edward R. Brandon, Arthur .. Brandt, Eugene W. Brock, Bobby L. .. Bi'ook, Walter W. Buchanen, Seward R. Bukman, Harry G. .. Bushman, George A. C Cain, C. O. . Campos, Alvino Capehart, William R. Caramellino, Fred Carney, Joseph W. Carney, Joseph W Cassada, George Castoro, Paul A. Page Fiiteen THE S E A F 4 R E R S LOG Friday. March 28. 1947 . . . . . 1.47 10.34 3.46 26.40 63.94 3.23 2.95 3.36 4.00 19.07 2.69 2.93 10.41 3.79 2;01 1.34 1.34 3.40 3.59 .20 1.87 7.80 1.44 4.56 2.76 3.13 1.46 1.46 799.99 8.00 12.17 6.58 1.46 16.89 7.83 2.39 9.59 7.56 Fleniken, James C Fletcher, Valwyn Fontes, Robert Frazier, Willie Frederickson, Alf G Gallagher, Richard A Galmarine, Albert Garcia, Joe C Garling, Elmer Gerke, Philip A Gjert.sen, Maurice Gushue, Robert H Hagen, Sigried L Hajer, Erik. Hall, John E Hall. Willis Hallenburg, Gustav H Halse, Hermod L Halvorson, James Hamilton, Allen Han.sell, John C Hansen, Jens A Hart, John W Hawkins, Jack Healy, Leonard N Hejmej. Francis Helms, James R Helterline, Gerald H Henkleman, Norman L Heyes, Frank W Hodgins, James T Hollcy, John A Homer, John Hoogerwerf, Jan Horst, Edward Howard, Roy S Huber, Frederick Hughes, Patrick J. • Hunt. Charles W List Of Official Delegates And Unions At Convention 24.34 19.86 .60 18.13 3.23 8.10 1.19 1.19 2.69 3.36 6.72 2.87 1.38 3.66 16.44 1.44 1.46 25.60 1.38 5.14 2.37 2.54 26.85 3.50 3.10 2.41 21.26 1.44 1.38 1.38 1.35 9.94 9.83 5.37 210.33 1.46 1.44 73.80 48.64 Atlantic and Gulf District: W. C. Tanner, Paul Hall, Claude Simmons, E. Sheppard, Carl E. Gibbs, E. R. Smith and Ray White. Fraternal Delegates: John Mogan, W. H. Simmons, L. J. Williams and J. P. Shuler. Alaska Fish Cannery Workers Union, Seattle; John S. Ayamo. American Merchant Marine Staff OHicers Assn.: Thomas B. Hill. Atlantic Fishermen's Union, Boston: Patrick McHugh, Aus­ tin J. Powers, and John Mogan (proxy). British Columbia Seamen's Union; William McLaughlin. Cannery Workers and Fishermen's Union, San Diego: Lester Balinger, Calvin H. Burns, and Frank Currier. Fish Cannery Workers Union of Pacific, Monterey, Calif.: Joseph Perry and Lester Caveny. Fish Cannery Workers Union of Pacific, San Francisco Bay Area: George Issel. Great Lakes District: Fred Farnen, Einar Nordaas, Larry Martin and Herbert Jansen. Los Angeles Harbor Cannery Workers Union, Terminal Is., Calif.: Andrea Gomez, Ira Nash, Leonard Powell, Antonio Tovar and James Waugh. Sailor's Union of the Pacific: Charles Brenner, Edward Coestcr, Robert Dohibroff, Harry Lundeberg, John Massey, R. D. Thompson and Morris Weisberger. Seine-Line Fishermen's Union, Monterey County: John Crivello. Seine-Line Fishermen's Union: George Penovaroff. Guards and Watchmen's Union, No. 1: Charles Bi-enner (proxy). Inland Division: Charles Brenner (proxy). United Fishermen of Alaska: Edward Coester (proxy). The following unions arc entitled to vote but no delegate or proxy has thus far appeared at the convention: Chinook Can­ nery Workers Union, No. 12; Conanicut Inland Boatmen's Union, New Jersey; East Coast of Florida Fishermen and Seafood Hand­ lers Union, Miami; Fishermen and Seafood Workers Union of the Atlantic Coast, New Jersey; Marine Pursers of the Pacific, Seattle; Marine Chief Stewards of the Pacific, Seattle; Shoalwater Bay Oyster Workers Union, No. 14; SIU of NA Floating Plant Personnel, No. 1, Memphis: Wrangell Cannery Workers Union, Wrangell, Alaska. 24.88 1.50 3.16 1.00 3.64 BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. 33 RECTOR ST., NEW YORK CITY 35.68 Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. 2.20 SS EDWARD G. ACHESON Gronbach, $13.63; J. McGrady, Belanger, $7.11; R. K. Biffle, Boudoin 4455 1.60 $13.58; Herbert Crowley, $7,111; BUFFALO H. J. Adams, $12.32; A. Arson- 49c; H. Millet, $4.52. 10 Exchange St. .31 E. A. Gibson, $5.27; Kenneth Cleveland 7391 di, $1.20; J. W. Burchett, $5.93; 4. 4. 4. .39 424 King St. Gordon. $7.11; J. E. Jones, $2.37; CHARLESTON E. J. Carbine, $28.46; D. C. M. SS JOSEPH M. CAREY Phone 3-3680 Dammers, $12.66; A. B. Forsman, H. J. Adams. $8.67; Robert R. E. Jones, $2.37; Owen Kee- CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. 7.90 25c; H. S. Jensen, $15.87; R. G. han ,$3.04; E. R. Kramer, $18.99; Superior 5175 Johnson, $2.50. 7.43 O'Grady, $3.21. Marion Kunicki. $4.74; Henry CLEVELAND ... 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. J. 4. 4. 1.80 Main 014 Lopez, $18.03; Jan Mosden, $7.11; 4- 4- 4. SS CLINTON SEAM CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. 12.84 Fumio Onaka, $12.01; G. G. Van SS RUSSELL A. ALGER W. L. Renn, $11.65. Corpus Christi 3-1509 13.38 Etten, $16.78; G. V. Wright, $2.24. DETROIT 1038 Third St. W. A. Dankel, $11.23; B. Don38.32 4. 44Cadillac 6857 SS SAMUEL^ COLT 3.00 nelas, $9.64; Robert Hill, $6.39; SS WILLIAM LEROY GABLE DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. E. Kessarotos, 11c; L. Lori, 69c: D. Azarou, $11.02; R. P. Lau3.13 Melrose 4110 E. W. Collins. $16.87; D. E. HigHarold Moon, $9.23; W. B. Ne- ren, $4.99. GALVESTON 308"-—23rd St. bie. $32.30; P. N. Maness, $19.47; sula. 11c; G. Robinson. $8.79; H. Phone 2-8448 4. 4. 4R. A. McFarland, $11.27; E. J. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. E. Stollings, $5.59; J. Villadson, SS BENJAMIN F. COSTON Swanson, $11.27; F. G. Swofford, Phone 58777 $1.68. A. H. Dodd, $5.16; Walter KaHOUSTON 1515 75th St. $4.31; A. T. West, $16.44. Will Seafarers who were on .4. 4. 4. zmierczak, $35.02; Sal De Maria, Went worth 3-3809 4- 4- 4. SS JOHN BALL the SS Grace Abbott, the SS JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. $6.11; E. C. Meyer, $13.36. SS GOUCHER VICTORY Phone 5-5919 George Holmes, or the SS Fran­ C. Haller, $11.27; C. Isaacson, 4. 4. 4. MARCUS HOOK 1 W. 8th St. R. G. Rasmaussen, $32.33. cis Morrison, in Zamboango, be­ $8.27; J. B. Johnson, $36.28; A. SS MOSES CLEVELAND Chester 5-3110 SS JAMES W. GRIMES tween December 9, 1945 and Jan­ J. Krain, $4.55; P. Stein, $2.28. Richard Ander.'^on, $6.01; Z. MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. J. Foreman, $11.82; V. E. Voix, uary 20, 1946, please get in touch MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. 4. 4- 4Andrias, $11.99; J. A. Baldwin, with Joe Algina or Louis Goffin SS HENRY WARD BEECHER $9.02; E. Broker, 26c; Ralph Byrd, 53c. Phone 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. 4. 44. in the New York Hall. • H. J. Beeler, $21.93; E. W. $9.08; T. Corbett, $2.29; H. Eliott, Magnolia 6112-6113 SS FREDERICK C. HICKS 4* Bridges, $3.49; L. T. DobSon $2.29; G. Ennett, 61c; W. T. Floyd, NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. A blue suit was left in the Nor­ $1L93; Fred Drechsel, $41.40; J. $5.27; G. Hill, 26c; E. Hojer, $5.71; R. Collier, $1.00; C. DeGraffenHAnover 2-2784 127-129 Bank St. folk Hall in care of Agent Ray H. Maxwell, $21.93; W. D. Par- Charles Hunisicker, $6.01; Don reid, $1.00; A. Dennis, $1.00; G. NORFOLK Phone 4-1083 White. The owner's- name has due, $21.93; S. ProctoiS 7c; K. Kaiser, $14.09; J. Mann, $4.00; K. Jones, $1.26; Dewey Larson, $4.78; 9 South 7th St. been misplaced, and the Agent Sherrebeck, $7:23; K. E. Stall- E. Poley, $6.01; Lawrence Richie, C. Miller, $1.09; E. Owen, $1.00; PHILADELPHIA Lombard 3-7651 is unable to contact him. Owner hammer, $6.69; B. E. Stevenson, Jr., $4.92; E. E. Sexton, Jr., $4.92; E. Persson, $26.56; E. J. Tsuji, PORT ARTHUR . . 909 Fort Worth Ave. please contact Agent Ray White $24.68; H. Tegtmeyer, 5c; A. Edwin Walle, $5.27; H. M. Wein, $10.00; F. Wagner, $21.99. Phone 2-8532 PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. at the Norfolk Hall, 127 Bank Yopps, $3.08. $4.92; Alex Wilkins, $6.01. 4' 4* 4* Beacon 4336 Street, Norfolk 10, Va. SS NEWCASTLE VICTORY 4- 4. 4.4. 4. 4RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. SS CARTER BRAXTON SS DOMINICAN VICTORY 4. 4. Louis Bernardo, $4.92; Kojineth Phone 2599 105 Market St. The New Orleans Hall is hold­ Edward Brihsbn, $47.35; Dale C. M. Brakefield, $11.95; J. K. Daniels, $10.09; Roland Florea, SAN FRANCISCO Douglas 5475-8363 ing unclaimed baggage and gear Griffiths, $4.27; Anker Hansen, Kain, 87c; F. Davenport, $15.89; $10.09; James Nee, $4.50; Emil SAN JUAN,- P. R. ... 252 Ponce de Leon turned over to the Branch by the $19.80; H. Helms, 75c; William M. E. Gunn, $2.06; H. Henderson, Urban, 96c; Henry Zac, $8.27. San Juan 2-5996 Alcoa Steamship Company. If Isbell, $3.01; William Lndgren, $1.11; R. Kellund, 57c; W. Leary, SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. tlj^B gear is not claimed within $3.89; J. S. Winget, $2.25. $3.46; J. McCormick, $11.77; Gen. Phono 8-1728 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. sixty days, it will be given to a F. Miller, $1.72; J. J. Notcha, 4- 4. 4Main 0290 charitable institution. The men SS BENJAMIN H. BREWSTER $3.60; J. C. Thompson, $11.02. TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. whose gear is being held are as F. Bednowski, $1.24; A. C. Belt, Phone M-1323 MICKEY HEALEY follows: SS F. SOUTHALL FARRAR TOLEDO 615 Summit St. $5.00; F. Delander, $11.55; J. P. 440 Avalon Blvd. Danny Douglas is anxious for WILMINGTON Dale D. Barnes, Edward Coop­ Gibbons, $3.56; Max Martin, C. C. Bennett, $25.0; C. L. Conn, Terminal 4-3131 er, Gaines T. Shcerma or George $16.45; E. E. Smith, $6.31. $6.16; D. W. Goldy, $1.90; T. P. information about his gear, and VICTORIA, B. C 602 Houghton St. would like you to visit or write McCleary, $17.01. Scherv, John W. Liebel or Riebel, 4- 4. 4. Garden 8331 to him at Kings Park Hospital, VANCOUVER SS CAPE RACE Wetz, Emil Olsen, Walter Comlet, 144 W. Hastings St. Pacific 7824 Box A, Ward 98, Kings Park, Thayadsen, S. Ansley, Justus La ' G. J. Brisby, $7.38; G. Davis, SS CORNELIUS FORD Long Island, New York. $9.33; J. D. Grimp, $3.03; H. C. Edward Abraham, $7.11; Harry Fayette Whidden, L. M. Cooper. A Union Sulphur Company NOTICE! PERSONALS SIU HALLS �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 28, 1947 Seafarers Drive Makes Great Lakes Hum Looking north on the Detroit River from the bridge of the SB T. J. McCarthy, in the fore­ ground may be seen the Coast Guard station with a dock load of freshly painted and re­ conditioned buoys. To the right, almost out of sight, is the Belle Isle Bridge with an almost solid ice-pack behind. There's plenty of activity along the Detroit waterfront these days, and plenty of the activity is caused by the intensity of the SIU Organizing Drive in the Great Lakes region. From all indications. Lakes traffic will be even heavier than during the war years, when it boomed to record heights. Some of that well-known Great Lakes ice breaking up in the Detroit River. Navigation on the Lakes has to wait until the major ports are ice free before the shipping season starts. Every bottom that floats will be used on the Lakes this year in the expectation of hauling two million more tons of ore than the record set during the war years. It looks like a big year, for business and for the SIU Organizing Drive. fsSgiiSgf . The brisk wind whistling down the Detroit River makes this job a mighty cold one. One of the SS George W. Mead's crewmembers paints the insignia on the ship's smokestack as part of the general clean-up job before the vessel starts its regular sailing schedule. It's the same story up and down the Lakes, where every available ship is being readied for a big year. Above is an auditing Committee of Great Lakes SIU mem­ bers, elected at the bi-weekly meeting to go over the Union books. Standing, left to right: Harold Casey; an unidentified Seafarer who sneaked into the picture; and Louis Funkey. Seat­ ed is William Cochran. Great Lakes Secretary-Trea­ surer Fred Farnen reports to the membership on the prog­ ress of the organizational drive. According to the various or­ ganizers, THE GREAT LAKES, TOO, WILL SOON BE SIU. This is spring cleaning on a grand scale. The spring season means clean up and paint up for ships as well as for the average home. This SS George W. Mead crewmember is giving the mast a new coat of paint, in preparation for the sailing season on the Lakes. Shown here are SIU members attending a regular mem­ bership meeting in the SIU Hall in Detroit. About ISO Seafarers were present, and this included some of the female members from the Stewards Department of Lakes passenger vessels. i;i � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 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 March 28, 1947 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. IX, No. 13 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PANAMA TRANSFERS GREAT LAKES DRIVE HIGHLIGHT CONVENTION TRIBUTE TO HAWK AGENTS CONFERENCE PROPOSALS ACCEPTED BY COASTWISE A&G MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS CANADIAN AND U.S. COMMUNISTS HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OF CSU ILLEGAL TRANSFERS J.P. SHULER'S REPORT TO INT'L CONVENTION GROUNDWORK LAID IN LAKES DRIVE; SIU RANK AND FILE PARTICIPATE GREEN ADVISES UNIONS TO INGORE OPEN SHOP LAWS FLORIDA LABOR GETS READY TO OPPOSE TOM WATSON LUNDEBERG PLEDGES INT'L SUPPORT TO UFE IN WALL STREET STRIKE DELEGATES GATHER FOR SIU CONVENTION IT'S TRUE - RHODE ISLAND PAYS BONUS TO SEAMEN LAKES SEAMEN INVITED TO VISIT BUFFALO HALL SOME COMPANIES STILL TRY TO CHISEL ON FOOD PAYOFFS AND SHIPBOARD PLAYBOYS KEEP PORT PHILADELPHIA ACTIVE MARCUS HOOK IS A LONELY PORT; FAST SHIPPING HAS HALL EMPTY MOBILE ASKS ALL AND SUNDRY: COME DOWN AND GET FAST SHIPPING FEW PHONY SKIPPERS AND PURSERS SOUR GOOD NEW YORK SHIPPING CANADIAN SEAFARERS DEMAND PROBE OF SHIP TRANSFERS TO PANAMA SHIPOWNER STOOGE SAYS SEAMEN CAN GET ALONG ON SMALL SALARY TAMPA REALLY HUNGRY FOR SEAMEN; ONLY EIGHT MEN ARE LEFT ON BEACH TOLEDO SHOWING RESULTS IN LAKES DRIVE AGENTS CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATIONS SIU WINS DAMAGES AND PENSION FOR INJURED CANADIAN SEAFARER PILOT BUTTE'S COOK DIES IN TURKISH PORT SS OVID BUTLER CREWMEMBERS CALL FOR END OF COAST GUARD JURISDICTION OVER SEAMEN J.P. SHULER'S REPORT TO INT'L CONVENTION SEAFARERS DRIVE MAKES GREAT LAKES HUM Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/28/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/530ed2997c4b84b187c05bcf1030943f.PDF e772bfb930415b1d5c78c572aec0cfe9 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf and Great Lakes Districts^ Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. MARCH 21. 1947 IN SOLEMN SESSION No. 12 Refusal To Disavow CP Makes Maritime Unity impessibie- Agents ly' As an aftermath of the Conference of Maritime Unions held in Washington on March 14 and 15, the Seafarers International Union has gone on record opposing any further paticipation in future meet­ ings with those who refused to vote for the resolu­ tion condemning communists and their fellow trav­ elers as enemies of the trade union movement. The report of the meeting, plus the recommenda• Agents from the Atlantic and Gulf District take a few seconds off so that the LOG photo­ grapher can take a picture. Except for this short break, the officials of the Union kept going at top speed to map plans and programs for the coming year. When they have finished their de­ liberations. their recommendations will be submitted to the membership for approval or disap­ proval. That's the democratic Seafarers way. and that's why the Union is strong and growing. A&G Agents Conference Prepares Plans For Expansion Of Seafarers In All Fields NEW YORK—From 16 ports of the Atlantic and Gulf District, SIU Port Agents are meeting in New York this week to chart the course of the Union during the ensuing year. Attending the meeting are: J. P. Shuler, Assistant Secre­ tary-Treasurer; Paul Hall, Direc­ tor of Organization; John Mogan, Boston Agent; E. S. Higdon, isthmian Hearing NEW YORK. March 19— Hearings started today on the NMU's flimsy charges in re­ gard to the Isthmian Steam­ ship Company bargaining election. Representing the SIU at the hearings are Paul Hall, Morris Weisberger. Earl Sheppard. and A1 Kerr. SIU attornies are Ben Sterling and Henry Kaiser. Mr. Kaiser is from the office of Joseph Padway. AFL at­ torney. Originally the National Lational Labor Relations Board decided to start the hearings on March 24. but moved the date up when the services of Trial Examiner became available. The hearings are being held in the New Yor's offices of the NLRB. but will shift to other places if it is deemed necessary. Philadelphia Agent; Anthony Cardullo, Marcus Hook Agent; William Rentz, Baltimore Agent; Ray White, Norfolk Agent; Earl Smith, Charleston Agent; Char­ les Starling, Savannah Agent; Jimmy Hahners, Jacksonville Agent; Cluade Simmons, Tampa Agent: Cal Tanner, Mobile Agent; Steely White, New Orleans Agent; Charles Haymond, Hous­ ton Agent; Leon Johnson, Port Arthur Agent; D. L. Parker, Gal­ veston Agent; Salvador Colls, San Juan Agent; and W. H. Sim­ mons, San Francisco Agent. Also present are: Joe Algina, Acting New York Agent: Earl Sheppard, International Repre­ sentative in eharge of Great Lakes Organizing; Lindsey Wil­ liams, SIU Field Representative in charge of Gulf Area Organiz­ ing; and Robert Matthews, Head­ quarters Engine Department Rep­ resentative. Many difficulties were faced by the Union during the past year, and the Agents will discuss and study each one so that the lessons learned can be applied in the future. BUSY AGENDA Some of the topics on this year's agenda are carry-overs from the last Conference, such as the unremitting war which the SIU is carrying on against Coast Guard control over merchant sea­ men. The Union is bn record that these controls be turned over to a civilian agency, and it is certain that this topic will be thoroughly discussed by the offi­ cials. Another carry-over topic is the Merchant Seamen's Bill of Rights. This measure has been booted around in Congress long enough, and the Agents are sure to map out some sort of program to assure^ prompt action on the bill. The Seafarers Log. which dur­ ing the past year increased its size to 16 pages, will get its share of the stage to make recommen­ dations designed to widen its scope and circulation. But the keynote of the Con­ ference is expansion. With the Isthmian election over except for (Continued cyti Page 8) NEW ttion that the SIU adopt the above policy, was submitted to the A&G Agents Conference by the three Seafarers' delegates at the conference, Harry Lundeberg, Paul Hall, and Morris Weisber­ ger. Without a dissenting vote, the Atlantic and Gulf District Agents WASHINGTON — Persons in­ accepted the report and the jured while working on a Gov­ recommendation. Besides the SIU representa­ ernment-owned vessel are en­ tives at the meeting, the follow­ titled to recover damages from ing other union delegates were the Government under the Pub­ in attendance: Hill, Pursers Un­ lic Vessels Act of 1925, so de­ ion, AFL; McDonald, Radio Of­ cided the Supreme Court in a ficers' Union, AFL; Ash, Higgen7 to 2 decision on March 11. botham and May, MM&P, AFL; The opinion, delivered by Jus­ Malone, Ramsey, and Gormley, tice Reed upheld the decision of MFOWW, Independent; Curran, the Circuit Court of Appeals, Lawrenson, and Haddock, NMU, which had ruled favorably on CIO; Kaufman, Bryson, and Dicases involving two stevadores voran, MCS, CIO; Hogan, MEBA, injured while loading a govern­ CIO; and Selly, ACA, CIO. ment ship at Staten Island, N. Y. Brothers Dorchain and Johansen, In rendering the decision. Jus­ ITF, were also at the conference. The text of the SIU report and tice Reed said: "We cannot be­ lieve that the Public Vessels Act, recommendation follows: read in the light of its legisla­ On Friday, March 14th, we met tive history, evinces a Congres­ with representatives of the ma­ sional intent only to provide a jority of seamen's union's, li­ remedy to the owners of dam­ censed and unlicensed, including aged propertly." CIO, independent and foreign. Seafarers affected by the Su­ After a lengthy discussion a preme Court's decision, can re­ mutual agreement was reached ceive full particulars of the new on a number of problems facing ruling by contacting Joseph Volall of us. We made no commit­ pian, Special Services Represen­ tments relative to any "united tative, 5th floor, 51 Beaver Street, New York. N. Y. (Continued on Page 1 f) Court Rales US Responsible For Injuries On Ships CONTRACT MAKES GAINS MOBILE — A contract calling for pay increases and optional overtime on Saturdays and Sun­ days, was signed on February 6, 1947, between the Seafarers In­ ternational Union - Towboat Di­ vision, the Gulf Shipbuilding Corporation-Tugboat D i v i s i on, and the Mobile Towing and Wrecking Company. The new agreement will run until February 5, 1948, and is automatically renewable unless either party gives written notice of a desire to terminate the con­ tract. Such notice must be given, in writing, at least sixty days prior to the expiration of the contract. Under the terms of the new agreement, overtime on Satur­ days and Sundays is optional. The boats will be in service weekends, but if an employee does not choose to work, he can be replaced by someone from the Union Hall. Work on those days, plus holi­ days, is paid for at the overtime rate of $1.25 per hour, as is all work in excess of eight hours per day. The contract provides for the orderly settlement of grievances, disputes, and complaints. Three steps have beon set up to amic­ ably adjust anything that might interfere with good managementlabor relations. Two weeks vacation with pay is another feature won by the Union Negotiating Committee which consisted of Cal Tanner, Mobile Agent, and Charles Kim­ ball, Patrolman. The agreement is an example of what can be accomplished in the Towboat field in the Gulf. Full text of the contract ap­ pears on page 4. �m Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS LOG Vublished Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 ^ HARRY LUNDEBERG X X X ------ President 103 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. 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 The Washington Meeting Words are cheap, but it's actions that count. That was proven last weekend when the Washington Conference of Maritime Unions went on record to press for the rejec­ tion of communists from maritime unions. Five AFL unions, the SIU, the SUP, the AMMSOA, the ROU, and the MM&P, plus one independent union, the MFOWW, voted for the resolution. Four unions, all CIO, either voted against it, or refrained from voting at ajh It came as no surprise that the MCS, and the ACA refused to come out in favor of the resolution, but it was shocking that in spite of his alleged fight against the com­ mies in the NMU, Joe Curran voted against the propo­ sition. Friday, March 21, 1947 UFE Votes mi FREIGHT SHIP SCALE To Strike Ail Exchanges DECK DEPAHTMENT Rating The United Financial Workers, who with the help of the SIU recently tied up the New York 'Cotton Exchange, now plan an action which will shut down the entire financial district. An overwhelming strike vote, 1444 to 114, authorized the heads of the union to cancel contracts in the Stock, Cotton, and Curb Exchanges, as well as with sev­ eral brokerage houses, .in order to force A. M. Kidder and Com­ pany to bargain with the union. For months Kidder has been stalling, and a strike just against that company would be inef­ fective since the company could transact its business through other firms. The strike vote was taken in the SIU Hall, 51 Beaver Street, on Thursday, March L3. At the same time a strategy meeting was held which was addressed by Frank Fenton, AFL Director of Organization, and Paul Hall, who fills the same position for the SIU. M. David Keefe, President of UFE, stated that the union won a State Labor Board election at the Kidder company more than five months ago, but the com­ pany has refused to sit down to negotiate. The size of the strike vote is the answer to that at­ titude. Pictures of the strike meeting appear on page 15. Present Wage Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals There is only one sure method to use, and that is to These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, refuse them aid and comfort from the beginning. Any as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging position short of that can lead only to disruption and chaos. heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Elsewhere in the papfer is the statement issued by the ing to them. Seafarers International Union representatives to the con­ NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL ference. That statement is a clear analysis of the eyents J. NAVARRO P. DAUGHERTY of the meeting, and clearly explains why the SIU has adopt­ J. RETOUR ed a policy of refusal to hold any further meetings with the G. KRETZER C. MASON men who giye lip seryice to the cause of democratic union­ S. MOGAN ism, but actually shelter the communists and their stooges. W. BROCE, Jr. Big Doings These are big weeks for the Seafarers International Union. This week Agents of the Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ trict are holding their annual conference; next week will be the SIU Convention in Chicago, and following that, the AFL Maritime Trades Department will hold a meeting in thd same city. These events are growing labor union. that future programs ings analyzed for the future. the normal activity of a healthy, It is in meetings and conventions are outlined^ and previous happen­ lesson that can be learned for the r?f The SIU is growing, not only in membership, but in strength. Our ranks are solid, and our union is built on the firm principle that democratic trade unionism is far superior to any set up which includes fascists, either red or black. New Rate Bosun ..: $205.00 $12.30 $217.30 Bosuns Mate—^Day Work , 192.50 11.55 204.05 Bosuns Mate—Watch 180.00 10.80 190.80 Carpenter 205.00 12.30 217.30 Storekeeper 197.50 11.85 209.35 AB Maintenance ....^ . 187.50 11.25 198.75 Quartermaster 172.50 10.35 182.85 Able Seaman 172.50 10.35 182.85 Watchman 172.50 10.35 182.85 Ordinary Seaman 150.00 9.00 159.00 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Chief Electrician $294.50 $17.67 $312.17' Asst. Electrician 227.50 13.65 241.15 Jr. Engineer—Day Work 230.00 13.80 243.80 Jr. Engineer—Watch 205.00 12.30 217.30 Plumber—Machinist 237.00 14.22 251.22 Deck Engineer 205.00 12.30 217.30 Chief Reefer 269.50 16.17 285.67 First Reefer 237.50 14.25 251.75 Second Reefer 218.50 13.11 231.61 Storekeeper 197.50 11.85 209.35 Engine Utility 205.00 12.30 217.30 Evaporator—Maint 190.00 11.40 201.40 Oiler—Diesel .'. 195.25 11.72 206.97 Oiler—Steam 177.50 10.65 188.15 Watertender 177.50 10.65 188.15 Fireman-Watertender 177.50 10.65 188.15 Fireman 167.50 10.05 177.^5 Wiper h. 175.00 10.50 185.50 STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Steward $220.00 $13.20 $233.20 Chief Cook 205.00 12.30 217.30 Night Cook and Baker 205.00 12.30 217.30 Second Cook 185.00 11.10 196.10 Third Cook 175.00 10.50 185.50 Messman 150.00 9.00 159.00 Utilityfnan 150.00 9.00 159.00 The overtime rate for Unlicensed Personnel receiving less than $200.00 per month shall be $1.06 per hour. For all i-atings receiving $200.00 or more per month, the overtime rate shall be $1.32t2 per hour. The full agreement was run last week, and will be run again next week for the bene­ fit of those who missed it. The stand he and Lawrenson took may gain them columns of praise in the pages of the commie papers, but they struck another blow at waterfront unity with their irresponsible action. Having played ball with the communists for such a long period of time, Curran and Lawrenson certainly ought to realize that it is impossible to build any sort of solid organization if the red termites are allowed to attack the foundation. Increase J. ROONEY E. CUSTER R. E. MULHOLLAND H. H. HAMILTON J. W. DENNIS R. B. WRIGHT R. B. KINAIRD XXX BALTIMORE HOSPITAL ARTHUR CAMARA ANTHONIO AMARAL ANTHONY FUSCO' ALBERT HAWKINS JOHN ASHFORD JACK HAMILTON .lAMES McMAHON (G.L.) MICHAEL J. LUCAS MATTHEW CARSON ROBERT WISEMAN LAWRENCE McCUNE ERNEST SIDNEY THEODORE BABKOWSKI GEORGE WILKINS STANLEY HOLDEN CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES SIMMONS WILLIAM HOWELL PETER LOPEZ XXX MOBILE HOSPITAL MARION D. PENRY MANWEL CARDANA C. A. GARNET R. H. DAVIS W. J. SULLIVAN A. SABOURIN S. P. MORRIS E. L. MYERS XXX STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL JAMES THOMAS MOORE E. E. CASEY S. W. LESLEY J. S. WOOD C. H. SULLIVAN K. KORNELIUSSEN P. SYRAX L. A. CORNWALL F. H. DOLAN M. BAUCSKI W. BLOOM M. J. LYDEN A. SWENSON R. G. MOSSELLER R. J. TURNER G. E. MARSHALL M. MORRIS L. NELSON You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 pjn. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. H. R. R. E. JOHNSTON SWIM LORD BROWN BOLEHALA XXX SAN JUAN HOSPITAL JUAN OLIVER WALTER JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. FELICIANO R. SEIFO ' �Friday. March 21. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG HONORED BY ALL Page Tnree Seafarers Offers Lakes Seamen Chance To Ship During Winter By EARL SHEPPARD The thing that is needed is pay Lakes District delegates will atsufficiently large to take care of tend with full voice and vote, the four to five months of en- ^ and Lakes problems will be disforced lay-off. This can be se-' cussed jointly with seamen of all cured only by organizing, and coasts, bringing the wage scales up to . i the proper standard. I ^ large number of questions, recommendations and resolutions RECIPROCAL SHIPPING have already been submitted to Lakes Seafarers members have the convention, and full considerthe benefit of reciprocal shipping ation will be given all communiand, if they so desire, can work'cations either from members or the year around by moving to the' non-members, coast during the winter months. One of the main points of dis­ There is still, however, the cussion will be the setting up of question of transportation and... , the time spent waiting to ship. I shipping rules for the Many Lakes seamen have family' ^reat responsibilities and the four win-Seamen can enjoy equal ter months are actually the only without the loss of time a normal family life can be ^^^hts. enjoyed. | The establishment of such a The moving of an entire family uniform system will create back and forth would involve an greater job protection, and preexpense far greater than the vent Seafarers' members on the average man can afford. G. L. from being victimized by This puts the issue right back seasonal unemployment, where it belongs, on the Lakes. I jn addition the problems of laRegardless of the benefits of re- bor in all sections of the indusciprocal shipping, the only an- tj-y be discussed, and imswer IS more pay and improved mediately following the convenworking and living conditions. vention the AFL Maritime Trades Reciprocal shipping is a Union Department will meet and forbenefit, not anything to relieve mulate plans for a National drive. the shipowner of any claims sea-. The Seafarers International men legitimately have for better i j , jstandards. , Union, already leading the way, .looks forward confidently to the LOCAL AUTONOMY j coming year as the period in The Great Lakes District runs which it will become, together its own affairs and handles its with the AFL Maritime Trades own funds. At the Chicago Sea-, Department, the greatest organfarers International Convention, ized maritime force in the world. Reports from Duluth and Su­ perior state that, although there were still 28 inches of solid blue ice in the twin port harbor ship channels as late as March 15th, with 15 inch ice off Minnesota Point, this season will get under way early. It is expected that the harbors will be open around April 1st, and plans are being made for the biggest celebration yet on the ar­ rival of the first up-lake boat. Many a bottle of champagne will be cracked by the owners and operators to celebrate the grand occasion marking the open­ ing of the season that will make them more millions than ever before. The chandlers, LCA crimps, hotel owners, chambers of com­ A Rare and Striking Photograph of Andrew Furuseth. merce and business of all sorts have something to celebrate. Prices are booming; the fac­ tories and the mills in Detroit, the Calumet area, Cleveland, Buffalo and everywhere else are going full blast. There's riches on them Lakes Brother. On March 21, 1938, the ashes way, Andy Furuseth kept at it For the seaman it's a different of Andrew Furuseth were scat­ with unswerving devotion and story. Since the lay-up last win­ tered on the ocean he loved and unwavering faith. ter, he has had to scuttle for hated, and everywhere he was Slowly, very slowly, others living. mourned by the men whose lot were affected by his unflinching If he saved enough during last had become better mainly due integrity and incorruptible season he was able to hole up all to his untiring work. .standards, and they rallied to winter, but regardless of what he Throughout his long and hon­ his support. Some of them were saved, the chances are a hun­ orable life, Andy had nothing influential figures in the Halls dred to one that it is always gone but respect and reverence from of Congress. before the next season starts. the men who knew that his . So it came about that succes­ A seaman's winter on the every thought and action was sive sessions of Congrdss passed Lakes, unless he is able to sail designed to make American ships laws which made the life of off-shore, is a succession of the best in the world, manned seamen more bearable. The Ma- jumping from one job to another, by men who were competent and guire Act of 1895, the White Act a total loss so far as being a sea­ capable because they were free. of 1898, and the LaFollette Act man goes—and this brings up Nobody ever attributed a sel­ of 1915, all helped to lift the one of the greatest needs of Lakes OTTAWA — What the Seafar­ zed labor, their activities should fish motive to any of his actions; oppressive restrictions which for Seamen. ers International Union knew in be exposed." not even his bitterest enemies so long had made seamen's lives FULL YEARS PAY August 1944, when it revoked the Sullivan named eighteen per­ stooped that low. a virtual hell. There has always been an ef­ charter of the Canadian Sea­ sons, three of them United States Andrew Furuseth was born in His long and fruitful life came fort on the part of the Lake Car­ men's Union, was found out to citizens, who were important in Norway, on March 12, 1854, the to an end in Washington on riers Association to create the be the absolute truth last week. communist activities in Canada. fourth of eight children. At an January 22, 1938. He was at impression that the pay differen­ The charter was revoked be­ One of them is Fred Rose, a for­ early age, due to the poverty that time 84 years of age. tial between the Lakes and salt mer member of Parliament, now of his parents, he was taken in water was sufficient to make up cause the CSU refused to com­ MANY HONORED HIM serving si.x years for espionage. ply with the direction of the to live with a neighboring fam­ for the loss of work and pay in 1944 Convention asking a re­ Tributes to him came from the winter. ily. From the age of eight, he men and women in all walks of worked for his keep. The truth of the matter is that pudiation of the communst party. When this was refused, the life. As a .special tribute, Ma­ this slight additional pay doesn't STARTED EARLY dame Frances Perkins, then Sec­ even come close to making up International took action, and j In his early teens he took to retary of Labor, ordered that his lifted the charter. the sea. After sailing on Nor­ body lie in state in the Depart­ for the monotony of day after Now, almost three years later, day aboard with very little time wegian, Swedish, English, ment of Labor auditorium. An J. A. (Pat) Sullivan resigned as ashore; the discomforts and haz­ French, and German ships, in unending line of mourners came President of the CSU, and is­ 1880 he came to the United to pay their last respects to this ards of the weather at each end sued a statement blasting the of the season, and inhaling wheat States. Here he began his agi­ vaunted fighter. Finding that the Argentine machinations of the commies, chaff, ore and coal. tation for a change in the status Labor movement is no longer Andrew Furuseth came jDf a The steadily increasing cost of within the union, and within of seamen. free but has become a political seafaring race. He had respect living makes it practically im­ the whole Canadian labor move­ In 1887 he was elected secre­ for his trade, and he dedicated arm of the government, the AFL ment. possible for a seaman to save tary of the Pacific Coast Sea­ his life to the advancement of committee pn international re­ enough in eight months work to At the same time, he announc­ men's Union, which later be­ his fellows. lations has stated that no col­ carry him the other four months ed his resignation from the com­ came the Sailor's Union of the laboration between the AFL and No man could do more—many ashore, regardless of how care­ munist party. Pacific. Andy leaped right into the Argentine Confederation of ful he is with his dough. FEARS FOR LIFE the struggle which raged at that do a lot less. Labor is possible as it is pres­ time to free seamen from serf­ His reasons for relinquishing ently constituted. dom. The AFL committee which his post he gave in a prepared statement, which was released journeyed to Argentine on invit­ Until the campaign of Andrew Furuseth, and organized seamen, CARE, the humanitarian, non­ one pound of braised beef, two publicly because he feared that ation of the Argentine govern­ bore fruit, seamen could not profit organization that remits pounds of sugar, two pounds of "an unavoidable accident might ment and the CGT, made clear its strike after signing articles. The food parcels to the needy of Eu­ vegetable shortening, seven occur to myself" if his action denunciation of the labor move­ severe penalties for striking, or rope has announced a new type pounds of flour, two pounds of was disclosed only to the CP ment in Argentina. In its re­ port it stated: quiting the ship, had been un­ package being delivered to the chocolate, one pound of apricots, and the union. "This organization has now "My decision to take this step changed for centuries. peoples of most European coun­ one pound of prunes, one pound of coffee, half-pound of dried was reached when I became con­ been converted from a trade Furuseth made it his self-as­ tries. The new package offered by egg powder, two pounds of dried vinced that the interests of or­ union movement into a political signed task to abolish these pen­ the Cooperative for American whole milk powder and six ganized labor are being sub­ arm of the government. It alties. verted by the agents of com­ cannot elect its officers. . . it Starting in 1893, Furuseth was Remittances to Europe, still sells ounces of soap. does^ not determine its policies munism," he stated. The packages are held in an untiring Washington lobby­ for $10 each, but contains a . . . it cannot carry on collective "I admit having traveled with ist. Until he died, he campaign­ greater variety of foods than the warehouses in Europe. When an bargaining with the employers the communist party. From ed for the emancipation of sea­ ten-in-one army ration formerly order comes into the New York without, (in all these cases) the what I have seen of the under­ office, a duplicate is forwarded men, and he became an out­ offered. sanction of the government. ground activities of that group, to Europe and a package is re­ The caloric content is increas­ standing authority on maritime There has been a wholesale I am convinced that in the in­ leased from the warehouse stock ed to 40,963 per package, and is law. usurpation by the government of terests of Canada, and particu­ for the person designated by the made up of 12 ounces of lunchAlthough many were the dis­ ordinary trade union functions." larly in the interests of organi­ U.S. donor. en loaf, one pound of liver loaf. couragements that came his Furuseth Devoted His Life So Seamen Might Be Free Sullivan, CSU Head, Quits; Calls Union CP-Controlled AFL Condemns Peron Control Of Trade Unions New Food Packages For Overseas �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 21. 1947 Text Of New MoMe Tugboat Conlracf This agreement entered into this 6th day. of , February . overtime rate. Provided, however, where the time of 1947. by and between the Seafarers International Union knocking off on one day to the starting time of the of North America, Tov/ Boat Division, hereafter re­ next day is less than eight hours, the starting time may ferred to as the Union, and the Gulf Shipbuilding be delayed for the period of time necessary to give the Corporation—Tug Boat Division and The Mobile Tow­ eight (8) hour rest period. (e) When called to report on Saturdays, Sundays ing and Wrecking Company, hereafter referred to as the Company, and remains in effect until February and/or Holidays to work or standby, there will be a 5th. 1948. Provided, however, that this Agreement guaranteed minimum of four (4) hours. (f) Saturdays, Sundays and holidays when worked shall be considered renewed from year to year there­ after by respective parties hereto; unless either party shall bo paid for at the overtime rate. Section 9. In the event a boat of the Company is hereto shall give written notice to the other of its de­ sire to amend or terminate same. Any such notice sold or laid up, the crew shall be provided first class shall be given at least sixty (60) days prior to the date transportation, wages, and subsistence or the cash of expiration. If such notice shall not be given, this equivalent thereof back to the Port of Mobile. Section 10. In the event a boat of the Company is Agreement shall be deemed as renewed for the succeed­ lost, the crew shall be compensated one hundred fifty ing year, and from year to year thereafter. dollars ($150.00) per man for the loss of clothing and ARTICLE I effects; and shall be given first class transportation, Section 1. The Company agrees that only members wages and subsistance until they are returned to the of the Union shall be employed in all unlicensed rat­ Port of Mobile. Section 11. In the event a vessel is to be laid up in­ ings on all boats owned, operated, or bareboats charter­ definitely or put on idle status, where members of the ed by them. This does not apply to bareboat charters crew are laid off or discharged forty-eight (48) hours' made to other operators. notice shall be given crew members, except when lay up Section 2. The Company agrees to secure all un­ is caused by conditions beyond the control of the licensed personnel through the offices of the Union Company. when said personnel are available. Section 12. The Company shall furnish a sufficient Section 3. The Company agrees to issue passes to the supply of clean linen, towels, face and mechanic soap, Union representatives for the purpose of contacting the linen and soap to be issued weekly, face and bath towels membership aboard vessels of the Company. to be issued twice weekly, providing that linen and Section 4. Step 1. Complaints, disputes or grievances towels are exchanged piece, for piece. of any employee or group of employees shall within Section 13. A sufficient number of lockers shall be three (3) days from the occurrence causing such com­ provided so that each member of the unlicensed per­ plaint, dispute, or grievance, be referred in writing to sonnel shall have one (1) locker of full length with their respective department heads for settlement, and sufficient space to stow a reasonable amount of gear and if not referred within three (3) days, shall be deemed to perisonal effects. have been waived. Section 14. All quarters assigned to the unlicensed Step 2. Complaints, disputes or grievances that are personnel and all mess rooms provided for their use not satisfactorily adjusted in Step 1 within three (3) shall be adequately screened and ventilated, heated days after receipt of such complaint shall be referred and a sufficient number of fans provided to secure in writing by the ship's delegate to the Union Repre­ ventilation. sentative who shall refer if to the Company Representa­ Section 15. All members of the crew shall keep their tive within three (3) days. The complaint shall be re­ respective living quarters clean at all times, but such ferred within 24 hours to a Port Committee. work shall be done by the men during regular work­ Step 3. Complaints, disputes or grievances that are ing hours. not satisfactorily adjusted in Step 2 within three (3) Section 18. In the event a vessel runs aground, this days after receipt of such complaint shall be referred in agreement shall be lived up to regardless of whether writing to a Port Committee, consisting of two author­ the company or the insurance company is paying the ized representatives of the Union and two authorized wages. representatives of the Company. It shall be the duty Section 17. No member of the crew employed on a of the Port Committee to meet within twenty-four vessel shall be required to work ashore except to facili­ (24) hours (Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays excluded) tate work normally done aboard the vessel. Such work after receipt of complaint. In the event the Committee done ashore must be done when vessel is along side of cannot agree within three (3) days, then the Director docks-'or otherwise out of service. of Conciliation of the U. S. Department of Labor shall Section 18. All unlicensed personnel covered by this be requested to appoint an impartial referee whose de­ Agreement shall be. given two (2) weeks' vacation with cision shall be final and binding. There shall be no pay each year. This shalLbe computed semi-annually, slowdown or stoppage of work during the settlement vacations, when due, to begin not more than one (1) of any grievance. week after the company is notified by member, provid­ Any expenses of arbitration shall be borne by and ed proper relief is supplied by the Union. divided equally between the Union and the Employer'. Section 19. When working in Mobile Harbor, meals shall be furnished. When working outside Mobile Har­ ARTICLE II bor, meals and lodging shall be furnished. When meals Section ,1. The Company agrees not to discriminate and lodging are not provided as stipulated each man against any man for legitimate union activities. shall receive $1.00 per meal and '$3.00 per night for Section 2. There shall be -no strikes, lockouts, or lodging. stoppages of work during the life of this agreement. Section 20. Fresh fruit, milk, shore bread and vege­ Section 3. The Company shall furnish safe working tables will be furnished daily. gear and conditions at all times. Section 21. At least twenty-four (24) hours notice Section 4. Representatives of the Union shall be al­ shall be given by the Company before discharging any lowed on board the Company's vessels at any time, member, and no member shall quit work without giving but shall not interfere with men at work imless said the Company at least twenty-four (24) hours notice, and men are properly relieved, the relief getting no extra having been relieved by the Union. compensation. Section 22. In the event any member is fired or Section 5. (a) When members of the crew are re­ laid off through no fault of his own, he shall be furnish­ quired to do extra work because a vessel sailed without ed first class transportation, wages and subsistance or the full complement as specified in this Agreement the cash equivalent thereof back to the Port in which under circumstances where the law permits such sail­ he was hired. ings, the wages of the absent man shall be divided Section 23. The company agrees to recognize the fol­ among the men who performed the work. lowing as holidays: ,New .Year's Day, Mardi .Gras, Wash­ (b) When a member is unable to perform his work ington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Indep>endenee iDay, because of illness or injury the Union will furnish re­ Labor Day, Armistice Day, Thanksgiving Day, and placement. Christmas Day. When any 'Of these holidays fall on Section 6. (a) The overtime rate of pay shall be Sunday, the following Monday will be observed. One Dollar and twenty-five cents per hour (1.25). Section 24. The minimum scale for each crew (day (b) All overtime to be divided as equally as possible and/or night) shall be as follows: (crews designated as within the respective departments. single crew). Section 7. Overtime shall be computed on a full hour 3 Deck Hands basis, any fraction of an hour to be considered as an 1 Oiler or Engine Utility hour. 1 Fireman (on Steam Tugs) Section 8. (a) Eight (8) consecutive hours shall con­ 1 Cook stitute, a, day's work. Section 25. The hours of labor for the crew shall be (b) .Forty (40) hours shall constitute a work week. from 7:00 A.M.,to 3:00 P.M. and for the night crew from (c) Any work performed after eight consecutive 3:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. Day crews may be assigned a hours shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. daily starting time between 6:00 A.M. and 8:00 A.M. (d) At no time shall the members have less ithan an with notice to be given at the end of the;previous work­ eight (8) hour rest period from the time of knocking ing day, and their.work day shall commence at the hornoff, if less than eight (8) hours is given they shall be designated and run for eight (8) consecutive hours, with paid straight through until they are knocked off at the crewmembers affording each other proper relief. Section 26. The wage scale shall be as follows: (per month) Deck Hand - - $177.50 Oiler - - - - $177.50 Fireman - - - 177.50 Cook - - - - 177.50 Engine Ut. - - 200.00 Section 27. All members of the unlicensed personnel shall perform the regular and customary duties of thenstations without the payment of overtime, however: (a) When required to moor and unmoor unmanned barges and tows the crew members actually doing the work shall receive $1.00 in each case. When required to handle lines on dock, in docking or undocking ships the crew members actually doing the work shall re­ ceive one ($1.00) dollar for each line, in each case. (b) When firemen are required to blow tubes by hand, shine brass, bright work or floor plates; paint; chip or sougee, clean or repair boilers or fireboxes or auxiliaries; he shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (c) Oilers, in addition to their routine duties shall assist the Engineer in the repair and maintenance of main engine and auxiliaries, and all other work shall be considered as overtime. (d) Any time crews are required to handle hose for the purpose of furnishing air or steam to a ship for warming up or raising the anchor the men performing this work shall receive the overtime rate, in addition to the rate he is earning at the time he does this work. (e) Duties of the Engine Utilitymen when carried: (1) In addition to his I'outine duties the Engine Utilityman shall be required to assist the Engineer in all en­ gine department repairs and maintenance work, with­ out the payment of overtime. (2) Engine Utilitymen shall be required to have qualifications as Oiler, Watertender and Fireman. (3) Engine Utilitymen shall do general cleaning, scaling, sougeeing, painting, chipping and polishing work in the Engine Department, and take on stores including standing by on water and fuel oil lines, without the payment of overtime. (4) Engine Utilitymen shall be paid overtime when required to clean tank tops or bilges by hand or when required to paint in bilges. However, cleaning bilges, strainers, cleaning away sticks or rags shall be considered part of the Engine Utilityrnan's duties, and shall be done without the payment of overtime. Section 28. (a) Cooks shall be furnished all galley equipment including laundered white mess clothes. When required to chip, scrape, sougee or paint, cooks shall be paid at-the regular overtime rate. (b) When cooks are required to start galley fires befor the regular starting hour he shall receive one (1) half hour overtime. (c) All meals served other than to the official boat's personnel Shall be paid at the rate of fifty cents ($.50) for each meal served after crew members have had their meals, and only on written orders from the Cap­ tain. Section 29. When members of the crew are required to enter tanks of any description for cleaning they shall be paid for such work at the regular overtime rate. Section 30. Saturdays, Sundays and/or Holidays, and during overtime hours the crew shall be required to do only routine work for the safe navigation of the vessel and tow. Chipping shall be confined to daylight hours. Section 31. After authorized overtime has been work­ ed, the officer of the Department on board will present to each employee who has worked overtime a slip stat­ ing hours of overtime and nature of work performed. An overtime book will be kept to conform with indi­ vidual slips for settlement of overtime. Officers and men shall keep a record of all disputed overtime. No claim for overtime shall be valid unless such claim is presented to the Department head on the day the work was performed. When work has been performed and overtime claims are disputed, the Head of the Depart­ ment shall sign a disputed overtime slip thereby acknowledging that work was performed. Section 32. Two or more crews may be carried at the discretion of the Company. 'Section 33. This Agreement is signed subject to the ratification of the membership. If no notice is given to the Company within thirty days (30) after date of signing, it shall be deemed as ratified and in full effect. MOBILE TOWING AND WRECKING CO. Signed:— Richard Walsh SEAFARERS INTL. UNION OF N. A. Signed:— Cal Tanner Charles Kimball GULF SHIPBUILDING CORP.—TOW BOAT DIV, Signed:— ' F.C.Waller SEAFARERS INTL. UNION OF N. A. Signed:— Cal Tanner Charles Kimball �Friday. March 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Skipper's Linen Charge Bounces; It All Comes Out In The Wash NEW ORLEANS —We had a little fireworks this week when we ran into one of Waterman's flint-hearted skippers who thought lie was bigger than the law. He learned his lesson the hard way, but what a runaround he gave the crew before we got the mess straightened out! This character had given the crew a- hard time all through the voyage, logging practically every crewmember on the ship for very petty reasons. When the ship hit Manzanillo, Cuba, he really outdid himself in filling the log book. While the ship was tied up there, two Cubans were caught with nine bags of the ship's lin­ en. Whgn apprehended they told Police that two crewmembers had sold them the linen. This was right up the Skip­ per's alley, so Captain Roupe marched the crew ashore and had the two Cubans look them over. After spending half the day diddling around, the two men accused one OS and a Messman as being the guilty parties. The stolen goods amounted to over 100 items each of bedshects, towels, pillow cases and other supplies. All together the stuff weighed half a ton and was valued at $2,000. li' 1^' out that you cannot accuse a man and have him hanged with­ out proving it first. He was a sorry man, but he had it com­ ing. The crew, as a whole, stood by the men and took up a col­ lection to pay the lawyer's fee. The three departments collected over $150.00 and settled every­ thing. CREW HELPED The fellow crewmembers who kicked in five dollars apiece to fight the log-happy Skipper are: Engine Department: Nemburg, Hackett, Shraner, Keefe, Power, Schwartz, Coughey, Goldsmith, A. .Saunders, W. Saunders. Stew­ ards Department: Miller, Bastes, Cossella, Flippin, Randall, Cox. Penez, Sullivan, Willy. Deck Department: Larson, Cole, Bi'uce, Baker. Kiss, Tarply, Duffey, Giliilan. Kale, Jenkins, C. Bruce, Brumley. Brothers McFarland and Jack­ son wish to thank their Broth­ ers, through the Log, for their aid and thoughtfulness in fight­ ing this phony charge through to a successful conclusion. NO NEWS?? Silence Ibis week from Ihe Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: TAMPA NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE PORT ARTHUR PHILADELPHIA BOSTON MARCUS HOOK The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due, etc., is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in ihe current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. Galveston Shipping Remains Slow; Most Vessels Are In Transit By RAY W. SWEENEY GALVESTON — Bu.siness and shipping in this gulf port re­ mains slow in spite of the many ships that come into the port. The trouble is that most of the ships are in transit and we get their beefs but none of their replacements. One of the ship that we did manage to crew up was the Lucretia Mott which finally sailed for the Far East. .Seeing her off was a real relief -to everyone in this port. The Master was none other than Captain Vande Giift, better known as "One Dollar Vande," derived from his close-fistedness when it comes to handing out a draw. The Mott came in port and paid off Fiiday and received a new crew Sunday. The crew was put on subsistence and the ship did not start feeding until Tuesday morning. Over the week-end the Skip­ per hightailed it to Mobile, leav­ ing no one in charge to pay sub­ sistence. When he arrived aboard the :ship Monday night some of the crew asked him for a draw. Being a big hearted guy, he sayfu "Yes sir boys, You can have a- draw. Here's a buck. I Great Lakes Seamen Are Showing Deep Interest In The Organizing Campaign Of The Seafarers sound basis. When no progress sance, then he automatically By HENRY CHAPPELL is being made, and all other fires himself. In the final SENT TO COOLER run, TOLEDO — The organizational methods fail, we believe that any question under dispute is The two accused seamen were campaign of the SIU on the settled at the membership meet­ promptly thrown into jail. Later, Great Lakes is off to a good economic action is necessary. In the SIU, when a strike is ing. however, the Cubans changed start. Judging from the con­ Creed, religion or political be­ their story and the men were tinuous stream of men coming considered necessary the entire released. When they returned to into the SIU Toledo Hall and membership votes on it. A few lief are your own personal opin­ the ship, the pld Man blew his inquiring about the advantages union officials can never call a ions, and as an SIU member you top and sent them back to the of belonging to the SIU, inter­ strike in the Seafarers because are entitled to them. But the expect all hands here to turn we believe in democratic, rank SIU is strictly a sailors' union, to tomorrow morning and I don't cooler. est of the Lakes seamen has and file control. When SIU run by and for the seamen. The Skipper tried to leave the been aroused to a fever pitch. want you to be ga.ssed up." members vote for a strike, they men behind in Cuba, but the ^ We will not tolerate any group These men arc from all de­ back it to the limit. And we NO CAN DO police told him they had no in the Union that tries to force partments, and formerly shipped have never lost a beef!! charges against the men and he its beliefs on the entire mem­ How he e:<pected anyone to from the Lakes Carriers halls, would have to take them back SIU ADVANTAGES bership. This has occurred in get gassed up on a one-spot is NMU halls and through com­ to the States. other unions, notably the NMU, anyone's guess, but the boys There are many advantages in Well, he brought them back pany sponsored unions. and they have fallen apart as were all aboard and sober the being a member of the SIU. All three of these outfits have to the States alright— with a However, only a few of those a direct result of that political next morning. That'll give you log book that carried three pages prevented Great Lakes seamen advantages will be outlined here. control. an idea of what the crew can from enjoying union conditions. ofvcharges against them. expect in the way of draws for First and most important, we SIU UNION HALLS Here is the last charge against In addition, they have consider­ maintain job security for our the remainder of the trip. The SIU maintains its own ^ them as taken from the log ably retarded the progress of members. In the SIU, you are The Seatrains have started shipping halls, and recreational the SIU in gaining better wages 'book: "Because I believe that shipped in rotation according to running in here again. The facilities are provided. We also R. A. McFarland, OS, and J. N. and conditions. your shipping ticket, issued to schedule calls for one to arrive Ail of these applicants have you when you express a desire have a hospital and death bene­ Jackson, MM, are guilty of em­ here Thursday morning and sail bezzlement of ship's stores, I expressed considerable resent­ to ship. No one ships out of fit fund to provide some protec­ Friday evening. The Seatrain tion in the event of sickness and fine them jointly and separately ment toward the LCA, NMU, turn ahead of you. Havana was the first to arrive death. to the full extent of wages due and LSU. When you're a Seafarer, no and the New York is to follow. As we get sti'onger on the them at the end of the voyage During the past few years, There were quite a few replace­ Lakes, other services and bene­ subject to the findings of the with the sole exception of SIUments on the Havana, but we fits will be added the same as in United States Courts and shall contracted vessels, these outfits had no trouble getting men to other SIU Districts. These in­ request such further penalties as have virtually controlled the take the jobs. clude legal advice, assistance on the Courts may allow." wages, working rules, conditions, We expect a rush of business personal welfare problems, and It looked bad for the men in­ and manner of shipping on the next week when we will have many other items too numerous volved, as the company had the Great Lakes. quite a few ships in port. After to mention. FBI down to the ship before There is no further need of that we expect things to slow she made fast. The Patrolmen exposing to the Lakes seamen Union wages and conditions down, but who can tell for sure. were not allowed in the hear­ how phony the NMU really is. can not be gained on the Lakes ing room and could not talk for This was done by the NMU last by any one man or small groups Brother Parker, the Agent, is of men. They can be gained attending the Agent's Confer­ the men. fall when they tried to tie up when everyone joins together in ence in New York. Here's wish­ the entire Great Lakes in their MACHINERY STARTED a union like the SIU, and fights ing lots of success to the Agents We grabbed a copy of the phony organizational strike. side by side. in their meeting and delibera­ At that time, they tried to se­ charges and headed for the Then, all Lakes men will have tions. Union Hall to start machinery cure^ conditions on their ships Mate or Engineer can fire you All the boys around the Gal­ moving: We contacted a lawyer which the SIU members had al­ simply because they want their a hand in discussing wages and ready enjoyed on SlU-contractconditions. Then, the shipown­ cousin or friend to have your and put him on the FBI. veston Hall are more than pleas­ Then we got hold of the com­ ed ships for four years. Even job. This practice has existed on ers will realize that we mean ed over the six per cent raise pany and showed them where today the NMU cannot show any the Great Lakes for years, hut business, and results will begin negotiated with the shipowners. we had the Skipper up a tree. gains to compare with the SIU not on SIU ships. On an SIU to show. contracts. Drop into the neare.st SIU Hall It's nice to find out that we ship, the job is yours until you If the men were logged someone at any time. The Agent or Or­ have won a raise without the THE SIU WAY quit or become disabled. was going to be sued as we had Our Union secured these con­ However, in order to protect ganizer there will be glad to usual stalling around by the a lawyer. Well, you should have seen ditions through collective bar­ the interests of all the members, talk over your problems and an­ shipowners and the necessity for Captain Roupe's face when the gaining negotiations with the no one person is allowed to set swer your questions. See for Commisioner asked for his log operators, and through economic up his own rules of conduct. yourself how a democratic sail­ us to show them that we meant book and started stamping. Over action whenever necessary. We SIU members are expected to ors' union is run by and for the business when we ask for an every entry he stamped "can­ have never had to pull a phony ive up to the contract which sailors. increase. Then join the Seafarers Inter­ strike, calling everyone finks or we have with the company. celled" in big red letters. It just goes to show that if Any time an SIU crew mem­ national Union, AFL, in winning Yep, old Captain Roupe found scabs, to gain our demands. you follow the SIU you can't go The SIU tries to keep nego­ ber flagrantly violates the union better wages and conditions for that you cannot log a man and wrong. then work him. He also found tiations with our operators on a regulations or becomes a nui­ all Lakes seamen. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Performers And Gashounds Make it Tough For Good Union Members By JOE ALGINA Cleveland Hall CLEVELAND—The Great Great Lakes District of the SIU has acquired a new hall in the Cleveland area to bo used solely for organizational purposes. Under the joint di­ rection of Steve Conroy and Jerry Lichtman, the new or­ ganizational headquarters is located in the Dredgemen's Club at 26 Carroll Ave., be­ tween 25th and 26th Streets. As usual, the regular SIU haU at 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. is being maintained for the transaction of all official Un­ ion business. Cleveland's new organiza­ tional office is on the West Side, about one-and-a half blocks from the Lake Car­ riers hall. All Lakes seamen desiring to join the SIU or secure information are invited to drop in. The welcome mat is out, and everyone is in­ vited to drop in on Steve and Jerry. Don't forget the ad­ dress—26 Carroll Ave. NEW YORK—We've recently their tail, and Union members had more than a little trouble should not put the SIU in a with performers aboard ship. bad spot by not living up to Some of them have terrorized their agreement. an entire erew, and onee or SHIPPING AT PEAK twice they have even tried to interfere with a Patrolman in Right now we have 50 ships the performance of his duty. in port; the majority of which Now, this column is not to are now signing on. It takes a be construed as asking Seafar­ lot of men to man that many ers to become Sunday school ships, and so we have the same boys. There's nothing wrong old story here—we need rated with a man drinking or raising men. a little hell, as long as he There are quite a few calls doesn't throw his weight around. for Engine Department men, But when a man tries to lord and as always, ABs are at a it over the whole crew, or when premium. Cooks are also scarce, a couple of guys get gassed up so you can see that shipping and try to beat up the sober has really picked up in this hands, then they deserve every­ port. thing that happens to them. We have not been forced to Some men get drunk and pro­ shanghai our doorman or jani­ ceed to wreck company gear. tor, as Philadelphia was forced When they are called on it, they to do, but if the situation con­ say, "What difference does it tinues, that may turn out to be make? This stuff belongs to the a solution. company, not to the Union." That's where they are way off base. The Union fought a long and hard battle to get decent conditions on board ship for merchant seamen. When a man wrecks company property, he is robbing his fellow shipmates of By STANLEY WARES and JERRY LICHTMAN what they fought for. CLEVELAND In response to centered around the success of When a man signs on a ship, contacts with the various AFL AFL Maritime Trades Port he is agreeing to do so much unions in any way connected Councils in various other cities, work for so much money. And with the maritime industry, sev­ and the methods by which they he should live up to his word. eral locals sent their represen­ were operating. When the operators try to stall tatives to the first meeting of All representatives present around, the Union really gets on Cleveland's Maritime T r a d e's agreed that it was necessary to Port Council held recently. set up permanent offices for the Indications are that the AFL national AFL Maritime Trades Port Council in this city will be Department as soon as possible. a huge success, and that we will ELECTION POSTPONED have full participation. Election of officers for the The success of the Council was Port Council on a temporary indicated by the turnout—rep­ basis was held over until the resentatives of the following or­ next meeting. This was done to ganizations were present: Inter­ make it pos.sible for other or­ By J. S. COLLINS national Brotherhood of Team­ ganizations to send representa­ CORPUS CHRISTI — With a sters, Locals 407 and 964; Inter­ tives, and participate in the sudden influx of ships hitting national Longshoremen's Asso­ elections. the port, business has taken a ciation, Local 1317; Masters, The over-all reaction to the turn for the better. Both Cor­ Mates and Pilots, Local 47; Tug first meeting of the Cleveland Firemen, Local 3; International pus Christi and Harbor Island have been the hosts to a good Dredgemen's Association, Local Port Council was so good that number of tankers both in tran­ 5; Steamfitters Union, Local 120; several organizations which did International B r o t h e rhood of not send representatives to the sit and here for payoffs. Electrical Workers, Local 38; and first meeting have since notified We had the Fort George, Casa the Seafarers International the SIU Cleveland office that Grande, Umatilla, Fort Christina they would attend the next and the Fort Erie, all Pacific Union. At this meeting, discussion meeting. Tankers in port this week. What beefs came up on these ships were settled on the spot and everyone was satisfied. The beefs were, for the most part, of a minor nature and just needed someone to show topside what the score was. By WILLIAM J. BRANTLEY With the unusual number of SAVANNAH — Shipping has ing the lowdown on this Gulf ships in port we had to do a hurry up job of getting men for picked up this week in Savan­ Port. these ships, so after shaking nah and it is now a little better We expect shipping to im­ down the gin mills and tourist than good. For the past few prove in the next few weeks as courts we finally got enough re­ weeks it has been running along a lot of ships are being removed at a steady rate and this week from the boneyard and towed placements for these scows. we -are enjoying a little more into port for reconditioning. For TANKERS COVERED shipping than usual. the most part they are Liberties and will be crewed in this port. We shipped some replacements We have also had some unor­ ganized tankers hitting the port aboard two South Atlantic ships, OLDTIMER IN AND OUT and all of them were covered. and ran into beefs in all De­ We talked to the SIU men partments on the ships. We got Oldtimer Jimmie Adams aboard the ships and after put­ everything squared away and breezed into port a couple of ting some copies of the Log the Belmont sailed for Antwerp days ago after spending quite aboard the ships, we left them and the Stockton is expected to some time in the Pacific. There sail within the next few days. he had the never-to-be-forgotten in good shape. The absence of news from experience of having to sail as At the moment the rush of tankers has slackened off, but Savannah last week can be at­ Bosun on an NMU tanker to get we have been informed that tributed to the fact that Brother back to the States. He has man­ there will be another rush of Charles Starling, the new Sa­ aged to recover from his ex­ tankers next week. If it materi­ vannah Agent, was relieving perience somewhat and is now alizes, it will take about all the Brother Arthur Thompson and out at sea aboard the Belmont. We are keeping a weather eye men we have on the beach to the change over caused the lack of news. peeled for the ships due out of crew up the ships. At the moment, Brother Starl­ the boneyard and when see It looks like a guy can get a skip now without any trouble in ing is attending the Agents' Con­ them coming down the river ference, so in his place I'm giv­ we'll let the news be heard. the Gulf. Cleveland Waterfront Unions Start AFL Maritime Council Rush Of Tankers Causes Manhunt in Corpus Christi Activity Is Up, Says Savannah; Boneyard Ships Bue to Hit Port Friday, March 21, 1947 Chicago Shipping Begins To Stir; Men Get Sougee Buckets in Shape By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO—This port has fin­ for a living, and trying to better ally started to wake up. Smoke our working conditions and wages is beginning to pour through the in the same manner as any other smoke stacks, and the crews are worker. getting the sougee buckets and SEA BROTHERHOOD scrub brushes out of their holds to ready them up for their sched­ We are aH seamen, whether on uled new coats of paint. the Lakes or deep water, and be­ All of this activity is greeted lieve in the Brotherhood of the by the Brothers around the hall, Sea. We do the same kind of and eager looks cross their faces work on any vessel, no matter in anticipation of inhaling some where -it sails. How can anyone of the fresh air that they missed say that a Lakes seaman is any all Winter. better than a deep water sea­ It's really a great sight to see man, or vice versa? the sudden activity along this There is no doubt, that this type waterfront. One day they're all of propaganda will be thrown at along their winter berths, and us again in the operators' aH-out when you look for them the next attempts to prevent organization day, they've left for different of the unorganized on the. Great ports all over the Lakes. Lakes. After they load up, they come Let's ignore any attempts to slipping back with their cargo to break up our own solidarity in unload here. fighting for the betterment of conditions for all seamen. Crewmembers of the SS Gil­ bert are all at work getting her ready for the coming season. A newcomer aboard the Gilbert will be Jack O'Connor who will^ try to keep the boys happy by serving them the best in food. He's been cooking on the river' dredges for the past few years, and wants to get his sea legs back once again. By VIC CIUFFO CREWING UP CHARLESTON — Slow is the The SS American will be call­ word for shipping in this port ing for her crew this week, and as we have only paid off one they intend to operate her across ship during the past week. The the Lake most of this year. Both ship was an SUP job and there the SS North American and the were no beefs aboard. She paid SS South American will start off in good shape and everyone >• calling for their crews the last was happy. week of this month, and they The Engine and Stewards De­ will be operated on their usual partments on the ship took time runs all over the Lakes. off to come and tell me that the This coming week, the SS Deck Crew was one of the best Lakewood will also be calling for crews that they had ever sailed her crew, and she is expected with. to operate around Chicago for a It is sure good to see someone while before heading for Detroit. appreciate good sailors regard­ We have no information on the less of the union they belong to. changed runs of the SS Roosevelt It makes for more enjoyable and the SS City of Grand Rapids trips if there is harmony in all as yet, but they will not crew up Departments of the ship and this until around the 5th of May. vessel really demonstrated that. Snuffy Smith, the Agent, is up A few years back, it was "the policy of the shipping companies in the north country, attending to try and create differences be­ the Agents' Conference in New tween the Lakes and Coast sea­ York. We're all waiting to hear what the Agents discuss and men. This was their idea of prevent­ recommend for the coming year. ing unionization and any kind of This is a big year for the SIU solidarity among Lakes men, and and we have a good bunch of it worked solely for the benefit of Agents, really on their toes. the operators in pitting one man BEACHCOMBERS GONE against another. We had about fifty men on However, during the past five the beach here last week but years this feeling of distinction they all disappeared. I guess has been broken down consider­ they read of the fast and furious ably. shipping in the other ports and Today, men sailing the Lakes figured that was the place for have found out that there is no them. With the dozen or so men difference between a 25,000 ton ship or a 200 ton ship, whether we shipped ' this week we have it sails on salt water or fresh only a handful of men left water, or if a seaman is from around the Hall, and most of Marine City, Michigan or San them in the Engine Department. Seafarers Leave Charleston For Hotter Ports There are no prospects for Pedro, California. We are all the .same, working ships in this port until the lat­ ter part of the month when two South Atlantic ships are due in. Something may show up in the meantime, but we have nothing definite to look forward to until Send in the minutes of the South Atlantic ships stick your ship's meeting to the their noses into port. New York Hall. Only in that We'll continue to send in the way can the membership act dope concerning the activity in on your reconunendations, this port, but it looks like we and then the minutes can be won't be able to given any en­ couraging news for quite awhile. printed in the LOG for the benefit of all other SIU^ At any rate we will keep our fingers crossed and hope for the crews. best. Send Those Minutes �Friday. March 21. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven The Patrolmen Say— Volunteer Organizers i I? . Exit Performers NEW YORK — Last week we covered two ships, and on each of them we ran into the same By JOSEPH VOLPIAN trouble—disputed overtime. Sometimes a fellow's little ciuelty, conviction of felony, On one ship, the SS Blue Isl­ and Victory, the crew collected woman gets to be a big headache and demon rum (too much, too approximately $2800 in OT that that can't be cleared up with­ often.J the company questioned. The out getting into the law courts. While marriages are contracts same thing happened on the SS In. other words it's a lot easier they have as an added quality J. Fiske, where a considerable to get married than it is to get the fact that public policy is con­ sum of money was finally paid a divorce. cerned; that's why courts must The laws governing divorce be entered in order to end the out to the crew." But Brothers, on the Fiske we differ among the various states agreement. really found a situation. When so much that the situation would Desertion requires an ending we came aboard, we thought we be humorous, if it didn't concern of the marriage relation with in­ were walking on light bulbs. such a vital relationship. tention to desert or abandon plus Upon looking down, we discov­ Take as an example, the neigh­ no consent or misconduct of the ered that the passageways were boring states of North Carolina, party deserted during the neces­ BOB WILLIAMS and BILL HOLLIDAY littered with broken glassware. I where there are at least six dif­ sary period of time. ferent grounds, as compared with An honest offer to return be­ WHAT A MESS They came walking into the uncertainty because you are not South Carolina, whose constitu- fore the period has expired will Log office in a body, four young protected by a contract." The foc'sles were in even t; m provides tha- divorces from end the desertion. Involuntary worse shape. All the wiring lead­ the bonds of matrimony shall not separation cannot form grounds fellows. One of them spoke up NO TIME-OFF ing to the bunk lights had been and said: for divorce because of desertion. "Take, for instance, what hap­ cut; the glass that protects the be allowed. "We understand that you are It's natural, in view of the ex­ pened to us on Lincoln's and light bulbs had been broken; treme looking for volunteer organizers GONE AND FORGOTTEN differences, that one to write about. Well, we're on Washington's birthdays," said locker mirrors and handles were should wonder how this condi­ Everyone has heard of an Enoch an Isthmian ship now, and two Drewry. "We couldn't collect busted, and escape panels were tion came about. Maybe it's due Arden decree. This is not a di­ overtime for those days, and shattered. When we left the to the fact that in the United of us were on one before. How's vorce in the strict sense, but a sometimes when we have to quarters, we were half shot from States the rules are er^irely a that?" dissolution of the marriage be­ work before 8 AM and after 5 the whiskey fumes. "That" sounded okay, and matter of statute law. PM, they dispute that overtime cause of the disappearance of We picked up the tripcards here is the story from Bob Wil­ In other words the rules have either the husband or wife for a also. You can't beat the com­ and books and informed the liams, Bill Holliday, John Drewdeveloped from Colonial days, ry, and Charles Tettcrton. Bob pany because the crew has no crew that their actions were op­ first by legislative enactment and certain period' of time, and the representation." icmaining party thinking that posed to the SIU principles, and sailed as Wiper, and the others "As far as organizing this ship that they would have to clean later through court action. Today the other is dead. are ABs. ® practically all divorces arc grant­ is concerned," remarked Bob The di\orce laws are so ridicu­ "We made the ,SS Cape Junc­ Williams, "that has never been up the ship before we could al­ ed by a court after proper pro­ lous in their present state, and tion in Norfolk on August 1, a problem. Practically all of low the company to pay them ceedings. so mixed up, that the Supreme but we didn't leave until the the crew members are in favor off. Court of the United States can't The entire crew, with the ex­ WHAT A MAZE 31st," Bob stated, "and even of the Seafarei's, and they look really make heads or tails of the then it was easy to see the dif­ forward to the day when the ception of three men, agreed to The situation is so complex to­ laws. ference bet wen a ship that has SIU will represent them offic­ do so. After a while, some of day that any attempt to state Suppo.se a man gets a divorce an SlU contract and one that ially. Even the officers are sec­ the hand.s came over and told general rules is oitly a feeble ef­ in one State, remarries and the us that one of the three men hasn't. Nothing that you could retly on our side, but they can't fort at a bird's eye view of a couple have a child. really get sore about, but a lot do or say anything because of who had refused to clean up patch quilt design. The.v then decide to take a trip was responsible for the mess. of chicken that SIU men aren't the company's anti-union atti­ With a full realization of the across country. In one State the He had pulled a knife on one used to." tude." with the woman will be the legal wife of the tripcarders and stated impossibilities and Of course, not everything is that he would cut the throat of warning to, "beware; the safest and the child legitimate; as soon LITTLE BEEFS "That's right," broke in had on an unorganized ship. any one who tried to pick up way is to ask your lawyer about as the:.' cross the State line, the Brother Tetterton, "it was al­ There are good shipmates, and his book, or the books of his two the laws applicable in any in­ wife is considered to be living in ways little things, and before there is alwaj's the feeling of a friends. Incidentally, those guys dividual case," here goes: sin and the child illegitimate. Most states permit divorce on you knew it, they added up. Like job well done when the union refused to clean up, also. The only remedy for this chao­ All three of the characters various grounds: The usual ones tic condition is a National Uni­ disputing overtime, refusing time message has been passed along off, no representation when beefs to the men who ai'e not members. were brought back to the Hall, are adultery, desertion, insanity. form Divorce Law. "I get a big kick out of talking and charges -^ere preferred cam.e up. In the long run, the officers weren't so bad, but they union to guys who are not mem­ against them. They now have had to carry the weight of the bers," said Tetterton, with a prominent places in the social smile. "The Union means a lot register. anti-union company." It is the duty of a good Union Bob Williams came into the to me, and so I enjoy doing an conversation again. "I was on organizing job, even as a volun­ member to see that' such occur­ rences do not happen, and if the Jeremiah S. Black before I teer." By EDWARD JANASZAK That seemed to be the senti­ they do, to bring the offender or made the Cape Junction, and it was the same story on that ment of all of them. Strangely offenders up on charges. TOLEDO—Already, the organ- built over the past 20 years, and ship. It was better in one re­ enough, it also seems to be the Jimmy Drawdy, Ray Gonzales izational drive which the SIU has consistently fought against spect, and that was that after a feeling of most of the volunteer has started on the Great Lakes Lakes seamen having any saj' in three month trip, thore was only organizers who have .been in­ has begun to show results in wages and conditions. Few Replacements terviewed in the Log office. 16 hours overtime in dispute. this area. Not only have many "But other than that," he con-* The four volunteers expect to SEE SIU SHIPS PORTLAND, Me. — The SS new .members joined up, but the tinued, "you couldn't, tell the pay off the Cape Junction with­ Billings Victory just paid off in unorganized men here are show­ When the Lakes seamen see difference from one to another." in the next few days, and to the this port. She is the first of ing a new interest in unionism for themselves how things are "That's exactly the way I question "Do you expect to sign- ten Waterman ships due to come on the Lakes—the SIU kind of run on SlU-contracted vessels, found it/' said Bill Holliday. on again?", they answered prac­ in here every couple of days to unionism. they'll want those same condi­ "This is my second Isthmian tically in unison, "Not on the load potatoes for Germany. It's also easy to see why the tions on their own boats. And ship, and conditions are similar Cape Junction, but you can ex­ There were very few replace­ NMU has repeatedly met with after seeing the democratic man­ to the first one. The food was a pect us to try another unorgan­ ments made on this ship, with failure in its organizational at­ ner in which the SIU is oper­ little better on the previous one, ized ship. That's the only way nearly the whole crew deciding tempts, and in spite of the huge ated, they'll want the same type but there is the same feeling of to keep the Union growing." to make another trip to Ger­ amount of cabbage they've toss­ of organization for themselves. many. When she returns to the ed away. That's why t h e Seafarers' States after this trip she will Mainly interested in promot­ drive to organize the Great payoff in New York. ing the commie line, this phony Lakes should meet with over­ If the crews on the rest of outfit has only succeeded in whelming success. That's why the Waterman ships hitting this causing a feeling of hate toward any possible LCA or NMU op­ port decide to stay aboard for unions in general. position will be overcome. another trip there, won't be This condition the SIU has al­ Conditions which the Steel much business for Seafarers on ready broken down, and will the beach around here. continue^ to break down as the Trust and other large shipping However, this was an unusual unorganized Lakes seamen see interests have compelled Lakes ship in that respect, and the the benefits of SIU membership. men to work under for the past ships to come will probably be The Lake Carriers Association few years have made these men a different story. is in the same category as the very receptive to the SIU. The story I get from Boston NMU in regard to its treatment It should make it that much is that there is excellent ship­ of the Great Lakes sailors. easier for our SIU members to ping in that port, and it is ex­ This outfit, the LCA, will win the unorganized Lakes sea­ pected to remain that way for probably give the SIU more op­ men over to the SIU side, and another few weeks anyway. position than the NMU, because win the best possible conditions Jinuny Sweeney it is a powerful organization for all Lakes seamen. JOHN DREWRY and CHARLES TETTERTON Organizing Drive Catching On With The Great Lakes Seamen $1 a �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Friday, March 21, 1947 A&G Agents Hold Conference in N.Y. mssm ReportsToGo To All Ports For Approval (Continued from Page 1) im NMU stalling, the SIU is not content to rest on its laurels. Al­ ready the Great Lakes drive is underway, and inroads have been made in that stronghold of antiunionism. _ LARGE SCALE PLANS J. p. SHULER. Assistant Sec­ retary-Treasurer: The wages and conditions gained by the Seafarers Internatonal Union during the past year are the best in the industry. Although 1946 was a tough year for all organized labor, we made ad­ vances. The future looks good, despite hostile legislation, and the SIU is going to stay right in there, fighting all the time for the betterment of wages and conditions for all seamen. EARL SHEPPARD. Interna­ tional Representative in Charge of Organization. At its incep­ tion, the organizing staff of the Union was set up as a unit sep­ arate from the regular Union structure. Wisdom of this move is proven by the fact that we were able to defeat the NMU in the largest election ever held in the Maritime industry—the Isthmian Steamship Company. J. S. WHITE, New Orleans Agent: The strike apparatus can be improved by making a thorough analysis of the strikes and beefs we have gone through, eliminating the weak­ est part of the apparatus and strengthening the others. E. S. HIGDON, Philadelphia Agent: Philadelphia member­ ship has been pretty enthused about the entire organizational program, and especially so about the Isthmian results. The outlook is favorable for organ­ ization of all unorganized com­ panies sailing into the Dela­ ware. and is especially so in re­ gard to the tankers. SALVADOR COLLS, San Juan Agent: We hold regular membership meetings, each of which is sparked by active dis­ cussion, both in English and Spanish. Issues most widely discussed are the organization of shore gangs for the Island ports and the purchase of a hall in San Juan. Organizing work should be started here immedi­ ately; the membership will give its full support and participa­ tion. We get 100 per cent back­ ing from the AFl, unions here. C. H. RAYMOND, Housion Agent: The st^rlke apparatus should always be kept in readi­ ness. All it needs is to have a few kinks ironed out and it will be okay for anything that comes along. There is a pos­ sibility of a strike this year, and we must be prepared when and if it comes. W. C. TANNER, Mobile In the tanker field, SIU or­ Agent: The membership is of ganizers are hard at work. Week the opinion, that the Union's after week, organizing goes on, Organizing Program is good, and the Agents will no doubt but that the goal is too narrow. make suggestions for extending General opinion is that wei and intensifying the SIU cam­ should drive to organize every­ paign among unorganized seamen. thing that is unorganized. This The addition of a Multilith ma­ is due greatly to the fact that chine in Headquarters, during the the entire harbor here is or­ past year, has been of utmost ganized^ under the Seafarers' value to the Union. Mountains banner.^ * of publicity were turned out, not only for the SIU-SUP during the General Strike, but for other un­ ions such as the MM&P, the CIO Shipbuilders, and the United Fi­ nancial Employes. This aspect of SIU publicity is sure to be ex­ amined by the Agents with a view to possible widening of the machine's uses. The Conference will be an ex­ tensive one, with all aspects of the Union thoroughly covered. All signs point to a successful meeting. Decisions reached will be printed in the Log, as soon as they have been approved by the membership. The agenda and pictures of the officials in attendance appear on pages 8 and 9. PAUL HALL, Director of Or­ ganization and New York Port Agent: Regardless of how good a contract is, there is always need for clarification. There­ fore, we feel it necessary for Headquarters to rig a system of some sort for the interpretation and clarification of various dis­ putes that may come up from time to time. These should be sent to all ports immediately. We would then have all ports inlerpretating disputes in a uniform manner, thus avoiding confusion. Our relations with our AFL affiliates in this port are very good. We intend io keep it going that way. At present, we are holding month­ ly meetings of the AFL Port Council. LEON N. JOHNSON, Port Arthur Agent: The member­ ship is thoroughly satisfied with the results of the Isth­ mian election, and is eagerly awaiting a contract. The mem­ bership will not be satisfied un­ til we launch an all-out organ­ izing campaign. We seldom have enough men on the beach to fill the jobs that are avail­ able. C. SIMMONS, Tampa Agent:, Membership's attitude toward the organizing program is very favorable. They think Isth­ mian is the biggest thing the Union h^s ever accomplished, and that we should push with all our effort to get a favorable finding, and immediately enter negotiationf so that we can put our contract into effect on Isth­ mian ships. We should go after the tankers hard. RAY WHITE, Norfolk Agent: The organizational process of the last year has strengthened the Union immensely, and the membership is for its continu­ ance 100 per cent. Approxim­ ately 20 unorganized ships that) we have been working on come into Norfolk regularly. STEVE CARDULLO, Marcus Hook Agent: This is a new branch, but the potentiali­ ties, both from the points of representing our present mem­ bership and establishing an or­ ganizational base for the tank­ ers, are enormous. We cover approximately eight unorgan­ ized ships a week, in addition to the regular work aboard contracted ships. We have worked under the direction of the Organizing Committee, and have assisted organizers when they were assigned down here. EARL R. SMITH, Charleston Agent: The general opinion is' that with prices skyrocketing, wage increases are necessary. Rising prices, anti-labor legis­ lation, etc., show a strong pos­ sibility that we may have to hit the bricks this year. But wl^ether we do, or not. we should be ready for any event­ uality. �Friday. March 21. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine SlU Plans And Policies Drawn For 1947 Conference Agenda 1. Secretary-Treasurer's Report, ' ' 2. Assistant Secretary-Treasurer and Headquarters En­ gine Room Representative Reports. 3. Organizers' Report. 4. Agents' Report and actions on same. .li a. b. c. d. e. f. JAMES HANNERS. Jack­ sonville Agenl: General senti­ ment of the crews on unorgan­ ized lines is favorable to the SIU, and a little concerted or­ ganizational activity should be able to bring them under SIU contract. The AFfc unions have all cooperated with the SIU 100 per cent and gave valuable assistance during the general strike. Boston SNew York h. Philadelphia i. Marcus Hook jBaltimore k. Norfolk 1. Charleston Savannah Jacksonville Tampaj Mobile New Orleans m. n. o. Pq- Port Arthur Galveston Houston San Francisco Puerto Rico 5. Finances of Union. a. Income b. Expenditures c. Recommendations on same Committee— Robert Matthews, Ray White, Earl Smith 6. Strikes a. Analysis of 1946 General Strike b. Possibilities for 1947 Strike c. Recommendations Committee— Paul Hall, Lindsey Williams, Charles Raymond WILLIAM B. RENTZ. Balti­ more Agent: The strike appar­ atus can be improved by mak­ ing it uniform throughout the nation, and by keeping it pre­ pared always, keeping in mind the needs and special charact­ eristics of each port. The mem­ bership and the officials have been paxticipating fully in the organizational drive. CHARLES STARLING. Sa­ vannah Agent: The shipping rules should be changed. There should be no promotions aboard ship. All Bosuns should produce three years discharges before registering. Members should register for one rating only. All beefs here are settled locally. There has never been a manpower shortage here, ex­ cept in a few cases of new ships. 7. Organizational Expansion Program a. Organizational activities of Union b. Recommendations on same Committee— Cal Tanner, Anthony Cardullo, Earl Sheppard 8. Shipping Rules and Constitution a. Shipping Rules b. Recommendations on same c. Constitution d. Recommendations on same Committee— Steely White, .Jimmy Hanners, D. L. Parker I W. H. SIMMONS. San Fran­ cisco Agent: Labor is solid in this port and there is no way to strengthen it. exceut by keeping it as good as it is. The Organizing Program is looked upon favorably by the mem­ bership and the attitude tow­ ards the Isthmian victory is that it is an outstanding ac­ hievement of the Union. 9. Education and Publicity a. Seafarers Log b. General education c. Recommendations on same Committee— W. H. Simmons, Eddie Higdon, William Rentz 10. Contracts and Negotiations a. Recommendations on contracts b. Recommendations on negotiations Committee— Leon Johnson, Salvador Colls, Joe Algina LINDSEY WILLIAMS. SIU Field Representaive in charge of Gulf Area Organizing. Our organizing campaign down in the Gulf has been going like a house afire. There is a great need in that area for the type of representation that the SIU gives its members, and for that reason, the unorganized men have flocked to us. D. L. PARKER. Galveston Agent: There is a general sen­ timent that unless wage in­ creases are made to cover the steadily rising living costs, we should hit the bricks to bring about the necessary increase. There has never been any trouble in getting volunteers to go up to the unorganized com­ panies to try and get jobs. 11. Government Agencies and Legislation a. Coast Guard d. Marine Hospitals b. Alien Seamen e Unemployment Insurance c. Seamen's Bill of f. Maritime Commission Rights Training Program g. Washington Representation for Legislation Committee— Paul Hall, Lindsey Williams, Charles Raymond 12. Buildings and Halls a. Recommendations on same Committee— Cal Tanner, Anthony Cardullo, Earl Sheppard ROBERT A. MATTHEWS. Represenlative: Although quite a few important gains were made last year by the SIU. the coming year promises to be one of the most momentous we have ever faced. Many prob­ lems will come up. But with continued militancy of the membership and the officials. I am sure these problems will be handled as successfully as they have been in the past. As far as contracts are concerned.' emphasis should be on increased manning scales on all ships of all companies. 13. Operation of Union Apparatus a. Headquarters Operation b. Branch Operation e. Manpower as Applied to Jobs d. Membership Action e. Recommendations .on Increasing Efficiency of Present Appaiatus Committee— .Robert Matthews, Ray White, Earl Smith 14. General Proposals ^ Good and Welfare Committee— Charles Starling, Claude Simmons JOHN MOGAN. Boston Agent: Everyone is anxiously awaiting a signed contract with Isthmian. The membership has a very good opinion of the pres­ ent contracts, and feels that things are going very nicely. They maintain that the status quo is good enough until the economic situation undergoes further and more drastic changes. Also, the men think that deck department men should register for specific jobs. JOSEPH A. ALGINA. New York Acting Agent: There is an average of 20 ships paying off weekly in the Port of New York, as well as many ships calling in transit. There are about 40 SIU ships in the har­ bor at all times. As pointed out before, in most instances the disputes that arise from handling these many vessels are settled without too much trou­ ble. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Ten Friday. March 21. 1947 -SBIPS'· MllllttES AND NEWS . . 1Penalties For Leaving Job Proposed By Scripps Crew ON ICE FOR THE WINTER Aroused by the' action of some members who ''sign on ship and then walk off" before sailing time without noti­ fying the Union Hall· or the Ship's Delegate, the crew of the SS Edward W. Scripps has strongly urged the adoption Gadsden Men Cite Danger Aboard . Ship a stamp " to of specifi c measures . out the practice. then w a lk off, informing no one · · · of t h e1· r mtent10ns, thu s caus m g . . Assert.mg tha t seafarers who c onfusion and hardship on the n , 51o f u con pu 11 th.is stunt ..cause rest of the crew, and ver y o ft e n .· . Fearful of the potential dange1 . . . an d h ardsh 1p among the rest of to sail Posed by the c a rry in g of an ·ex- the crew, ,, tl1e men of the Al- m a k l,n g 1 t n e ce ssary . or to ship a non. short-handed, tra locomotive on deck ' the crew . . . at their coa vesse1 took action I . on man on a p1crhead J ump . of the MV Gadsden instructed its I F cb . 12 s hi' p boar d meet.mg an d · um · "There fore, be it reso 1 ve d·. Delegates to notify the Union of recommend.e . · d t hese pena it·ies: That any member who signs on the protest registered at the Feb. 1. That a fi ne of $50 be im. _ 22 meeti n g, held at sea. The posed on those guilty of a first a ship and the1_1 deliberate ly :V alk s off and . misses . the s�1p meeting also urg e d an investiga- o ffense. . mtent10nally witho ut mformmg tion t o determine whether the 2 That for th e second offense, . the Un io Hall or Ship's D ele­ � additional In offender be bl·ought up charges, and culminating tr ial b efore discussion the v iolated the locomotive safety regulation s. in the decision to advise the Un- committee. on be made to stand a duly elected gate in time to ship a replace- (Continued trial <>n Page 11) The Scripps crew poin t ed out b y editor, crew members pointed out t ha t they felt the ex- vessels which sail short-handed, tra lo co mo ti v e made the ship un- are forced to sign on a non­ ABOVE: ion heavy in particularly safc, I has a c rewmem ber we a t h er , w hen a nxiet y was at a b e c ause walke d off his ship and failed peak. It was also voted at the mee ting that cr e wmembe rs would ac­ draw in American cur­ which w hen the ves�el, rency carne3 locomotives and tenders, was mee t i ng arrives in Le Havrt', France. announced th a t $20 could crew I the limit on dra w s Wc:\S in American the <1t It mo ne y , clr;iw but that .the any Fn:nch currency. sum fo llo w so that the m can be• "Wherea.-s: in job Union security pe-nter ":taking soundings­ beer." a The marooned ves­ won ion is now in the sixth month that an issue fight, and it is the policy of the w�ks trip, and all hands are e x ces s the of• SIU, SIU after a long of what started out io be a fi ve­ fo r our own protection to up at all times was made of the sup- b e r s , and; ration allowance amounts. ma tt e rs "Whereas: It actPd I e qua 1 m'eeting, which Berger Hansen. in pertin ent conditions and fig­ sel's deek gang kill a few min­ utes of their long vigil by pos­ ing fo:r the camera. The W a.l­ hiring was by has SIU reported on were u pon at I I jitters. mem- become a j cussed Tiny i o wa r d the beach for LEFT: it was revealed cit the meeting, habit with a number of Uni on and it was found that all h ands B r o ther s to sign on a ship and would receive the limit of the Other Laarents. hard ply of cigarettes aboard the ship, shipboard in crewmember ure to left of bow is the Car- i n French ports was a viola- insist on our ships being crewed ch e ck sometime resolutwn, a The until writes Loomas RESOLUTION ti on of local law. A of fo�·m w h ic h fol lo w s : hall and of Amer ic an money in $20 replacement April.'' . The denunciation of the p�·ac­ t1ce an d t h? rc:cmmcndat10ns m a de to curb it \Vere drawn . up The Ship's D e l e g a te quoted the by Capta in as sa yi n g a "They tell us we'll stay ice-bound procedure pro pe r the thaw. furnished. $20 cept a to Locked in the ice "duration" at Hals, Denmark, the SS George Wal­ ton anxiously awaits the spring j ump , union man on a pierhead the fo1· chaired by Brother Little was subm itted by Deck Delegate Earl the Cochran. VESSEL REPORTED IN DISTRESS slopchest, The subject that dis cus sion of demnation by perennial opening and ser found that the needs of all seafarers, con ­ re ared the slopchest the Pur­ members of the crew co uId not 'its ugly head once more at the be filled as to n eede d articles of March 12 shipboard meeting heavy gear. He thoughtfully aboard the SS Winfield Scott. gave the Deck Department first ves se l had adequate reasons for j ority The crew of this Bull Line condemning the slopchest aboard the ship and they wasted no time in doing so. However, instead of merely blowing off steam, the c rew choice, since they did of outdoor wo rk . the ma­ "At the moment this trip be­ the present (the crew ) finds the slop - abuses quantity and Standing by when the iug arrived was the British cruiser Frobisher. bound for Hamilton when she received the Gadsden's distren call. The Gadsden, ply the ne€ds of th is crew for a.n SIU-contracted ship, carries locomotives and tenders. for which she is equipped to load and- unload with her own facilities. without assistance from. shorHide machinery. However, Charles as Dade the secretary, records: invoice copy should be listed. If the s e short- and if t his continues, situation, leaned back in the poor slopch e st had condition not of strained the re­ lations ab o ard sh ip . With these conditions well known to the crewmembers they then drew up a plan for correct­ ing the slopchest situation aboard SIU ships. The plan, as report- ed in the minutes states: SHORT ON STUFF "This th at chest almost completely exhaustchecked and approved b Y van- e d, for only a few articles of off ous union representatives as con- size remain." the trip ." UNION'S OKAY ch est · adequate sundry articles to sup- fore sig ning on the ship . their seats and went on to prove 7, taining sufficient numbers of various articles of clothing and etc., to The crew, having put forward for action. pelea about 250 miles off the Bermuda port. the brand of toothpaste, a means · of rectifying the slop­ adequate slopchest and the rea­ ing dangerously. when she was taken on tow by the tug Moso­ the union action shall surely result." sons the crew decided on a plan minutes relate: "Before the vessel's departure, the slopchest was also ber of each article, and brand of sund ry articles, namely write the Log, let your beef be cussion from which the plan was muda. early this week, after sustaining a severe buffeting in copy of the slopchest in v o ic e know n , born, show the results of an in­ bound for Copenhagen, and the we demand ages cannot be straightened out, Events leading up to the dis­ The MV Gadsden (above) is being towed to Hamilton. Ber­ ships, crews cont ai ning sizes, color and n u m­ ar ti cles qual­ Jan. aboard all so as to assure inspecti on of the ity satis factory to the crew. The ship left Mobile , a that signe d by union representatives SIU ships, of getting a slopchest sufficient in placed s u gg est ing less than seventy-five days long, came up wit h a plan for correcting being be put on t he bulletin board be­ and insuring the ship, and other heavy seas. The motorship had lost her propeller and was roll­ the SS Winfield Scott Men Offer Plan To Wipe Out Inadequate Slopchests t o · penned the minutes, which were dis- the verge of "To avoid the insufficiency of "Upon this type slopchest continually In the minutes they went on re cord e xpressi ng their " app r eciation of the treatment an d ac- tions of the Master of the ves­ sel toward the crew." was best unaninous of luck to in The crew wishing Captain the Reese Broadus on his futur� v oyages . Leroy Nicholas held the chair while Charles the proceedings. Dade recorded �Friday, March 21. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief WILLIAM KAMAKA, Jan. 27—Chairman Glean; Secretary Betts. Delegates reports: Deck: One permit behind in dues and assessments, one trip and one permit behind in assessments. Old Business: Brother Betts made report on action taken on slopchest. Communication sent to Jacksonville Agent and Headquarters and protest to American Consulate in Rotter­ dam over the poor condition of the chest. New Business: Dis­ cussion held concerning draws. Good and Welfare: A warning for all hands to be on the look­ out for WSA "standardized" supplies on ships under contract to the Seafarers. The Second Cook in the interest of all hands will use all possible substitutes fikr the remaining supply of sugar. GEORGE WASHINGTON, Feb. 27—Cheurman Crosby; Secretary Robertson. New Business: Motions carried: to put doorstops on outside doors near Quartermaster's and Bos­ un's quarters. Door on Firemen's head to be repaired; Have more glasses iJut in messhall; put new cups in messhall and throw away all cracked cups; three man committee elected to gel actin on cups and glasses; that Bosun see Mate about leaky quarters. Motion carried for real ash trays instead of phony sardine cans. Motion carried to quit throwing garbage on the fantail and order four gar­ bage cans. When day men dump garbage have wipers dump refuse from engine room. Good and Welfare: Each man wash out his own cup after us­ ing and iny other dishes he may use: have a better grade of coffee put out. One minute of silence for brothers lost at sea. S" S, t CAPE BORDA, Feb. 23— (Chairman and Secretary not given) Complaints were raised about apparent two-pot ship and lack of certain foods in crew mess. Complaint about crew pantry refrigerator need­ ing repairs. Complaint of Deck Department about standby re­ quired to remain on bridge during standby time. Com­ plaint about insufficient issue 4 4 4 of dishes and pantry materials. BARBARA FRITCHIE, Jan. Complaint about need of paint­ 31—(Chairman and Secretary ing foc'sles and messrooms. not given). Floor opened to Motion to ask for for porthole discussion on improvements fans for messrooms. Resolved and welfare of the ship and to bring all complaints before crew. Check was made with Patrolman at payoff. Repair Steward for more glass and sil­ list made up and attached to verware. Everyone agreed to minutes. check on these necessities be­ fore signing on articles again. There was discussion on thd feeding of longshoremen aboard ship. It was decided to feed only the crew. Repair list was was made and turned over to 4 4 4 the Steward. Good and Wel­ GEORGE WASHINGTON, fare: Discussion on cleanliness Feb. 7 — Chairman Brother of the ship and signing on the Hunt; Secretary Charles. New ship. Deck Delate elected to Business: Recommended that replace the one that signed off. Master be approached regard­ 4 4 4 ing placing seamen in dry DEL MUNDO, Feb. 9—Chair­ foc'sles; that sundeck be water­ man Edward Johnson; Secre­ proofed again; that cups and tary James Johnson. Deck dishes and utensils in pantry Delegate reported sixty hours be kept cleaner in future. New of disputed overtime. Steward Business: Motion carried that Department Delegate reports Deck Engineer appear before 300 hours disputed overtime. Patrolman regarding un-union New Business: Motion carried expressions, as this is his sec­ to stick together at payoff and ond offense. Discussion that all get overtime settled before matters discussed at meeting signing off. Anyone drunk at are confidential and not to be payoff be fined $25.00. Good carried to company men, and and Welfare: Discussion on lo­ no false statements such as cation of radio, moving of one were mentioned against the scuttlebutt from passage to mate, or to accuse against any messroom and various improve­ members of the crew. ments. CAPE MOHICAN, Feb. 13— Chairman Ernest Gonzalez; Secretary Mendoza. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried to report to patrolman if we have pen­ alty cargo on fertilizer. Mo­ tion carried to find out if we are entitled to get overtime when the sailing time is changed due to weather or trouble. Motion carried to ask patrolman if the watches should be rotated every trip. Good and Welfare: Motion carried to give some money for a ship­ mate in the hospital in San Juan. 4 4 4 SIMMONS VICTORY. March 5—Chairman Henry Gock; Sec­ retary Roger La France. Busi­ ness of leaving wash room dirty was discussed and all agreed to take turns. Each department to take a week. Question of fixing water fountain as the way it is now it takes ten minutes to get a drink of water. Last trip no voucher was given as no way of knowing what we must give to the government and what we are getting. 4 4 4 ALBERT K. SMILEY, Jan. 24—Chairman George G. Gordano; Secretary John T. Buck­ ley. New Business: Beef about soap and matches and night lunch. Settled it among the crew. Beef of extra shower and toilet. Settled as above to re­ lieve shore patrolman of extra headache. Motion carried to have Deck Delegate see Chief Engineer about changing one salt water shower back to fresh water.' Good and Welfare: Members of this crew request­ ed to refrain from slamming doors and lockers so that men off watch can get their proper amount of beauty sleep. C hairman asks all members to check on all repairs needed and sub­ mit same to their respective delegate who in turn will sub­ mit same to shore patrolman in first port. Back to New Business: The entire crew goes on record to have letter sent to the New Orleans Hall and there have Patrolman contact Waterman Office and demand an itemized statement of account at the payoff. Back to Good and Wel­ fare: A lively pep talk was given to all Brothers to speak up and relieve their minds of anything they did not under­ stand, and to have no fear of speaking up at any shipboard meeting. • 4 4 4 DEL SANTOS, Dec. 8 — Chairman Russel Mills; Secre­ tary MarioQ B. Carter. New Business: Motion carried that messhall be soogied and paint­ (Contimied from Page 10) ed. Motion carried that a ship's delegate be elected to deal with ment, be fined the sum of $50 the Captain. Brother Mills for the first offense; and in the elected as delegate. Good and event the man pulls the stunt a Welfare: Suggestion made that second time, he be brought up all garbage be taken aft and on charges and stand trial be­ dumped 'over the side. Sugges- fore a duly elected trial com­ tin be made that a jury toilet mittee in the port where he be constructed back aft for the misses the ship or the port near­ use of the stevedores. Sugges­ est the Hall." tion made to have each mem­ The Scripps meeting, held at ber of the crew clean out the sea, was presided over by San­ sinks in the laundry after using tos Garcia. Andrew Stephens sinks. served as recording secretary. Scrlpps Crew Votes Penalties •6iiiH.aieS.ttt,yoURtWIQN / DON'T LOSE. YOUR GEAR/ Y CUT and RUN By HANK Many Brothers have beefed about some Brother suddenly blossoming out during the voyage or in port as a drunkard or trouble-maker or work-shirker who so foolishly forgets the neverfoolish fact that he is getting the higest wages and best conditions for being sober on his job and doing his job faithfully as required. These shipping companies don't pay us Brothers all that cabbage so we can forget about our daily jobs, get boozed up any old time and howl about the officers. Our opinion is that all these special characters who don't want to work but still want to get gassed up whenever they feel like it or just walk off the ship on the day just before she sails—just aren't fine shipmates, good sailors or appreciating Union men. 4 4 4 Take a job in a factory or a restaurant and try all that easy monkey business—you won't last, brother, you won't last long indeed. So let's keep our ships moving at all times and do our jobs the only way—which is the right way. Never forget that your job and your Union come first at all times. Going to sea is full of work and good times, the good times coming off In your time off. The Brother who doesn't take his job and his Union seriously is a baby who belongs on the beach for handouts and sympathy and half-starvation. So let's keep sailing our ships and all those unorganized ships—you're really helping those underpaid and overworked and mistreated seamen who aren't unionized. 4 4 4 James Manning came into town with a sunny face after many months down in Florida. Brother Manning who is aboard the Robin Goodfellow with Bosun "Tex" Reingold says that he nearly dropped a lot of sentimental tears for the tug. Watch Hill, when she was laid up, after trying to make a home out of her after five weeks . . . Joseph Marcoux, known as little "Frenchy." is fresh in town after a long absence. "Frenchy" made one or two Far East trips and then anchored a few months in Galveston, with his sense of humor . . . Steward Richar Schwarz just blew into New York with his mustache. No long time no see. Stew, so where have you been? . . . A1 Gordon who came in from a coastwise trip, is out again. Fast shipping, eh Al? . . . Frank Devlin, the oldtimer and Chief Electrician, is anchoring in town right now. How was the Lakes, Frank? . . . Brother H. R. Norwood left Galveston, Texas for a trip to India. Don't hand out too much baksheesh. Brother Norwood . . . C. Flessau, oldtimer who sails in the Engine gang, is in town! 4 4 4 Bill Gale, who came in last week from Florida, just can'f get used fo New York's "greasy spoon" cooking—which means lhaf he's only accustomed to that Floridian way of eating . . . Brother Claude Davis, the oldtimer and Deck Engineer, just sailed into town from that trip to Belgium. We hear that he didn't have his shipmate of a sea-going rabbit with him this last voyage. Could it be that your rabbit has blowed his salty top and perhaps is planning a career in the nearest zoo? . . . A few weeks ago we remember Steward Joe Ryan confessing that he was changing his way of life. Joe is finishing his habit of climbing aboard these tugs—and is going to stretch his voyage into an ocean trip, for a change . . . Steward Eddie Kasnowsy sailed—for Puerto Rico—if "Little Joe" wants to know . . . Robert Barrett must have figured his voice was getting too loud in noisy New York so he shipped out for the clean, open, quiet spaces . . . Steward Vic Milazzo salied too, down to Philadelphia, baoard a lug. �r'"--; »'ir;-;'!nn<:rreq;,gpTf^>sp5j{}>Wh'i^ THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday. March 21, 1947 iH THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Isthmian's Raw Conditions Show Sharp Need For Union To the Editor: This kid from Massachusetts is now on an Isthmian ship She's the Yugoslavia Victory, and believe me, Brothers, she's in quite a mess. fortitude around the corner at Gus' bar. I hear the homesteaders on the SS Carlsbad, Pacific Tankers, have thrown their suitcases and bags over the side. Is that right, Jim? You. too, "Moose," See you boys in Marcus Hook next summer. Charlie Halla Log -A' Rhythms The Five Dollar Millionaires I boarded her March 3 and al most turned around and walk­ ed off. She looked as bad as any ship could look. The decks CALLS COMMUNISM were littered from stem to stern THE ENEMY and occasionally j' o u would OF DEMOCRACY glimpse a patch of fish oil. And To the Editor: the foc'sles! FOUL FOC'SLE When the Mate showed me the 8-12 foc'sle, that did it. All I could see was a mess of pa­ per, dirt, filth, orange peels and empty bottles. He generously told us that we could clean it out on the company's time. We have an affectionate name for the Chief Mate on here—'"Bull Whip" is his handle. He is also known as "Bell-to-bell" Carey. AH I ISTHrtlAfj/ We had no meals or linen the first day, and when I asked the messman for some peanut but­ ter, he just gave me a weird laugh. What coffee time we get on this scow we have to argue for, and it is very little at that. When they started feeding on here the next day (March 4), we received $2.70 for meals. Not a cent was given for rooms, al­ though we slept on mattresses and some of the guys slept on springs. UNION NEEDED You can see, Brothers, that a union is badly needed here. If the NMU would quit its stalling and holding matters up, maybe there will be a change in the standards. Once a week we get a bar of soap cut from one big cake. It looks like laundry soap, and doesn't lather. There is no laundry aboard, and you have to get along as best you can on this score. Ports of call include Manila, Cebu, Iloilo (Phillipine Islands), Saigon, and possibly Shanghai and Singapore. We expect about a five-month trip, so I guess I'll sign off now and get up a little uooKArrr"' By VIC COMBS Conspicuous display in clothes. A fine fur coat, six-dollar hose. A gleaming motor ckr. a jewel. A great big house, a swimming pool— Often—oh. too often—means The owners proud subsist on beans. So. when you chew a two-bit steak. Or cut yourself a piece of cake. Remember there are thousands, yea. Millions, who ain't et today. Despite their yachts, their gleam­ ing pearls. Their tweedy clothes, their chorus girls. Their homes in Florida, their trips To here and there on first-class ships— It's just a bluff, these people shy Would thus escape derision's cry. They cannot, will not. suffer shame. They put up a front; it's all a game. While you. despite derision, try To gulp a second piece of pie. To listen to some of the Con­ Tommy the cat doesn't get a chance to do too much read­ gressmen and other government ing. He insists, nevertheless, that when it comes to picking his bureaucrats, you would think reading matter he's pretty darn choosy, as this photo, taken in that labor is trying to take over the United States government, the New York Hall, readily shows. Otherwise known as "the and is a sinister force that has Great Lover," Tommy is the protege of Seafarer "Red" McKenzie. to be exterminated. They are blasting labor and threatening to do all sorts of things to it and its leaders. All the while this is going on we read very little about what they are going to do about the com­ Having read Donald R. Richberg's article, "Labor munist party, an outfit that ad­ vocates the overthrow of de­ Should Live Within the Law," published in the March is­ mocracy in favor of communism. This is an outfit that should be sue of Readers Digest, I take it for granted he is exercising blasted and outlawed, but where freedom of speech, a privilege some people abuse when are all these so-called super pa­ they speak on subjects they* triots on this issue. agreement we could not main­ know little Of nothing about. tain discipline among ourselves. BEFORE Now I want to exercise my For myself, as a wage earner The communist party has right of the same privilege by and an individual, I never in­ proved many times in the past tend to work under an open that their loyalty stands wholly saying I don't think this jerk shop agreement, and I am also with Russia. Witness the time ever had to work for a living. sure if this guy Richberg, along before Russia was in the war I call him jerk because he says ^ % with Senator Ball and other against Germany — when the in his article that union mem­ puppets of capitalistic combines, U.S. was a 'war-monger." And bers are slaves of the closed shop What Big Eyes—! He also had to roll up their sleeves and also the cry the commies put out and union discipline. earn their living by the sweat By CHARLES KULL that "the Yanks are not com­ states that workers should be of their brows, they would be ing." Also the many commie-in­ free to join or not join a union. the first to thank their lucky With no ice pack on my head. spired telegrams sent to Con­ I snooze in my clean whiteCHOSE TOE SIU stars for the closed shop. gress as petitions to keep us out bed; SETBACK 10 YEARS As a rank and file member, of the war. The nurses are so nice. If the new Republican Con­ Remember, too, the soap box my reply to this outburst of We all look at them twice— orators of the 14th Street square stupidity can only be this: When gress passes an anti-closed shop We're like wolves that have neverjoined the SIU in Feb. law it will mean a setback in preaching that the U.S. had no I first been fed. business in the affairs on the 1943,.out in San Francisco, I had American progress for at least —Written in Marine Hospital. other side. Suddenly, we have my choice of non-union ships. I ten years, if not more. Because Staten Island. N. Y. the American union man is a Hitler's and Stalin's divorce, and laboring man and the laboring XXX poor little Russia is attacked by man is the vast majority of the Germany. Just as suddenly, the How Come? American people who have commie party line took a change. fought long and hard for de­ Now it was the cry that "the By VIC COMBS cent wages and working Condi­ Yanks are coming." I am a funny little guy. tions. AFTER Any kind of anti-closed shop And I don't know why it's so The wires were suddenly red legislation, if if could be enforc­ When my baby wants me to say hot with the same commie-in­ yes. ed—and this I dbubt very much spired messages to Congress to I always feel like saying no. —would start minor civil wars get us into the war and save in every industry in this coun­ Russia. The 14th Street orators try that now operate under a When she thinks I should say no were bemoaning the fate of the closed shop. No union man, who I'm sorry to confess. working man's paradise, and There's something inside of me went to the SIU Hall and asked believes in unionism, is going to telling us to enlist to save it. That makes me say yes. to join. I wasn't forced- into •work next to a scab in peace This, Brothers, is just a little anything. I was allowed to make and harmony. of the background you all know When the union hall is no Readier Cheers a trip, at the end of which I about this two-faced, throatlonger the hiring hall for the Log Editorial' made my decision. cutting commie party. If we maritime industry, I will offer Yet Mr. Richberg,. evidently a my deepest sympathy to any T6 the Editor: know it, why don't our govern­ ment officials know it—if they world-saver, calls this forced man, brave enough or hungry Thank you- fbr the excellent do why don't they do something slavery. As for the union dis­ enough, who is forced to sail a editorial on peacetime conscrip­ cipline he speaks of, I don't about it. shift, under an open shop agree­ think he understands that this tion and' the cartoon in' the Feb. Why is it that organized labor ment. "discipline" is self imposed. It 21 issue of: the Seafarers Log. gets the brunt of these officials' Robert Maupin Keep drumming' away at' conbad tempers. Could it be pos­ consists of rules and' regulations (Editor's note:—Donald Rich­ psca-iption, for if labor, educators, sible that some men will do any­ made and passed by the major­ thing for a vote. Let's get on ity of the membership. berg, who wrote the article farms groups, the churches and their tails Brothers; let's make He should know that if dis­ Brother - Maupin- sO' ably an- , others don't wake up to this we'll be saddled by this hand-maiden sure they don't get so hot on la­ cipline is taken out of any or­ swersclsi:—among: other things^ of Fascism. bor they forget all about the ganization it would fold up like Thanks again. . commie cut-throats. an accordian. Discipline is or­ on®' of thcr country's' biggesf G. Richard Tuttle Bob P'ohle ganization. Without a closed shop corporation Ikwyers.) Seafarer Cracks Argument For Anti-Closed Shop Law •' 'L'.»-.u 'I �Friday. March 21. 1947 NMU GAVE HIM THE RUN AROUND ON THE DOUBLE THE SEAFARERS LVG WAITING To ihe Editor: I-.' II P Shortly before the deadline of the NMU's so-called strike last August, I was employed as an Ordinary Seaman on the SS Richard J. Reiss. I quit this ship at Erie, Pa., in ^ sympathy with their strike, although I was not a member of that organization. Following is a brief summary of the i'un around given me by the NMU officials. After going to Detroit and con­ tacting the NMU Agent, I was told by him that they would is­ sue me a full NMU membership book if I would do some picket duty for them. In addition, they promised me an early job on an NMU-contracted vessel, after the strike was over. I was sent down to the Nicholsen docks at River Rouge, paying •my own transportation. There was nothing provided for us to eat, and we were expected to picket 8 hours a day on air. I had to walk more than a mile to Seafarer Edwin T. Clark, the nearest restaurant, and pay temporarily sporting GI khakis, • for my own meals. is attending an Army radio re­ HUNG UP pair school, in front of which After the completion of the so- this photo was "shot." Brother called strike. Agent McGovern Clark is anxious for the day told me to hang around the hall when he can slip into his dun­ and everything would be taken care of. When my funds began garees and get back to ship­ to run low after two weeks of ping. Meanwhile, he keeps up this run around, I asked him to with maritime events by readgive me a book so that I could go the LOG. to my home in Toledo, try to ship on an outside boat, and do volunteer organizing for the 'SIU Best Union,' NMU. McGovern just laughed at me, Says Seafarer's Dad and said the unions books were To the Editor: closed. He also said that there We want to take this oppor­ was nothing that either of us could about it. That was my gi-ati- tunity to say we enjoy reading tude from the NMU for helping the Seafarers Log, which is sent them out! to our son, Tom at this address. Besides the run around, a full We also greatly admire the Un­ sea bag of my gear was stolen ion's stand on labor questions. from their hall while I was on We think the SIU is the best the picket line. On top of this, I forfeited more than $100 I had Union in the world, and if other earned as a bonus for continu­ unions were as militant. Labor ous service on the Richai'd J. would have no fear of the fu­ Reiss. You can imagine what I think of the phony NMU and ture. F. C. Boland their promises! Davenport. Iowa WilUam C. Peters. Page Thirieen *High Cost' Hoopla Of Ship Owners Applies To All American Industry To the Editor: Similarly shoes can be made cheaper in European, nations than Considering the current discus­ in the United States. So why sions which concern the sale of don't we transfer the shoe in­ American ships to foreign nations dustry to Europe? and the operation of American ships under the Panamanian flag, SEAMEN DESERVE BREAK I have been more than a little Why take a unique attitude to­ dismayed by the absence of log­ ward the Merchant Marine? Ship­ ical and intelligent vociferation. ping is a business the same as any Sailing American ships under other business and the men who the Panamanian flag has been are employed in this business are vindicated by the illogical reas­ oning that American seamen earn HE GETS HIGHER I more than foreign seamen and WAGES THAW WE therefore American shipping BO TOR. AWVTHIMG companies have difficulty in com­ peting for world trade. American seamen do earn more than foreign seamen, but Amer­ ican workers in every industry and in every trade earn more than workers of foreign nations. HOW ABOUT THIS For example, the Japanese can manufacture electric light bulbs cheaper than General Electric. And if the argument which is used regarding the Merchant Ma­ rine is applied to the manufac­ ture of light globes and other articles, either the wages of Gen­ eral Electric employees should be reduced to about 25 cents a day, or the manufacturing of light bulbs should be transferred to Japan and operated under the Japanese flag. entitled to an American stand­ ard of living. The American people have al­ ways subsidized all American in­ dustry, either through tariff bar­ riers, or directly as in the case of the farmer at the present time. The Merchant Marine is one of our most valuable assets and is vital to our national well-be­ ing and safety. In many cases Joining The SIU Will Mean New Day For Lakes Seamen To the Editor: would ship 2nd Mate. Anti-union action were so deeply instilled in them, that they would preach, the open shop and other anti-labor propaganda as it had been preached to them. NEW DAY Many changes have been made since I started to sail on the Lakes, but none of them have people who should be more as­ tute are duped by fallacious rea­ soning. They don't seem to know what time it is. But if the result of all this is the junking of the American Merchant Marine, they will know v/hat time it is then. In this regard I like the letter in the Feb. 21 issue of the Log written by Brother Lundeberg. Hope to see more like it. G. S. Green SIU BROTHERHOOD IS REAL THING, BROTHER FINDS To the Editor: I hope you will find space in the Log for these few lines. I have been sailing with the Seafarers since 1943. At that time I turned in a book with the phony NMU for a trip card with the SIU. Since then I've learned there's a great difference in hav­ ing real brotherhood at sea, and having a bunch of cut-throat commies to deal with. I think the Seafarers is the very best, and I would appreciate it very much if you would put my name on the Log mailing list. I know the folks back home would enjoy reading a real union paper, and from it they can get an idea of the seaman's life. BEWARE 'GATOR JUICE We're just finishing up a 5^month trip down in the land of rum and coco-cola and senoritas. I must say that the 'gator juice they dish out around George­ town and McKenzie is plenty wicked, so fellows, if you hap­ pen to make the bauxite run, go easy on that stuff. It'll make you see things that don't exist. We've had a good trip, but I think everyone is anxious to head for home for a few days. We have very few tripcarders with us, but those we have understand and live up to Union rules and regulations as good Union men should. As for our skipper, I've got to say a word for him—he's A-1. I think any member of the crew of the SS William Brewster will tell you that Capt. C. F. Gemald is really tops. Clyde Keaioa Well, I have been here in To ledo for about five weeks now and I have sent you some clip­ pings from, the paper.s to let you see what they are doing up here In the -first place, the Lake Car­ riers' Association is crying in the press that there is a shortage of AB's. They want to continue the present so-called state of emer­ gency on the Great Lakes. In my estimation, there is no shortage of men on the Lakes. This out­ fit wants to create a surplus of men so that they can cut wages as they always do. There are plenty of men with experience lying around. Many SEAFARER'S WIPE WAR INJURY of them are going to stay ashore in the coming ^season in prefer­ KEEPS BROTHER IN KEEPS THE ence to sailing under the 'finky SS JOSE MARTI LOG ROLLING HOSPITAL 18 MOS. conditions they have to contend with on LCA ships. IS LOADED DOWN To the Editor: To Ihe Editor: TWO^WATCH SYSTEM been granted voluntarily by the WITH GOOD GUYS I had wanted to write sooner Could you please send me a shipowners or LCA. All of our Looking back, I can remember to acknowledge the Christmas copy of last week's ,Log (Feb. To the Editor: gains have been made as a re­ check which I received here. I 28). The paper comes to the The days of the two-watch sys­ tem on the Great Lakes. After sult of united action, and the SIU We, the crew of the SS Joe Marti, could not write sooner for I was has made the most gains of any battening down and getting out house every week, but the issue wish to take this opportunity very sick. outfit on the Lakes . In fact, the on the Lakes, the deckhands had to express our deep appreciation requested is missing. I just got up after having suf­ SIU is the only legitimate Union to go below to pass coal and shoot to Captain Warren C. Kershaw fered a paralytic stroke. I was There is an article in it that I ashes. These were the days in on the Lakes for the unlicensed for his all-out efforts in making in bed for two weeks, and I do have to cut out and send to my which we received the huge sum seamen. this the most enjoyable voyage not seem to be doing so well. It Now the time has come when of $31.50 a month and $37.50 in we ever had. He is, without a husband, Bernard Malloy, who is is 17 months since I entered this all good Union men can do their doubt, one of the best. the Fall. now on the Trinidad run. Every hospital as a result of an injury I met up with a bunch of char­ part. Help organize for the SIU To Chief Mate Louis Longosuffered in action with the en­ letter I get from him keeps reacters such as Black Jack Logan, —the only salors Union on the bardi—thanks for his whole­ emy. njinding me to send the Log Old Captain Seely, and Benam Great Lakes where you are as­ hearted cooperation in behalf of We boys are sure getting a rot­ down to him. of the Hutchinson Line, also sured the best conditions. the crew. In fact, all the officers ten break. So to you Brothers SIU contracts call for better deserve praise. I Fighting Parks of the Steel Trust Of course, there is a little sel­ I say; Keep up the good work. wages and conditions than any Also a vote of thanks for the Line. These guys were not only Don't let those guys in Washing­ fish motive, too—on my part. I existing contracts won by any Stewards department from the bucko Skippers but company read the Log every week from ton get ahead with their unionso-called union on the Lakes. Deck and Engine men, for the stooges as well. They used to front to back, and I enjoy it im­ busting. Don't let them break good work in serving exceUent Don't listen to that "BE LOYAL bring the boys from the farms in mensely. I hate to , miss one is­ our Union. We had a hard time food. To Chief Steward A. E. TO THE COMPANY" stuff. Was the Spring and preach the open sue. to make it what it is today. Lawson, for his fine menus} to the company every loyal to the shop to them. Good jobs were Thanks again for that Christ­ You are doing a swell job with Chief Cook William Walling, for sailors in the depression days, or promised to the farm boys pro­ mas check, and my best to all your paper. Keep up the good his wonderful cooking; aijd any other time? viding they remained "loyal" to the 'Brothers. woi'k. Wishing you every suc­ Don't lose any time. Join the Night Cook Frank Wallace, the company and the LCA. Joseph Kosleisky cess. In the iFall, these fellows would SIU, and get the benefits which his terrific baking throughout the Ward 19. Marine Hospital Sadie Malloy. go to the Lake Carriers' school, all Lakes seamen are entitled to. trip—our thanks. EUis Island. New York Crew of the SS Jose Mazti Brooklyn. N. Y. : and.get their license. Later, they Robert "Baldy" McAdoo. �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Brother Jack Trains Guns On War Department's Views Aid For Writers If you are about to write— or have written—stories of the sea. but are stumped as to how to go about having them pub­ lished, you can toss your wor­ ries over the side. The Log is happy to an­ nounce that seagoing writers now can have their stories, articles and books read and appraised by people who know the score. An arrange­ ment has been made with a reputable agency of authors' representatives, who will read the material at no cost. If the stuff has possibilities, it will be brought to the attention of publishers. If you've written something you think is of public interest, or if you plan some literary ef­ fort while at sea. why not avail yourself of this service? Send your manuscript — typewritten.: of course—to Carl CowL c/o Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver St.. New York 4. N. Y. Enclose stamped envelope addressed to your permanent residence to in­ sure safe return in case script ' is not up to snuff. Friday. March 21. 1947 First Trip To West Coast Has Sparkle For Seafarer To the Editor: with a full belly 1 decided ship­ ping time had come, but the I think I'll entitle this master­ board said, "Not yet chum, stick A Log article on March 7 was piece "The Verbal Picture of around awhile." headed: "War Department a Man Talking to Himself." Againt The Seamen's Bill of MEETING IMPRESSES Never having been on the Rights." West Coast prior to the latter So 1 stuck around and took Just whose War Department is part of Jan., an old East Coast, in my first We.st Coast meeting. this, may we inquire? And what Gulf and Lakes man like my­ At the meeting 1 was deeply assistant-secretarj', or fourth as­ self is bound to learn something impressed by the very efficient, MICHELET sistant-secretary, formerly from new. orderly manner of the chair and Did j'ou road Port o' Call by what Broad or Wall Street cus­ I paid off the Ethiopia Victory how he ran off so much business tomer man's office, wrote those Frenchy Michelet in the March in Frisco, registered at the Hall in a very short time. 7 issue of the Log? Didn't he go war department views? (for which I'm very grateful No one could help but com­ Since they are couched in some all-out lyric about the- girl Rosa­ now) and checked into the Ma­ pare the difference to other lie? When he sings that "wind very severe language, with no rine Hospital for a foot opera­ meetings where the "chatter­ little degree of personal bias, winnowing" and "nap in the lap," tion. At the hospital they gave boxes," and otherwise get the would it not be in order to do that is good writing. How many me the best of care, but the deck and bore you stiff with a a little research as to how such messmen have asked him; "How grub was the usual run of hos­ lot of useless ear-beating, mak­ come a man who can write like a stand was taken? pital fare, not Doo good nor too ing you wish there was a hole you goes to sea? bad. BEARS WATCHING in the floor where you could By the way, where is the fidThe time passed quickly after slip out, have a couple and re­ Let us watch him a little, he dloy door? And why the fiddley? getting acquainted in the place turn after the earbender had who phrases the department's Also if a bosun tells an ordinary and our hospital delegate Sul­ sat down. (your's and mine) views as fol­ to "bring that man on," and the livan deserves commendation lows: "The War Department is ordinary sees a stevedore down If these guys woifld only ap­ for his regular visits. not aware of any effort, during on the dock, and drags him to the preciate the punishment they're After being discharged follow­ the present war, by members of bosun, why is he wrong? doling out to the membership. ing a month's stay, I found a the merchant marine, or their Till next i.ssue, then . . . maybe. place to stay downtown and Unless they're naturally sadis­ representatives, to have military F. M. Jack caught up on my eating. Then tic, they'd no doubt confine their - "speeches" to the great or naval status conferred on them boon of brevity, and how much w'ith the liabilities, privileges more popular they would be­ and emoluments flowing from come. such status. Read at the meeting, and dis­ "Rather, they have apparently cussed all too briefly consider­ chosen to enjoy the usual rights ing its importance, was the re­ of civilians, to introduce con­ have the same one up in the new .secretary here, how she likes the sults to date of efforts made for To the Editor: tracts of employment, plus the Last week was one of the worst Hall with plenty of presure. 1 new hall. Someday, that is, not governmental aid to seamen vethigher pay, liberal bonuses and in my stay in Mobile. Friday, used to curse it at the other hall yet. free insurance provided for them March 7th was a rainy day, so 1 because 1 couldn't get a drink OPEN THE DOOR! during the emergency. of water. "In the event that Congress decided that 1 would go around That takes care of all. No!— 1 believe the membership is should determine as matter of to the Hall to see some of my The doorman. To get by him you going to be better off in the new national policy that additional buddies, and talk with the dis­ must show your book permit. It Hall. Better representation will benefits should bO provided for patcher about a ship that some happened that 1 came up and be possibla too, for at the other members of the merchant marine, of my pals were- on. 1 wanted forgot my book. 1 did not go up hall the dispatcher had the worst the War Department would offer to get the lowdown as to when either until 1 produced it. of a job, if not the hardest 1 have no objection to an equitable ex­ they would hit the town so 1 1 see that Brother Steely White ever seen in all the halls from tension of benefits through could figure how to make my and Brother Lindsey Williams Boston to Port Arthur. money last till 1 could catch a were visiting the Hall this week. BUSY BEE live one. There seems to be few of the oldHe has dispatching, telephone Well 1 headed to the Hall, ar­ timers around, but I'm getting calls to answer, dues to collect, riving by cab and went up to acquainted with some new ones. not counting about 500 questions .see how everything was and Ed., As soon as the weather changes to an.swer in a period of eight you know the dispatcher had 1 think 1 am going to change erans of the war concei-ning pen­ been washed all the way into the hours. Brother Jordan, 1 take I coasts. 1 think I'll switch opera­ sions, hospitalization, etc. Agent's Office. The doorman pleasure in taking off my hat fully believe if the membership tions to the Atlantic. was sweeping water out of the to you. 1 really envy you. 1 am going to see if 1 can get appreciated what could come of Brother Cal Tanner has been Hall with one of those street such a set-up, much more action cleaner's brooms. It was raining quite busy getting everything a resolution passed to get a set would be stressed on this mea­ as much inside the Hall as out­ lined up before leaving for the of bitts placed outside the build­ sure. convention. 1 have not been able ing so 1 can tie up. When I used side. ACTION COUNTS Well anyway, Saturday, the to question him on what he to arrive at the old place there were two fire plugs that were miracle of miracles happened. thinks about the new set-up. I for one hereby volunteer The counter Patrolman, Broth­ useful. I may have to petition They finally slipped anchor of any aid 1 can give to such a amendment to general maritime the old Hall and anchored at er Charles Kimball, has been the city to put up something program. The old wheeze of laws especially designed to pro­ Number 1 South Lawrence Street busy as he is also trouble shooter, similar at the new hall. tect merchant seamen." My shore leave has ran out, so "Let Charlie do it" doesn't put over the Powell Furniture Store. and 1 have not heard him make Could it be stated aside till 1 get my bowline ashore any potatoes in the bin. any comments but good ones. MOBILE MIRACLE TMe shipping situation there that the men of the merchant Lets see now, someday I'm go­ again, 1 say—cheerio my ship­ didn't appear too favorable. So Monday morning I went around marine as a unit had a greater to see the new Hall, and Broth- ing to get the courage to ask the mates. I started hitting the hourly call percentage of casualties of any The Beachcomber "Senorita Bonita," who is the pretty steadily. in war service? While 1 was there I met a Now he who writes this report couple of good eggs, one sea­ differs a lot from the comment man-printer and the other a we have seen framed on the walls pipe line man. Had some good of various seamen's centers and clean fun with them. Ha—• signed by Dwight Eisenhower There's a job coming up on the and Che.ster Nimitz. What wasn't USGC. Highest pay. $50 per To the Editor: board. Better toss in this late done that the War Department month. Extra pay for every year 1 paid a visit to the merchant Jan. card of mine. No good— wanted us to do? Maybe next you have been in the service, if marine inspector's office in San beat out by Dec. 30. Oh well, week we can dig up the view­ you reenlist with us within 90 so it goes. Pedro with a friend of mine to point of the Navy. days, etCi etc. A week later I'm on a tank­ help him over the hurdles in get­ Do you see what 1 mean about NEW MOBILE HALL er and is she an old girl. Here ting his oiler's endorsement. saving the taxpayers' money. So finally the Mobile head­ we are sailing this old buggy The examiner asked him, 1 was in Wilmington in a joint quarters moved out of "AFL Al­ ers take it from me, it was a while they are busy laying up "How do you cool a hot bear­ having coffee, and I fell into ley." That was a street, my miracle that happened in Mo­ good new ships. Does two and ing?" He got the correct answer, conversation with two AFL bar­ hearties. Was there ever a head­ bile. There is as much difference two still make four? This interbut the CG shot back: "Is that tenders who were off duty. One quarters street like it in all as between New York and Bos­ coastal run may be okay at right? Frankly 1 didn't really of them asked me how shipping ton. America? that. From vthe papers the East was in the SIU Hall. So I says to Rain visited the City Thurs­ know." In the morning the big AFL Coast is taking a weather beat­ Now is that any way to run him, a stranger to me, (and me neon sign below the AFL cafe day so 1 decided 1 would try to ing. Here I am enjoying a real the situation? As for me, 1 laugh­ without my SIU pin for one) nice clime. What am I bitching see the Dispatcher (as you know sign loomed up like a shoreside on rainy days there are not so ed and they ran the hell out of "How did you know I was an for. beacon light from at sea. SIU man?" many at the hall). So, not to be the place fast. Well, I'll sign off for now. MARITIME COMMITTEE He says, "You guys wear your Hope the near future will see 1 read an ad in the Los An­ caught again and get wet, I don­ President Truman has appoint­ ned my foul, weather gear and geles Examiner recently, which buttons on your nose." rt^re Seafarers getting in line Ed, do you think you can get to push the Seamen's Bill of ed a five-man committee, to tell went over. The only water I went like this: "Do you want a him, and us, about the future of found in the Hall was what drip­ vacation in Florida? Do you our artist to draw a guy with a Rights. want to have a good time, and button on his nose. I'm curious the American Merchant Marine, ped off me. Book No. 4526 Great Lakes see the world? Do you want to to see what we look like. Brothers, they say the water which is our livelihood. The com(Name withheld on request) Fred Reppine catch smugglers? Enlist in the fountain was no good but they FJittee members are from PaTo the Editor: cific Gas and Electric of* San Francisco, Westinghouse of Pitts­ burg, Chrysler of Detroit, and an admiral from Annapolis. Now who is going to enlighten them? Almon Roth of the big shipping companies' association will write the FOE report. The 'Beachcomber' Uncovers Big Miracle And Some Other Matters In Port Mobile 'How To Cool Hot Bearing' Too Hot To Handle For CG �Friday, March 21, 1947 10 TO 1 IN FAVOR OF STRIKE LU fi ii Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Maritime Unity is impossibie Uniess Aii Unions Disavow CP This must not be taken to I is supposed to be for seamen but for the imply that our fight which stinks to high heaven. front" or joint action but merely 9 PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE outlined at the meetagreed that in principle and in ON MARITIME-The appoint-^he slightest order to obtain the best and the contrary, by refusing to quickest results, the following is­ ment by President Truman of a five-man committee on maritime the communist scab ideosues should be met with a uni­ which excluded any seaman rep-;l°gy union-wrecking tactics form proceedure. enter our discussion, by our in­ re.sentation. No 1. COAST GUARD—Return of sistence that all participants def­ Bureau of Marine Inspection and adequately survey or discuss initely declare themselves as com­ Navigation to its pre-war status maritime affairs without union I mitted to the cause of militant and the ending of C.G. control representation hence the meeting! trade unionism and against com­ went on record that seamen over merchant seamen. should be included on all com­ munist s c a b b e r y, v/e have strengthened our position and 2. MERCHANT SEAMEN'S mittees dealing with matters per­ made real working unity work­ WAR SERVICE ACT—A form of taining to maritime affairs. able instead of creating a con­ the seaman's GI bill of rights, the 10. COMMUNISM ON THE dition for the communist con­ protection, hospitalization, etc, of seamen injured or beached as a WATERFRONT — In order that niving that smashed the CMU. result of war service. The same the definite status of those pres­ We intend to continue our protection for needy dependants. ent could be made clear the SIU fight for this program, strengthsubmitted a. ^ 3. TRANSFERRAL OF AMER­ Representatives proposition condemning the com-! ICAN SHIPS TO PANAMANIAN REGISTRY—Establishing a pro­ munist party members, their fel^y the commies and gram of international boycott in low travellers, etc., as enemies of both trade unionism, the entire travellers. We fully inthe event the practice continues working class and our American ^^e waterfront of inasmuch as the continuance of The intense expression on the faces of the people in the way of life, for the following ^^e leeching government bureau­ transferrals will ultimately re­ above picture was reflected on the faces of all those who attend­ sult in the loss of jobs, the lower­ reasons; crats, the coast guard militar­ ed the meeting held by the United Financial Workers in the a. The record of the Commun­ ists and all other seamen's en­ ing of our present standards and ists in the trade union move- emies. Scabs, crimps, communSIU New York Hall previous to taking a strike vole. By a ma­ widespread unemployment of sea­ jority of more than 10 to 1, they decided to go on strike. See ment and in the Seamen s pimps all look the same men. story on page 2. union movement in this to the Seafarers. 4. REVISION OF ANTIQUA­ country is so lousy and TED SEAMEN'S LAWS — Re­ The program outlined at the scabby and their attempts meeting a good program. viewing the actual laws which It to split and weaken the la­ always has been a good program; date back to the Shanghai era bor movement is so well and establishing a program of re­ we are going to fight to win and known that they have won we will win the fight. Together vision to conform with our pres­ for themselves the just title with the powerful AFL Mari­ ent needs. "tool of the employer." 5. UNEMPLOYMENT INSUR­ time Trades Department and b. The Communist party is other militant affiliates, we will ANCE FOR SEAMEN—The im­ not an American institution. carry on the fight welcoming as mediate tillocation of funds to be Their followers do not be­ allies all those unions and permade available for seamen who lieve in the institutions and sons who serve the cause of ar(> in need of same. the Constitution of this labor and not the Kremlin. 6. AMENDING FAIR LABOR' country, rather they always STANDARD'S ACT TO COVER Signed:—• attempt to tear them down. SEAMEN—Inclusion of seamen HARRY LUNDEBERG They are followers and dis­ in all beneficial legislation, guar­ PAUL HALL ciples of the totalitarian and anteeing the 40-hour week, etc. MORRIS WEISBERGER imperialistic policies of the 7. ALIEN SEAMEN—To fight Soviet Government. Their for citizenship of alibn seamen actions are subversive and who have sailed on American definitely a menace to our flag ships during the war. If no country and our people. citizenship can be granted, we 14 North Gay St. BALTIMORE are on recoid and we reaffirm Calvert 4539 CONCLUSION—With the ex­ 276 State St. that we intend to fight for their ception of the representatives of BOSTON Boudoin 445S right to sail on American ships three CIO unions there were nc BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 until they can become citizens objections to any portion of the 424 King Street under the prevailing naturali­ proposed program. Curran and CHARLESTON Phone 3-3680 zation laws. Lawrenson, NMU-CIO; Selly, CHICAGO ...24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 517S 8. MARINE HOSPITALS—Re­ ACA-CIO, and the three MCS.1014 E. St. Clair A\m CLEVELAND . moval of present restriction bar­ CIO representatives Bryson, Main 014 ring seamen from hospitalization Kaufman and Divoran refused to CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St Corpus Christi 3-1509 and improving the care and come out against the commu­ DETROIT 1038 Third St. treatment of seamen in.hospitals. After the strike meeting, at which UFE members were ad­ Cadillac 6857 nists. 531 W. Michigan St. Under this point it was brought dressed by Frank Fenton, AFL Director of Organissation, and After considering the entire DULUTH Melrose 4110 out that it would be a good idea meeting and the import it held, GALVESTON Paul Hall, SIU New York Port Agenff the strike poll was 308 Vi—23rd Street to check up on Snug Harbor which we, together with other unions, started. Here are two UFE people casting their votes. 2-8448 16 Merchant St. decided that unity with any per­ HONOLULU 58777 son or group cooperating with, HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Phone Wentworth 3-3809 or giving comfort to the com­ SUP—62 YEARS YOUNG 920 Main St. munist party and their stooges JACKSONVILLE Phone 5-5919 ly, W. 8th St. was impossible. Our position is, MARCUS HOOK Chester 5-3110 therefore, that in the future we 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. MIAMI . could not, in fairness to the 7 St. Michael St. MOBILE 2-1754 cause of true unionism, meet NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartrcs St. with such persons. Magnolia 6112-6113 (Continued from Page 1) SIU HALLS NEW YORK PERSONALS MRS. CAROLINE CALLIGAN Contact Walter E. Gallagher. Asst. Oswego County Veteran's Service Agency. New York State Division of Veterans Affairs, Os­ wego, New York. 4- J. S. AL LOMBARDI Get in touch with John Hunt, 477 Meridian Street, East Bos­ ton, Mass. t. sixty-two years of steady growth was marked by the Sailors Union of the Pacific on March 9. A big party was held in the Frisco Hall following the regular meeting. Tribute was paid to the SUP by representatives of> other unionsi ami' free refroshments were provided for all. t- ALEXANDER STANKIEWICZ Your passport and union book are on file at the Boston Branch. They just came in on the Billings Victory. 51 Beaver St. HAnover 2-2784 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street 4-1083 PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Phone LOmbard 3-7651 PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. Phone: 2-8532 ...111 W. Burnside St. PORTLAND Beacon 4336 257 5th St. RICHMOND, Calif. 2599 SAN FRANCISCO . ... .105 Market St. Douglas 5475-8363 SAN JUAN, P. R. . .252 Ponce de Leon San Juan 2-5996 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 8-1728 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Main 029O TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. M-1323 TOLEDO 615 Summit St. WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Terminal 4^181 VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughto'n St. Garden 8331 VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. Pacific 7824 �Friday. March 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Sixteen mn'THStP... 4- '• iou cAf^'t reu weM APART/ LCA LSU NMU CP * eUT YOU CAN'T MAKf. A MISTAKE ABOUT THE iNn/^NmommcN OF NORTH AMERICA • GREAT LAKES DISTRICT \ rne ONLY ONE ON THE LANES EOR WAGES - CONOmONS-fPOTECr/ON FidiiSjfjL^L J.I � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 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 March 21, 1947 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. IX, No. 12 Description An account of the resource Headlines: REFUSAL TO DISAVOW CP MAKES MARITIME UNITY IMPOSSIBLE--AGENTS COURT RULES US RESPONSIBLE FOR INJURIES ON SHIP A&G AGENTS CONFERENCE PREPARES PLANS FOR EXPANSION OF SEAFARERS IN ALL FIELDS COURT RULES US RESPONSIBLE FOR INJURIES ON SHIPS NEW TUG CONTRACT MAKES GAINS UFE VOTES TO STRIKE ALL EXCHANGES THE WASHINGTON MEETING BIG DOINGS SEAFARERS OFFERS LAKES SEAMEN CHANCE TO SHIP DURING WINTER FURUSETH DEVOTED HIS LIFE SO SEAMEN MIGHT BE FREE SULIVAN, CSU HEAD, QUITS; CALLS UNION CP-CONTROLLED AFL CONDEMNS PERON CONTROL OF TRADE UNION NEW FOOD PACKAGES FOR OVERSEAS AFL CONDEMNS PERON CONTROL OF TRADE UNIONS TEXT OF NEW MOBILE TUGBOAT CONTRACT SKIPPER'S LINEN CHARGE BOUNCES; IT ALL COMES OUT IN THE WASH GALVESTON SHIPPING REMAINS SLOW; MOST VESSELS ARE IN TRANSIT GREAT LAKES SEAMEN ARE SHOWING DEEP INTEREST IN THE ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN OF THE SEAFARERS PERFORMERS AND GASHOUNDS MAKE IT TOUGH FOR GOOD UNION MEMBERS CHICAGO SHIPPING BEGINS TO STIR; MEN GET SOUGEE BUCKETS IN SHAPE CLEVELAND WATERFRONT UNIONS START AFL MARITIME COUNCIL SEAFARERS LEAVE CHARLESTON FOR HOTTER PORTS RUSH OF TANKERS CAUSES MANHUNT IN CORPUS CHRISTI ACTIVITY IS UP, SAYS SAVANNAH; BONEYARD SHIPS DUE TO HIT PORT ORGANIZING DRIVE CATCHING ON WITH THE GREAT LAKES SEAMEN SIU PLANS AND POLICIES DRAWN FOR 1947 GADSDEN MEN CITE DANGER ABOARD SHIP PENALTIES FOR LEAVING JOB PROPOSED BY SCRIPPS CREW SS WINFIELD SCOTT MEN OFFER PLAN TO WIPE OUT INADEQUATE SLOP CHESTS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/21/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/93f9cf9dfb36cb7b07cf2d44cffd659e.PDF cca28b7c302efd59f735202e993da8da PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. MARCH 14. 1947 No. 11 tTF ACTS ON PANAMANIAN SHIPS; LUNOEBERG ASKS WORLD BOYCOH ^ NEW YORK—Boycott of Panamanian ships was called for by SIU Pres­ ident Harry Lundeberg to halt the transfer of American ships to Panaman­ ian registry. He called for this action at a meeting of the Coordinating Com­ mittee of the International Transport workers Federation, held on March 10. Present at the meeting were Willy Dorchain, Chairman; Harry Lundeberg, Sm Wins 6 Per Cent Increase In Overtime^ 175 Ships Withdrawn Standby And WageRate From Boneyard For NEW YORK—The drive of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union for wage increases to meet the rising cost of living, met with quick success as seven companies fell in line with the SIU demands for a six per cent increase. The new agreements, which supplement those signed on NMU Members Back Gurran Against Stack October 23, 1946, were over­ whelmingly accepted by the membership -lin regular meetings held Wednesday, March 12. *SIU; Paul Hall, SIU; Morris*Weisberger, SUP; W. Ash, MM&P; A. Higginbotham, MM& P; E. Raberg, Swedish Seamen's Union; E. Johansen, Norwegian Seamen's Union; R. Clausen, Danish Seamen's Union; and J. Scott, British Seamen's Union. A record for boneyard with­ Paul Hall was appointed Record­ drawals was set during the month er of the meeting. ending Feb. 15, when 175 vessels were taken out of Reserve Fleet The question of vessels being anchorages, the Maritime Com­ transferred out of United States mission announced. jurisdiction was the main point under discussion. So important With the removal of the ves­ sels, the number of laid-up ships is the matter that part of a let­ shrunk to 1,562, with only 52 ter from J. Oldenbroek, General vessels committed to the immo­ Secretary of the ITF, dealt ex­ tensively with the problem. In bilized fleet during this period. part, here is what Secretary The ships withdrawn are head­ Oldenbroek said: ed for delivery to purchasers, for "What have the so-called Pan­ reconversion and for return to ama owners up their sleeves? Is operation under charter. this perhaps an international The James River, Virginia, shipowners' racket? I don't be­ mooring discharged the largest lieve that the Americans will number of vessels, sending out continue to pay American wages, 86, including 55 Liberties, while but that the object is to go down taking in only two. The James to Greek and Norwegian wages, River still moors 529 laid-up ships. (Continued on Page 3) Return To Operation So far Alcoa, South Atlantic, Eastern, Seas Shipping, Bull, Baltimore Insular, and Smith and Johnson, have signed. NEW YORK — The battle be­ tween top-level officials of the To this list will soon be added strife-torn National Maritime Waterman, Mississippi, O v e r Union moved a step nearer to a lakes, and Seatrain, as these showdown this week when a companies have also indicated a membership meeting voted down desire to get on the bandwagon. a motion to reject the charges A straight six percent increase preferred against Vice-President retroactive to January 1, 1947, Joseph Stack by union president has been won on the monthly Joseph Curran. wage scale, and overtime, stand­ Next step in the scuffle will by, longshore, and tank cleaning be decided when Curran's com­ rates. plaint will be heard by a trial Travel subsistence has been committee to be designated by upped fi-om $4.00 to $4.25 per the NMU's national council. Curran had filed charges bas­ day, and five cents per meal has ed on' Stack's disruptive tactics been added to the meal allow­ within the union's national office, ance. These last two gains are the confusion and disunity he effective as of March 11. Organized labor in the United has created among the member­ States received a terrific kick in SIU STILL LEADS ship, and his use of the union the teeth when the Supreme to put into operation the dic­ The arbitration award won by Court last week upheld a lower tates of the communist party, the NMU only provides for an court conviction of John L. Lewis of which Stack is admittedly a increase in the monthly wage and the United Mine Workers, member. and the overtime rate. The five AFL, for contempt. additional points gained by the In so doing, the Supreme OUT IN OPEN SIU proves again the Seafarers' Court opened the way for the The long-smoldering feud in leadership of the maritime in­ use of the anti-labor injunction the NMU broke out into the in spite of established law. dustry. open when Curran resigned his The fine of $3,500,000 against All the negotiations were car­ co-chairmanship of the now de­ the union was reduced to $700,funct Committee for 'Maritime ried on in an atmosphere of hon­ 000 on the conditions that the est bargaining. It was far dif­ Unity.,;; ferent during the previous ne­ miners withdraw their strike In resigning, Curran charged hotice within approximately that the CMU was draining the gotiations when the operators twenty days. NMU's treasury. Sharing the tried all sorts of stalling mea­ Otherwise the original amount chairmanship of the CMU was sures before giving in to the SIU of the fine will be levied. The Harry Bridges, West Coast long­ demands. fine of $10,000 against Lewis re­ shore leader, and like Stack, one The Committee for the Union mained unchanged. of the commies' fair-haired boys consisted of J. P. Shuler, Assist­ The Court itself split on in­ in maritime. ant Secretary-Treasurer; Paul terpretation of the Law. Seven Stack immediately blasted Hall, Director of Organization; voted Lewis guilty of contempt, .Curran for submitting his resig- Robert Matthews, Headquarters while two thought the charge naition. Shortly after, Curran Engine Department Representa­ unsubstaniated. tive; Joe Algina, acting New announced that he was filing Five Justices said that the charges against the NMU vice- York Port Agent; and Johnny Norris-La Guardia Anti-Injunc­ president. Arabasz, organizer. tion Act was not violated by the Supreme Court Mine Ruiing Threatens All Trade Unions HARRY LUNDEBERG Seamen Of 15 Nations Press New Standards For Shipboard Life Urging ratification and en­ forcement of the international treaties setting minimum stand­ ards for seamen, seafarers of 15 nations are pressing their gov­ injunction, and four thought that ernments for immediate action. it was in violation of existing The treaties, or International law, but the miners had to com­ Labor Conventions, were adopt­ ply with it. ed at last year's International Labor Order Maritime Confer­ ence at Seattle, Wash., and call Favoring the $700,000 fine for minimum standards of life were five judges, while four op­ at sea for seamen of all mem­ posed it. Only Justices Murphy ber nations. and Rutledge were consistently The Seattle Conventions cover on labor's side, and Justice Mur­ wages, hours of work, manning, phy's dissenting opinion warned that the decision paved the way social security, medical examin­ for strike-breaking by the Gov­ ations, crew accommodations, ernment on behalf of private food and catering, pensions, paid vacations and certification of employers able seamen and ships' cooks. The Supreme Court's affirma­ The Conference's position was tion of the conviction was re­ ceived with joy by the anti- stated in one of several resolu­ labor forces, in the Congress. tions adopted at the InternationNewspapers all over the United an Seafarers Conference called States picked up the news and by the International Transport heralded it as a body blow at Workers Federation and the In­ ternational Mercantile Marine the power of labor. Officers Association. But while the UMW and other FINE APPROVED labor organizations could see the Morris Weisberger, SIU Vice seriousness of the situation, they President and SUP New York did not believe that the decision Port Agent, represented Ameri­ would discourage or end strikes. can seamen at the conference. �THE S E.AF A R EE'S LOG. Page Two Friday. March 14. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the . SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 i ^ X X HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francis- o, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. 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 Future Planning The past year has been one of the most successful in the history of the SIU. Seamen's wages and conditions have been bettered consistently, the Government has been forced to back down on a matter involving the Union's right to negotiate wage agreements witli its contracted employers, and the organizing drive of the SIU succeeded in winning a bargaining election in the notoriously anti­ union Isthmian Steamship Company. Not bad for one year. 'But we're not resting on our laurels. Right now the Great Lakes Drive is the big thing, and the Seafarers is going all-out to do the job right. Starting March 17, SIU Agents of the Atlantic and Gulf District meet in New York for their annual con­ ference., It is in these meetings that plans are laid for fu­ ture Union undertakings. This year will be no exception. Many subjects will be discussed, and what is decided will be for the better­ ment and expansion of the SIU. And whatever the Agents Conference decides, and is concurred in by the membership, will be the course of action for 1947. Hospijtal Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. Blue Print For Tomorrow Staten Island Hospital The Supreme Court took a leaf out of the labor-haters handbook, and handed down a decision in the Lewis-UMW case which might well turn out to be the strikebreaking pattern for the future. Only two Justices, Murphy and Rutledge, stuck by their guns and refused to play politics These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, with the liberty of the workers, \vhat Murphy said in his as reported by the Port Agents.- These Brothers find time hanging dissenting opinion is the blueprint for the course the heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ bosses may steer to bring fascism to the Ujiited States. ing .to them. ^ BROWNIE GINGREE For this reason excerpts from his opinion arc printed in NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL JACK HAMILTON J. NAVARRO this space. LAWRENCE McCUNE P. DAUGHERTY "It becomes apparent that the implications of to­ J. RETOUR XXX day's decisions cast a dark cloud over the future of labor G. KRETZER MOBILE HOSPITAL relations in the United States. C. MASON MARION D. PENRY S. MOGAN "In my opinion the miners remained private em­ MANUEL CARDANA W. BROCE, Jr. C. A. GARNET ployes despite the temporary gloss of government posses­ J. ROONEY R. H. DAVIS sion and operation of the mines . . . the obvious fact re­ E. CUSTER ' W. J. SULLIVAN • mains that this case involves and grows out of a labor R. E. MULHOLLAND A. SABOURIN dispute between the operators and the miners. Govern­ H. H. HAMILTON S. P. MORRIS E. L. MYERS ment seizure of the mines cannot hide or change that fact. J. W. DENNIS R. B. WRIGHT Indeed, the seizure took place only because of the existence R. B. KINAIRD STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL of the dispute . . . the dispute survived the seizure and is XXX E; E. CASEY still very much alive. And it still retains its private char­ BALTIMORE HOSPITAL S. W. LESLEY acter, the operators on one side and the coal miners on the ARTHUR CAMARA J. S. WOOD other. ANTONIO AMARAL C. H. SULLIVAN : K. KORNELIUSSEN "Moreover, if seizure alone justifies an injunction CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES PETERS P. SYRAX contrary to the - expressed will of Congress, some future PETER LOPEZ L. A. CORNWALL government could easily utilize seizure as a subterfuge, PHILIP BAZAAR ' F. H. ^ DOLAN M; BAUCSKI for breaking any or all strikes in private industries . , . The ROBERT SHEHEE. ROBERT WISEMAN W. BLOOM workers would be effectively subdued under the impact NATHAN ROBERTSON M.' J. LYDEN of the restraining order and contempt procedings. After MATTHEW CARSON.A. SWENSON the. strike was broken, the properties, would-be, handed TED BABKOWSKL Rj;G:MOSSELLER ERNEST SIDNEY. R.'J. TURNER ' ' back to the .private employer." GEORGE WILKINS G'.. E. MARSHALL These may be prophetic words. It is up to labor to or­ STANLEY HOLDEN M. MORRIS. ganize so that it won't happen here ever again. WILLIAM HOWELL L. NELSON Men Now In The Marine Hospitals You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 pjn. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 pan. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM R. LORD R. BROWN E. BOLEHALA XXX SAN JUAN HOSPITAL . • JUAN OLIVER WALTER- JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. FELICIANO R. SEIFO ....'U fT't r'CT.i.ra'- • i '• �Friday, March 14, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Voyage Of Murder And Mayhem Spells Unlen Lesson To Soafaror By ED MULVEY I was a fool! On Oct. 12, 1946, I signed on for a trip to Shanghai. We were to take the ship to Shanghai and then return to the USA after re­ ceiving a bonus of $250, plus a month's pay. Bear this in mind: The Union did not have anything to do with this ship, it was all on my own hook, and the company was un­ organized. The scow had been in the re­ pair yards in Boston for a couple of months undergoing repairs. Upon completion of repairs we started out to sea. We lifted the hook at 12:30 on a Saturday, but 24 hours later we were only opposite Provincetown, Mass., just 75 miles from Boston. We did not dare go through the canal as the tide is seven knots and we were only getting four knots out of the scow. So it was the outside route for us. Oh, yes, previous to our leaving here, the Old Man and the rest of the officers had been holding open house on board. Wine, Wom­ en with Song, with the liquor flowing faster than water through the pumps. After four days we dropped an­ chor in New York and the next day we moved to a Brooklyn yard for more repairs. Well, from the first night in Brooklyn the merry-go-round started. Liquor and women aboard again. All the men who signed on in Boston, Deck and schedule. They slept and never the black gang mess and opened missed a meal on board. two cases of whiskey for them­ selves. The Canal Police said: "The Then started the party that was worst crew in ten years to hit to last over a month. The party the canal." moved to the Old Man's cabin No work in all departments. where it continued all night long. The Cooks followed the rest. I then had to step in and cook. No There were few fights—just one need of asking the Old Man to Oiler with a broken arm, but as' do anything as he was gassed up, long as the booze lasted he need­ and there were women in the ed no medical attention. The next morning when the town. Captain of the Port and Pilot The Cliief Mate had a jam with came aboard, no one was able to one of the deck hands and knock­ go to the bridge, as all officers ed him out. A quiet sort of a boy. ,, r Ti/r ^ were still gassed, the Chief Mate weighing ahontl^ ^ ^f about six hours 250 pounds We loaded supplies ^e^e able to moor the ship aboard and again quite a few ,„here the Pilot wanted it. cases of choice whiskey. Then a waiting period began. GASSED UP GANG We were to load 2500 tons of We cast off about 3:30 p. m. sugar. The natives, however, and headed for Peru. We had were on strike, so no work for just cleared the port, when the them or the crew. The Old Man 4 to 8 watch in the engine room gave out a draw and, as liquor refused to go below and fire. was cheap and the exchange was So we dropped the hook and six to one, the men had plenty of waited for the black gang to so- money. ber up. They did the next day The natives of Peru then beand towards noon we got under came witnesses to what the crew way again. All went well and we could do to liquor. The crew made Pimentel, Peru on Dec. 5. | took over Chiclayo and Pimentel We dropped anchor about 8:30 and proceeded to ruin the towns. p. m. At 9 p. m. the Old Man and Cafes were wrecked; houses of the Chief Engineer went aft to! (Conthtued on Page 9) By PAUL HALL No members of a trade union can look at the decision of the Supreme Court in the John L. Lewis and United Mine Workers case and feel comfortable. Although the ruling which upheld the ex­ cessive fines imposed on the miner's union and Lewis will be paid for out of their hard-earned cabbage, all labor stands to pay through the nose. For the decision sets a precedent that can be used against any union. It provides the union-busters with more ammunition to con­ tinue their fight to reduce the trade-union movement to a toothless, flabby-muscled body. These union-busters—the boys who tote the world's wealth practically in their pockets, and their politician pup­ pets in Washington—have been panicked out of their pants at the sight of the healthy, growing trade union movement. They are al­ ready at work to suck the red blood from it. The Supreme Court decision gives them a boost in that direction, by making it possible for all unions to be similarly treated in the future. To the labor movement and to us Seafarers, especially—this latest beef drives home with sledge-hammer force the fact that Labor hasn't any friends in Washington; that we cannot rely on any one to do any pitching for us. Our only friend is our own strength. Let's maintain that strength. UNION-BUSTERS HAVE SCARED SOME With the bosses showing a determination to slap labor down, some labor fakers have shown signs of being scared. They are afraid to make any move they feel will antagonize the big boys. They say: let's not ask for wage increases—it might agitate the bosses. Labor guys who take this attitude might as well take the gaspipe. No matter what demands we have made, or will make, the operators have and will meet with resistance. Nothing was ever stuck up on a silver platter for seamen. If he had never fought for his own welfare—and foughr hard—he'd still be drawing down $30 a month, plus all the crap and filthy conditions that went with it. For labor now to be timid would mean simply that labor would (Continued from Page 1) be weak. Timidity and strength don't go hand in glove. Labor must as a first step, and then if there be strong, alert and aggressive if it is to stay alive. is a slump, to pay the wages Thei-e is no more striking proof of this than the history of the they like." seaman. The old ISU was smashed after the last war as a result of Brother Lundeberg made the a deliberate maneuver on the part of the operators. The shipping point that action must be taken interest—powerful and united at that time, as always—slickly at once to halt the reallocation maneuvered the ISU and its finky pie cards into a bad spot, which of ships to Panamanian and they knew the union was unprepared for. What they plotted was a Honduran registry, and that lockout, but they wanted it to look as though the union was taking while organization of the vessel the offensive. And a lockout is what they accomplished. The re­ is important, it should be hand­ sult was confusion and chaos. Things were fouled up just as the led on a long range basis. operators wanted it. Wages and conditions took a terrific nose-dive. ACTION PLANNED OLDTIMERS REMEMBER LOUSY CONDITIONS The problem of the mechanics of an international boycott was Many of the oldtimers remember the stinking conditions exist­ ing before the seamen revolted against the lousy standards imposed Engine departments were fired, discussed, and it was pointed out that certain preparations would on them. They remember, too, the series of hard-hitting, all-out except the Bosun and myself. have to be made in order to strikes and job actions that had to be pulled before seamen could NEW CREW make the boycott successful. It break out of their slavery. A new crew of an international WILLY DORCHAIN Everything we have today, right down to the last little thing, hue was hired: Swedes, Finns, was further stated that such ac­ tion might cause political and we got by struggle. Those struggles spelled victory for all samen Poles, Danes and whatall. No of the program, the following because we had just beefs, and because we had the strength, the work was accomplished by any of diplomatic kickbacks. sustaining course of proceedings In reply to this line of reason­ determination and the organization to carry the beefs through to the crew, but no meals were was decided upon: the payoff. And we had to carry the pay load on our shoulders. missed as the whole crew report­ ing, Lundeberg said that I'egardless of what sort of diplomatic 1. ITF to be represented at This is not to be taken as meaning that a strike is advocated ed around for them. 6r political kickbacks an inter­ the Maritime CouncU Meeting to at this time, or at any particular time in the near future. The point Again extensive repairs were national boycott might have, be held in Washington, D. C., stressed here is that we Seafarers must not get soft or timid. Our made to engines and boilers, and such action was necessary for starting March 14, 1947. strength lies in our militancy and ability to hit the bricks when supplies for four months were immediate stoppage of transfernecessary. Uppermost in our minds should be the thought that we put aboard. 2. ITF also to be represented ral of American .ships to "dum­ at the SIU Convention in Chica­ must continue—as we have done successfully in the past—to use On Nov. 8,-we left for a trial our economic power when the situation demands that kind of action. run. We made it, but how I can't my" registry. go, as well as at the AFL Mari­ It was the feeling of the group time Trades Department meeting say, as most of the officer's and PROGRAM AND ACTION MUST BE COORDINATED that international boycott is the which will immediately follow The job of the Agent's Conference, which starts March 17, is to hands were gassed up. best method that could be used the Convention. We headed for Newport News lay out the Union program for the next year. But there is a helluva to force an end to the transfer difference between laying out a program and carrying it through. and made it Nov. 11. There, as 3. After above meetings are racket. Last year, the Seafarers formulated a damned good program. Not in Brooklyn, the crew headed over, and a program and action In line with this idea, the Co­ decided upon, the Coordinating all of it was put into effect, however. Mostly, this was because of for the bars. ordinating Committee appointed Committee will be called to meet Some faced the judge there and the press of business, the many and important beefs Seafarers took the American members of the in New York. 'part in, all of which was a heavy drain on our energy, time, and the Old Man had to pay. We Cmmittee to draw up plans and put on a good supply of liquor, strength. 4. Following the completion One other reason for the non-completion of our program was and on the 13th we headed for recommend action on stoppage of the above three steps, an in­ of transferral of American-own­ the attitude of some of our officials who were too busy being 9 to 5 Balboa, C. Z. ed vessels to Panama, or to any ternational conference of sea­ pie-cards, and who therefore, were unable to fully support the We arrived in Balboa on the foreign country not presently men's groups in the ITF will be ~ program. Personal affairs cannot interfere with union business. If 25th. All the way down the Chief recognized as a Maritime power. called so as to guarantee support it does, then the holder of a Union position should give it up. The Engineer had to spend his time This action will probably take on an international scale on any first obligation of a pie-card is to serve the membership and its pro­ at the ffeeze unit as it would not the form of calling for interna­ program adopted. reach 30 degrees—and this was grams completely. tional boycott against Panaman­ Brothers Dorchain and JohanOnly by strict application of this principle of enforcing mem­ the new unit put aboard in Bos­ ian ships, and setting up a sys­ sen were appointed to act as bership policy can we have a wide-awake union, capable not only ton. At Balboa more repairs tem to be used in organizing ITF delegates at the Washington of giving the best representation to the membership—but also in were made. Panamanian seamen. Conference and the Chicago Here the crew made a draw, taking advantage of every opportunity to build the Seafarers or­ To carry out certain features meetings. and all hands went on a no-work ganizationally. Ask International Boycott Of Panamanian Transfers �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page-Four, Friday. March 14. 1947 The Patrolmen Say— Good Ship QUESTION: What suggestions do you have for the Educational Department of the SIU? ALONZO MILEFSKI. Cb. Cook: iCLIFTON WILSON. Ch. Steward: I'm in favor of broadening the "Union Educational Program so that we could all learn how to act to settle our beefs if we are at sea. Lots of times something comes up. and -although we do our best, we could do better if "we knew how to negotiate with the Skipper on our own. That would help the Union by conistantly developing men- who could become officials, of the SIU'. Plenty of beefs come up - that could be settled. • immediately without waiting, for a Patrolmant All we need is the know-how.- •* We definitely need more Un­ ion education. Our members :should -bel taught, more about jthe history of the trade union movement in the United States, land how the Seafarers fit into |all of it. We should get more infotmation on what labor is do­ ing abroadi In addition, the'Un­ ion should issue ' material that could be used aboard ship for holding meetings and classes; on parliamentetry • procedure and public speaking, the Union Conistitution and By-Laws, etc. We could all learn plenty that way. CASWELL WARREN, MM; What we need, is more in the.. LOG on how to function as good., union men aboard ship. , There should. be regular articles on . how to conduct shipboard meet­ ings, and how to follow through on a beef, if at sea where no i Patrolman is available. I also think that the Union should sponsor an up-grading school for the Stewards Department so that ' men could learn new jobs and help to advance themselves. In that way the Union would al­ ways have men available for good jobs. SAM JONES. Chief Cook: I think that books on techni­ cal ' subjects should " be placed aboard. ships i so that men - could study during time off. Books on electricity, engineering, naviga­ tion. and radjp. would be> valu­ able to our members, and they would have an opportunity toimprove themselves while outat sea. The Union should buy; the books and lend them from the Hall, and then the. Pa­ trolmen could pick them up at the end of each voyage. The Educational Department should be in ~ charge of < selecting the books. Lakes Seamen Respond To Seafarers' Appeal As Organizing Drive Swings into Fuii Stride By EARL SHEPPARD With headquarters established in Detroit the Great Lakes or­ ganizing drive hit its full stride this week. Organizers are now working in every major port from Buffalo to Duluth assisted by volunteer rank and filers who have volunteered to ship aboard unorganized ships. In view of the depleted ore piles in the steel area, it is ex­ pected that the season will be in full swing much earlier than usual with an - anticipated great­ er-tonnage handled than- ever before. The: I vast shipments of grain to Europe have just about emp-» tied the elevators in Buffalo and on the Atlantic and , Gulf sea­ boards. Because of this milling is very low. To supply the domestic de­ mands great amounts of wheat will have to be moved to the Buffalo elevators and stored for winter milling. ALL-OUT DRIVE No particular point of con­ centration or specific company has been selected as the organiz­ ing objective. The Lakes Dis­ trict, in consultation with the general International organiza­ tional-committee, is of the opinj ion that the time is ripe to con­ duct an all out drive to organ­ ize every unorganized company. That this opinion is correct has been borne out by the early re­ sponse to the Seafarers' program.. Many hitherto unorganized sea­ men, both ashore and on fitting out jobs, have already taken out Seafarers membership, and doz­ ens of others have signified their intention of doing so as soonas they ship. , COAST SUCCESS One of the great factors in the initial enthusiastic response to the Seafarers' program are the Lakes seamen returning, after sailing , on the coast during the winter. These men are bringing with them •• the first-hand story of what has happened: of the Isth­ mian : victory, of the new. con­ tracts signed, and of the superior working and living conditions aboard Seafarers' ships. A good many of these men have sailed both aboard NMU and SIU ships, and are able to draw a comparison that all the propaganda in the world cannot contradict. Shipping is good in every port on the Atlantic and Gulf, so good that there is a shortage of rated men. In the average port a man can payoff in the morning and ship that, afternoon without even registering. Despite this good shipping plus a new wage increase won this week (described elsewhere in this issue of the Log). Lakes seamen sailing on the coast have responded to the^. Union's request and many are heading for the Lakes to help bring unionism to the place they started sailing". This is the essence and the secret of success in any organiz­ ing drive, the full cooperation and participation of the mem­ bership. This is why, in the Seafarers, every full-time paid organizer is backed up and help­ ed by 50 rank and filers fighting because they are good Union men and want to see their Union grow. This is the reason the Seafar­ ers has never lost & beef. SEAFARERS LOG The Seafarers Log-has assign­ ed a member of the staff to' work on the Lakes this- season and cover all . activities. Full cover­ age-will be given, to both organiz;ational- activity and Lakes- job news. All. lakes- seamen, both organ­ ized and unorganized are invited to send lin jletteis for -publica­ tion. If you see something you like or don't like, or suggestions to aid the drive, write it down and send it into the Log. . All Lakes Seafarers halls will be open to unorganized men. "Visit the Union halls, talk to the organizers and officials, meet the membership. The Seafarers is the union of all Seamen^—all seamen are invited to look it over and judge for themselves. Here are the Great Lakes Halls now open: BUFFALO: 10 Exchange StreetPhone: CLeveland 7391 Alex McLean, Agent CHICAGO: 24 W." Su"perior Ave. Phone; Superior -5175 ' Herbert Jahsen, Agent CLEVELAND: 1014 E.,St.- Clair Ave. Phone; Main 0147 Stanley "Wares,. Agent. DETROIT:" 1038. Third St. Phone: Cadillac 6857 Fred-i Farnen, Secyi-Treas. Earl B. Sheppard, Intl; Representative in charge of organization DULUTH: 531 W.. Michigan St. Phone: Melrose 4110 - Einar.uNordaas, Agent TOLEDO:'. . 615-Summit-St. ; Henry W,- Chappelly. Agent:. ' BOSTON — The. SS Madaket, Waterman, just paid off here, with everyone on board _ hold­ ing a book except one man. The Deck and Engine gangs were high in their praise of Brother Jennings and his Stew­ ards Department, • asserting that e-very meal they put out was tops. Also, they were praised for their cleanliness. The repair list was taken care of here. Brother Dave Fried­ man, . who is making another, trip, had a perfect explanation for every one of the repairs, in­ cluding a request for the re­ moval of the angle irons on deck. The.se were taken care of here, so that the danger of one of the crew breaking his neck tripping over these obstructions is now removed. Brother Friedman was a great help as Delegate, and the fact that he is making another trip • will • mean that another Patrolman can be assured of an efficient helper at. payoff. In fact the only soi-e spot, on this ship was the Mate. I. took up .this subject at length with the Old Man and the com­ pany agent, and I believe hewill do- no more interfering on deck from now on. The replacements shipped from here, |ionly a very few, were all book men. There were no replacements needed for the; Stewards Department, so the next trip of this ship should be a beaut. • Jimmy Sweeney i. Phony Lawmakers NEW YORK — In paying off. the Cape, Borda recently. Broth­ er Guinier and myself noted that a bulletin had been posted signed by the Skipper, which, among other items, stated that any crewmember leaving the ship with a package would be search­ ed by the Mate at the gangway. We challenged both the Mate and the Skipper to show us where they had any right to search the . crew's private gear. We also notified them that if they persisted in this practice, the men could accuse them of stealing stuff out of the pack­ ages the;' were carrying ashore. When they heard that, they decided their plan wasn't such a good • idea after all,' and took the notice down. We believe this will stop some of these hot-shot • character Skip­ pers from- issuing' phony bullet­ ins in the future. These birds should remember there is a law; for everything. Louis; Gofiin MCToRiecoiisid^Eiiil Of Cttastwise Service Following a conference with Gulf Coast operators. Maritime Commission officials have stated that they will reconsider the corruniasion's order abandoning coastwise .shipping service be­ tween Atlantic and Gulf , ports. The Government withdrew f romi: coastwise: shippipg > Qw.Feh^ 28, when, its authority over coastwise shipping was not ex­ tended. If the decision is reversed, the coastwise service could be con­ tinued until June 30, when auth­ ority of the Maritime Commis-. sion to subsidize shipping, in all trades. expires. �Friday, March 14, 1947 THE SEAFA:RERS LOG Page Fire Mobile Shipping Boom Continues; Branch Galls For More Seamen By CAL TANNER MOBIL 3ILE-^The Port of Mobile our arrival on board, someone is at piiresent enjoying one of the got the keys to the Steward's biggest shipping booms it has storeroom, entered, and dumped ever known. In the past two all the dried beans, , peas, rice, weeks we have crewed up 20 grits and flour on the deck; took ships for Alcoa, Waterman and several jars of mustard and South Atlantic. All ships were poured it over the mess, causing delivered from the boneyard, cbout $250.00 of damage. and reports have it that more NO CASE are on the way. Silence this week from the Immediately the Coast Guard Branch Agents of the follow­ • In addition to crowing the ing ports: new additions to the company was called in to investigate. fleets, we have somehow man­ They were only able to get some TAMPA aged to ship the replacements circumstantial evidence - against NORFOLK: to our regular vessels coming one of the ci-ew. We defended JACKSONVILLE the man and had his case into the port. CHARLESTON I During this sudden rush of thrown out. The Old Man then turned the shipping we have shipped every PORT ARTHUR man within a 100 miles that log book over to the Coast CORPUS CHRISTI even Idoked like a seaman. If a Guard and they tried every man SAVANNAH man. is without a job in this that had been logged during the The • deadline for port re­ voyage. port it's his own fault. ports, monies due, etc., is the Several men were called be­ It goes without saying that Monday proceeding publica­ jobs are plentiful, and with the fore the Coast Guard and tried. tion. While every effort will reported 30 or 40 more ships We fought every case and won be made to use in the current coming out of the boneyard in them all except that of one man. issue material received after the next two months we are go­ This man was charged with be­ that date, space commitments ing to fihd ourselves in dire ing drunk and stealing some generally do not permit us to hams. need of men in all departments. At the payoff he was drunk do so. If you are the fussy kind, come down to Mobile. There are and we had his trial postponed more types of jobs and ships to the iollowing Monday^ He refused to have his trial here than Heinz and its 57 vadelayed and asked to be tried rities of fobd. In the midst of this tremen­ then and there. We told him dous task of crewing all these we would not defend him while new vessels, we have found a intoxicated, but he was stubborn few moments to look over our and told us ho didn't need any­ one to act in his behalf as he headquarters to be. By E. H. The plumbers, electricians, car­ was capable of doing it himself. SAN FRANCISCO—This week What the results were of his penters, and painters are putting trial, I don't know but I'm sure the Sailor's Union of the Pa­ he is sorry he didn't take our cific is celebrating its sixtyYou POAJ'T LOOK so HOTadvice. HOWS ABOUT A TRIP second anniversary. To mark Outside of this incident all the payoffs and sign-ons have been the occasion a party was held handled with a minimum of after the weekly business meet­ ing at which free liquor and beefs. At present peace and heavy beer was passed out to all who shipping reign supreme in the were in attendance. It was a very good party with husie.st port in the SIU. NO NEWS?? Shipping Gleans Gut Phllly Hall; Beachcombers Warned To Bypass By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — Ships, ships and more ships. The city of Brotherly Love is really booming, with ships running out of here like a Detroit assembly line. Shipping is so, good that we have been calling New York and Baltimore for more men than we have shipped from this Hall, and the boom looks like it will continue for awhile. We crewed up the four Seatrains, the Seatrains New Jersey, Havana, Texas and New York, and believe me they were one big headache. They carry besides the reg­ ular crew, 3 QMs, 3 ABs, 3 West Goast Branches Gelebrate 62nd Birthday Of Sailors Union the finishing tducnes to the renovation task, and to these critical eyes the - new Hall is really tops. Shipping Keeps Rolling Along In Fine Style In Port Baltimore By WM. (CURLY) RENTZ BALTIMORE — Things in the port of Baltimore have been fashion. I have found that all those rolling along in fine Shipping is prdtty fair here, who have managed to get a peek at the new home of the SIU are' providing you are out to get a more than pleased with the new ship and not out to pick your run and type of ship that you set-up. Naturally everyone is- getting want. We have been keeping, after anxious to move, so,- with'the Calmar and Ore here, as I told lease already signed - and out' of you last week. The company the way, we expect to begin- op­ has agreed to clean these ships erations in our new home in a' couple of days. We signed a up and flo fee,d better, which lease for a year and a half with' should be -an- incentive for you a six months option to.pui'chase fellows on the beach to crew these ships up in a hurry when the building. the jobs come in. We will give the building a We had a shght beef , on one real good going over once we of the Calmar ships last week, move-in, and if at the end of the and satisfied the crew-by . taking six months she meets our re­ up the beefs in a hurry and quirements, we may make a recommendation • to buy the having them straightened out. The messhalls were sougeed place. out, the galley cleaned, new Even though it's a nice spot, mattresses were put aboard for we intend to be sure it allows the whole crew, and it was for expansion, and is practical agreed to have the crew paint for our needs. out their quarters, messhalls, Aside from shipping and the new Hall, we have been cover­ etc., when they got out of the ing a large number of payoffs. shipyard, which should run into One of these, the MV Capstan a few hours of overtime. iREAL EYEFUL Knot, Alcoa, gave us a little trouble. When she pulled in there were only a few minor beefs arising out of friction between the crew and the Steward. These were no problem, but sometime between the time she docked and AWAKENING I see where the NMU is sure having a hard time on account of the intra-union fight that they are having. Curran, after more than ten years, wakes up to the fact that the Commies are out to do a job on the NMU. I've been wonder­ ing if he just woke up to that fact or if he knew it all along and chose to ignore it until late­ ly. when the Commies started stepping on his toes. Then there is Stack, playing hand and glove with Ferdinand "Finky',' Smith and all the rest of the Reds. I can remember the copy of the Pilot on January 13, 1939 that was written by Stack.. rHe. had., quite a bit to say about -the fate' of the NMU. He ended up with the follow­ ing sentence: "I will close with the hope that we will be able to rid our organization (NMU) of such people as 'Woof Woof" Phillips and Ferdinand (Finky) Smith." HOW COME What happened. Stack? Did the commie bug bite you just about then, or did you decide that "Finky" could help you reach the high position in the NMU that you are now in, is that why you switched your tactics and made friends with Ferdy? I also see in the Pilot that the NMU agent in this port is having a squabble with the NMU headquarters. Looks like they are getting jealous of each other. TEAGUE about 300 members present, and from the festive air about the place I'd say everyone had a fine time. There were a lot of speeches, which were well received, and several oldtimers got up and spoke of the "old days" when the SUP was still a pup. Sixty-two years is a long time for a union to he around in this unstable world, and the SUP can be proud of its record in maintaining its clean and re­ spected reputation throughout this time. Things are pretty slow in the shipping department with a number of the men holding cards two months old. We are look­ ing for the situation to pick up soon with jobs for men within a respectable interval of time. Our Agent, Red Simmons, has left the Old Gold Coast for the Agents' Conference, and although he has been gone only a few days, things already seem kind of quiet around here. We kind of miss Red, for when he is around he always manages to liven things up somewhat. Of the ships hitting the port, the General Meggs came in with the crew of the C. McDonnell, which was repatriated from Manila. There were a few beefs and some disputed overtime on the ship, but I cleared the mat­ ter up in short order. This is all from the old Gold Coast at this time, so until an­ other report, steady as she goes. Cardeckmen ABs, 3 Deck Main­ tenance ABs and one Bosun, all holding ABs tickets. So right there we shipped 52 ABs. We really cleaned the Hall out in crewing these ships. In fact, we even shipped out the janitor. With the sudden rush of ship­ ping, the Patrolmen have been keeping their distance from the Dispatcher's Office for fear of being shanghaied. If the Dis­ patcher gets his hooks on those boys, it'll be goodbye Patrolmen. In the payoff department w^ took care of five ships, four SIU ships and one SUP. All beefs were of a minor riature and' handled at the point of pro­ duction. We also contacted six ships in transit and three Isthmian scows for a total of fourteen SHORT STAY Brother Frenchy Michelet, the famous southern cuisine artist from New Orleans, paid off the Thomas Hayward, Waterman, but he hardly touched the beach. We allowed him just 48 hours to visit his usual haunts in this port and promptly bundled him bff to the Seatrain Texas. We know the crew on that ship -will eat well as Frenchy went aboard with his right hand man, Jake Martin, Chief Cook. Future business looks bright with at least three Waterman ships due to paj- off this week, and an Isthmian scow due to call for replacements before the week is out. In looking the Hall over for crews, we nailed the Doorman, Brother Shaynick. and dispatch­ ed him with speed to the Seatrain New York. His place has been taken by Brother Donley, and if things keep going as they are now he will soon turn over his post to another and join Brother Shay­ nick aboard a ship. SCOUTS OUT In spite of the maelstrom of shipping, we are still looking for a new Hall. Our corps of bloodhounds has been severely depleted by the calls for crews, but every edition of the focal press is still given the eagle eye by the many self-ap­ pointed Hall-hunters, and all tips are quickly forwarded to me for immediate investigation. I'm beginning to feel like an a m b u 1 a n c e-chasing lawyer. Everytime a tip comes in, I grab my hat and bounce out of the Hall into the rumble-buggy and sprint for the joint, hoping to beat the other prospective tenants. So far, I've had no luck. I'm not discouraged, however, as something is bound to come up. Brother Tilley, the Patrolman, says if the men on the ships that hit this port will contact the Hall when they arrive, in­ stead of just before the ship is ready to sail, things will be a lot easier for the crew and Brother Tilley. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six LCA Anti-Labor Campaign Fiops; Union Men Are Respected By Aii CANADIAN BONUS All seamen who have served six months on Canadian vessels where War Risk bonus was paid between Sept. 10, 1939 and April 1, 1944, should apply to the Director of Merchant Sea­ men. Department of Transport. Ottawa, Ontario for the Mer­ chant Seamen's "Special Bonus." By FRED FARNEN DETROIT — For years Lakes seamen have had to accept from the powerful group of shipown­ ers, commonly known as the Lake Carriers Association, all their working rules, living con­ ditions, and wages. At no time has a committee of seamen ever been asked to at­ tend their meetings and offer suggestions for the improve­ ment of these vital matters. We have simply been told: you will work this many hours, and we will pay you this amount of money. This associ­ ation has never demonstrated any interest in sailors outside of paying them as little as they can. No provisions have ever been offered by this group to take care of us when shipping is slow, or when it is necessary for us to be hospitalized. This powerful group has been outstanding in its efforts to keep the Lakes crews from becoming organized into a union to be­ come strong enough to demand a voice in discussing wages, work­ ing rules, etc. This is not right. ized lines last fall we fought them on every turn. ABOVE BOARD Every move the SIU made in the strike was open and above board. We told them in advance we would not respect any picketlines around unorganized ships and we didn't. We also told them to leave our contracted ships alone, which they didn't do. However, we did respect the lines they had around their contracted vessels. When we opposed their fullseizure plan, they folded up and went home, leaving only the company-sponsored union of Cleveland Cliffs to compete with us on the Midland Line. We won this election by an overwhelming majority despite the protests of the NMU and the Company union, the LSU, which goes to show that the men on these ships realize the SIU is the only sailors' union that will assure them of real union repre­ sentation when such vital issues VOO'IL WAV Oft Ncrr AT ALLI CREATED CHAOS For the past ten years, the CIO sailors' union, known as the NMU, has repeatedly tried to organize Lakes men, and through the bungling of the communist party members, who have seiz­ ed control of the union and its finances, they have only man­ aged to create a state of chaos. By its failures, the NMU is as great a danger to Lakco seamen as are the shipowners. Recent developments within the council of the NMU have jproved to all sailors and the NMU membership, that the SlU has not been guilty of red bait­ ing in exposing the communist element in the NMU. We spoke the truth when we stated that the NMU is inter­ ested only in promoting the communist party line in this country with sailors' welfare secondary. This is not right either. The Great Lakes District of the SlU has not hoasted of its organizational work the past few years. We have not run to the press to proclaim the gains we have won from the shipowners. We have been content to let Lakes seamen see for themselves the better wages, conditions, etc., that we enjoy. In spite of the NMU calling a strike on the Great Lakes for the purpose of taking over the contuol of shipping and force all Lakes seamen into joining the NMU, the SIU still has better working rules and conditions than are found in any NMU contract. This explains how shipping rules and conditions have been on the Lakes in the past few years. When the NMU attempted to take over the SIU Great Lakes district along with the unorgan­ 1.. as wages, working rules and personal welfare, both ashore and at sea, are to be discussed. Although the shipowners have not granted any concessions in the past without being forced to, several gains have been won through the militant action of the SIU. Any thinking person can see that the shipowners can­ not do service without men to op­ erate their ships. It is only through the un'ted efforts of the entire membership that the SIU has been able to get decent wages and conditions for the men on the coasts against the combined opposition of the NMU, the shipowners, and the various governmental agen­ cies. These gains were not won by individuals or small groups; but by the entire union. OLD DAYS GONE The days when union mem­ bers were forced to hold meet­ ings in secret places to avoid the company owned police; and when union officials and mem­ bers were regarded as social out­ casts and undesirables are gone forever. With the exception of a few communist - dominated labor unions, labor leaders and union members are respected members of their communities, recognized as important figures by civic bodies and national organiza­ tions. Their advice is solicited and enlisted on questions of national and international importance. No longer is it a crime to belong to a union. Today it is your duty, if you work for wages, to belong to a union to insure a voice in your welfare, just as it is your duty to vote in city, state and nation­ al elections. Friday, March 14, 1947 By JOHNNY JOHNSTON The largest tanker in the world is the SS Phoenix, Bulk Carriers, Incorporated. When fully loaded she carries 9,000000 gallons, or the equivalent of 900 railroad lank cars full. That would make up a train about seven miles long. The Phoenix is 514 fet long, 40 feet deep, and has a 80 foot beam. She is fitted with 10,000 HP turbines. X t, Anchorage, Alaska, does not have to worry too much in case its electric power is cut off due to storm or other disruption. Liv­ ing in the harbor is a tanker, the Sackett's Harbor, which was split in half during a heavy storm last March. The vessel was ruled surplus material when it was deter­ mined that giving her a new bov/ section would cost about $1,000,000. Tiie stern section of the Sack­ ett's Harbor still has her 6000 HP steam turbines in good con­ dition, and these could be used for emergency power until the city could obtain perrnanent fa­ cilities. ^ ^ ^ On her maiden voyage to Eur­ ope, the United States liner, America, arrived at Cobh, Ire­ land, after making the run from Ambrose Light to Daunt's Light­ ship in four days, 22 hours, and 22 minutes. The time set a new record for the run, beating the old record made by the United States liner Manhattan in 1935 with a run of five days, four hours. The America averaged approximate­ ly 24.5 knots on the voyage, lis. Now that the war is over, the Bell Telephone Company has re­ leased news about the magnetic mine which was sown in Jap­ anese waters by B-29 bombers. These mines were able to count ships, and to explode after a given number had passed. They were immune to mine­ sweepers, and there was no chance of their being detected. Best of all, the mines were timed to become "dead" after a certain length of time, there­ by opening the waters. Same Old Story: New York Busy, Needs Rated Men By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK — The SIU Hall is a regular bee-hive of activity, what with plenty of shipping, Patrolmen constantly on the mbve paying off and signing on, and new wage talks between the The application deadline for Union and the operators. the bonus has been extended to To that activity, add the dem­ March 31, 1947, by Order-in- onstration last week with the Council P.O. 204. United Financial Employes, and you get a good picture of ex­ actly what's going on in this port. For the fburth straight week we are in need of rated men. That means ABs, FWTs, and Stewards. We get calls every day, and we really have to do a job to fill them all. If there are any men in ports By JOHN MOGAN where shipping is not so hot, they should get on the phone, BOSTON — Shipping and or send a wire, and we will business continue on the up­ probably be able to get a ship grade in the Port of Boston, for • them without trouble. with plenty of jobs available and NEGOTIATIONS START not too much competition for This week our Negotiating them. Committee had its first meetings A couple of Saturday after­ with the operators. It is still noon payoffs are getting to be too early to figure out what is routine.' But now Waterman in­ going to happen, but you can forms us that they will have a bet your bottom dollar that the ship a day paying off around shipowners are going to think here for the next couple of twice before they invite the weeks, with the program get­ SIU to go on strike. (Editor's ting started with the payoff of Note: They did.) the Billings Victory in Port­ The operators learned in the land. past that the SIU does not play If these ships should come in for the fun of it, and the gov­ as scheduled, the Port will be ernment found out the same really hard up for men. As it thing last September. We (Jon't' particularly like is now, we have had some strike action, but' if that's what trouble getting certain rated re­ we're forced into, we'll play the placements; so that if there hand our way from then on. should be better than 50 per New ships are constantly be­ cent turnover in these crews, ing added to fleets, and some we'll have to do some hustling. new companies have recently Then, too, the Evangeline gone into operation. I don't see (Eastern passenger ship) will be why the companies take ships ready to crew up between April 1 and April 15, and this should out of the boneyard, or go into prove to be more difficult to business, if they lose rrfoney, as take care of than the Yarmouth. they say they do. Every time the working sea­ All in all, for the next month man asks for a little dough, the or so, Boston should be the place companies holler bloody murder. where a member can go to work And then they turn around and in a hirrry. buy more ships, and make pro­ At this writing there are a fits on every one of them. > number of jobs on the board, r after several calls, with New York short of the same ratings also. Indeed, it appears as If you don't find linen though the good old days are when you go aboard your here again. But where are the ship, notify the Hall at once. men? A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any Well, let's hope the good ship­ good. It's your bed and you ping continues, and somehow we know the men will be avail­ have to lie in it. able for the jobs. No Competition For Rated Jobs in Port Boston ATTENTION! NEW SEASON SWAMPS OULUTH WITH SEAMEN By EINAR NORDAAS DULUTH—Spring is in the air and with it comes the yearning to get started on the Lakes, so during the past week more sea­ men have been around the Duluth Hall that we thought were in this part of the country. It is the same story every spring. The desire to be on the move and make that stake all over again gets the best of a man. Well, brother, any fool can make a stake, but it takes the wise hombre to save it. Bids are now being let out for harbor work around Two Harbors. Quite a few improve­ ments are to be made to handle the extra shipping expected to for what ever may come. pass through the port. The ore mines are going full blast, and thiS' end of the Lakes will be already to go when the first ship enters the harbor. The Browning Steamship Company, formerly Overlakes, is at present negotiating for the purchase of a plot in this har­ bor . to unload 'automobiles. They have already bought a 36 acre spot in Detroit, and be­ sides automobiles, the fleet of eight ships will carry bulk car­ goes. When this goes to press, the organizing drive of the SIU will be well under way. Any of you men who will be aboard Lakes vessels and have any ideas or sug­ gestions tto improve the drive— send them in. They'll be given" consideration and study. No item is too small to consider. It is the observation and alerttiess of SIU members aboard the ships that will go a long ways to insuring the drive of a suc­ cessful donclusion. COUNCIL MEETS The Marine Council of (Great­ er Duluth will hold its second meeting in Superior, Wis. on March 18. All indications are that by that time the council will be operating smoothy, ready When your ship ties up at Duluth, come up and visit us, together we can aid the drive in many ways. If we put all our­ selves into this fight we will make it a smashing victory for the SIU on the Great Lakes. �Friday, iMazch 14,1847 T H E E:A F A R ER S L O G Upper left. 4he Slewards Departmenl of the Sea Nymph, Alcoa. This was a 'clean' ship and a* very cleam galley. Left to right, Fred Oliver,''MM,- Utility La Francer Second Cook E. Brown; Galleyman Ed Hudson; Ollie McCall, MM; Chief Steward E. O. Johnson; Chief Cook Maurice Lee; and R. Brown, Night Cook and Baker. - Coffee time at.'iipper .right for the Deck Gang of the SS Sea • Nymph. .No hangovers even if it is camivad time in New Orleans. In the usual order, George Mcintosh, AB; Albert Robillard, AB; D. McLeod, AB; Bosun'Howeir Durante AB W. Logan; George Peters, AB; OS'Dave Loftin; and GardnerMcGuire, AB. Left, another shot of the Sea Nymph Deck crew, this time on Deck where they belong. Ranged along the rail are R. Murray, T. F. Hewitt, G. N. Peters, D. Loftin, H. Duranl, C. Hamilton, W. Lo­ gan, and A. Robillard. Just out of the bon^yard, right, the SS Sam Jackson is to be reconditioned and added to the Mississippi fleet. Gathered in the Bosun's room, we find T. J. Tighe^ AB; A. W. Gatewood, Bosun; D. E. Henry Eschete; and Ralph Piehet. Side left shows- Electrician Johnnie Prescott repairing lighting cluster for Second Cook W. D. Purdy, who goes about his business. On the right are some of the Stewards Department of the Alcoa Pointer. Left to right. Night Cook D. L. Knapp, Steward Johnnie Elliot, Utility Hugh Collons, and Chief Cook James Lomax. The SS. William Brewster also came into the picture, lower left. Joseph Tassin, John Splan, Thomas Ketelf, Ronald Richardson, Eddie Tassin, Ronald Harringan, John Shannon, Ollis Filligan, Henry Milton, and Hendon Frazier, in the usual L. to R. order. Hard at work is the Deck Gang of Waterman's SS Columbia Victory, lower right. J. Gonzalez supervising, and doing the work, Louis Mainera, G. Santiago, A. Johnson, L. Marchetti, and E. Hansen. Page Seven �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight r Friday, March 14, 1947 Chicago Says, Do Not Go There Seafarers Talte Stand To Back SIU Supports Until Shipping Booms In April Bill Dennels, Friend Of Labor Donnels, Baitod By Politicians By HERBERT JANSEN WHEREAS: Uncle Bill Donnels, (Wm. L. Donnels), Editor CHICAGO —The spring ship­ was impossible to counteract. It of the Federationist, a Labor paper published in New Orleans, ping season is officially under is still powerful, but with union With the wholehearted conLouisiana, has consistently supported the Seafarers Interna­ way on the Lakes, but don't newspapers giving the true facts tional Union, as well as all bonafide labor unions, and currance of 1250 Seafarers, meet­ come running tp Chicago for a this method no longer will turn WHEREAS: The Seafarers International Union in conven­ ing in Webster Hall, on March ship yet. A few ships are tak­ the working stiffs against their tion in New Orleans on March 27 through March 31, 1944 went 12, the SIU went on recoid to ing crews, but the majority of own unions. Those days are on record unanimously to give Brother Donnels, (Uncle Bill) a the vessels are still shrouded in gone forever. back William L. Donnels, Editor vote of appreciation for the splendid manner in which he hand­ their winter rainment. of the Federationist. This paper, led the opening session of the convention, as Master of Cere­ TRUE FACTS All men who contemplated published in New Orleans, Loui­ monies, and that a copy of this resolution be spread in the min­ I'm sure no one found the true comirig here for a ship had bet­ utes of the convention and that a copy of the resolution be sent siana, has been consistently on ter hold off until around April cause of the company's difficul­ to President William Green, of the American Federation of La­ the side of labor, and Uncle Bill 10. The men we have registered ties printed in any newspaper. bor, and that the Seafarers International Union endorse the Donnels has a fine reputation as here now will take the jobs, due But here in the Uinion newspaper Federationisf, as a consistent Labor newspaper, and to come in during the next few are the true facts. Just as with a firm friend of the Seafarers In­ WHEREAS: Certain politicians are attempting to hurt Bro­ all the bunk handed out by the days. ternational Union, in particular, ther Donnels because of his consistent tight for labor and clean When the Straits of Mackinac -shipowner, the real .situation government by claiming that he does not have the support of and the whole labor movement, open up, the whistle will blow, within the company is printed Labor, THEREFORE in general. and shipping will really boom. for the seamen to get the truth. BE IT RESOLVED: That the Seafarers International Union This will not be the only Right now Uncle Bill is under This week we started contract of North America reaffirm its support of the Federationist, and negotiations with the Clipper smear we are going to face in fire from various local politicians commend Brother Donnels for his untiring and fearless sup­ Line. A little progress was made the days to come. These com­ because of his many battles on port of the cause of Organized Labor, and in some of the provisions asked. panies that are not organized the side of labor, as well as his BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; That the Secretary-Treas­ Another meeting will be held in will be using propaganda of all fight for clean government. The urer of the Seafarers International Union of North America no­ the near future to square away sorts to combat us in our drive action taken by the SIU is the tify William Green, President, American Federation of Labor; to organize their ships and sea­ the loose ends. opening gun in demonstrating to Steve Queries, President, New Orleans Central Trades and La­ Here's a classic example of men. the labor-baiters that Bill Don­ bor Council; E. H. (Lige) Williams, President, Louisiana State They will promise their em­ what one company pulled in an nels and the Federationist have Federation of Labor; and James W. Barr, Manager, Better Busi­ attempt to discredit the SIU. ployees heaven and earth. They the support of the AFL. ness Bureau of New Orleans, Inc., of the action of the Seafarers In December, 1946, a release was will slur us to any extent pos­ International Union in reaffirming its support of the Federa­ The resolution, submitted by sent out to the newspapers by sible for their benefit. They will tionist. Lindsey J. Williams, is printed the D&C Lines, which operates spend their money to stop us. in the adjoining columns. six passenger ships and one They will spend money, lots freight vessel, stating that the of it, for it is an investment D&C was folding up shop be- in the future. When "they have the seamen down to poor wages, no overtime and no working rules they will reap what they sow now. There is one thing they should come to Houston for repair work will keep it growing and moving By CHARLES HAYMOND know by now. The SIU is one and created that many more steadily forward. HOUSTON — The port facili­ jobs. union that won't be fooled with SIU AND ILA their foul line. They have tried ties here have ntot increased in The International Association Last Saturday the ILA Com­ it with no success, but they will the last five years, but there is of Machinists, Lone Star Marine press and Warehousemen Locals try again. And again they won't a bright future in store for Lodge., 872, respected the picket- 1581 and 1525 completed negoti­ succeed. We are going ahead Houston. The city is growing by lines of the SIU-SUP and all ations with Anderson and Clay­ leaps and bounds; warehouses, other maritime unions during and they won't stop us! ton, the largest cotton opeiators plants and housing projects are the general strike last year. in the world, and a hard outfit being constructed full blast. Upon conclusion of the strike for labor to deal'lairly with. 'tlTTLE LIE All of this means that a larger they tried to return to work but They signed for ten cents per volume of shipping will make were locked out by the yard. cause the SIU was asking for an hour increase for compi-ess work­ use of the port thereby causing increase in wages, and this in­ This happened despite the fact ers and twenty cents fbr dockSend in the minutes of its expansion. The Seafarers is crease would force the company that three years previous the side workers. your ship's meeting to the now firmly intrenched and will Machinists and six other unions to cease operations completely. The Seafarers have always • New York Hall. Only in that grow right along with the port. of the Metal Trades Council had worked closely with the ILA and The press release hit the front way can the membership act page of most of the cities around Shipping has been good right officially been certified as the were supported 100 per cent by on your recommendations, the midwest, including every along, despite the fact that bargaining agents for Brown's them in the general strike. daily paper in Chicago. and then the minutes can be Brown's shipyard has been clos­ shipyard. If these negotiations had end­ It was real ammunition for The big issue then at stake ed in a deadlock, the ILA and ed since September 22, 1946, printed in the LOG for the the anti-labor boys and they thereby causing the diversion of was the recognition of the the SIU would have been on the benefit of all other SIU made the most of it. The inten­ a considerable amount of ship­ unions and the signing of closed picketline together again as they crews. tion was to discredit all unions were last year. ping that would have otherwise shop contracts. and at the same time put a MC AGAIN The organizing campaign di­ crimp in our coming organiza­ At one time the Machinists rected towards the organization tional drive. and the Metal Trades council of all smaller craft is well under released all ships with the un­ way, and will be intensified in TRUTH COMES OUT derstanding that the companies the near future. The truth of the matter came The Seafarers is out to organ­ would not send any more ships out this week when the Man­ ize everything that floats, and to the yard. By EDWARD F. JANASZEK ager of the D&C Lines came is not going to stop until the The Maritime Commission then to Chicago to meet SIU Presi­ TOLEDO —The NMU, appar­ us with safety precautions, we'd stepped in in their usual strike­ job is done. dent Harry Lundeberg. He told breaking role and asigned four ently wanting to place a smoke all be hobbling on crutches. Brother Lundeberg the prob­ We insist on the Captain of ships to the yard, one tanker screen around its shortcomings, lems of his company, and dur­ the ship to see that every safety and the others ATS ships slated ing the conversation he admitted has been giving the SIU free measure possible is installed. for reconversion. ihal the problems thai are fac­ space in the Pilot. That's the only way to be sure The Maritime Commission was ing the D&C Line are not due then informed that, because of The latest, found in a recent of getting it. to the SIU, but are within the Now that fit-out time is here their finky action, no union tug issue, is a picture of the Chicago company itself. Clipper, Wisconsin and Michigan and the ships are getting ready in the harbor would handle any The Watch Hill, V-4 tug of It is very easy for a company's Steamship Company. for the 1947 season on the Great of the hot ships. the Moran Towing and Trans­ Board of Directors to sit down, Lakes, safety devices should be This has been a strike of long portation Company, left Tampa, They neglected to mention and when they find themselves inspected and if necessary re­ duration and is still in progress. Florida this week to undertake in disagreement as to the ills that the SIU will have a con­ placed. Picket lines have maintained by the longest towing job ever un­ of the company, to place the tract with this company when There is no price on a human the Machinists and the Seafarers dertaken by an American tug. cause of their woes at the door the Clipper is ready to ply the life. The companies will install and other unibns have continued The vessel, carying an SIU Lakes this spring. None of this of labor. safety devices as they do not to support the locked-out men crew of 30 men, will travel It is easy for them to release stuff is signed, so we don't know wish to pay the hdspital bills in every way, including financial 13,000 miles to Banka Island in a report to a hostile, anti-labor who to thank for the plug. for anyone injured aboard ship. support. the Netherland East Indies to press, with untrue statements On the other hand in a re­ The season on the Lakes is The port of Houston, although deliver the Stuyvesant, a mam­ and then sit back and let the cent issue, they blame the Coast short, and if a seaman is laid up growing, can never get any­ moth tin dredge to the Dutch labor baiters beat their drums. Guard for the drowning of a for a month or two in a hospital, where as long as outfits like Government there, where it will This device is used often, for seaman, whose death, they say, a big chunk of his season's in­ Brown's are able to ride rough be used for the rehabiliation of Labor doesn't own daily news­ was due indirectly to a faulty come is gone. handed over union members' the tin mines devastated by the papers with large circulations, ladder. Japanese. There is no sense in courting rights. but must aount on the truth be­ injury, so give your ship a real The Seafarers is in Houston to Anothfer tug is expected to RELY ON SELVES ing heard in its weekly news­ look over when you go aboard, stay and wiU continue to fight in leave in the near future for papers. In the SIU we don't rely on and your chances of finishing defense of all legitimate beefs the same destination, to deliver Before the days of the labor the Coast Guard for anything. If the season in one piece will be such as this. It is this policy the other of two such dredges press this line of propaganda we counted on them to provide greatly increased. which has built the Union and ordered by the Dutch. Houston Has Bright Future As A Shipping Port; AFL Unions There Have Record Of Cooperation Send Those Minutes Toledo Seafarers Sends Thanks To NMU For Free Plug In Pilot MoranTug.WatohHill, Undertakes A Record TowingJobToFarEast �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 14. 1947 J Volunteer Organizers Even an Isthmian ship can be a good ship if the crew organ­ izes to make it click. That's the way it was on the SS Harry L. Glucksman, acc|)rding to Edward Stankovich, AB. Brother Stankovich, or Ski, as he is known in the Union, just came off the Glucksman when the ship paid off in Wilmington, Delaware. He had a good chance to watch, and participate in, mili­ tant action to force better con­ ditions than are usual on un­ organized ships. Here's his story. "At the beginning of the voy­ age," he recalls, "everything was fouled up. The food was poor, the quarters not clean, and the overtime was frequently in dis­ pute. We got together and de­ EDWARD STANKOVICH cided to demand our rights. From then on, the situation improvements," said Ski. "Once changed." It must have changed plenty. the company found that the SIU From the time the Glucksman was the chosen representative of left Galveston on November 8, the majority of Isthmian sea­ until the ship reached Wilming­ men, they knew that they would ton on March 2, here are the have to clean things up in a hurry." gains made by the crew; The lesson learned by the QUICK CHANGES First of all, the food became crew of the Glucksman applys more plentiful and more care equally well to other crews on was taken with its preparation. other ships. The situation is Quarters were squared away, rapidly changing in Isthmian, and the rest of the vessel made mainly as a result of pressure ship-shape. Overtime was from the SIU and organized straightened out, and the atti­ crews who sail the ships. In the near future the SIU is tude of the officers changed when they saw that the crew • sure to be accredited as the was prepared to act together if bargaining agent for unlicensed anything happened. ! Isthmian seamen, and when that "Of course, the fact that the happens, the changes in condi­ SIU had won the Isthmian elec­ tions, wages and overtime will tion had plenty to do with the come a lot faster. 4. J. i A new technique in organiza­ tion was tried by Seafarer Ben Taflewitz on Isthmian's Marine Fox, and it looks like the new idea paid off. When the ship was finally vot­ ed, the NMU was swamped by such a majority that it had to challenge the SIU vote in order to save face. All Ben did was to take the NMU literature and put it up on the bulkhead for the whole crew to see. Then he quietly went around, giving the SIU side of the picture. And that was enough. "It was the SIU contracts that were our big selling point," says Ben. "I could prove, in black and white, that the crew would make more money under an SIU contract than they oould with an NMU agreement." Not only that, but Brother Taflewitz outlined how the SIU has led the maritime field for years, and that the NMU has been forced to tag along, ac­ cepting the gains made by the Seafarers. ISTHMIAN VETERAN Ben also sailed on two other Isthmian ships, the Belle of the Seas, and the Sea Fiddler. So when he talks about conditions on unorganized ships, he knows exactly what he is talking about. "On troop ships, the food was okay because the Government paid for it," recalled Ben. "But when the companies had to start paying for the food out of its own dough, they cut down on quality and quantity." Wages on unorganized ships are lower than on Union vessels, „ Voyage Of Murder And Mayhem Spells Union Losson To Soafaror (Continued from Page 3) joy were smashed. The hospitals got a good play and the bills came in for the Old Man to settle. The officers were no different. The Stewards Department fol­ lowed the pattern—no Cooks or Messmen. Not being a drinker, I stayed aboard and had to go into the galley to cook. Yet, though there was no work done aboard, they were all present for meals. There was nothing I could do about it; so I cooked. After a twelve-day stay there, we went to Salaverry where the Peruvian Navy put on 1000 tons of sugar. We then went to Chimbote to shift coal. Once more" the crew took over the town. The same horse play of fights ashore, joints wrecked, hospitals visited for stabbings and the police aboard with bills to collect. December 24th came along, and I prepared turkeys and all the fixings for a real Christmas Din­ ner. For supper that night I served sirloin steak, French fries, fiesh green salad, green peas, cake and fresh fruit. Then the black gang came mid­ ship to me and raised hell about the supper. They said that on other ships they had a big feed and whiskey was given out by the Old Man and the Steward. That's what they wanted from me. I said nothing doing and the fight started. The Old Man came tearing in and fired a shot over their heads, and told them they would not get a thing different than what was there. Well, for a few minutes they were quiet. Then they decided to kill the Chief Mate, because the BEN TAFLEWITZ and overtime is a word that means nothing. Of course, the work is done, but the men rare­ ly if ever, receive pay for actuai or penalty OT. The officers are treated well enough on unorganized ships, but "they sure take it out on the un­ licensed personnel," says Ben. "During the bargaining elect­ ion," he recalls, "the officers picked out the men who stood against the Union, and offered them privileges. They got the only overtime, and they were given more than their share of free time. For the rest of us, it was the hard times all the way. To suit their own purposes, the officers tried to play off the SIU against the NMU." But even that didn't work, and in spite of everything the company did. Isthmian went SIU — and how! Page Nine week before the Chief had tang­ led with one of the Black Gang and, with the assistance of the Chief Engineer, had placed the Fireman in irons. BATTLE ROYAL ' When the man was ironed and in the sick bay, the Chief Mate beat the hell out of him and put the boot to him when he was on the deck. So the boys were out to get him. They stormed into the sal- oon. The Chief Engineer, Second fore any embarrassing questions Mate and myself were there. could be asked. We found the Captain of the We tried" to talk to them, but it was useless and there was an­ Port and after a short conversa­ other fight. We finally cleared tion, a few cartons of cigarettes and some Scotch whiskey, we the saloon, but not for long. sailed. Back again they came, and some of them rushed the Chief BACK TO STATES Mate's cabin, and cornering him We headed for Los Angeles for there they roughed him up a bit. They knew he had a gun and more repairs to the hull and en­ were a bit cautious, but when gine, pulling into San Pedro on they found he had the gun lock­ Jan. 29. On the trip up the Old Man sold the crew all the whis­ ed up the fight went on. The Military Police ashore had been notified that we were hav­ ing a riot aboard, but they were awfully slow in coming aboard, so the battle went on. The Second Mate broke his right hand, and for four hours we fought. The Chief Engineer and myself had pistols, yet no one was shot. The Military Police came aboard about 9 P.M. and we collected up the playboys and off to jail they went. The Captain of the Port of Pimentel finally had a bellyful of the crew's actions, so he went to key they wanted, so a nice drunk work. He contacted Lima and was enjoyed by the crew. had the prisoners placed in cus­ On the 30th the crew received tody of the army. a draw. All hands went ashore After a hearing they were | for a good time, the officers intransported to a penal colony off i duded. On the 31st some of the Callo. There they are supposed crew lugged the Old Man back to spend a few years, after which aboard ship. I decided I'd had they will be repatriated. I enough. But all was not serene yet. The I asked for my money and the next day, Christmas Day, about Second Mate made out my vouch2 P.M., one of the deck hands had i er. With that I left the ship with a fight with the donkey man. He | plenty of money, but terrible received such a beating that he | memories. was out cold. The statement—I was a fool— I stood in the passageway and can now easily be understood, saw the donkeyman beat the I am a member of the Seafarman's head on the deck. I could i ers. I took the job, not through hear iiis skull crack like an egg- the Union Hall, but just for the shell. i sake of sailing. All the Union 1 has fought for in the past, I tossNO MEDICAL AID I ed overboard. The Chief Mate and Skipper' . The Union has fought to elimwitnessed it also, and after the ^^^te such conditions; to give the battle, the Chief Mate and Don- "^en representation and see that key Man carried the deck hand injustices shall be imposed below and dumped him in the upon them. I went through a litpassageway where he lay for 36 making. I hours without any medical at- ^^ked for and I got it. tention. Later he was picked up LESSON LEARNED and put in his bunk. The lesson stamped forever in Six days later he was sent to the hospital in Chiclayo for treatmind is what a fool I was. If ment. A note was sent along ^ can't be a good Union man, sail stating that he was suffering from Union, be Union, live Union, I alcoholism, with no mention be- should hang my head in shame, ing made that he was beaten. I Without the Union to supervise The hospital treated him for i'ho conditions on these ships, and malnutrition and the DTs. The to help us as members of the orSecond Mate was in the same gamzation to steer clear of such hospital room and he told the conditions, it would be one sorry doctors about the beating the sea- ^'nrld to live in. man had received, but they did i ^ really thanked God I reached nothing ' home alive. Whenever I leave The hospital sent him backl^gain you can damn well bet it aboard ship Jan. 4th, and we leftj^iH be through the Union Hall, that evening for Talara to take on water. We arrived in Talara lAlAf A|«|t|AM CloAf on the 6th. I went ashore at once •WMIVI IIIUII rivvl and insisted that the man be rc- if« • • •• 4 moved to a hospital. TgTQ|C51 SfllQC The local authorities then came aboard and lowered him off the| The Waterman Steamship ship in a sling, as he was uncon- Corporation's purchase of 10 scious. We made ready to sail Liberty ships from the Mariand were starting away the next time Commission last week day when a launch came out and brought the company's total informed us that the seaman had fleet to 51 vessels, making it the died, and we would have to put largest now owned by an Amerback for an investigation. lean Company. The Old Man and myself went; The deal was closed in Washashore and identified the body, ington, where a company official From there we went to the Po- is (jompleting arrangements for lice Station to go over his belong- delivery of the ships, most of ings. After that we went to find which are now under charter to out how we could get away be-, Waterman. m I �THE SEAFARERS LOG 'Page Ten Friday, March 14, 1947 SS King's Chief Engineer Generates Cash—For Wipers The Wipers aboard the SS Franklin H. King are ac­ cumulating overtime by proxy. This cash-producing innovation was introduced by the Alcoa vessel's Chief Engineer—though not intention­ ally, of course. The guy is just a victim of his own in­ discretions and the Engine men accordingly reaped the benefits of his wild oat sowing. The proxy set-up didn't last long, however. Monroe Men Scream For Ice Cream A locked stable after the horse has been stolen has more than one application, in the opinion of one Seafarer crew, at least. Taking no chances on the pos­ sibility of a supply shortage de­ veloping at sea, the sweettoothed crew of the SS Monroe shot a motion through the Jan. 7 shipboard meeting, calling for a five-gallon freezer to be placed aboard so that ice cream can be made when the brick runs out. The motion, which was brought up while the vessel was down Argentina way — Buenos Aires—was followed by several others, all dedicated to the im­ provement of shipboard feed­ ing conditions. Three days out of New York. Ihe MV Loop Knot ran into bad weather. Photo at left shows ship's dock awash after choppy sea cascade overrail. Hunk of man in grass skirt in photo at right is John Osmalinski, OS, showing What the welldressed deck man will wear for a tropical run. With cream it's good for breakfast, too. The hows and whys of this* ~ ^ amusing and profitable episode roll. Of the first time. Brother (for the Chief, too—he got a Buckley says: "This bright brass-hat's paint­ good education in the engine's ing with vigor enabled the Wi­ department's working rules) is pers to collect 16 hours of over­ revealed in a letter from the time, for which they thank the Black Gang Delegate, Joseph Madder than a March hare Buckley, who recorded the in­ Chief for his generosity." cident down in Port of Spain, At the turn-about in events after Trinidad. the hep Franklin King men stood TWO MISTAKES firm on the provisions of their Twice the engine officer made contract, the Chief Engineer contributions to the men's pay- "thought he would get even." So, says Brother Buckley, "he pulls the bell-to-bell gag. But an oldtimer could cover that bet, and after two days of strug­ gle, he gave that up." PRESSURE UP DELEGATES TO CHECK First off, it was agreed that the Steward would show his supply order list to the three Delegates before handing it over to the Captain. Obvious intent of this decision was to make sure the Skipper didn't do too much slicing of the meat orders and other foodstuffs. Previously it had been re- "ioy^o h/of ANDA 8A^^L cff, ?iSTACHio/ At left., bumboats containing barrels of lime juice lay alongside Loop Knot in St. Croix. V. I. Venders apparently overestimated thirst and liquid capacity of the bauxite carrier's crew. Now. if that was beer in those barrels . . . Peaceful scene, at right, of colorful St. Croix, was taken from the Loop Knot's deck. Michael Baal. AB, took these photos. Extension Of Alien Seamen Waiver Urged At Waltham Victory Meeting ported by the Chief Cook that many meat items that were brought aboard the ship recent­ ly were short. A hurry call from the Steward to the Port Steward brought some action— and some moi-e meat, but a hurried departure resulted in all deliveries not being made. Two of the Delegates corroborated the Steward's story that because of the quick sailing, he did not have sufficient time to check the stores. Just to make sure the situa­ tion wasn't repeated the Stew­ ard was already at wtork on a list of necessary fruits and vege­ tables to be ordered in the next port. ACTION LOOMS In another motion, the crew went on record to take advan­ tage of a provision in the agree­ ment which covers cases such as theirs. . "If vegetables and fresh fruits are not on board by the third day according to the agreement, the crew has the right to quit working," the motion declared. Harry Engle Hart chaired the meeting,' which was recorded by James Moore. Fully aware of the disaster facing alien seamen when''crew tok up the question of the wartime waiver allowing them to constitute 50 per­ candidates for Union positions. cent of a ship's crew expires March 31, crewmembers of It was decided that many can­ the Waltham Victory have urged immediate action to ex­ didates are unknown to the ma­ jority of the membership, thus tend the date of expiration. Meeting on Jan. 30 at sea the* crewmembers proposed that the der reduces the chances of alien SlU call a conference of all seamen from earning a living on maritime unions to fight for the American ships. "Alien seamen have proven to extension of Title V of the Secbe good union men, struggling on 'War Powers Act. to maintain decent working con­ Title V of the Second "War ditions and they deserve every Powers Act allows American bit of help possible. ships to be crewed with 50 per "The crew of the SS "Walcent alien crews. The provi­ tham Victory thus urges the SIU sions of this act expire on March to call a conference of all mari­ 31, when regulations governing time unions in order to meet an­ the employment of aliens re­ other government attempt to verts to the Merchant Marine •weaken organized labor." Act of 1936. Under the 1936 act, The action by the Waltham aliens are restricted to consist­ ing 25 per cent of the crew on Victory crew is in protest to non-subsibized ships and 10 per the promises made and broken cent on government subsidized by the State Department and War Shipping Administration, ships. both of which informed foreign PROPOSAL born seamen that their requests The proposal, made by Abra­ for visas and other documents ham Marco stated; "There was needed to make them eligible little talk of visas and illegal en­ for American citizenship would try (into the United States) dur­ be attended to after the war and ing the past war when many due credit would > be given ' their hundreds of alien seamen lost service to the cause of victory. depriving them of choosing the man best qualified for the of­ fice. The crew then adopted un­ animously a resolution similar to the one proposed by the San Juan Branch and concurred in by all ports, calling for the background and qualifications of each candidate to be printed in the Seafarers Log. TEXT OF RESOLUTION The resolution, as proposed by Gus Jensen and adopted by the crew, follows: "Whereas: In all SIU elections held to date many of the candi­ dates are unknown to a big ma­ jority of the members thus mak­ ing it impossible for them to vote intellegently. "Therefore, be it resolved: that all candidates list the fol­ lowing information which is to accompany their names in all campaign literature, and to be printed in each issue of the Log their lives because of enemy ac­ Following the adoption of the during^ the campaign: tion. The recent government or­ proposal by Brother Marco, the {Continued on Page 11) But w^hat really cracked the Chief's blQod pressure barometer was his second slip of the trip. With the assistance of the Third Engineer, he cleaned up the the storeroom, built shelves and swept the entire storeroom, Buckley writes. "Generous guy, that Chief," Buckley says, gratefully. "Again we slapped him with 16 hours overtime for the Wi­ pers." The bomb-like effect of this second encounter with the Un­ ion working rules had overtones that rumbled long after the crew's victory was sealed. Buckley reports that he and the other men heard "moaning and gashing of teeth for a week later. "Article 11, Section 33 has become the Chief Engineer's night-mace in this new contract." Although the engine depart­ ment officer's head-on collision with the SIU agreement drew the crew's major attentions; the Skipper had a side-swiping en­ counter in which he came off second best to the contract. The Skipper's meeting with the contract provisions was touched off by his use of a pe­ culiar grab-bag technique to which the crew strongly object­ ed—and successfully. SCREWBALL IDEA "It seems that he has a screw­ ball idea," Buckley writes, that the crew is not supposed to have more than one bar of soap or one box of matches in their rooms, so the wise gent started gathering up all over this amount." The Deck and Steward Dele­ gates went with Buckley to see the old man about these collect­ ing ways. Stressing the irregu­ larity of such a procedure, and waving the Union contract again, the boys convinced the Skipper that charges iof petty thievery could be instituted if the "gathering-up" operation was repeat­ ed. They've had no more trou­ ble on this score. �Friday. March 14. 1947 Page Eleven THE SEAFARERS LOG SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief CAPE TEXAS. Feb. 6 — Chairman M. E. Reid; Secre­ tary T. T. Feeley. Engine Dele­ gate reported a beef concern­ ing overtime between the Oil­ ers and Jr. Engineers over watches. Voted to submit beef to Patrolman for clarification. Motion carried that no one sign off until all disputed over­ time is settled. Repair list made and approved by crew. X 3/ & WILLIAM KAMAKA. Dec. 14—Chairman Betls; Secretary Holden. Deck Delegate report­ ed on system of rotating gang­ way watches. Engine Delegate reported one beef concerning plumbing work which has been placed on the disputed list. Stewards Delegate reported all olray. Old Business: Slopchest tabled to next meeting. New Business: Question raised concening draw answered satis­ factorily. Good and Welfare: All hands to cooperate more in keeping ship clean. This in­ cludes the laundry, heads, etc. Log Available At Antwerp Spot If this situation does not im­ prove there will be a detail­ ed report waiting for the Pa­ trolman at the payoff. 4 t i ALEXANDER CLAY. Jan. 10—Chairman Eugene F. Howlett; Secretary Cullerton. Meetting called for purpose of hav­ ing Steward prepare better menus. Motion carried that Delegates check all books and strike clearances. Motion car­ ried that Steward serve fruit juices and canned fruit more often and serve steak, as too much second meat is being served. Motion carried for Delegates to check on perco­ lator and see if it can be re­ paired and that good ones be purchased when ship reaches the States. Motion carried that toast be served for breakfast. Motion carried that Steward type out menus for the messhall. 4. t 4 ALEXANDER CLAY. Jan. 17—Chairman Cullerton; Sec­ retary Saunders. Report on books, shipping cards and strike clearance made. All in good order except Steward, who has no shipping card.i Steward's story will be check­ ed and if guilty of wrong do­ ing he will brought up on charges. New Business: Mo­ tion carried that ice boxes be cleaned and that mess hall be cleaned and kept cleaned for the remainder of the trip. VENORE. (Date. Chairman and Secretary not given.) New Business: Motion carried that ship have a number of union candidates for union memberbook holders vouch for them, providing they can prove their whereabouts during the 1946 General Strike. Good and Welfare: Suggestion that each department lake care of its own grievances. Question raised what to do about the situation where half of the crew is non­ union and some of that half is carrying on anti-union acti­ vity. Crew decided to hold off action on question until next meeting. Seafarers calling at Antwerp, Belgium, will soon be able to pick up copies of the Log at one of that port's waterfront spots. Arrangements have been made for distribution of the paper at Cafe Martime, Leopold Dock 212, Antwerp. The suggestion to make the Log available at the Antwerp cafe came from the crew of the SS Madaket. The suggestion was" accompanied by high praise for. the cafe's owners, Mr. and Mrs. Alois Verbeck-Jacobs, who, according- to the Madaket men, have been unstinting in their ef­ forts to help seamen whenever possible. "At various times," the Mada­ ket crew said, "these people have assisted various seamen in ob­ taining transportation to their ships, regardless of where the vessel was tied up." The kindly couple have ar­ ranged on innumerable occasions transportation for seafaring men MANDARIN.^Jan. 2—Chair­ going to ships in several of Bel­ man Louis Filippio. Secretary gium's ports—and without kick­ Wiley Carter. Engine and backs, the SIU crew asserted. Stewards Delegates reported no beefs. Deck Delegate's re­ port referred to trial commit­ tee at the pay-off of the vessel. Good and Welfare: Repair list made up and approved. Crew Alien Seamen Aid Urged By Crew (Cofttinued from Page 10) "1. Length of time a full book member. "2. Citizenship. Native born or naturalized, and if the latter, date of naturalization and coun­ try of - birth. "3. Number of trips at sea, as shown by discharges. "4. Number of trips as dele­ gates or other union activities, such as chairman of meeting, etc. "Further, be it resolved: that a copy of this resolution be sent to the SIU Hall in New York for their consideration and ac­ tion; and if adopted by them, that the items mentioned here­ in be followed in all campaigns preceeding elections." decided not to sign off articles until tax exemption be inves­ tigated and all pay vouchers satisfactory to crew. One min­ ute of silence observed for Brothers lost at sea. isybtiR PRDI^TIOA// t % % MANDARIN. Nov. 16 — Chairman Max Beyers; Secre­ tary Wiley Carter. Engine Delegate reported that foc'sles need painting. Stewards De­ legate reported no beefs. Deck Delegate also reported fos'sles needing painting. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried to have Captain inspect foc'sles con­ cerning painting. Good and Welfare: Motion carried that each Department take care of the laundry for a week at a time using men on sanitary work. Steward to issue linen to crew on Saturday at sea. and Friday in port. Motion carried that man on last stand­ by make coffee for crew. Mo­ tion carried that the three De­ legates see Purser for list con­ cerning prices of item in the slopchest at less 10 per cent. All members stood in silence in respect one minute for the Brothers lost at sea. a. it 4. RAPHAEL SEMMES. Feb. 18 —Chairman Roundtree; Secre­ tary Guy Ranallo. Motions car­ ried: That the Steward order a sufficient amount of soap to last the trip; that Engine Room Delegate see First" Asst. about supplying more soap and rags to Black Gang; that the three Departmental Delegates speak to Captain about supplying suf­ ficient amount of preventa­ tives; that delegates inquire as to the reason why more emer­ gency lights are not distri­ buted about the ship and if same can be supplied; that Delegates speak to Engineer about setting aside certain hours that the sanitary pumps be operated for flushing heads; that Steward order a suffi­ cient amount of coke to op­ erate an emergency kitchen unit when, and if. necessary; that the Delegates contact SIU Port Agent and Waterman Agent about replenishing supsufficient amount of light bulbs plies; that Electrician order a io last the trip. Parker Bags Another Medal Competing against some of the top speed-skating talent in the nation. Jack Parker, the Seafar­ er's medal-winning Bosun, grab­ bed second place i nthe half-mile feature event at the Brooklyn Ice Palace last Thursday night. The contest is one of a series spon­ sored by the Middle Atlantic Skating Association as a windup to the indoor season. The indoor racing season closes at the Brooklyn arena next Thursday when the one-mile race title will be sought by an impos­ ing array of ice-speedsters. En­ tered in this event, Parker views YO(;R CONITI?ACT the competition as "rugged."' When he puts his skates away for the year. Jack will be looking to other fields for his shoreside conditioning. High on the list of possibilities at the moment, is the Bosun's plan to compete in speed bicycling contests, in be­ tween shipping jobs. The optimistic Bosun is already looking around for a pair of skates for his one-month-old daughter, Linda, who Parker figures should be ready to cut up some ice with him next season. Linda hasn't yet expressed her­ self in the matter. IF YOO FIND THE coNTfSACT IS eeiMS VIOIATED . . . MOTlFVlHEAeEMT AT THE FIRST (WYOU Hit. CUT and RUN By HANK Bosun Paul "Haywire" Warren knows a lot of good things but the one good thing he knows and talks about right now is the fact that the crew of the Haiti "Victorj' was the swcllest crew of militant oldtimers he ever sailed with. Anyway, before Paul left for the cold country with his easy sense of humor he reminisced lots of wel­ comed fresh news to us about some oldtimers. He doesn t roar when he laughs or whack his knees but he sure smiled wide and senti­ mental-like when he revealed that incident involving himself, "Joe Joe" Tuart (who is down in New Orleans right now) and Johnny Johnston when they engineered the first and best cow agreement through their midwifing experience with some" cows aboard a ship, Tho funny thing about it all was that Paul had the profitable last laugh on his two shipmates when he did collect two hours over­ time (v/hich they wrote down on his sheet without his knowl­ edge) for a midwifing job on a calf born with the squeaky blessing of a handybilly and nicknamed Stormv Weather instead of Handybilly. Paul says he'll miss Lindsay Cobb, who was Deck Main­ tenance. and just went down lo New Orleans . . . Steward A. A. Kessen, nicknamed "Cueball," is staving in New York for another ship and rewarding his sister in Ohio with the weekly Logs to save for him after his trips . . . We don't know if Brother Moon Koons smokes those proletarian cigars for his health, his reputation and associations, or just because they are a habit. Right now he is holding up Joe's Jungle and keeping it lively. However, there'3 unfortunately something new which is keeping him going. It's his bad foot and it sure keeps him going, all right—to the Marine Hospital down in New Orleans . . . "Haywire" says he met one of his shipmates here in New York, Brother Andrew Smith, v/hom he hasn't seen in many years. Brother Smith just came in after a tanker trip, con­ cluded in Galveston . . . And if you didn't know it, you know it now. thanks to Haywire, that Brother "Grindstone" Johnson, who anchors down in New Orleans, originated that famous salty remark on deck "Do the best you can with the tools you have. Carry on, boys, carry .on". FLOTSAM AND JETSAM DEPARTMENT: Brother Frank "Red" Sully must be still aboard the City of Alma, we presume. . . . Woody Lockwood also left for those good old islands of cocacola trees and bottled rum trees . . . Herman Tro.xclair, who be­ lieves in New Orleans and, in fact, anchors there continuously, is in New York right now, with his mustache . . . The Alcoa ship, William Brewster, has a dog aboard \vith the sensational name of Kilroy . . . Raymond Duhrkopp and his mustache is ready to ship out. Your shipmates. Bill Todd and Martin O'Connor are also in town. Brother O'Connor rested two months after his West Coast trip and should be caught up with his pinochle technique, indeed. . . . Oldtimer George Stiles just shipped on the Robin Goodfellow. . . . Steward Paul Parsons is aboard the Cape Alava. How was. that new Hall in Miami, Florida, Paul"? Brother "Happy" Harry. Harper is smiling away a few weeks on our New York beach . . . Mustached Joe Pilutis is waiting patiently for a Far East voyage. . . . That famous cook and writer. Steward Frenc'ny Michelet sailed back into New Orleans to continue his canning business. Say, Frenchy, is there any way of patenting the idea of canning all these Communists who hate the American way of Life and exporting them to Russia orUhe North Pole? �THE SEAF ARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday. March 14, 1947 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEilKS Supreme Court's Decision In Lewis Case Should Unite Trade Unions, Says Member To the Editor: The headlines of all' the news­ papers screamed victoriously, "John L. Lewis and Miners Guilty." How can a real union man help but become angry when our fellow workers are fined and their leader faces the threat of prison because they had the courage to* strike coal mines be­ ing operated by the Govern­ ment. A union grievance that is ser­ ious can cause a great deal of hardship to working men, so it matters little whether the strike is directed against the govern­ ment or a private employer. •We, too, struck against a gov­ ernmental agency back in Sep­ tember, so every SIU man who is a union militant knows that we must show solidarity with our union brothers in the mines. ECONOMIC SOLIDARITY Solidarity must be our slogan, for the economic solidarity of all workers we can force a re­ versal of this Supreme Court de­ cision. The Supreme Court rul­ ing means a renewed use of the injunction as a strike-breaking, union-busting device. The court and the Government are violating their own laws, the Norris-LaGuardia anti-injunction act, because it suits the interests of the bankers and manufac­ turers. Since they refuse to recognize our rights despite the existence of those rights in the constitu­ tion, it is up to us to fight this issue of our right to strike by pulling the biggest strike Amer­ ica has ever seen. By that I mean a national general strike of all unions! MUST ANSWER If we accept this final de­ cision of the Supreme Court without a determined struggle, the bosses will attempt a great offensive. in order to smash our unions. It is very clear that they will have the full help of the government and all its law enforcement agencies. Our most basic right is being atacked and so it is necessary that we use the most powerful weapon we have at our dispo­ Rail-Percher Resisting a terrific temptaion to gag up this shot, we're just going to say that it's Bob Barrett, crewmember aboard the Diamond Hitch. sal, the general strike. A gen­ eral strike would show the po­ litical hacks and the money­ bags for whom they work that we, the union men who control the nation's economy at the point of production, are the able guardians of our own freedom. The Supreme Court and Con­ gress would tremble and reverse itself before the solidarity of Labor united in a mighty exhi­ bition of its economic power at the point of the job. SENSITIVE PRESS The New York Times is very sensitive about strikes against the government and in its edi­ torials goes into lengthy attacks on miners,, and seaman who have struck against government­ al agencies, and teachers strikes against state and local govern­ ments. It is very important to notice too, that the New York Times has wept bitter tears over the Russian workers not having the right to strike. Every day the government is entering into the management and occasionally the ownership of various industries, so if we apply the correct conclusion the Times has reached about Rus­ sia's treatment of her workers, we can see that the logical and horrible result will be an ironheeled dictatorship here in America. Perhaps some of the- Brothers will sSy this letter is too extreme, but if we don't use this power we have in .'our hands now, we shall suffer, a defeat that may well be the beginning of the end of freedom in America. •When the workers of Ger­ many, Italy and Russia lost the right to strike: it was the end of their freedom, so let's take a lesson from their experiences and protect our most fundamen­ tal right. Alexander Man liiM f-. Our Friend, The Coast Guard By TOM BALDRICK Raleigh Begley, holder of Book No. 35605, -who died re­ cently in a hospital in his na­ tive Philadelphia. Brother Begley last shipped aboard an Isthmian line vessel. 'Impartiar Press 'Forgets' Scab Publisher's Foul Play York. Take it easy, you boys up in Boston. I might see you Well, Brothers, organized la­ soon. That's all for now. bor has started to take it on the Charlie Halla chin again. Browsing through (Editor's note. — Except for an old Log I came across an artioJe asking the Brothers to Brother Halla's report and the becme labor reporters in their story of scab publisher Bowles districts when there are labor which appeared in the organ disputes. For over 100 days, the News­ of the newspaper workers, no paper Guild and the AFL typo­ mention was made anywhere graphical workers in Springfield, in the press of incident where Mass., have been on strike the picket was run down. All against the Springfield Daily papers merely dealt with the Seafarers of the Philadel­ News for decent wages. The phia Branch sent the floral cmpany hired a bunch of scabs publisher's arrest as being caused by his driving without wreath, pictured above to Bro­ to turn out the paper. a license.) ther Begley's funeral. SCAB-SHEET A FLOP To the Editor: There's not a red-blooded man in my home town, who has bought an edition yet. A few days ago, the big shot himself, a character by the name of Bowles, the owner, not being able to get a man to drive one of his trucks through the picketlines, took the wheel himself. He hollered to the pickets to got the hell away from the plant and then drove the truck into the gate. One of the pick­ ets, a family man, told him to turn back. He was run down by the truck. Bowles then told the police it was an accident. He was hauled into court and fined $25 for driving without a license. Pretty damn cheap. RICHES HELP I guess if ybu're a rich man and owner of a newspaper plant you can get away with more than a poor working stiff. This sickening, drama was told over Station WSPR, Springfield. It made a lot of people sore, but nothing can be done, it seems. I hear shipping is good so I guess I'll shoot down to New Pilgrim Bidding For Title Of 'Queen' Of Alcoa Fleet To the Editor: Just a line to let you know something, about our ship and all the gtmg here. We have just completed a voy­ age to the islands and Brit­ ish Guiana and are. now bound for New York via Norfolk. The ship was under the command of Captain Christopher Kennedy, who established a friendship with the erewmembers lhat'Story books, encyclopedias and history books cannot teach. The kind of friendship that was built un­ der the master comes from a profound understanding. As a result, we shared many things 'together. JUSTIFIABLE PRIDE We feel proud that, on arrival in Norfolk, the ship was highly praised for • her appearance by officials and • persons who saw the ship coming : in. All stated she was one of the cleanest and best looking vessels that ever entered the port. All departments worked in full aooperation and harmony resulted in the ship's good looks. Log -A- Rhythms The' heads of each department: Cecil Ditto, Chief Engineer; Wil­ liam Whitlow, Chief Officer; and the Purser, Albert McGuire, and myself "all worked in close con­ tact regarding the duties of our separate units, so that woi'k was performed in an efficient man­ ner. BOSUN MANLEY I would also like to mention William : H.' Manley;. the. Bosun and an bid SIU Brother of mine, who : certainly did a good job in making the ship's outside ap­ pearance what it was. High praise was given to my department for ttie clean ap­ pearance of the ship's interior. And the Chief Cook, John S. Burke was lauded for his good cooking, as were his able as­ sistants. You can imagine from the work- accomplished by the three departments that on the "Queen of the Alcoa Fleet," that little or no change among the good old SIU crew was necessary. We-take, this means of saying hello to all our Brothers in I knew a seaman, whose name was Mel, His wife had a baby, he - raised hell; Although he did it in a - -quiet way,. The Coast Guard took his papers away. It was a fast and phony trial. The baby and wife won't eat for awhile; Lincoln freed the slaves, that is true. Can't they free the seamen, too. I sailed with an Oiler—his name was Si, And really,, he was a very fine guyHe used to stand the four to -eight. But one day he was five minutes late. The Coast Guard came on the double. And tried to cause him some trouble. Now going to sea wouldn't be very hard. If we could get rid of the Coast Guard; We'll probably spend our lives at sea— So let's get together, and fight to be free. And if we fight hard, and nobody shrinks. We'll soon get rid of them phony finks. ISTHMIAN SCOW WAS DIRTY —NOT NOW To'- the Editor: I'm a crewmember of the SS James Cannon. I applied at the Isthmian Steamship Lines hiring hall in Baltimore for a job and was sent aboard this scow. When I got aboard the wagon, she was really a dirty ship. Right now with the exception of about three men, the whole crew; is prdiSJU.;..Before iwe.tget. back from this trip, we hope to have .them lined rup for the Union, too. I wish-that the. last crew qauld see, the dirty ship they left us. It has been cleaned up in true SIU style. Part of the reason I'm writing this is to urge my Union Broth­ ers to try their best to get jobs with this company, help line up' the ' crews for the SIU, and also clean up these- buckets- sg that' they--conform to the same clean standards we have aboard our. own .contracted ships. . tLyle L. Ahner New York, and hope to see some of them real soon. We are away down in good old Mobile, but we will ride this ship , again. Luther W. Highsmith Chief Steward Alcoa Pilgrim �Friday. March 14. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Broths Weighs Mlchelet's To the Editor: as well as for the entire Mari­ time Industry. It is a great or­ ganization that is growing and will continue to' grow. Why is the ! Seafarers growing? Because we have in our ranks a mili­ tant group who believe in the Seafarers. The best wages and conditions in the entire industry are gotten for all who. follow the SIU banner, bar none. No doubt there will be plenty of pro and con discussion on this little matter, and I certainly hope there is. But it looks like an open and shut argument. If the assessment is what the- mem­ bership wants; by all means in-t struct the Secretary-Treasurer to prepare a Referendum Bal­ lot for all hands to vote on.. I am just a newcomer to the. Union, and this is just my per­ sonal opinion. E. B. McCauley Having just read the January 10th issue of the Seafarers Log. I found an interesting article en­ titled "EYcnchy Pens Open Let­ ter to Membership." This open letter was more than well composed, but was a very enlightening piece of work by Brother Michelet—except for one paragraph, on which I disagree with the writer. This I quote: "I know that there are many ihen in this organization who feel, as I do, and who would like nothing better than to have this opportunity to contribute ten dollars to a voluntary fund that they might even in this small manner show their appre­ ciation for all that this Union has done for them. So let's al actively petition for this volun­ tary assessment." Unquote. "Frenchy" has a good point there, but just between me and the fence post, it sounds slight­ ly off. The word voluntary is a swell word, but I like to stickto a referendum ballot, letting all the membership express their attitude on such an assessment. To the Editor: Page Thirteen VIEW OF NEWS FROM MARCUS HOOK Two Seaiazers pose nonchalanily for cam­ eraman in front of the neat, trim Union Hall. At left is Brother Hillman; his companion is unidentified. Getting an early Union start is this picket­ ing youngster, who claimed unpaid wages for running errands. Non-payment was due to an oversight, and beef was quickly settled for 35 cents. Survivor Of Archangel Run Rips False Russian Charge escort from the Russians until we were at the mouth of the White Sea, and we did not re­ ceive air protection until we were 40 miles from Archangel, and that is one hell of a long way from Iceland. Have just finished reading the GOOD TREATMENT' Dec. 27th issue of the Seafarers During the WSB Strike and Log, and in regard to the ar­ the MM&P-MEBA strike quite ticle on page 3 under the heading a number of the members need­ "Eye Witness Answers Soviet ed a feed and a flop. In the various ports, arrangements were Charge of American, British POOR PROTECTION made where the members were Cowardice," I would like very accjommodated in typical Sea­ much to add a word to Brother I would like to point out here Harrison's well-worded letter. farers style—"First Class!" that when I say we, I am speak I, too, was on that trip aboard . Some of the ports put out a ing of the crew of the Ben the Benjamin Harrison, enroute day-to-day loan of three dollars jamin Harrison, because as far i'o the Brothers who were a little to Archangel, Russia, and I be­ as we knew at that time, our's short. The understanding was lieve I am entitled to a word or was the only ship left out of to pay this money back at the two on this subject. the original 37 ships that left At this writing, I am wonder­ end of their first trip. Well and Iceland. I learned later that 12 good. But in the meantime, ing if Captain Andreyev's ar­ made it safely to port, but we sOme Brother says what are we ticle was printed in the New lost seven more on the way The long and short of it was the way this photo was dub­ paying a Strike Fund for? So York Times about the same time home.. bed when received from Marcus Hook. From left to right, the a motion was made and concur- Labor's "good friend," WestThe Benjamin Harrison was lads are T. Ryan. "Lil Abner" Barthes and Brother DiPaoli. fcd on up and. down the coast brook Pegler, was blasting - hell directly astern of the Christo­ not to pay this money back. out of us for being a bunch of pher Newport when that ship Some of the Brothers borrowed commies and social outcasts. was torpedoed on the 12 to as much as forty dollars apiece. Also,. I woud. like to; know just a. m. watch, July 4. I person­ where the hell the Russian navy Upon coming back to the var­ and airforce were during all the ally saw a torpedo strike her­ on the starboard side amidships ious ports to pay back their fireworks? carrying away the starboard little loan, they were told they We did not receive naval lifeboats and forcing the crew did not have to pay a cent back. To the Editor: ed whether or not that was a to take to No. 2 and No. 4 boats. However, they could make a The Rum Tree still blooms on violation of Sec. 6 — Article 2 The torpedo struck this ship in contribution to the Log. Good! AUTO ACCIDENT the Bauxite Trail but somehow of the agreement. Besides that, the fire room, killing the watch its shade seems less beguiling it cuts in quite heavily on the But does a two-dollar contrib­ PUTS HERZOG IN Now -I would like Captain An­ ution to the Log put back the and its aroma less fragrant. Or O.T. inasmuch as there is flothr MAINE HOSPITAL dreyev to explain to me just forty smackers this Brother might is it just old age that makes us ing allowed for covering up or how in hell a ship can pro­ have borowed from the Union To the Editor: think so. Anyway we have tak­ uncovering in the aforemention-ceed through submarine, aircraft treasury? Doubtful! ed Ports. I am sending a word of thanks and surface raider-infested wa­ en the veil for the duration of There are many of the mem­ to the crew and. officers of the the shuttle, providing the 'won't' Then -again there is always, ters,.,without a fire room or en­ power doesn't let us down. bers who got this money who present the danger of open S Jean. They took up a collec­ gine room? It seems like the Deck Depart­ hatches at. sea. Accidents, can. are willing, to pay .it back to the tion for me while I was here in same Fund from which it was occur when the nights, are dark TREATED LIKE DOGS the local <Belfast, Maine) hos­ drawn — in full. And still make and the decks are cluttered with Also, I might add that the pital, with two breaks in my left a contribution to the best Union gear such as hatch beams, hatch leg. I was. brought to the hos­ thousands of survivors of the Trade Journal, the Log. besides. covers, and the usual assortment North Russian run who were on pital after an auto accident. of bull ropes, cleats and pad-, I would like to thank, the the beach, were treated like a WOULD BUILD. RESERVE: eyes. A covered hatch will not members of the Stewards - De­ bunch of dogs by our so-called only remove a lot of gear but Paying this money bafck partment and Steward Tom allies, th& Russians. Captain will cover a hell of a big hole. would build up our depleted- re­ Bowers—all good SIU men. Andreyev refers to the bravery After all, it is a long way to the serves and a ten-dollar vV)lunCaptain Horan — the Jean's displayed by the crew of the bottom of a Liberty Ship and a tary assessment would not be skipper—tried to pull a fast one Russian tanker Donbass in re­ broken neck would be the least necessary. by signing me off articles when maining aboard and sailing that a man could hope for. I have to agree with 'Frenchy' i was still out. He held my ship into port after she was There have been some changes all the -i way 1 through;.!the' i rest- -of hand and had me sign off. I torpedoed. in the ship since we left the his lettdr, because he is 100" tier- told the doctor this, and he made I was approximately a quar­ "Big Port." Two oilers fell by cent right.; the Captain bring the articles ter of a mile from the Don­ bass when she was hit by the ment is having a little difficulty the wayside in Venezuela and The Seafarers International here, and I signed back on. Union has done wonders for me I'll be in the Haill in New torpedo, which was intended for on matters of importance to mised the ship. They were re­ York when I get out. But it the Harrison. Diie to fast them. This 'rust bucket' is sail­ placed in Trinidad by men wait­ will be a couple of months be­ maneuvering, we were able to ing each trip out of Trinidad for ing for just that kind of a break. fore I am able. I'd like to get dpdge the missile and it struck British Guiana with hatches 2, Our regret is that none of our a copy of the Log, if you have the Donbass on the starboard 3 and 4 uncovered. We wonder- SIU brothers were there on the Beach to fill the jobs. The Chief one. side aft, where I would judge Cook also left the ship, but un^ Until I see you fellows, thanks to be the No. 7 or No. 9 tank. ars of war suppies and DELIV­ der different circumstances. He ERING these supplies through for evoiy'.;hing, and tell the crew There was no fire or list and paid off in Trinidad and w. . dangerous waters at great loss and officers of the SS Jean of the ship proceeded. flown to New York to appear as in lives of American seamen— my thanks to them. In closing I might add that a witness. in some kind of a that, Brothers, is the height of K. Herzog for the Russians to insult the Court, case. Waldo County Hospital nationals of a country that was Russian insolence. Earl Cochran. SUP (Five Crewmembexs) giving Russian millions of dolBelfast. Me. Open Hatches Pose Danger, Says Crew Of Bauxite Ship �Page Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 14, 1947 Poor Feeding And No Coffee Are Chief Beefs At Chicago Hospitaf tionist for the efficiency and con­ out! Merchant seamen are en­ sideration she displays in mak­ titled to a better deal than they ing appointments. In my opin­ are receiving at the hands of this ion, she takes a sincere interest department. How much longer in her position, and performs are we to remain dental guinea By JOSEPH VOLPIAN her duties with the proper atti­ pigs for these little boys in gold tude toward all who pass her braid? All of the 48 States have some claim this exemption as to his desk. The laboratory is a credit to law which permits the wages wages. But, Brother, once you get past the institution. Wages due to an^ employee of In the many of workingmen to be attached the reception desk, the actual times I have come in direct con­ for the payment of judgements. a railroad ferryboat are protect­ I shall attempt to cover every ,, ., . .J ' Dentistry Department stinks out tact with it, I can say I have Under the laws of the United ed by this section. department exactly as it existed , States, merchant seamen's wages never received anything but Persons employed as hunters the day I left, to give credit are specifically exempt from for a sealing voyage by the courteous and competent service. those who are deserving of it ^•u,. such a garnishment proceeding, master, from whom they had J K- cr.A • inadequateness and outright sarand express my own unbiased | ^ ° , I have never, at any time, had with the exception of payments purchased interests in the ves­ casm—especially where merchant to stand in line or wait longer opinion concerning those who are for the support of his wife or sel, agreeing that half their seamen are concerned. than five minutes. This fact is are not. wages might be applied to the The department is absolutely due <to capable and organized children. I can truthfully say the doc­ a disgrace to the hospital. The purchase price, were classified as Not only are his wages ex­ tors and nurses are as good, if head of this department is too management by a man who not empt from the garnishment pro­ seamen and their wages came not better, than can be found occupied parading around in his only considers his position in­ ceeding, but the law also states within the protection of this anywhere. (This does not include "high pressure" uniform and teresting, but also backs it up that it will not recognize any section, forbidding the assign­ the Dentistry Department and gold braid to observe or know with excellent service to the pa­ assignment or sale of his wages ment of mariner's wages. A longshoreman employed in laboratory, which I will discuss what is going on, (in other words, tients. which the seaman may have stowing cargo lon a coastwise The Physiotherapy Depart­ later in this article.) made. he is not doing the work he is steamship was held to be a sea­ ment is small, but staffed with It has been decided by the As health and cure are the first being paid for.) man so that his wages could not courteous arid efficient people. courts that, if a seaman is en­ in importance in any hospital, I I should consider the diagnos­ be attached. It is doubtful, how­ shall discuss those connected ing of the condition of teeth and I have covered everything, gaged in coastwise trade, he is ever, whether this decision with it, first. prescribing of work needed, thus far, but one issue which, I entitled to the exemption from which was made by a lower When I first entered this Hos­ would be his position. However, think, every member should give garnishment of his wages, ex­ state court would be upheld on pital, August 23, 1946, I was a in my case, that was assigned to a vast amount of time and cept in New Jersey and Ala­ appeal. bama. very sick man, if not slightly on one of his "boy scouts." thought to. The wages of a pilot were Many types of maritime work­ the hopeless side and much of As a result, I lost a beautiful Just remember, brother, re­ ers have sought to become class­ subjected to garnishment, it be­ my stay was spent in bed. eye tooth, and the one that should gardless of who you are or where ed as seamen in order to obtain ing held that he was not a sea­ have been pulled i-emains to be you are, you may become just the benefits of this important man within the purview of this done at a future date. When it another patient before you know legal exemption. Briefly, here law. does come out, I will have to it. And by being "just another are a few of the decisions on One federal judge in deciding have a partial plate to fill the patient" in this Marine Hospital, this point: an attachment case in favor of gapat the present time, you are going the seaman, had this to say: COVERED BY LAW to be very hungry and miser­ "Ordinarily, the sailor's only DENTAL GUINEA PIGS Fishermen employed on fish­ This is not the fault of the able! Bear with me, for a few ing vessels are classed as sea­ means of subsistence on shore man who actually extracted the lines more, and I will tell you men and their wages can not are his wages earned at sea. If these may be stopped by an at­ tooth, but our friend who did the why. be attached or garnisheed. tachment suit the instant his At the Marine Hospital, here diagnosing; perhaps, the mistake It has been decided that a ship is moored to the wharf, a in Chicago, we have breakfast at was partially due to the sarcasm Captain of a tugboat is not a new hardship is added to a vo­ and disrespect, he was handing seaman, and therefore can not {Continued on Page 15) cation already subject to its full xCj-to v§. share of the ills of life." However, through the efforts BONUS EXEMPT of competent and efficient doc­ It was recently held in the tors and nurses, I am back on the New York State Courts, in in­ road to recovery. terpreting this section, that a I can find no complaint against bonus payable to seamen, in any nurse or orderly. They treat­ By FRANK BOSE this matter of overtime. If we universally accepted for all work­ addition to his regular wages by ed me in a kind and respectful Shipping activity in this coun­ do, we'll only be cutting our own ers, and it certainly should be for reason of hazardous nature of his manner, and at times, I received try has been on the decrease throats. voyage because the vessel on the seafaring man. far better treatment, than I hand­ since the end of the war. And, which the seaman was employed For the sake of getting a few Seamen have for too long been ed out. as other nations acquire ships and extra dollars over and above our an exception to most of the stand­ was engaged in carrying lendBy this statement, I mean any resume their maritime operations, wages, we are cutting down on ards set for the working men in lease supplies to Russia in time man confined and sick, for any the demand for U. S. ships as the number of jobs that should general. It's time to call a halt. of war, was ebcempt from attach­ length of time, will blow his top carriers is expected to decline be filled aboard ship. We will, ment under this section. MORE MEN over some mole hill which ap­ still further. This decision may be interp­ thereby, increase our chances of Overtime wages that are paid pears more on the order of a! To us of the Seafarers Interna­ being held on the beach. reted to mean that any money off by some of the ships show mountain at the time. due to a seamen arising out of tional this means one important At the moment, the only over­ that if the work involved was thing—that there will be fewer time we should handle is that performed in the ordinary work­ his employment on a steamship, NURSES OKAY The majority of nurses in this and fewer jobs. Since, it seems involving emergency and abso­ ing day—and there is no reason whether in the nature of actual If the why most of it couldn't have been wages, bonuses, or overtime are hospital are oldtimers in their to me, our primary purpose in lutely necessary work. lean times, such as the ones we overtime comes outside of these —four, five or even six more protected by this section. profession. They not only have are facing, is to protect our jobs Any money due a seaman categories, it shouldn't have to be crewmembers could have been a knowledge of psychology, but and to spread employment as arising out of a salvage opera­ performed as overtime. Addi­ know how to use it, at the proper carried at the regular monthly much as possible, it is absolutely tion are also covered by this tional crewmembers should be wages. Multiply this by a few time. To be an efficient nurse is essential that we give serious at­ aboard to handle the work in the hundred or more ships and it| exemption so that they may one thing, but to be a human tention to this problem. course of the regular working could mean a thousand or more be attached or garnisheed to being at the same time requires One of the most effective ways day. satisfy a debt contracted ashore. regular jobs. more on the well-known "ball." of combating unemployment un­ Garnishment proceedings do REGULAR TIME There could be no legitimate And in my opinion the nurses der present circumstances is for Such jobs as cleaning and objection to increasing the man­ not take all of the wages of a each and every one alike, deserve us to push for an increase in the painting, etc., should not be per­ ning scales in this respect by the worker but only a percentage of all the appreciation and thanks I present manning scales. formed after the working day is shipowners. Offhand, it wouldn't his earnings. as an individual can bestow up­ There is no question that most over. If they are considered as involve any extras. The jobs on them, for the kindness and vessels today are carrying insuf­ essential to the normal, routine would be performed at the regu­ care given me. ficient crews. And there is one operation of a ship, they should lar rates of wages established by Someone, who is unfamiliar genuine indication that most be performed by regular crew- the contracts. with hospital routine, will think ships are undermanned—the mat­ members in the normal, routine Let's work toward getting more I have given the nurses an undue ter of overtime. working day. jobs. By turning down a couple The American Liberty Steam­ The amount of overtime that is amount of credit, let me point By working at unnecessary of bucks here and there for we'll ship Corporation will reenter the put that we only come in contact rolled up on many vessels is posi­ overtime aboard ship now, we be allowing months or regular coastwise trade with service be­ with the doctors at sick call, but tive proof of the need for addi­ will be keeping men on the beach. jobs. tween New York, Baltimore, the nurses are with us 24 hours tional hands. And, consequently, we will one Most work aboard ship should Galveston and Houston when it SELFISH VIEW a day and administer all pres­ day be keeping ourselves on the be done in the working day. If |receives the Frank Dale, a C-3 Overtime during lush times is a beach. We should refuse every­ there is more work than the freighter from the Maritime cribed medicine and treatment, swell thing, and it is damned thing but the necessary over­ regular crew can handle in the Commission late this month. before and after surgery. nice to pick up a few extra bucks. time. ordinary working day, then there The ship is expected to sail In many cases an efficient But when things get tougher, the An eight-hour work day at sea, should be more crewmen taken from Baltimore shortly after de­ nurse can mean the difference important consideration is the as­ except for emergency or unusual on to get the job done. livery and, if traffic warrants, between life and death. surance of jobs—jobs for as many reasons, should be sufficient. The correct slant on this over­ the company expects to increase I am not going to elaborate as conditions permit. There is no reason why this time will assure our Brothers and its chartered fleet to four ships on the Dentistry Department, but We Seafarers cannot afford to should not prevail. ourselves of continued employ­ vyith weekly sailings from each I am going to thank the recep- take the selfish point of view on The eight-hour day is almost ment. of the four ports. By ROBERT H. MAUPIN Having just finished nearly six months as a patient at the U. S. Marine Hospital, Chicago, Il­ linois, I feel it my duty and also my privilege which my SIU book gives me, to enlighten the mem­ bership on conditions in this hos­ pital as I saw them. Overtime Work Now Being Done On Ships Shows That More Men Can Be Employed American Liberty In Coastai Trade �T HI: SEA FA RE R SLOG Friday. M&rch 14, 1947 JUST SAIUNG TIME With sailing lime coming close, these crewmembers of Waterman's Haiti Victory lined up near Pier 6, Bush Terminal, so that the LOG photographer could snap them. They've got their gear with them, and they look ready for a long trip. Most of the. crew have been together for a few trips, and they had plenty of good words to say about the ship.; The Stewards Department came in for a major share of the praise, with all hands commending them for the. excellence of the meals. There were enough good words for the three Delegates and the Ship's Delegate, who were all said to be good men when it came to settling members beefs. MONEY DUE Page Fifteen Poorfeeding, No Coffee Are Beefs At Chicago Hospital the food department is under­ {Continued From Page 14) staffed. 7:30 A. M., in the wards for bed I cannot believe this to be the patients: and at 7:00- A. M., for case, a shortage of help is never the mess hall. a good reason for faulty and I think the bed patients have poor management. This hospital the biggest gripe, because they has the best in equipment and all hut have to get on their feeding facilities, plus the ample knees for seconds. Most of the help to take advantage of these time they don't get them, be­ factors. cause if the ward nurse is forced All that is needed is a. sen­ to ask for more food, she gets sible working plan with a man hell fiom the dietician. possessing organizing ability, as In the wards, you are served well as the knowledge of mass one egg, toast, and a howl of feeding to make the plan work. cereal, an apple, (or some other I think the galley and dining piece of fruit.) rooms should be a separate unit Sometimes, the egg is raw and under one direction, and all help at other times cooked to the ex­ assigned to the galley force treme. But brother, if you're should not beT required to carry hungry, you eat it and like it, bed pans and urinals. because there's no more com­ Numerous fellows think the ing from where that came from. orderlies, at times, are not what Why? The dietitian sends up they should be. This fault is not just so much and when that has of his doing, he has so many bos­ ses ho himself never knows what he'll be requested to do next. How, for heavens sake, can . one man carry a food tray, buff the deck, get another a bed pan, and take still another to x-ray, in a wheel chair, all at one time? BAD MANAGEMENT Time in and time out, I've seen this, and I say, it just won't All Army cooks can now claim work! This condition is not the disputed Sunday overtime at of­ fault of the doctors and nurses; fice of Smith and Johnson. they have their hands full giving the right of collective bargaining. patients the proper medical care 4. 4- 4At the recent national conven­ British shipping operators are tion in Shanghai, a program of been devoured, it would take needed. HAITI VICTORY feeling the effects of their own demands based on the Inteima- an Act of Congress to obtain However, it can be contributed (Voyage No. 9) penny-pinching. to incompetence and mismanage­ tional Seafarers' Charter was more! William R. Bates can collect The reduction in the registers adopted. Provisions in the pro­ Of course, if you desire to ment on the part of the mainten­ the 66 hours of overtime for of dockers, which the operators gram call for rules governing make a big issue of the situation, ance director. There is not a tending water by writing, or instigated last year, has boom- wages, working hours, social se­ you may call in the commander thing amiss in this hospital that calling, at the office of Water­ eranged, with all British ports curity, holidays with pay and of the hospital and demand a can not be righted by capable man Steamship Company, 19 now experiencing an acute labor collective bargaining rights, in second egg. If you possess a lit­ business management. Rector Street, New York, N.Y. addition to union recognition. shortage. Before I close, I would like to tle more than average nerve you The short-sighted policy was 1 may inquire why you can't have put in a word for the Red Cross followed in spite of the antici­ some bacon, ham or sausage with Unit, which I think did a bangpated expansion of export trade up job for the boys during the it. for this year, and against the ad­ Holidays, under the direction of Usually this is the case; if you BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. vice of the dockers union. Calvert 4539 get one egg for breakfast, noth­ Mrs. Jack Gould, who is still do­ Aggravating the problem is the BOSTON 276 State St. ing accompanies it; or minus the ing a grand job. Boudoin 4455 decasualization program, which For the information of those egg- • BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. the union also warned against, Cleveland 7391 who are not familiar with the Sounds a little silly, doesn't it? NEW YORK CHARLESTON 424 King Street since dockers seek work else­ hospital set-up, these ladies do- , The government will pay doctors Phone 3-3680 where when the operators re­ SS..C. MARINER nate their own time and do such CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave duce their liability for atten­ O. Fielding. $1.00: M. Cruz. $1.00. cash money to make us well with Superior 5175 things as writing letters, arrang­ SS MONROE medicine and surgery, yet pay CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave dance pay. ing entertainment, and numerous L. Ellorin & Crew—$10.00. Main 0147 dieticians to literally starve us to 4. 4. 4. CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St other things for the boys. They SS FORT WINNEBAGO death. Please remember, this ar­ Corpus Christi 3-1509 K. P. Apter, $1.00. shall never be forgotten by any DETROIT 1038 Third St ticle concerns regular diet pa­ Cadillac 6857 SS F. MARION CRAWFORD of us, for we weren't by them. tients only, but special diets and DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St Paul Danza, $2.00: Wm. H. Davidson, Dockworkers in the port of Ant­ Finally, I have discussed this Melrose 4110 soft diets don't fare as well. $2.00: G. A. McComb, $2.00. coffee beef with many of the GALVESTON 308 Vi—23rd Street werp, Belgium, have won an in­ SS W. JOHNSON HUNGRY NIGHT 2-8448 crease in. daily pay, a travelling boys, all we can say is, "We'll Roy M. Thompson. $2.00: C. KatuHONOLULU 16 Merchant St. allowance, and extra pay for Lunch is served at 11:30 A. M., overlook the lousy chow at sup­ lick, $2.00: A. W. Rummel. $2.00: R. C. 58777 HOUSTON 1515 75th Street handling certain types of goods, Wilbur. $2.00: F. J. CBrien. $2.00: G. and in all fairness I am com­ per time ,if we could just have Phone Wentworth 3-3809 under terms of an agreement Fox, $2.00: J. McHale. $2.00: F. B. pelled to admit it is not bad—es­ a decent cup of coffee." JACKSOI^ILLE 920 Main St. Miskosky, $2.00: A. Tapp, $2.00: V. Phone 5-5919 signed by the Belgian Transport pecially, when roast or chops are Williams, $2.00: V. Marko. $2.00. MARCUS HOOK ilV4 W. 8th St. Workers Union and the employ­ served; then, it is well-balanced, SS T. BROWN Chester 5-3110 ers. W. F. Canavan. $1.00: M. M. Wbite- tasty, and as good as you can MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. The 13,000 members voted to aker, $1.00: P. Tole. $1.00: S. E. Foley. purchase in any moderately MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 2-1754 accept the contract negotiated by $1.00; M. H. Enerault, $1.00: W. J. priced restaurant. NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. their union after a month-long: Cally. $1.00: D. O. Coker, $2.00: A. JACK JORDAN Magnolia 6112-6113 However, there is . still room D. Ewing, $1.00. Please get in touch with Char­ NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. strike.-• SS CRAWFORD: for improvement: as I previously HAnover 2-2784 Daily pay was increased by 24 Abdon Sylvera & Crew—$40.00. les W. Jordan at once at Savan­ NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street mentioned there are times when SS HAITI VICTORY 4-1083 francs, and the travelling-allow­ nah, Ga. you feel those pangs of hunger F. J. Huttick. $2:00. which compensates the PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. ance, 4^ 4^ 4. Phone Lombard 3-7651 and here's the reason. Supper is SS - GRISWOLD workers for time lost in getting PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Worth Ave. RAFAEL MATOS J. Woods, $2.00: P.-J. Griffin. $2.00: at 4:30 p. m.: It may consist of Phone: 2-8532 from the hiring place to the job, 8. Kinter. $1.00. Your wife, Paulina Martinez, curry and rice, badly prepared, PORTLAND Ill W. Bumaide St. was set at 10 francs. SS -z. PIKE Beacon 4336 asks that you get in touch with or it may be a few slices of bo­ B. Veinei;, $2.00: W. H. Daniel, $2.00: Handlers of heavy, dirty, dan.-: RICHMOND. Calif 257 5th St. Na hot her at 268 San Augustine Street, 2598 ^ gerous. or healthy materials will Wm. Bartholemew, $2.00: C. A. Mos- logna with potatoes. ley, $2;00: A. L. McLean, $2.00; C. coffee; you drink tea and sup­ San Juan, P. R. SAN FRANCISCO. * * •jj-j^^.'g^ystsas^receive extra pay .for their work. Clark: $3.00: R. E. Leftwich, $2.00; C. posedly are content. 4. 4> 4^ SAN JUAN,. P. R. .. .252 Ponce de Leon Tsapelas:, $2.00: L. £. Travis, $2.00; t, X X San, Juan 2-5996 DUKE HIMLER The real joke, is, you receive J. E. Powell. $2:00: M. Benavides, $2.00. SAVANNAH 220-Bas* Bay St. Get in touch with Walter Bla­ INDIVIDUAL DONATIONSnothing to eat fi'om this meal 8-1726 Charles A. Carr, $1.00; A. D. Verzer of SS Montezuma Castle, at SEATTLE .-... 86 Seneca St;, until breakfast, which is approxi­ Main 0286 China!s 100^000 seamen, includ­ gara, $5.00! R. C. White, $3.00; M. mately 15 hours, except a glass 5225 14th Avenue, Brooklyn 19, TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. ing- some .50^000 serving: pn -. Brit- Rzenkowioz, . $5:00; . Walter Swokla, M-T323 of milk, or imitation orange New York. $1.00. sh, United States, and-,other for-r TOLEDO i 615 Summit. St. 4. i 4. James ; McMCnemy, $2.001; Walter juice, at 8:G0 p. m. WILMINOTON . .... .440 Avaion Blvd. eign ships, . will' push efoi?;: inm Love, $2.00!-. .J. C. Anderson, $1.00; GEORGE FORD Tetminal. 4-3131 The reasons for this deplorprovements in- the- wage,-; and W." W;. Sylvesterr $1.00:- L. A. Car­ VICTORIA,'8. C. 602 Bodgkton St: Please write to Clarence Sova, able: condition can be contributed Garden 6331 working; eondifions,-.in -addition to les- JoneSi -$1.00. 511 Duncan Avenue, Cheboygan, only to incompetent manage­ VANCOUVER .... 144 W: Hastings St. their demands for • recognition of BOSTON-! Pacifio 7824 Michigan. ment, whichi no doubt, will :claim the: Chinese :Seamen's Union and D. Rasmussen.--SUP 2426;- $5.00. SS WILLIAMS VICTORY (Voyage No. 10) Penny-Pinching SlU HALLS Belgian Dockworkers PERSONALS Chmese S^men �Page Sixteen Friday. March 14, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG s« :Vf>:V:-'MW--'-%->i mmmmmMi K-I-X-X'X-XwXWX-XWXv ;:;X-X:X-X<-X-:;X-X-X-X-X-X-; 1»S %WA:« ::::x::¥x:x:x:x:x::::¥x::%:x:x::::¥X::::>;:;:¥::x:x¥::^^ •^liHArSAT/ ••••**X;Xx*X*XvX-X'X yx:X:::XS;:;::WrX^»X-XiXi¥ft%:ftW:^ M m'>VpiT|Ci^ .-y- XvX-X iSKx:;: Sixyx:;: •.•.•.vxixssxSA^ys* ::::;¥x >:ss»X<®«-wx¥»x¥M:x::::¥f^^ ::w>:::x::$:::::::::::$^^ � 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 March 14, 1947 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. IX, No. 11 Description An account of the resource Headlines: ITF ACTS ON PANAMANIAN SHIPS; LUNDEBERG ASKS WORLD BOYCOTT SIU WINS 6 PER CENT INCREASE IN OVERTIME, STANDBY AND WAGE RATE 175 SHIPS WITHDRAWN FROM BONEYARD RETURN TO OPERATION NMU MEMBERS BACK CURRAN AGAINST STACK SUPREME COURT MINE RULING THREATENS ALL TRADE UNIONS SEAMEN OF 15 NATIONS PRESS NEW STANDARDS FOR SHIPBOARD LIFE FUTURE PLANS BLUE PRINT FOR TOMORROW VOYAGE OF MURDER AND MAYHEM SPELLS UNION LESSON TO SEAFARER LAKES SEAMEN RESPOND TO SEAFARERS' APPEAL AS ORGANIZING DRIVE SWINGS INTO FULL STRIDE MC TO RECONSIDER END OF COASTWISE SERVICES MOBILE SHIPPING BOOM CONTINUES; BRANCH CALLS FOR MORE SEAMEN SHIPPING CLEANS OUT PHILLY HALL; BEACHCOMBERS WARNED TO BYPASS WEST COAST BRANCHES CELEBRATE 62ND BIRTHDAY OF SAILORS UNION SHIPPING KEEPS ROLLING ALONG IN FINE STYLE IN PORT BALTIMORE LCA ANTI-LABOR CAMPAIGN FLOPS; UNION MEN ARE RESPECTED BY ALL SAME OLD STORY; NEW YORK BUSY, NEEDS RATED MEN NEW SEASON SWAMPS DULUTH WITH SEAMEN PLENTY OF SHIPPING IN PORT NEW ORLEANS CHICAGO SAYS, DO NOT GO THERE UNTIL SHIPPING BOOMS IN APRIL SEAFARERS TAKE STAND TO BACK BILL DONNELS, FRIEND OF LABOR SIU SUPPORTS DONNELS, BAITED BY POLITICIAN HOUSTON HAS BRIGHT FUTURE AS A SHIPPING PORT; AFL UNIONS THERE HAVE RECORD OF COOPERATION TOLEDO SEAFARERS SENDS THANKS TO NMU FOR FREE PLUG IN PILOT MORAN TUG, WATCH HILL, UNDERTAKES A RECORD TOWING JOB TO FAR EAST WATERMAN FLEET TOTALS 51 SHIPS MONROE MEN SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM SS KING'S CHIEF ENGINEER GENERATES CASH--FOR WIPERS EXTENSION OF ALIEN SEAMEN WAIVER URGED AT WALTHAM VICTORY MEETING LOG AVAILABLE AT ANTWERP SPOT PARKER BAGS ANOTHER MEDAL POOR FEEDING AND NO COFFEE ARE CHIEF BEEFS AT CHICAGO HOSPITAL OVERTIME WORK NOW BEING DONE ON SHIPS SHOWS THAT MORE MEN CAN BE EMPLOYED AMERICAN LIBERTY IN COASTAL TRADE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/14/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/009c17e7f51e41149fe401d4f08e05fa.PDF c70448fa2bdbd38d419dccf52dcbda8d PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. MARCH 7. 1947 NO BUSINESS AS USUAL It was so quiet in the Cotton Exchange you could hear a pin drop. The reason—these pickets who helped shut down the Exchange in support of the UFE strike. Picketline Shuts Exchange; Cotton HeadsSignWith UFE NEW YORK, March 5—The strike of Local 205, United Financial Workers, AFL, against the New York Cotton Exchange ended within 24 hours after it began when the Exchange, with dramatic suddenness, capitulated to most of the union's demands. A big factor in the Exchange's sudden willingness to sign with the union was the evidence of union solidarity tby the SIU-SUP and other unions. More than a thousand Seafar­ ers, some of whom had journeyed from Baltimore and Philadelphia, marched on the picketline with their UFE Brothers, and with niembers of Local 32-B, Building Service Employes, who came out The militancy displayed in the in sympathy. United Financial Employes beef At a mass rally held in front by the UFE and the SIU left the of the struck Exchange, Paul one-time tough bosses quaking. Hall, Director of Organization, A sample of the changing situa-. stated: "UFE has the full support tion resulting from the swiftlyof the SIU and we will put 6,000 won beef follows: Seafarers on the picketline if Bill McDonough walked into necessary." the UFE office the morning after Just as it appeared that the allvictory, and announced that he night negotiations would be had been fired by the Morgan broken off, the Exchange, on ad­ Davis firm because he refused to vice of its lawyer, agreed to the cross the UFE-SIU picketkne. UFE's compromise offer. The " He was hustled over to the agreement was ratified early this Davis outfit by Dave Keefe and morning in a special meeting, John Cole, UFE president and held in the SIU Hall. vice-president, respectively. LABOR-BAITER LEARNS The UFE officials wei'e intro­ What was most remarkable duced to the boss, who by this about the lawyer's action was lime had the tremors. that he, Maurice Mound, had •"" " "Did your fire this man be­ cause he refused to cross the been called in to help stop the picketline? the UFE men asked. union in its tracks. Mound is also the attorney for the Association The ensuing dialogue: of Stock Exchange Member Boss: "No." Keefe: "Well, is he fired, or Firms and has concerned himself solely with labor-baiting since he isn't he?" was employed. Boss: "He isn't fired." But he became convinced of Keefe (to McDonough): "Take the UFE strength, and knew deoff you coat and go to .work." Wall Street is learning. (Continned on Page 8) UFE Beef Proves Even Tytoons Cm Be Taught No. 10 Seafarers Takes Action For New Pay Increases To Meet Cost Of Living NEW YORK—A jam-packed special meeting, held in the SIU Hall, this week took action designed to bring about pay increases to meet the rising cost of living. The resolution, which was passed, was later concurred in by other special meetings held in all Atlantic and Gulf District Ports. The various contracts which the SIU has with the operators have pro­ visions in them allowing the wage question to be reopened by either party dur­ ing the life of the contract. Other subjects, such as working rules, etc., can­ not be renegotiated until the new agreement comes up for discussion. LAST CALL Seafarers who have noi re­ ceived their clearance for the 1946 General Strike are urged to do so before March 21. the deadline set by the Union. The only authorized ex­ cuses being accepted by the committee are; being away at sea. being in the hospital, in the service, in retirement or being in a foreign country. All excuses must be accom­ panied by proof. Those who lack excuses have until March 21 to square themselves, after that date they will be placed in the 99-year club. Clearance can be, handled in person or by mail to the New York Branch. Bth floor. 51 Beaver St.. New York. N.Y. LEARNING THE Wage increases won last last* year have been wiped out by the rising prices, and unless seamen's wages are increased, seamen will be forced back to the substandard living which was their lot before the advent of the Union. For this reason the resolution was proposed and overwhelming­ The Ameidcaii Merchant Ma­ ly adopted by the membership of rine Staff Officers Association, the SIU. AFL, continued its sweep of bar­ That the members of the SIU gaining elections with a smash­ are not fooling is evidenced by ing victory over the New York the concluding section of the re­ and Cuba Mail Steamship Com­ solution which states that in the pany this week. event the shipowners stall the Tom Hill, East Coast Represen­ Union will take any necessary tative of the AMMSOA, stated steps, including economic action, that his organization breezed in to prevent such occurrences. by a 9 to 1 margin, with the out­ come of the election never in THREE OFFICIALS SIGN doubt. The resolution, submitted by The NMU, co-participater in J. P. Shuler, Assistant Secretarythe election, also had no doubt as Treasurer; Paul Hall, Director of to the outcome, for it gave up Organization; and Joe Algina, and didn't even bother to send {Continued on Page 14) a representative to observe the tallying of the vote. Winning of the Cuba Mail Line UNION LESSON brings to a total of three the elections won by the AMMSOA in the past two weeks. The Pursers recently won elec­ tions with the Atlantic, Gulf and West Indies Steamship Lines and the Puerto Rico Steam.ship Company. The Pursers Union is now in the midst of elections covering United States Lines, Black Dia­ mond Steamship Corp., Newtex Steamship Corp. and the Ameri­ can South African Line. Tabula­ tions of the votes of these elec­ tions will be announced April 1. Pursers Union Sweeps Election In Cuba Mall First Of New Ships Deiivered To Robin Thousands attended the monster demonstration, held during the noon hour. They learned that the United Financial Employes was not alone in its fight. They learned further that the UFE has the support of the entire AFL. This put the clincher on the strike, and soon afterward the Exchange agreed to sit down and bargain with the UFE. By midnight a contract had been obtained. Sure showed the power of union solidarity, and the Seafarers were right in there, pitching all the time. The Sea Dolphin, renamed the Robin Hood, has been delivered to the Seas Shipping Company's Fleet in Baltimore. The Robin Hood, a C-3 type vessel named after a Robin Line vessel lost in the war, is the first of at least four new vessels being gained by the company. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Two Friday. March 7, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. 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 NOVICK, Editor Helping Hands The wonderful record of the Seafarers International Union got a new boost this week when the United Financial Workers, AFL, received from us the support that made it possible for this new and struggling union to stand up to the mighty bosses of the New York Cotton Exchange. It is becoming commonplace for other unions to call upon the Seafarers for assistance. They know that if they are honest unions, free from communist domination, that they have a good chance of enlisting our aid in their cause. Within the past few months our men have been ac­ tively participating in the beefs of the LJnited Financial Workers, AFL; the CIO Shipyard Workers, and the Mas­ ters, Mates, and Pilots, AFL. And before that we helped the International Longshoremen's Association when they were threatened by employers from one side and commies from the other. Not only have our active seamen volunteered their ^ services' to the embattled unions, but other sections of our organic structure have been helping out wherever neces­ sary. Our multilith operator and machine have worked overtime turning out propaganda. The Log staff has bat­ ted out reams of publicity and taken scores of pictures, in addition to turning out the Log each week and carrying on other educational jobs. The officials have also thrown their full weight behind ail these undertakings. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals What is our reason for supporting all these other unions? No man can say that we hoped for personal gain. These are the Union Brothers GurreniT? in the marine hospitals, In every case, the union involved made its own plans, did as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging its own negotiating, and arrived at its own settlement. So heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ it is obvious that we did not try to make capital out of ing to them. our Brothers' misfortunes. No, the answer goes deeper than that. We did our duty.to fellow trade unionists who were in trouble. That's the long and short of it. We in the SIU firmly believe.in trade union principles. We firmly believe that when one honest, sincere trade union is in trouble, it is the duty of all other honest, sincere trade unions to go to its assistance. Otherwise the entire structure k weakened. Our strike against the Wage Stabilization Board Was helped by the fact that all affiliates of the AFL Maritime Trades Department backed our play. That meant that the licensed officers, the longshoremen, the radio operators, the teamsters, and the pursers, hit the bricks with us and stayed out until the Government backed down. In return, we helped the MM&P, and before' that We went to the aid of the ILA, in October of 1945. And although the Shipyard Workers are not an AFL union, still and all we support them. We know their ;Fecord, and we can see that they are honest and anti-comjmunist. The UFE had us with them until they said, "Okay, fellows, we have settled our beef." That's the SIU way, and that's the only honest trade pnion way. -...-15'. Mm NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL J. NAVARRO P. DAUGHERTY J. RETOUR G. KRETZER C. MASON S. MOGAN ' W. BROCE, Jr. J. ROONEY E. CUSTER R. 'E. 'MULHOLLAND •H. i-H. HAMILTON J. W. 'DENNIS R. B. WRIGHT •R. B. KINAIRD ^ t, % BALTIMOitE MOBPiTAL 'NATHAN ROBERTSON LELAND McMILLIAN ROBERT SHEBEE THEODORE BABKOWSEI THEODORE iGARROLL •LAWRENCE ^eCUNE JACK HAMILTON PHILIP BAZAAR MATHEW CARSON CHARLES SIMMONS CHARLES BOLTON DAVID HERON BROWNIE KINGREE WILLIAM LAWTON •• -'.-A-1^' .l/'i' ERNEST SIDNEY MANUEL ROMERO GEORGE WILKINS ROBERT RANDLE PETER LOPEZ t i MOBILE HOSPITAL KARL LUNDBERG &•$>$• STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL R. G. MOSSELLER J. S. WOOD E. E. CASEY W. G. H. BAUSE F. H. DOLAN L. A. CORNWALL F. CORNIER M. BAUCSKI E. D. MILLER M. MORRIS «. BELCHER L. L. MOODY W. BLOOM R. R. LEIKAS R. MCDOWELL K. KORNELIUSSEN M. J. LYDEN J. H. DANIEL, Jr. S. W. LESLEY C. SULLIVAN You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 61h floors) Thursday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday —1:30 to -3:30 pjn. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM i i BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON 'H. -SWIM R. LORD R. BROWN E. DOLEHALA ^ SAN JUAN HOSPiTAX JUAN OLIVER WALTER JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. -FELIGIANO R. SEIFO < �Friday. March 7. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Seafarers Ready To Launch Drive To Organize Great Lakes Seamen By EARL SHEPPARD By PAUL HALL The Brotherhood of the Sea came ashore this week and put on a stirring demonstration of trade-union solidarity that left the world's financial capital cock-eyed with amazement. Eight-hundred militant members of the Seafarers International Union and Sailors Union of the Pacific threw a mass-picket line around the New York Cotton Exchange in support of their striking AFI^ Brother.s of the United Financial Employes. The Seafarers locked the joint up tight. The 23-story building was as empty as a shipowner's heart. Used to stalling and pushing people around, the Skippers of High Finance were as paralyzed as their struck cotton market, when they saw the solid lines of Seafarers' early Tuesday morning. It was a sight the financial bosses will never forget. For 75 years, the New York Cotton exchange had been trans­ acting its business daily without a single day's interruption. Evi­ dently, there was no doubt that this record would be continued as Exchange officials stalled in their negotiations for a new contract with the UFE. WANTED LAKES ORGANIZERS In a few weeks the 1947 Lakes season will open and the Union will be in need of good seamen, members of the NMU to take jobs as shoreside organizers, ship's or­ ganizers and patrolmen in the Lakes area. IF YOU HAVE: 1. Two years sea time 2. One year in the NMU 3. Some Lakes experience 4. Capability to handle the job AND ARE INTERESTED IN BUILDING OUR UNION, write to Josh Lawrence, National Di­ rector and Mike Vargo, General Organizer at 1405 W. 9th St., Cleveland 13, Ohio. State your qualifications and experience. This is your chance to participate in the organizing program this coming season. (NMU Pilot) own affairs, because they have special problems which they un­ derstand and can handle far bet­ ter than anyone else. Separate districts do not mean ieparate unions or a division of my sort. The three Seafarers districts, together with affiliated towboat, fishermen and other maritime sections, are all solidly united in the Seafarers Inter­ national. It is the Seafarers Intemationnl which has allocated funds and forces to aid the great Lakes this season. It is important to re­ member that these funds and these forces are being sent in to aid, and not to direct or dictate. The Lakes District has laid down the policy and strategy for the coming campaign, and those who come in from the coast to help out will be guided and gov­ erned by that program. LAKES BOSSES WORRIED The Lakes operators who have long felt secure with their com­ pany union—fink hall—LCA set up, are now beginning to see the writing on the wall, and are mov­ ing heaven and hell to find a way to stop the Seafarers' steady pro­ gress. In the past years they have had everything in their favor—de­ pression, unemployment, confu­ sion and a strong organization of their own. In addition, they have had the great advantage of the big ma­ jority of Lakes seamen depend­ ing upon seasonal employment, of having to save enough during the spring and summer to carry them through the winter. Now they see the picture of Lakes seamen joining an Inter­ national Union and being able to sail anywhere at anytime, thus breaking the stranglehold of sea­ sonal and sectional employment. This picture is a nightmare to the Lakes operators and to the powerful steel trust because, in order to move the tens of thous­ ands of tons of iron ore from the Mesabi range to the steel mills, they must have uninterrupted op­ eration of the ore carriers. To maintain this operation they t 4. it Panic seems to be hitting the First Halt In 75 Years boys on Seventeenth Street. It's When the bigwigs came down to the Exchange Tuesday morn­ not longer "every member an or­ ing, the 75-year record was ended. A bunch of Seafarers had knock­ ganizer" — now they must have ed off the $45,000,000-a-day institution, in the interest of trade- the same qualifications as a can­ union solidarity. One day of this was enough. Not a nickel s worth didate for office; even more qual­ of cotton business had been transacted. By midnight, the ink was ifications, in fact, for the adver­ drying on the UFE contract. And the Seafarers went back to their tisement specifies that they must business of shipping. They had done another good day's work be "capable." Anyway it seems for the labor movement. that in spite of last years debacle For the one day of this highly successful SlU-conducted strike they are going to make some kind the cotton market had been dead. But one stock continued to go of effort to wash their dirty linen up—the Seafarers' reputation had soared still higher in the eyes of this year. the public and the labor movement. In the meanwhile, the Seafar­ Our handling of the strike brought loud praise from the United ers' drive is underway and fast Financial Employes. The SlU-method employed was a wholesale getting in full swing. Actually success. Instead of picketing the one or two floors involved in the the drive has never stopped. beef, the Seafarers strength knocked off the entire 23-story build­ Rank and file Seafarers have been ing. It was done in the usual all-out point-of-production manner. working all winter, and the first The UFE has expressed its deep gratitude to us for the handling ships fitting out found the SIU and organization of this beef. They say they never stop thanking on the job showing the advan­ the SIU membership. That's mighty nice to hear, and the member­ tages of real unionism, and man­ ship can rightly be proud of the latest link they have forged in ning the Lakes boats to do the trade-union solidarity. toughest, hardest work in the But aside from the benefits this swift strjke-victory had for coldest, meanest weather. the UFE and labor in general, it had distinct advantages for the The Lakes are never going to Seafarers itself—advantages that can be gained only in the midst be organized by outside forces. of a big beef at the point of porduction. Twenty-five years sea-service It provided some excellent further schooling in beef-handling doesn't make an organizer, and for many of our younger members. The younger lads got a first the most brilliant spellbinder in hand chance to develop some of their own strike strategy and to the world won't get anywhere accumulate some of the necessary know-how.- This beef, then, was unless he knows the problems of of all-important value to us. Every such opportunity goes into the Lakes seamen. Seafarers Bank of Savvy. When the time comes that we have to The Seafarers' policy has al­ pull a beef ourselves, that accumulating savvy will pay off with ways been, and will always be, dividends. to organize on the point of pro­ duction with active working sea­ Seafarers Push For More Cabbage men doing the greatest amount Tuesday marked another important step for the Seafarers. It of organizing. This is what won was the annotmcement of the membership's decision to request the I in Isthmian, and this' is what will operators to open negotiations for substantial increases in oin- wage win on the Lakes. scales. Notification was sent to the operators following a special THE LAKES DISTRICT meeting in the New York Hall and concurred in by all other ports. SAN FRANCISCO — Running To insure the fullest autonomy unopposed, Harry Lundeberg was We are asking for a substantial increase in the wage scales as we are entitled to under provision of our contracts. We are doing this in the conduct of Lakes affairs, re-elected to another term as Sec­ in an attempt to overtake the spiraling cost of living. Prices of the Lakes District function in the retary-Treasurer of the Sailors foods and other commodities have gone up terrifically since last same manner as the Atlantic and Union of the Pacific. This was Gulf, and Pacific Districts. year, and what we gained then has practically been wiped out. announced in the official returns They elect their own officials, of voting in the annual election Busy Days Ahead For The SIU make their own decisions, handle held during December, 1946, and The push for more cabbage is only the lead-off in a series of their own finances and handle January, 1947. important events for the Seafarers. Our calendar for the coming their own organizational drives. Besides the election of officers, months is heavy with top-rating stuff. There's the National Labor Lakes Seafarers members have two propositions, submitted to Relations Board hearing, scheduled for March 24, in New York, the same priviliges as any other referendum vote, were adopted which should end the NMU's prolonged effort to prevent Isthmian Seafarers member and may reg­ by overwhelming majorities. The seamen from getting union wages and working conditions under the ister and ship, attend meetings first authorized the raising of banner of the SIU, for which these men voted. and speak their piece, in any SIU dues to $2.50 per month, the extra Coming up also is the annual Port Agent's Conference, which hall anywhere. half dollar to be put into a build­ will have a considerable number of important problems to face. The great difference between ing fund to be used exclusively The SIU will be represented, too, at the Washington conference of the NMU setup and the Seafar­ for obtaining and maintaining maritime unions, which will discuss possible joint action to secure ers' democratic structure is simp­ Halls in headquarters and the a beneficial recodification of the maritime laws, and to remove the ly this: In the NMU, the Lakes branches. Coast Guard froni the necks of seafaring men. Then there's the are dominated body and soul by The second proposal favored a Seafarers International Convention, to be held in Chicago. This the overwhelming voting power $10.00 assessment to replenish the will be followed by the conference, in the same city, of the Ameri­ of the salt water membership. strike fund. can Federation of Labor's powerful Maritime Trades Department. The big majority of their offi­ Meanwhile, the Seafarers' all-out drive to bring the benefits cials, and all of their policy, are Other successful candidates of our Union wages and working conditions to the thousands of un- imported from the coast. were Harry Johnson for Assist­ orgahized seaman saling on the Great Lakes will be proceeding The Seafarers International ant Secretary, and Morris Weis­ under full steam. structure on the other hand is ar­ berger for New York Agent. In The next few months won't have any dull moments for the ranged to give the Lakes seamen the most hotly contested race, Seafarers. the fullest power to conduct their Carl Christiansen, incumbent must have a constant and avail­ able manpower supply to crew the ships. They know that once the Lakes seamen are organized their labor monopoly is broken and that they must accede to the Unions' demands for adequate wages, for decent living and working conditions. NO PLAY The Lakes bosses like to point out that, for many years, they maintained a high wage scale. This is a bunch of baloney. Dur­ ing those years the Lakes sea­ men worked two watches and lived in crowded quarters. Things are much different on the Lakes from the .coast. A full night ashore is a rare thing. The boats load fast and discharge fast, with seldom enough time to get ashore long enough for a bottle of beer. Towards the closing months of the season, and in the early months, the Lakes are just as rough, cold and miserable as the North Atlantic, and many a Lakes seaman has died because the op­ erators were too greedy to fit the boats out properly for the season. On top of all this is the fact that the big majority of seamen had to earn enough in seven months to fill out a year. The Lakes season is "all work and no play" and, to compensate for this, a seasonal wage sufficient for a year should and must be paid. The Lakes seaman is the most overworked and underpaid mari­ time worker in America today. The New York Times in the Satui-day, March 1, issue reflects the attention that is nationally being cast on the Seafarers drive in an article which in addition to quoting the Seafarers Leg, States; "According to reports ore shipments from the Mesabi mountain mines this year are expected to exceed the peak year of the war by 2,000,000 tons. To handle the cargoes, it was said, deep-water lighters are being sent back to the * Lakes and a number of new (Coutinmd on Page 7) Lundeberg, Weisberger Reelected By Sailors Union Membership Honolulu Agent, beat out Maxie Weisbarth by twenty-five votes. OFFICIALS NAMED In each port the officials are as follows: San Francisco: Dispatcher, Joe Pohorence; Patrolmen, R. G. An­ derson, A1 Maniscalco, A. J. Pawlick; and Dan Sullivan. Jack Barton was elected Coos Bay Agent. Seattle Agent Ed Coeater was re-elected, and James Burke was the successful Patrolman candi­ date in that Port. Jack Dwyer succeeds himself as New York Patrolman, and the same is true of Harlin Snow as Wilmington Agent. The two new­ ly elected Wilmington Patrolmen are Charles Brenner and Fred Martin. The new Portland officials are John Massey, Agent, and Charles Atkins, Patrolman. Five trustees, A. J. Anderson, Arthur Burke, Harry Johnson, Harry Lundeberg, and Harold Snow, were also elected. �T H E S<E A-E AEI E R « EXkC Pago; Tour mm Baltimore Finds Time To Heip UFE in New York itwiiic... By WILLIAM (CURLY) HENTZ QUESTION:—The Agents Conference will discuss the Seafarers Log in relation to next yearns activities. Wliat suggestions do you have that would improve the Log? ABNER MAXEY. Chief Cook: PAUL DAVIS. Wiper: I'd like io see a sports page in our paper. The baseball season is coming up and when at sea I'd like to be able to keep up with Ihe baseball news. The LOG is the one paper we all read no matler what port we ciome to. and so sport news would be available to us. It would also be a good thing if the LOG carried more educa­ tional stuff. Being away at sea. we have little chance for real union education, and we could learn a lot if the LOG ran articles frequently about such subjects. As far as I'm concerned the LOG is tops, but if you really want suggestions, here .are mine. First, more pictures. Second, more articles from Frenchy Michelet. And it would also be a good thing if we could increase the size of the paf>er to about 20 pages. May­ be we could see advertising to help defray the costs of an en­ larged paper. The LOG carries all the news of interest to sea­ men. and we in the SIU are damn proud of our Union news­ paper. GEORGE BERRY. FOW: I think the paper should be enlarged. If that was done, the jLOG could be used for doing a much better organizational job. Our Union paper is the medium through which unorganized men keep up with what we are doing, and an enlarged paper would al­ low more space for that. Another suggestion would be to print schedules of ship arrivals and departures. That would be inter­ esting to the membership, besides being valuable. The LOG is swell, but with these improvements, it could be even better. Friday, Martlr 7, 1947 JIMMY CRESCITELLI. Ch. Cook: Someone brought up the sub­ ject of a Spanish page. I'm for it. but is it practical? If we start that, then we may have to put in a Swedish page, an Italian page, or what have you. One thing I would like to see in the LOG and t{hat is the full text of the Sea­ men's Bill of Rights, just as it is being discussed now. The LOG should also print a complete list­ ing of all SIU ships paying off each week in Uiiited States ports. The LOG is an excellent paper, . but these improvements might make it even better. BALTIMORE — Shipping this week has . been pretty good, and the Patrolmen have been kept quite busy paying off, signing on, and settling beefs. Recently we have had quite a few talks with Calmar Line of­ ficials, and I believe that we can look forward to better relations with this outfit. The chow and general conditions should im­ prove. Hope that circumstances don't prove me a liar! Down here we heard that an affiliate AFL union, the United Financial Employes, were having trouble with the Cotton Exchange in New York. Six of the boys volunteered to visit New York to give the UFE a hand with its picketing and other strike chores. HOSPITAL NEWS On February 6, the crew of the SS Stephanie turned over $70.00 to be divided among the hospi­ talized Brothers in the Baltimore Marine Hospital, and on Febru­ ary "20, $36.00 was turned over by the crew of the SS Pothier and SS Joseph Hews. In the past few weeks the fol­ lowing Brothers have received the regular weekly benefits from Brother John Taurin, Baltimore Hospital Committee: Francis R. O'Brien, William L. Gillespie, M. J. Walsh (twice), Frank M. Krause, Clyde E Mil­ ler, Charles L. Simmons (twice), T. A. Carroll (twice), Peter Lo­ pez (twice), Matthew Carson (twice), T. Babkowski (twice), John Dudko, Casimir Honorowski, Ernest J. Sidney, W. W. Lawton, C. Cates, E, Cattiz, David Heron, and L. McCune. Determined To End Bad Shipboard Conditions B.C. Seafarers Pass Word On Four Isthmian Crews Hold Meeting In Cakutta Scab Newspaper It's only a hop, skip, and a jump until the notoriously anti­ union IsUunlan Steamship Com­ pany will be forced to sit down across the bargaining table with a* negotiating committee from the SIU. But for unlicensed seamen sailing Isthmian ships, that isn't good enough. They want action now, and they just won't sail any longer under Captain Bligh con­ ditions. Of course, they realize that the job to force Isthmian to bargain is complicated by fhe stooge role ; now being played by the NMU, • but even so they are resolved to ' force some kind of action, and right now. '• Four Isthmian crews, from the ' SS Steel Artisan, the SS Mem' phis City, the SS Beaver Victory, • and the SS Citadel Victory, hap" pened to meet in Calcutta, India. Like seamen do, they exchanged « views. " How's the chow? was one ques' tion. The officers okay? .was an'other? How are the conditions and overtime? twas the way one guy put it. And the answer to iall the questions was, "Pretty poor." So these seamen, from all dif'^rent unions, held a meeting. Represented were the Seafarers International Union, the National Maritime Union, the MEBA, the Pursers, and some non-union characters who learned a good union lesson. BOUSING MEETMG They met in Calcutta, on Feb­ ruary 14, and they had grievances galore. The conditions were de­ plorable, and they agreed that they could no longer sail Isth­ mian ships under the prevailing conditions. They criticized the food, the way the officers overrode all beefs, and especially the fact that Isthmian was stalling and refus­ ing to institute decent conditions aboard their ships. This dissatisfaction led to one result. By a unanimous vote, the seamen present agreed that they could no longer sail Isthmian un­ der poor conditions. They de­ cided that as soon as each ship returned to the continental United States, they would make damned sure that these bad con­ ditions would end. That shouldn't take long. Ex­ cept for the finky tactics of the NMU, the Isthmian Steamship Company would have had to put up or shut up long before this idea, the meeting also agreed to By HUGH MURPHY pass the word about the outcome of this meting, to other Isthmian VANCOUVER, B.C. —For the ships and to . urge each vessel to past nine months, 95 members of take similar action. the Intei-national Typographers. Union, AFL, have been locked out by the "Vancouver Daily Pro­ vince." During this period this newspaper has been printed by scab labor. The Southam Company, owner of the paper, has been spreading lies, rumors and using every con­ ceivable propaganda weapon to discredit the union, even though it is the recognized agent for the men locked out. Where the Typographers once enjoyed a harmonious relation-, ship with the company, they now find a brick wall facing them. when it comes to negotiations for a contract. The company has im­ ported a phony out-of-town outfit to set its type, and says it now' has a union, therefore, no soap. This action has all the ear­ A chance meeling of -four Isthmian crews tin Calcutta, India, marks of union-busting, and as developed info action when the men started to compare notes. union .men, the Seafarers here They found that on all four ships conditions were bad, the of­ refuse to buy this scab sheet, and" ficers slave-drivers, and Ihe food meager and of poor quality. we urge all American seamen to refuse to buy the paper while in What fhey decided then bodes no good for the Isthmian Steam­ Vancouver. < ship Company. The four crews, in a mass meeting, resolved We're behind the Typograph­ that as soon as each ship returned-to the continental United ers in their fight,, so we want .to States, they would take steps to make.sure that Isthmian in­ pass this itip along to all Sea­ farers. stitutes union conditions on all its ships. time. Sooner or later, the NMU will run out of stalling moves, and then Isthniian will have to do business with the SIU. Just so Isthmian will get the �rriday, M«i«h 7/1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five sa- No Rotary Shipping For ISU Men; Friends^ Reiatives Gome First • m rv e-Ts:^ By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO — Shipping for the face. They will never back any­ spring fit-out has started- here one up as long as the LSU is not and we are expecting a call for operated by the rank and file. more men during the coming This would never happen in week. the SIU. This man's rights would After looking around the wa­ be protected all the way down terfront I saw no signs of acti­ the line. He would have job se­ vity on the outside ship» as yet, curity and the right to make a so I guess they will fit-out a little living. He would"t need puU Silence this week from lh« later. with anyone. Branch Agents of the follow­ By SALVADOR COLLS The only qualifier in the Sea­ On the organizing front, the in­ ing ports: dications are that the SIU is farers for a job is to have a book SAN JUAN—In the past week we must live up to our agree-TAMPA strong with the Lakes seamen and be willing to work. we have had a few crewmembers ments. and can expect favorable re­ HOUSTON who thought that hitting Puerto OLD PRACTICE Right now we have four SIU sponse when the drive opens. NORFOLK Rico meant a vacation. I guess ships and one SUP ship in poPt, This pra tice of nepotism, hir­ JACKSONVILLE they thought being drunk, miss­ and there is not a beef hanging I have been talking to some CHARLESTON ing a watch or two, or faking fire on any of them. Other than members of the NMU who state ing relativv..^, has been going on PORT ARTHUR sickness was okay down here, but this, I am soaking up the s\m that there are indications of the within the LaRe Carriers for CORPUS CHRISTI they found they were wrong. NMU falling- apart within itself. years. Some of you oldtimers without envy for anyone, includ­ SAVANNAH Also they feel the NMU's chances who have sailed these ships know I had to pull a few men off a ing Joe Algina and Ray Gonzales. on- the Lakes this year are slim that score. Are you going to let The deadline for port re­ ship or two and put them to I haven't had time to hit the let them do it again? due to their failure last year. ports, monies due, etc., is the beachcombing for a few weeks, night clubs or meet any of the There are plenty of men who Monday preceeding publica­ to teach them that the shipping senoritas. They told me of the conditions tion.- While every effort will rules and contracts mean the after the NMU strike last year, have started shipping on the CAN USE SHIPS be made to use in the current same down here as they do in whereby they worked around the Lakes since the war when they I see by the Log that all ports issue material received after New York or any other port. clock doing penalty work without stopped this practice due to the are doing a lot of shipping. Well, scarcity of men. that date, space commitments If this sort of thing keeps up, any compensation. When they we can use some of it down here generally do not permit us to I'll be a very busy man. Don't They aren't aware of this prac­ on the Enchanted Isle, even with do so. get me wrong, however. I don't tice. It is the job of you oldthe Ponce outfit keeping the Isl­ get a kick but of doing this, but timers to tell them the score. and busy. Tell them how you used to sit The shoregang here is keeping up in one of the Lake Carriers' all the members working, and I Halls and see job after job go do mean all. Sometimes I have out over the telephone while you had to call the ILA and UTM for were getting callouses on your men. fanny. We're getting a preview of the If every man learns the score, By EDDIE HIGDON 1947 baseball season down hero we can stop this phony set-up. with the Yankees doing their; PHILADELPHIA—This port, is job, as is our Dispatcher Harry •When every man ships through a spi'ing training in this citJ^ It union hall, the relatives will have bursting with jobs for men of the Collins. J5 i looks like I'll have to get a year's Finding suitable quarters to get their jobs honestly and Seafarers International Union. bellyful of baseball before April All men with ratings who want still a tremendously difficult job. that's the way it should be. 15th when the season opens. As took it up with a patrolman, he to ship are advised to get over Mighty few worthwhile spots are Rotary shipping from the union only shrugged his shoulders and hall is the democratic way, and to Philly in a hurry. available, and other unions are far as baseball tips are concern­ ed, I'm not talking. walked away. no boot-licking or dough under Men are still needed in Phila­ experiencing the same troubles in this respect that we are. the table is necessary to get a job delphia for the crewing up of two BROWNED OFF FINAL DISPATCH in the Seafarers. Seatrain vessels scheduled to sail These fellows were really Our otherwise bright report March 9 and 12. There are plenty browned off. They had walked of jobs in all three departments. this week is shadowed by the All seamen who have served . the picketlines, believing they Two Seatrain ships have already passing of one of our Brothers. six months on Canadian vessels . were fighting for better condi­ Seafarer Raleigh Begley, who left the Port. where War Risk bonus was tions; but when they returned to The ships will each carry one held Book No. 35605, died in a lo­ work they found themselves paid between Sept. 10, 1939 and Bosun, 3 Quartermasters and AB cal hospital last week. worse off than before, due to the A local boy, Brother Begley April 1, 1944, should apply to tickets, 3 AB Maintenance, 3 AB . sell-out by the NMU in their was well-liked by all who sailed the Director of Merchant Sea­ Car Deckinen, 3 ABs, 3 OS. The lost drive to convert the Lakes with him. Just prior to his death ABs must have full tickets. men, Department of Transport, seamen. he had been aboard an Isthmian Ottawa, Ontario for the Mer­ Full complements are also ship which he left in New York Things are not all love and By EARL R. SMITH chant Seamen's "Special needed for the Stewards and En­ when he became ill. kisses with the men in the Lakes Bonus." gine Departments. The black CHARLESTON — After seeing A floral wreath from his ship­ Seamen's Union either. This week gang will include an Assistant Charleston's name up there in the The application deadline for mates and Brothers of the SIU a former member of that organi­ Electrician at $240 per month. was sent to the funeral. The SIU the bonus has been extended to zation, who sailed on one of their "No News" box for so many So if you want work, head for extends its deepest sympathy to March 31, 1947, by Order-inships, came into the Hall with months, I'm finally going to send in some news from this port. this port. No registering is nec­ Brother Begley's parents. Council P.O. 204. the story as to how he lost his job. essary, just show your book and Unfortunately, this sudden He told me he was being let you've got a job. "We're issuing , out this year because the Cap­ burst of news cannot be accom­ a call to the other ports to pass tain of the ship has a relative panied by a report of good ship­ word of this abundance of jobs whom he is placing in this man's ping. For the past few weeks to the men in their halls. position. The seaman I spoke to shipping has been very slow We had a couple of payoffs this had been with the "company for with practically no activity tak­ week. The Longfellow of the a good number of years, all dur­ ing place in this port. By JOHNNY JOHNSTON Waterman outfit came in here, as ing the time that the going was WitJi about 45 men- on: the did a Bull line scow which was tough for a company due to the beach here, all we ask for is a NEW ORLEANS — Down here any beefs on a ship he has plenty recently turned over by Calmar lack of seamen. in the sunny south the carnival of time to straighten out every-, few ships to call here for crews. out on the West Coast. Both pay­ season is over. The weather is thing before the payoff starts. Now that a relative of someone The bad part of the whole thing offs were clean. good and so is the shipping. connected with the company has is that there are no jobs in sight, With every ship that signs on Prospects are good for next one of his family out of work, but who can tell, maybe things If any of you members want here, we make sure that it has ] week, too. Waterman expects they bounce the first working will pick, up all of a sudden. to get away from the snowballs a bundle of the last two editiona about four or five of their vessels stiff they come across to provide and tough weather, come on of the Seafarers Log. Last week we moved from a berth for their poor kinsman. across the street to our present to pull into this port for payoffs down to the Crescent City and In this way we are sure that within the next few days. enjoy our southern hospitality. Do you think this phony union address. Everyone seems pleased thej- will be distributed to all With all this activity, the Sea­ would back up this' man in his with the new set-up, and it looks The members who are riding places where seamen hang out in | beef? You guessed it right. like it will be more suitable for farers Hall is running along the Mississippi ships on the South foreign ports. It's a good idea They'd just blow smoke in his our needs. It is a nice place, a smoothly. Charlie Bushj newly American run are really on the and insures seamen in all porta | trifle small, but it is just about elected Patrolman has taken over ball. These ships are a Patrol­ of receiving the Log. his duties, and is doing a bang-up man's dream. Everyone that I what we want. Just one suggestion befora I have met since I have been down' signing off: When your ship ar­ I hope the new Hall will in­ here has had everything ready rives in port be sure to have one spire me to write a report on ac­ The Charleston Branch of for the boarding Patrolman. of the Departmental Delegates | tivity in this port more often. In If you don't find linea the SIU has moved its offices All books collected, how much go ashore and call the Hall. fact, I'll even make myself a when you go aboard ypur from Society Street to 424 a man wants to pay, the disputed resolution to try to send in some ship, notify , the Hall at once. That's the only way we can be I King Street. The Charleston overtime set up and the ship's sure the ship is in port and at| news at least every week. A telegram from Le Havre or Agent reports that the new minutes and the repair list were what dock. Singapore won't do you any Hall is a trifle small but suits Perhaps my reports to come always in readiness. good. It's your bed and you Yas suh, the old south is sure! the purpose of Seafarers will be a little brighter concern­ This kind of cooperation helps humming. Come on down, and have to lie in it. shipping out of that port. ing shipping and business in this J the Patrolman; so- if there are say hello. port. NO NEWS?? SIU Agreements Are The Same, Whether In San Juan Or New York If You Want A Job In A Hurry, Make A Beeline For Philadelphia CANADIAN BONUS Do Not Come, Says Qharleston, Shipping Is Slow Mississippi Crewmen On The Ball In N.O.—Have Ships In Top Shape ATTENTION! �Page Six SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 7, 1947 Thirty Ships Will Be Crewed In Mohile; New Hall Is Ready Ships Coining Out Of Boneyard Leave New York Short Of Ratings By JOE ALGINA By CAL TANNER commence sailing, business will also be in excellent shape. There is still a crying need for rated men, and it looks like that situation will continue. If there are any men in other ports who want to ship out of New York, get in touch with me and I will tell you how things shape up at that time. The SS Yarmouth, Eastern Steamship Company, started on its first trip from New York to Nassau. The Yarmouth is a clean ship, and the men should have a good run. There are still a few minor matters to be squared away, but they will be taken care of when the vessel returns. Due to the inci-ease in shipping, By EINAR NORDAAS this Hall will have a Night Dis­ DULUTH—The maritime coun­ patcher on duty from 5 p. m. to 9 cil at the head of the Lakes got p. m. on weekdays, until 5 p. m. off to a good start at a meeting February 11. . Delegates from Ashland, Superior, and Duluth were present. MOBILE—The Mobile mem­ I is having to call for crews from bership is moving into the new Tampa to Galveston. Normally shipping is good here Hall at 1 St. Lawrence Street j but now it is more than good. this week, getting out of the Waterman and Alcoa are taking creaking, dusty firetrap that has thirty ships out of the boneyard, been the Union Hall too long. fifteen each. The new Hall is large enough Furnishing thirty full crews to hold meetings in, well-ventil­ with no one but "live ones" on ated and strongly constructed. the beach is a tough job in any All of the offices, the recreation language. Several ships have room and Dispatcher's section are been crewed entirely with permit on the same floor, making it easy cards. for the membership and officials NEW YORK—Right after the war ended the shipowners put away a number of ships in the boneyard. Now the tide has turn­ ed and the ships are coming out again. That means that we are busy supplying crews for these ves­ sels. Shipping has therefore been very good, and when the ships By JOHNNY JOHNSTON The Declaration of Policy of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 leaves no doubt as to the inten­ tions of the United States regard­ ing the transportation of its do­ mestic and foreign commerce. to keep in constant contact with STRAIGHTENING 'EM OUT Let us examine the law, and each other. All isn't a bed of roses, how­ hope that the people of the Unit­ Some furnishings and recrea­ ever. The.se ships have been laid ed States, whose" hard earned tional facilities have already been up for a long time and need a money built our present fleet installed, and in a very short pe­ hell of a lot of work to make will not allow it to fall apart now riod everything from a well them ship-shape, and in proper that the war is over. Here is the stocked library to checkerboards condition for Seafarers crews. way the law reads: and a pool table will be available. All of these ships are going on It is necessary for the Na­ Now since the sales talk about the European run carrying coal tional Defense and develop­ ment of its foreign and domes­ the fine new Hall is over, here's and grain cargoes. This is a cold tic commerce that the United the reason it's being advertised weather run and damned uncom­ fortable if the heat, hotwater, and States have a merchant marine, to the whole membership. (a) Sufficient to carry its do­ Mobile needs men of all ratings foc'sles aren't in the right kind of E. L. Slaugher, ILA Vice-Presi­ mestic water borne commerce and needs them bad. At the pres­ shape. dent, opened the meeting by and a substantial portion of the ent time, and this has been the In addition the Union has to reading the preamble to the AFL water borne export and import case for the past month. Mobile be careful to see that the right Maritime Trades Department con­ foreign commerce of the United equipment, blankets, etc., and stitution, and explained the pur­ States and to provide shipping slopchests with plenty of foul pose of the Department. service on all routes essential weather gear are aboard. for maintaining the flow of such Temporary officers were elect­ The companies want to pull the domestic and foreign water ed, and the next meeting has ships out of the boneyard one day borne commerce at all times, been scheduled to be held in Su­ and (b) Capable of serving as a j perior, about March 15. naval and military auxiliary in St. Paul was the scene of a time of war or national emer­ meeting on February 20, called to Saturdays, and from 10 in the gency, and (c) Owned and op­ rally labor to combat the reac­ morning to 3 in the afternoon on Since last Thursday afternoon, erated under the United States tionary forces in the State Legis­ Sundays and holidays. February 27, pickets have once Flag by citizens of the United lature. The Legislature is now HOOVER'S BRAINSTORM again been marching back and States in so far as may be trying to do away with the closed forth in front of the shipyards of I see by the papers that Her­ practicable, and (d) Composed Ira S. Bushey and Sons. shop, and to pass other anti-labor bert Hoover has a brilliant idea of the best equipped, safest, and laws. The pickets had been removed about giving away 75 U. S. ships most suitable types of vessels, About 600 delegates, represent­ constructed in the United States when it looked as if Bushey to the Germans so that they can ing about 150,000 AFL members' and manned with an efficient would negotiate in good faith, but carry their own UNRRA supplies. in the State, were present. Byj on that day the company made That's an idea no better than citizen personnel. unanimous vote they passed a • It is hereby declared to be the impossible demands and so Local any lie had wlien he was in resolution appealing to all of our| policy of the United States to 13 of the CIO Shipyard Workers and sign them on the next but the White House. the Union has answered "no local unions to voluntarily create; foster the development and en­ hit the line again. It would soon lead to compe­ dice." a special legislative fund, to be' courage the maintenance of All the company wanted, be­ Before any ship is signed on, devoted exclusively to legislative tition, and lowering the standards such a merchant marine. of American seamen. These ships fore they would agree to sit down the ship delegates and the shorematters, both State and National. ^ ^ would not take food, etc., to Ger­ across the bargaining table, was side officials make a full inspec­ There's a 75 year old grand­ LAKES TO BOOM many and then return to the that the union should forget all tion, and if everything isn't up to mother who plans to resume her U. S. without cargo. So they about past disagreements and to Seafarers' standards then the merchant marine career soon, We expect a busy season on the would bring back cargo, and then waive the reinstatement of two ship sits at the dock until the and since she is the only women Lakes this year, with shipments the rat race would be on. men who were ordered taken faults are corrected. of coal and grain starting early, | holding an unlimited license as back by the National Labor Re­ When Hoover was President he a merchant marine Skipper, it is South Atlantic has been trying weather permitting. Coal stock­ lations Board. piles in this vicinity are rapidly said that he was going to put two quite likely that some of the SIU to do some chiseling on repairs The disagreements involved 50 but they have been convinced disappearing, and with six more' cars in every garage and a chick­ members may be on a ship with arbitrations won by the union that the only way they can sail weeks of winter remaining the en in every pot. Well, he failed. her at some time. situation might become pretty' Now that we seamen have a The lady in question is Mrs. in the New Jersey Court of Ap­ the boneyard rustpots is to make little chicken in the pot, and we Mary Converse, who went to sea peals on January 7, 1947. As far them safe and seaworthy. tough. got it by fighting hard, he wants after the death of her husband, as the two men are concerned, About two million tons of ore to give it to Germany. and she obtained her license in i the NLRB also ruled that they MEMBERSHIP COOPERATION more than was shipped during It's a poor idea, and I hope he 1940 after plying 33,700 miles of are to be paid 15 months back the 1946 season will also prob­ The outstanding thing that has sea lanes. ' wages. happened in all the work involv­ ably be transported on the Lakes doesn't get away with it. this year. ed in the shipping boom, moving into the new Hall, the tow boat The shipyards have begun beefs, etc., is the active support work on a couple of ships in the and physical aid of the rank and Superior Yards. We understand By BLACKIE CARDULLO fired by Sun, but we couldn't get to make it legal. But it took a fire file. that on some of the ships, room the connection, so we took a close to do it. is being made for a Bosun. It is Anytime few or many men are MARCUS HOOK—Comes now look at his NMU book. In it was I went through the gate on a needed to do anything, from high-time, as these ships have a new high in low-down stunts, a neat little statement that said: Marcus Hook fire engine, as our been shorthanded since the first but so funny it had everybody in moving furniture to helping con­ This book entitles so and so to volunteer fire department an­ tact ships, a call is all that is steamships were built on the this port straining at the seams. sail with Sun Oil ships only. swered a call early in the morn­ necessary to get more than Lakes. Up to the Hall last week was a ing. Some of the guys were a bit enough volunteers. The Sun guy told us that he Brothers, when you get to the Sun Oil guy, who said he'd like surprised at my presence. went up to the NMU Hall after This membership cooperation Lakes in the spring, remember to ship with the SIU. he was fired, but was told noth­ "What the hell are you doing with the officials also helps on "How long have you been with to stop down at the Hall, and re­ ing could be done. Once he was at Sun?" . one guy wanted to the ships paying off here. member also that our big job in Sun?" we asked him. "Oh, several months," was the bounced by Sun, his union mem­ know. 1947 is to organize the Great Beefs are easier to handlb be­ bership bounced with it. guy's reply. That was right up my alley, Lakes into the SIU. cause of good, able crews and Things are tough all over, but and I answered that I was trying "Okay," we said. "Have you good ships delegates who bring in for NMU stiffs they're always to save it so the SIU could or­ got a union book?" clean ships with everything, from "Sure thing." And with this, tougher. ganize the outfit. protested overtime to repair lists, Sonny from Sun produced a book Things at the moment are mov­ Speaking of the NMU, we won­ written down in good order. entitling him to membership in der if Scotty Ross, the NMU mop, ing along smoothly but quietly the NMU. With the big volume of ship­ out here. Nothing else comes to is still cleaning the bilges. "How come you're not continu­ Last Saturday morning, for the mind except that we'd like to ping going out of Mobile, it is fast ing to sail with the NMU?" first time in my life I went know where Brother Rabbitt becoming one of the biggest and We were wondering why the through the gate of the Sun Oil spends his time these days. the membership here are going to make it the best port in the sudden change in attitude. I company without cops on either What's her name, Rabbitt? Seafarers. More next week. He answered that he had been side of me, and 15 different passes AFL Council Off To A Good Start in Ouluth Shipworkers Go Back On Line As Strike Gees On NMU INVENTS NEW DODGE TO MAKE MONEY , v.l- til �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March t. 1947 Page Seven Rateil «tolis Go Begging In Boston; Experienced Stewards Dept. Men Needed For Passenger Ships By JOHN MOGAN (h Vohmteer tkganaers BOSTON—Again this week it can be stated that the Port of Boston is showing some life, es­ pecially for the SIU. Shipping has been excellent, with jobs for rated men going begging; and business has been pretty fair. After many months of waiting the Yarmouth finally sailed from Boston. And sailed very short of experienced Stewards Depart:; ment men. It was hoped that this would be rectified upon her ar­ rival at New York, and late re­ ports have it that she was crewed up okay. The next headache will be the Evangeline, which should be ready in about sixty days. These ships carry a huge Stewards De­ partment, and since most of the department must be men of con­ siderable passenger ship experi­ ence, we had better start lining up a crew at this early date. The SS Wolf Creek paid off here on Sunday, Feb. 23. Every­ body on the ship from the Skip­ per down had some mysterious skin ailment, and all were scrat­ ching like mad. Skin specialists called in for the examinations differed radically in their opin­ ions as to what it was and how serious it might be. "One of the first things you notice about unorganized ships, says George W. Champlin, "is that everything is so petty. The officers are "petty chiselers, the company fights about petty things and tries to chisel on food, and the whole idea seems to be to show the seaman who is boss. Brother Champlin has plenty of evidence to back up his state­ ment. He recently completed a five-month trip on the SS Red Rover, Isthmian Steamship Com­ pany. From what he says, it appears that the company and its repre­ sentatives, the officers, did not hgve the courage to really make it tough for the men, but they did. try their damijdest to make GEORGE W. CHAMPLIN all the unlicensed men uncom­ fortable. Here is an example of how they More would probably have fol­ lowed if the Society For Preven­ worked: "One crewmember went to the tion of Cruelty to Animals had Chief Mate and asked for a cot," not taken the elephants off in Champlin recalled, "and he was Boston. told that when a man takes a "Needs of the men, or pro­ job ashore his employer doesn't tests by the delegates, are not give him a cot, why should he recognized on unorganized ves­ expect a cot at sea." sels," said Champlin. "When an Of course he later obtained a anti-union guy tells you that the cot, but this just shows how the boss will take care of his workers MOTH INVASION officers went out of their way to without a union, tell him that the The Patrolman sat around lis­ give the crew a hard time. only way a boss will give away tening to a lot of conversation Nor was this orneriness used anything is when he is forced to about quarantining the ship; in­ solely against the crew. In Cal­ do so by the union." deed it looked mighty serious for cutta the ship loaded 300 Rhesus Brother Champlin and the monkeys and five cow elephants. other volunteers on the Red The pachyderms became great Rover did an outstanding job. pets, and every man in the crew The NMU was snowed under by became outraged at the poor care more than two to one. which the animals received from And now all Isthmian sea­ the Chief Mate. In all the cold December men are waiting, and not too weather of the North Atlantic, patiently, for the time when the very little protection was given company will be forced to sit them, and on December 22, right down and negotiate with the By R. W. BIRMINGHAM out of Boston, two of them died. Union of their choice, the SIU. Port Miami Holds A Lively Branch Meeting Bill Brown's experiences aboard the SS Cape Domingo, Isthmian, proved one thing very definitely. As far as he is concerned now, the worst enemies of unionism are not the company executives or the company stiffs, but the or­ ganizers for the NMU. "These guys came aboard," said Bill, "and tried to turn the ship's library into Joe Stalin's private propaganda library. By their record, and from what they told crewmembers, they are the biggest finks that ever lived." But the NMU organizers could not do much with the men of the Cape Domingo, and outside of a couple of comrades, the rest of the crew stuck together and made the best of a bad trip. As. is the case in evei-y trip on an unorganized ship, this trip was also plenty rough. The food was poor and scarce, overtime was practically unheard of, and the officers went out of their way to lord it over the' unlicensed per­ sonnel. But all bad things have to come to an end, and so will Simon Degree Mates and Skippers, no overtime, and hungry meals. In the case of the Isthmian Steamship Company, those things are coming to an end very fast, and it is only a matter of time before Isthmian men will be re­ ceiving the benefits of an SIU contract. Not everything was bad oh the trip of the Cape Domingo. In Honolulu the men had a chance BILL BROWN to go ashore, and although Ihey were disappointed with the USS in that place, there were other amusements to make up for it. According to Brother Brown, the Hawaiian Islands are every­ thing they are cracked up to be. Besides having some fun in the spots where the vessel touch­ ed, Bill says the fact that they had a good crew made the trip bearable. But with SIU representation. Bill Brown is sure that all the bad featui-es of sailing Isthmian will be erased. He sailed on an unorganized ship to bring the SIU message to those men, and he is ready to continue for the same reason. MIAMI—Last week we held a pretty good meeting in this sunny Florida port with about 50 mem­ bers- present, which is very good considering this is a small port. Among the items of business was a motion carried unanimous­ ly to have the Agent contact the P&O at the earliest possible time to straighten out the que.stion of loss of clothing through the ship's laundry, and in the event that conditions did not improve the company be held responsible for all losses. Also a motion was passed that the P&O be contacted regarding screening of the crew's mess and the installation of a steam table and an ice box. Charles Starling, the former Miami Agent was given a vote of thanks for the good work he did while he was in this port. Charlie has left to take his elected post of Savannah Agent. Good luck to you in your new job, Chai-lie. We then opened the floor to Good and Welfare and the boys really hit the deck hard. Out of it all developed a good point worth remembering. A member pointed out the fact that the baggage carriers in Ha­ vana are strongly organized, and will, at the asking, give us all the backing that we may ask for in the future. This is something for us to keep in mind if we ever run into any difficulty in that port. After everyone had spoken his piece, the boys lowered their blood pressure and the meeting was adjourned. a while. Then somebody discov­ facts were that merchant seamen ered that the "browntail moth" were "draft dodgers" and seekers had invaded the ship in Vene­ after the "soft dollar." zuela, and had gotten into the Needless to say, this testimony linen. And so, of course, when met with a storm of protest, the linen was next changed, which still continues in the local everybody aboard became in­ newspapers. fected. ' VFW LUKEWARM It was judged as not too seri­ ous; the ship was held up several The VFW spokesman, though days while the crew was treated opposed to the bill as written, tes­ at the hospital and the linen re­ tified that his organization would newed, after which she got away undoubtedly go along with any —with most of the crew still bill to provide rehabilitation scratching out of habit. training and hospitalization for Also on the same Sunday the Merchant Marine veterans. Casa Grande paid off in Portland, In other words, the VFW is in­ Maine. (Saturday afternoon and clined to look favorably on some Sunday payoffs are getting to be phases of the bill, and is temper­ routine.) ate in its opposition to the pres­ This ship paid off in good ent 'oill. shape; but at sign-on the old beef The American Legion, how­ about the coastwise articles came' ever, is decidedly unsympathetic. up again. j The following Brothers donat­ It should be clear to all hands | ed one dollar apiece to the Sea­ that when they take a tanker job farers in the Brighton Marine with straight coastwise articles Hospital: A. Smith, F. Gabor and they are not going to sail protect­ J. Samuel. ed by the SIU transportation So much for this week. We'll riders; then, with this fact in be back in the news next week, mind, they don't have to throw with, I hope, more good news of in for a job on a tanker. excellent shipping. Once on board, however, it is a costly nuisance to have a crew sending for a Patrolman, who is powerless to do anything about the transportation beef. Two Watermans, Antinious and the M. Lamar, paid off this week also. The Antinious payoff was perfect; but a little overtime trouble and the firing of an AB When the SS Daniel Willard developed on the Lamar, which at this writing is in the process paid off - recently in Baltimore, crewmembers donated approxim­ of being settled. ately $50.00 to Seafarers now re­ GOOD PAYOFFS cuperating at the Silver City SanAlso paying off during the itorium in New Mexico. week were the Fort Christiana, The crew also donated an equal Pacific tanker; the Benjamin amount to the Haas-Hatgimisios Coston, Union Sulphur; and the Fund. The crewmembers, and Cannon Beach, Pacific tanker. the amount they contributed are Together with calls from the as follows; ships in transit, these payoffs Obert Morgan, $5.00; Daniel B. made it a pretty busy week, with White, $20.00; Dewey Fillikin, all kinds of jobs to be had. $5.00; Donald Pitman, $5.00; LonIn addition, we had a little ex­ nie Fulbright, $5.00; Lawrence tra-curricular business in the Ganbj', $5.00; W. D. Hayner, $4.00; Anthony C. Parker, $8.00; M. O. Brightwell, $5.00; E. J. Ware, $3.00; L. W. Gray, $5.00; ItsOAl'T KMOiO E. Z. Markham, $5.00; Leon E. KJHiCri vJAy TO TdRW Toupin, ,$5 00; C. M. Sileox, .$5.00; D. D. Lupton. $10.00; Thomas W. Burke, $5.00; John G. Drauch, $5.00; L. Higgenbottom, Jr., $4.00; R. B. Waters, $2.00; H. J. Bouch­ er, $10.00. Wlllard Crew Makes Donations To Hospitalized form of a committee hearing at the State House with regard to petitioning Congress to take ac­ tion on the House bill now pend­ ing in Congress, which bill would extend to rnerchant seamen a mo­ dified GI Bill of Rights. Well, the commies were there in force, and loused up the hear­ ing with irrelative attacks on the "dirty capitalists" who own the ships. The legislative agent for the communist party, and the spokes­ men for the American Youth for Democracy (formerly the Young Communist League) outfit were both threatened with ejection from the hearing. Then, in opposition, came the spokesman for the American Le­ gion, who testified that, since he had sat out the war on a draft board, he knew his facts, and the Seafarers Ready For Lakes Drive {Contimied from Page 3) vessels are being hastily con­ structed." This is a clear indication that the steel trust and other Lakes operators are going to make mil­ lions of dollars, and that they can well afford to pay the Lakes seamen the increases in wages long overdue. It is going to be a boom year for the bosses, and the Seafarers International Union is fully de­ termined to make it a boom year for the seaman or muffle the op­ erators' boom to an inaudible pop. A good job this season means that the LCA is smashed, the grasp of the steel trust broken and the Lakes seamen organiz;ed in the best damn Union in the . 41 world, the Seafarers. . wil �Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. March 7. 1947 UFE Beats Cotton Exchange With SlU Aid Beef-winning Seafarers pause for a moment on picketline to cooperate with the Log photographer. Except for this in­ stance. lines never stopped moving until beef was won. Passengers stepping down from the "El" station across the street from the paralyzed Cotton Exchange were greeted with literciture giving the lowdown on the big beef. Most of those who read the leaflets, or saw the picketlines. were sym­ pathetic to the strikers. (Continued from Page 1) finitely that the support of the SIU-SUP and other AFL unions would not be withdrawn until the beef was settled. So he ad­ vised his client to accept the com­ promise which had been worked out by the UFE and Arthur S. Meyer, head of the New York State Conciliation Service. Briefly, here is what the United Financial Employes won: I. Modified union shop with­ out the escape clause. 2. Check-off of dues. 3. Bonus based on daily vol­ ume of business. 4. Five day week with daily overtime. 5. Free group insurance—paid for by the employer. 6. Last but not least, salary increases ranging from $6.00 to $25.00 per week. In ad­ dition, supervisors are now covered by the contract. The termination date of the new contract is January 31, 1948. This is also a step forward since existing contracts with the New York Stock and Curb Exchanges expire on that datd. As John Cole, Vice-President of Local 205, UFE, said, "That gives us a chance to hit them all together next time if they stall." In a statement following ratifi­ cation of the new agreement, M. David Keefe, President of Local 205, said, "We want to thank all SIU-SUP members who helped us in our beef from the bottom of our hearts. If it hadn't been for your assistance, we wouldn't have won our strike. Thanks a million. Brothers! It's a debt that can't be repaid, but count us in any time you fellows need aid." And that about summed up the feelings of the Cotton Exchange employes who saw how SIU-SUP pressure, plus the aid of other unions, brought quick victory. Crowds line opposite side of Hanover Square after refusing to cross picketlines. After headache Seafarers gave cotton heads, it was suggested street's name be changed to Hangover Square. The Beaver Street side of the Exchange was locked up tight, too. Picketing Seafarers kept up lively chatter, as they shut off operations on the New York market for the first time in 75 years. A couple of Seafarers remove one of Ihe loudspeakers from behind a mail box. Police ordered the removal, but the neversay die SIU men found another spot; for it. Besides loudspeakers. Seafarers were represented by picketsigns. marchers, and SIU M.A.'s directed the entire demonstration. It was a good show— in the true SIU style. Not a Seafarer in sight, as this photo of the Dispatcher's room clearly shows. All hands were out on the United Financial Employes' picketlines—or on the third deck consuming coffeeand. As the sign shows, shipping was suspended so that, all could take part in the beef. A white-capped Seafarer stands fast in front of Hanover Square while a blue-coat loks around'for reassurance. No trou­ ble marked the swiftly-won beef, however. It was an orderly demonstration of power, but the Cotton Exchange heads got the idea and sat down to talk turkey with the UFE. Not to be outdone by the line around the comer. Beaver Street pickets show how effective­ ly they won crowd's support. Wall Street will never forget this spectacular show of UFE-SIU, solidarity. Opposite the picketline stand the many hundreds of people who would not go.through the line for anything. _ �Friday, March 7, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Picketlines Teach Wall Street To Bargain Philly sent seven of its militants to help out the Financial Employes. With new Agent Eddie Higdon, they did their part on the picketline. Left to right, Eugene Englebert, Wiper; William Perridge, OS; Charles Donley, AB; Arthur Harris, AB; George Ledson, Wiper; seated. Agent Higdon; and Ralph DiPaola, MM. Shut up tight as a drum is the New York Cotton Exchange. The big shots thought they could use scab workers, and in fact made plans to do so if the strike stretched into more thcui one day, but when they saw more than a thousand Seafeurers on the picketline, and heard the promise of many more, they changed their minds in a hurry. After that they were glad to sign a con­ tract with the UFE so that they could go back into the Cotton Exchange business.; These girls work in the Cotton Exchange. For years office workers have been underpaid and overworked, and their at­ tempts to better themselves have constantly met with defeat. But this time the story was different. With the help of the SIUSUP, and other AFL unions, the UFE won a smashing victory over the big shots. Of course, that doesn't mean that they will earn a fortune, but it will make living a mite easier. Paul Hall, Director of Organ­ ization, tells a mass meeting that the SIU will back the UFE, and that "six thousand pickets will hit the line if neces­ sary." But it wasn't neecssary. The Cotton Exchange bosses took the hint. Also present at the mass demonstration was Paul Hutchings. President of the OEIU, AFL, with which the UFE is affiliated. He thanked the SIUSUP, and the other unions as­ sisting the UFE in its beef. Baltimore had some men who wanted to help out also. So they grabbed a rattler and headed for Wall Street. Left to right, Hoss McKinnie, Chief Steward; Thomas Frazier, FWT; John Trust, OS; Eddie Collins, OS; Johnny Arabasz, Organizer; and Ray Queen, Wiper. Mike Hook was along, loo, but not around for the picture. Collins, Arabasz, and Queen are seated. M. David Keefe. Dave to those who know him and work with him, came up from the lower ranks in Wall Street himself. Before the war he was a clerk, but when he came back he decided it was high time for financial workers to get a belter break. He went out to organize, and in a few months he did a fine job. Here he is, left, addressing the monster rally during the strike against the Cotton Exchange. Blackie Cardullo, Marcus Hook Agent, introduced him. J| -•-jl The help of the Seafarers was not confined to the picketline. Our Hall was thrown open to the UFE to use as their strike headquarters, and part of our trusty strike kitchen was set up to serve hot coffee and doughnuts to the strikers. Their meetings were held in our Hall, and they ratified their new agreement with the Cotton Exchange right at 51 Beaver Street. These girls above are right off the picketlines. taking nourishment in the Hall. -''^1 �Page Ten Food Done To Turn On Wm. Brewster THE SEAFARERS LOG 'i • Hiiliiil Friday/ Maxtih T, 1447 Pointing up distinctive fea­ ture of the SlU-contracted ship are these two photos. The. Gadsden, which carries locomo­ tives and tenders fo Europet. iS:. reported to be the only one of its type in operation, A self?contained unit, the ship can load and unload its massive car­ go completely unaided byy shoreside facilities. Photo at left shows engine about to be lowered into hold by Gadsden's own crane. Right: oilrburning locomotive has set down on tracks in No. 2 hold. She will then be slid under the. deck, and crew will lay more track to receive the next load. Photos were taken at Baltimore by Seafarer Bill Robinson prior to a. recent run.. The food served aboard the William Brewster, Alcoa Steam­ ship Company, underwent a little broiling by the ship's crew and officers at a special meeting held Jan. 22 at sea. It seems that the ship's per­ sonnel had been growling under their breath about the prepara­ tion of the chow, so an informal meeting was held to see about ironing out the differences. The Officers, since they too eat the food, were invited to sit in and voice their opinions. The Chief Engineer and the Chief X * i Mate felt that the meat was not done right and the vegetables were only half cooked. The Captain also expressed his feelings saying that he was an easy man to please, but some­ thing was definitely wrong with the cooking. STEWARD EXPLAINS After kicking the ball around The crew of the SS Maiden schedule, and the lack of clean­ awhile, the Steward got up and Victory unanimbusly went on ing gear, soap and matches, the defended himself by saying that record in favor of "full Union three Delegates are to see the roasted meats aboard ship had control of the slopchest," and Chief Engineer and explain the to be pan broiled before roasting. called upon the Seafarers mem­ crew's stand on these matters. bership to cooperate with its of­ That the recreation room be AH-THIS ficials fully in bringing about the retained for its present purpose IS MOCHO addition of "this clause to the and not be converted: to a messpresent agreements." The action room as proposed. was taken at the Jan. 31 ship­ That the sanitary men in the board meeting. Deck, Engine and Stewards de­ Realization of this proposal partment be responsible for keep­ would be another great SlU vic­ ing the recreation room clean tory, the Maiden crew declared. daily, and that Delegates post a The meeting also gave unani­ working Jist, allowing one week mous endorsement to the propo­ of this work for each department sal made by the San Juan branch oh a rotating schedule. and concurred in by the New The meeting was chaired by York Hall, that biographical Albert DeForest, and Jerry Palm­ Relaxing on: Gadsden's rail are Johnny Clapp (left) and sketches of candidates for union er did the recording. Brother Robinson. as the meat is tough. He then office should be run in the Sea­ invited the ship's personnel to farers Log. inspect a pan of potatoes that had ENDORSEMENT just been prepared. The ci'ewmembers looked over the spuds The original motion, as passed and agreed that they were of reads as follows; excellent preparation. "During the calendar months After the inspection of the of November and December, there All hands on the SS WiUiam ' chest — that was the word that I He meant it wasn't English as Steward's culinary efforts, the is to be a photograph and a short Johnson call him "Lulu." It , was recognizable. The rest of spoken, but it was English, never­ crew suggested that the cooks be biographical summary of the can­ wasn't His real name, but he was the message (assuming it was a theless. It was the kind of stuff a little more careful and voted didates running for office, con­ the kind of a beaut whose ac­ message) was an alphabetical that batted around in the Isles that the beef against the cooking taining his efforts and progress tions made the label an appro­ hodge-podge. when Shakespeares was taking of the meat be thrown out. When the atmosphere of ques­ lunch on his mother's lap. in and for the Union, printed in priate one. Meeting was then adjourned the Seafarers Log. or any other He came aboard the vessel as tion-marks cleared, the crew callFrom then on that's how the with all hands in full agreement. periodical organ used by the Un­ Purser on a recent voyage, and guys bought stuff; from the slop­ The report of the meeting men­ ion to contact the membership." everything was okay, until he chest. They'd read the signs, tioned that the results attained In an added motion, the Mai­ opened his mouth. Then every translate them, and tHen buy. HcMQyfcwiMtt/ were satisfactpry to all hands in­ den crew expressed the "hope last man on the Johnson rocked e, Trying to find out what caused cluding Kilroy the ship's dog, that the deliberation and further in amazement—the guy was a this quirk, the Seafarers asked who had no bones to pick. natBcl.as study on this subject at the struggling with syllables that » the Phlutterting, Purser down to Meeting was chaired by Art Agents' conference would not re­ sounded like a cross between a their meeting. COMMOPt Wolch and recorded by Brother sult in change of the wording of Polynesian dialect and Siberian * "1 spent many years mastering Hinds. the above motion." jive. the English language," and 1 can't The crew was of the opinion Aside from the amusement it use common ordinary words," he that in its present form the mo­ afforded the Johnson men, this said, showing signs of being very tion best demonstrated the SlU's speech volcano didn't disrupt much ipsulted. ever-present desire to insure things because nobody paid any It. was learned later that the greater democracy within the attention to his wordy outbursts. word-paoking Purser was taking Union. But the monkey wrench in the ed the Old Man down to have a boxing lessons—beg pardoni we machinery came one day when look at the same. Man and dog, mean he became h; student-of the OTHER MOTIONS the men sat down to chow in the he'd seen a lot of queer things in manly art of self-defense. Other motions carried at the messhall. They noticed a sign his. day-—maybe he could de­ Thatrwas his first show of good meeting included the following; on the bulkhead. What it said no cipher the printed gibberish. sepse. Any guy who spouts like The Old Man did, a double, take. he does had bettet be prepared That in regard to the change one knew, except that it had over in the Wiper's coffee-makmg something to do with the slop- It can't be but it is, he mused. to back up his words. VTalden Men Take Stand For A Union Slopchest Prima Donna Purser Louses Up Language And SS Johnson Slopchest Goes Haywire WTTTI �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, March 7. 1947 Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief HELEN. Feb. 14—Chairman Blackie Marlin; Secretary Joe E. Thomas. Crew desired to know why beef stew and bo­ logna was served for supper twice before vessel sailed. Crew voted for improvement in meals. A few crewmembers squawked about shortage of linen that was issued to them so a man is to check on entire linen issue weekly. Several! toilets are out of order in all departments. Crew urged to speak their beefs in the meeting and not in the messhall. and to stop using linen to clean their shoes. Delegates to get radio and loudspeaker for messhall. Good and Welfare: All books and tripcards checked. One minute of silence for the broth­ ers lost at sea. spoke on the question of keep­ ing the laundry clean. It was suggested that each depart­ ment arrange the days for using the laundry room. A brother asked that the Engineers be advised or regulating the air conditioning so as to be suit­ able for comfort in crew quar­ ters. Suggestion made for the crewmembers using cups, etc., to help keep the messroom clean by taking them to the pantry. 4 4 4. Mandarin Men Lash At Bosun S. 4. t GEORGE WASHINGTON, Jan. 22—Chairman Crosby: Secretary Tazzani. New Busi­ ness: Motion made to refer to Patrolman for further action any man who refuses to attend meetings. Sentiment of mem­ bership is that such men are not wanted on the ship. Motion made to look into food situation, such as a menu change. Im­ proper cooking and to make fresh fruits and vegetables more available to crew. Motion car­ ried to inform Patrolman of leaking bridge deck. Motioncarried to have something done about lack of ventilation and odor in OS foc'sle. Patrolman to ask to have Radio Opera­ tors moved aft and let OS take the foc'sle. Good and Welfare. Racks for mops and wringer pail not yet made available to Deck Department. Ventilator in crew's head not repaired. Suggestion made to name com­ mittee to talk to Patrolmai^ about pushing all beefs. Action has been too slow. One min­ ute of silence for brothers lost at sea. % % % WILD RANGER, Jan, 6 — Chairman Charles Bush; Secre­ tary Sam Shatkovnick. New Business: Motion carried to make list of repairs and equip­ ment needed. Motion to keep P.O. messroom open at all times for serving meals to crew. Mo­ tion carried to have the Dele­ gates check with Steward when supplies are brought aboard. Motion carried that Delegates be instructed to check books be­ fore leaving New York. Good and Welfare: Many Brothers 1>RcrrfCT-THESIU.^ A Bosun who didn't want to get his hands dirty got the crew's wind up aboard the SS Mandarin recently. The crewmembers thought it was okay when the Bosun told them he was physi­ cally unable to do heavy work. They even tolerated him when he stood around and let the men do all the work. They put up with his absence from the Deck for long periods of time, but when he gave them the excuse that he couldn't work as he did not know the gear, that was too much. They think the Bosun, after two months of coastwise sailing of the Mandarin, should have known something about the gear. Anyone want to teach a class in seamanship to a tired Bosun? 4 4 4 GEORGE SHARSWOOD. Jan. 26—Chairman George Morris: Secretary Peter Davies. New Business: Necessity of fans in the galley was brought to the attention of the members. Brother Smith reports that this item is on the Repair list. Crew expressed disapproval of the Captain's system of rationing cigarettes. Slop chest con­ demned as entirely inadequate. Recreation Hall is filthy. Crew agreed to rotate cleaning. Ra­ tioning of food and cigarettes to be reported to Union and print­ ed in Seafarers Log. with car­ toon of Captain doing same. It was pointed ou that this will bring action from company as they do not like to see theirl ships blasted. Peter Davies to write letter and submit draft to delegates for further sugges­ tions. Motion carried that laun­ dry be kept clean and no mem­ ber leave clothing in basins. Motion carried that depart­ ments rotate, excluding Engine Department, three days a week in using laundry and time table be posted. Motion carried that Captain is to wire Company to have food waiting on dock ir­ respective of day of week of arrival. Motion carried that more adequate medical sup­ plies be placed aboard. MUNCIE VICTORY, Jan. 26 —Chairman Peter Jordan: Sec­ retary Fred Tatro. Good and Welfare: Discussion on plugged head overboard drain lines on lower deck, stuboard side. Cap­ tain assured crew that the con­ dition of the heads would be taken care of when the vessel arrived in port. Request that Steward put in requisition for four new perculators. Carpen­ ter complains that there have not been enough cups left out at coffee time. Motion carried to recommend to Sec.-Treas. John Hawk that where new contract is negotiated between company and union that there be included a clause calling for washing machines to be in­ stalled in laundry rooms of all Union vessels. 4 4 4 STEEL ARTISAN. Nov. 26— Chairman Tannehill: Secretary not given. New Business: Pos­ sibility of opening P. O. mess­ hall discussed because the pres= ent messroom is not sufficient in seating capacity for the en­ tire crew. The Stew'ard how­ ever states that a new messroom for the crew would be a hardship and more work for the messman. Because of the lack of storage space, the P.O. messhall is being used as a storeroom. Good and Welfare; The cook stated that the galley scupper was still plugged up although the First Engineer was notified of it last trip. If tjoo can't CUT and RUN By HANK 4 4 4 FOLLANSBEE, Nov. 10 — Chairman R. J. Zalinski: Secre­ tary D. W. RandalL New Busi­ ness: Oiler presented a beef against the Wiper on sanitary work. It was agreed that he do a better job with his work or his tripcard would be taken from him. Oiler opened discus­ sion about money due to each member for linen and penalty cargo—this situation to be pre­ sented to the Captain by the delegates. Good and Welfare: Motion carried to have a buzzer for the man on standby instead of the whistle as the man on, standby cannot hear it. Second Cook discussed the problem of the Deck Crew using the Stewards Department head and leaving it filthy. Motion carried to obtain another Wiper as ship only carries one. 4 4 4 CAPE HORN. Nov. 4 — (Chairman and Secretary not given) New Business. Motion carried to report the faulty drain system in the Deck De­ partment shower to the Chief Engineer. Motion carried to have sufficient lighting installed in the Stewards and Engine Department showers. Motion carried to have the department Delegates and the Steward, if necessary, cooperate with the Patrolman in Houston in secur­ ing sufficient Steward Depart­ ment supplies. Discussion open­ ed about providing the Engine Department with watch foc'sles and to have this matter placed! before the Chief Engineer. Mo­ tion carried to have no one pay off without a Patrolman being present, and if anyone is found breaking this - agreement he would be subject to charges. Good and Welfare: Chairman requested that all crew mem­ bers keep all crew beefs within the crew and away from the bridge. Baltimore is booming with real good shipping, we^ hear. And Mobile is full of Alcoa ships, according to Tony Pisano, citizeii of Staten Island, who said he didn't wait to indulge in any good times in the Joe Palooka Bar or the Royal Cafe . . . Paul "Haywire" Warren, oldtimer and ex-pie card, just sailed into New York after a short trip to Puerto Rico. Paul, who hasn't visited New York in many years, laughingly remembered an incident in those "salad days" when, just after their payoff from a trip, he and Bull and dis­ patcher Paul, temporarily lost each other, their hotel and theii* money there. Paul is going South, where we presume his wife Clara and his 11-year-old son, Jimmy, are living. Jimmy, by the way, is Bull's best reader of those articles in the Log . . . Our apolo­ gies to Bob Pohle. We wrote that he was The Great Lover of Marcus Hook but the printer either forgot his spelling or his glasses and the word great was drastically changed . . . Oldtimer Edwai'd Eaton, just blew into town and registered for shipping. 4 4 4 4 "Old Chile," otherwise known as Dusan Dei Duisan. just sailed into New York from his home country after spending some pesos and time there. "Old Chile" still carries that familiar mustache with him. too .. . Brother John McCauley just gave us the sensational news (which had been told us many months ago by Steward Vic Milazzo of Rhode Island) about what the state of Rhode Island is giving it's Merchant Seamen. Rhode Island merchant seamen are getting $200 bonus for wartime service. The two men who did all this fine work in passing the lav/ are Senator Greene of R. I. and Joe Pinta. Brother McCauley says that his friend. Senator Greene, remembers him when they were on the hospital ships. Arcadia . . . Bosun "Blackie" Peter Rod­ riguez. just came in from a trip which wasn't so harmonious . . . That electrician. Frank Bosc. is ready for shipping, according to his own words uttered from under his mustache. 4 4 4 4 Joseph Sortino, who lives up there in Connecticut, is ready for shipping, we notice . . . Johnny Meghrian, who sails engineer, says he just finished a four month trip to South America and may soon launch himself into the eternal splice . . . Oldtimer Anthony Demedo, who sails as utility messman, is in town right now for shipping . . . Harvey Hill, with a slightly visible blonde mustache suddenly bloom­ ing under his nose, just sailed aboard the Laredo Victory which has a real fine crew who have been aboard several trips . . . Robert Barrett says that he's going to try to save some spinach and get himself a greenhouse on Long Island, because he was in that busi­ ness before . . . "Rocky" Benson should still be down there in Miami, Florida, where we have a new union hall. How's the sunshine and oranges. Rocky? . . . "Rum and Coke" Willie West just sailed Into town after his usual voyage to South Africa and other parts. Next trip will be better. Brother West! 4 4 4 4 NEWS DEPARTMENT: Of 500 ships now registered in Panama. 142 were transferred from the American flag. Ships under the Panama flag operate with almost no restrictions or requirements of manning, security, wages, union agreements, food scales and quarters, licensed officer personnel or naviga­ tion rules and laws. Panama has no adequate inspection serv­ ice. hence such matters as seaworthiness, qualifications of offi­ cers and crews and manning scale are largely up to the operators and masters. It is difficult to determine the number of Amencan-owned ships now operating under the Panama flag inasmuch as many belong to companies incorporated in Panama and show­ ing Panamanian ownership although the capital may be Ameri­ can. �T H E SE AF ARERS LOG Page Twelve Pridar, March 7/ 194r THE MQIiBERSHlP SPESKS CAPE BORDA BELLYROBBERS Rumor-Mongers^ Disrupters Have No Spot In Seafarers To the Editor: r From left to right, unidentified except for their ratings are the vessel's Steward, Chief Cook and the Night Cook and Baker. The water is the Caribbean. I am a former members of the National Maritime Union, and outside of the communists, the most disgusting thing in that out­ fit was the constant back-biting and slandering that went on. It was so bad that one patrol­ man wouldn't listen to your beef if you were a friend of another patrolman who was his enemy. There is some of that stuff go­ ing. on in the SIU, but not too much. Most of it takes place in gin mills and comes from guys who stay on the beach looking for live ones. It comes from reg­ ular gashounds and screwballs. ROTTEN EXPERIENCE I had personal contact with this sort of thing in Philadelphia right Company Stiffs Still Peddling Bosses' Union-Smashing Bilge To Ihe Editor: Many companies have already started their efforts to defeat our negotiations for the annual wage and conditions contract for 1947. There are many methods that they have been using, but the latest thing that I have noticed is their tactic of spreading dis­ sension aboard ship through prop­ aganda. Their present line is the claim that the companies are un­ able to cope with the high wages of the men in the SIU, and are selling their vessels because they are unable to compete with low­ er-paying foreign vessels. They want us to believe that the SIU is the cause of the pres­ ent wave of ship sales to foraign flags. They do not mention that the only ships that have been sold are government-owned or obsolete company vessels. They will not admit that the American cargoes they carry are far more expensive than foreign, nor will they admit that the com­ panies spend large sums of money gladly for ship operations. Also ^they have made little effort to check different company agents and their deals with shipchandlers. The only ship's expense being criticized is the wage being paid to seamen. GHERNE'S PIECE ON COMMUNISTS RECOMMENDED To the Editor: I have just finished reading an excellent article by Leo Cherne in the March 4 issue of Look magazine. The article, entitled: "How to Spot a Communist," dis­ closes the general characteristics and policies of the typical com­ munist. If you will print this letter, I would like to ask all Seafarers to read • this article- and when they are finished to leave the maga­ zine' around the Hall, or another place where all the rest may see it,. Walter Jones Black Mountain, N. C. To .spread this line, the com­ panies are sending their stooges aboard Union ships with the ex­ press purpose of spreading dis­ sension among the men. These finks in working stiff's clothing start their dirty work by telling you they are Union men. But Brother, peel pff the hide and you'll find the well-known company stiff. Usually I've found these men aboard as department heads, some having the blessing of the company, and others trying to curry favor with the ship­ owners. I have listened to coffee time, and at other times when men get together, and I have learned to break the back of organized labor. Whenever one of these guys ap­ proaches you with a line of antilabor baloney, do not hesitate to report him to the Hall. Tell him it is Tasele.ss to peddle his lies of unrest for" dirty money, as he is wasting his time and yours. Let's all stand together in con­ demning men of this type. They only cause trouble and lost hours of work. By ignoring these guys, they will die a natural death, and we will be able to go forward toward efficient operations, with financial dividends for all. Paul Parsons BREAK THE UNION These companies that have not learned the lesson are not in­ terested in saving anything, in operational expenses if they can gain the satisfaction of whipping labor; So, we• have to contend with the sell-out artists as long as companies insist on attempting MUST STOP IT Brothers, if we want to con­ tinue having a good Union, we've got to put a stop those conditions whenever we learn about them. They have no place in a demo­ cratic union. Characters who pass along empty rumors with the sole purpose of disrupting the efficiency of the SIU don't de­ serve the benefits of Seafarers' membership. Personally, I think thees vicious rumor-mongers and disrupters ought to have a head put on them and run off the wa­ terfront. What we have got to do though is put down these foul-mouthed rumors right at the source. We want no poison spreaders in the SIU. We've got a good Union. Let's* keep it that way. Bill Brown Bosun Hintler To Leave Sea; Will Grunt 'n' Groan A Bit To Ihe Editor: how to pick out these labor trai­ tors with their line of bull. Most of these men are opportunists, who will sell their souls to any company official who will reward them with a few financial crumbs from the well-laden company table. These men have cost the Union, and the companies, many work­ ing hours and plenty of money. Some of the companies have realized this, and have improved their dealings with the Union. Others have not. in the union, hall about six months ago. There were a small gang of chiselers, who ran things to suit themselves, and unfortunate­ ly, their leaders were union of­ ficials. If anyone argued with, or opposed these guys, he ended up with lumps and bruises. I was at the last meeting here in New York and when I heard Philadelphia's new business read, I decided to look the minutes over. So I came up to the Hall and read them. What I saw in these minutes certainly did open my eyes. What I had experienced out there was only a sample. But it is a good, healthy sign when the member­ ship puts a stop to the crap' like the stuff that was going on in Philly. Writing you a few lines while still at sea to let you and the rest of the Brothers know the low down on Rotterdam, together with a few details of our trip. We have with us an Ordinary Seaman, Landry, who went ashore with the rest of the boys for a little fun and while in the Ballahala Dance Hall, was severely cut and beat up by. some of the NMU boys and was taken to the hospital. One knife cut went all the way into his liver. We were fortunate enough to have a good Skipper who allowed him to be brought aboard from the hospi­ tal so he could return to the States. The Skipper's name is Robert Durkin and he has proven himself to be a capable Skipper and a good Union man. So Broth­ ers, watch your step while in Rot­ terdam. We have had a very good trip outside of this cutting, incident. We have a very competent Stew­ ards department. The Chief Steward, Ray Casinova, wouldn't weigh 125 pounds soaking, wet, yet you'- could hear him broad­ casting all over the ship. Little but loud, he was 100 percent for the' crew and did* everything, for us. The Chief Cook, L. IX .Neiil, Pac. Dist. 60, who is another old Log 'A- Rhythms Ode Te a Seaman By "LOLITA" (Editor's note; The foliowingi poem was - submitted by the: wife of a Seafarer. She was; very modest about submitting it to the Log, so we'd like her to know we think very highly of her effort, and that we hope she'll keep sending them in). In the days before I knew, A sailor was just one of the crew, A tough, rough creature Strong of body, and hard of feature; He cared not for home or family. But only to go on a spree; With a girl in every port He never gave marriage a thought. One day, life played a joke on me. Along came a sailor with child­ ish glee, ' Large and powerful, but gentle as a sigh. Bright sunny hair and a clear blue eye. Not a high-pressure salesman with a ready line. But quiet and thoughtful most of the time. Slowly but surely my thoughts turned round 'Til I knew how rare was the love I had found. The books he did read were the best on the shelf. And music, the classics, came second only to myself. So, now I feel it is my duty. To correct folks who are snooty. And tell them the seaman's creed. timer helping to make it a good For kindness is his watchword. trip with his Creole Cooking. In thought and word and deed. Second Cook and Baker, A. Lemoine, was always mixed up in the dough. Our messman was URGES ACTION tops, always on the ball, keeping AGAINST SHIP'S everything shipshape. The Stewards Delegate was PERFORMERS Bryant, and kept everything run­ To the Editor: ning smoothly on his part. The In the last few weeks I have Deck Delegate was Gentry and he did a very good job. We were been reading in the Log of dif­ very fortunate in having two old ferent instances of performers on faces with us, one was Roy Bell, ships, and I agree with others Engine Delegate and Dutch De- that something will have tc be gan. Deck Engineer. Dutch was done about it. unfortunate enough to fall over I will try to give an example a • padeye and break his ankle. of what I mean. It concerns a A speedy recovery to the Dutch­ case aboard one of our contract­ man. Myself, Duke Himler, SUP ed companies. A Fireman got 4416 was ship's delegate, with no drunk and stayed' that way for beefs. five days without sobering up un­ Must sign off for now. Will til he was broken down to Wiper. not write for some time as I am Everything was okay until the quitting the sea for a couple of payoff when, this guy told the months. I am going on a wrest­ Patrolman he hadn't been drunki ling tour in Mexico, for $150.00 The Patrolman took his word per match. So will see all you for it and stuck out a bum beef. Brothers upon my return. Another case occurred in Balr DUIO9< Himler, Bosun timore. All but three of the creW SS'James Smith at Sea Were performers. These charact­ (Editor's note:—We wish the ers will only hurt the Union by Duke great success in the grunt these actions, and Fm hoping and groan game,- and trust he something, will be done about it will keep, us informed- as to by the next time I get in an Am^: his heaving activities. Mean­ erican port. while, keep 'em down, Duke.) Eugene A. Piniartkl �Fridar; March 1. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG ACTIVITY IN TYIE FAR EAST W^LL STREET WORKER APPLAUDS SEAFARERSVAID To the Editor: Virtual warfare reigns alongside the SS Swathmore Victor? lying at Shanghai. China recently, as crews of Chinese junkboats scramble for old dunnage thrown over the ship's side. As a clerk who works in a brokerage office in Wall Street, may I take this opportunity to thank your Union membership for the fine job that they are do­ ing in helping the poor whitecollar worker in getting or­ ganized. We all know the great contri­ bution that the SIU made during the war, by both helping to win the war, and by combating the communists who are trying to get a foothold here in the United States. Thanks again. M. J. G. BROTHER MAUPIN LEAVER HOSPITAL; ANXIOUS TO SHIP To the Editor: I just arrived home from the windy city of Chicago, where I spent six months as a patient at the Marine Hospital. ' I am preparing a report on con­ ditions there and will send it along as soon as possible. In the meantime, I want to tell the membership about the swell agent we have in the Chicago office—a man who I feel is doing a wonderful job and will continue to do so in the years to come. His name is Herbert Jansen, a young man in years, but an oldtimer in Swathmore Victory crewmembers making ready to leave Shanghai for Hong Kong. Seafarer James "Red" Fisher shot the maritime industry and the these pictures. SIU. Brother Jansen gave me every assistance during my confine­ ment, and also to anyone else, union man or otherwise, to whom he could give a helping hand. He was more than glad to do so. In closing, I extend to Brother SEAFARER OBJECTS TO ALABAMA'S Jansen and his assistant, John (I'm sorry I do not know his last UNEMPLOYMENT TAX DEDUCTIONS name). My sincere appreciation I'm not an active Seafarer at present, having temporarily re­ and thanks for a job well done. tired my Union book in order to finish my education. However, I have a question: Why should a seaman pay the State of Alabama for the privilege of being employed on the ships of the Waterman Steamship Cor­ poration? I think this taxation is entirely uncalled for, as no other state, to my knowledge, enforces thi.s procedure. Some action should be taken to discredit this practice, as the majority of sea­ men do not benefit from this tax, whatever it stands for. George Maslarov Book No. 34481 Delroit. Mich. ANSWER:—The tax you speak of is collected in compli­ ance with the provisions 'of the State of Alabama's unemploy­ Brother Jansen and his assistant ment compensation laws. Under the state law. seamen are re­ both carry their Union books in quired to make contributions to the fund—deductions being their hearts as well as in their made from their wages—are, therefore, eligible for the bene­ pockets. I hope to be strong enough by fits when they are unemployed. March 5 to report to the Chicago The law applies to all companies whose ships are registered Hall ready to turn to for a little in the state, and Waterman falls in this category. Payroll de­ bellyrobbing in the Lakes. How ductions of the tax must be made, regardless of where the ships about it. Herb? pay off. However, seamen are eligible for the unemployment Robert H. Maupin payments whether or not they reside in Alabama. Washington, D. C. m BEEF BOX Beachcomber Picks Up Some Newsy Items To the Editor: As I am at present looking the beach over down here in Mobil&, I might as well give the report on the local beachcombing. At the last membership meet­ ing here the introduction of the Agent-elect Cal Tanner and the Patrolmen was well taken, for there was much applause, and it wasn't bf the studio type. Brother Lindsey Williams, Gulf area organizer, made one of those speeches you hear about, but seldom-hear. He dealt with or­ ganization work—^what has been accomplished, what is being done and what the aims of the Union are. His report was cheered by all present. WILL MOVE This meeting was great. Word was given that a new HaU had been found and that we would be able to move out of the worst of SIU Halls. This is-not hearsay. I personally know that if Mobile had a temperature down to 20 degrees, no one would have been able to stay in the Hall as it would have been impossible to heat .the place. I guess before the next Lpg comes out; the Hall will be moved to Dauphin Street at Laurence, upstairs over the Furniture store. Last week in the port of Mobile, the Seafarers signed agreements with towing companies, and they're the best agreements in the world for wages and condi­ tions. Since the first of the year ship­ ping has been so good that ships have had to sail short a messman, and men coming in for jobs were shipped out in a hurry. Guess that will finish my chat for the .time being. Until I get my bowline ashore, I remain The Beachcomber Page Thirteen Mac Is Bellyrobbingr StiR But Does It In Ritz Style To the Editor: Who said a Seafarer couldn't make the Ritz? Well, here I am as head man of the Ritz—the Ritz Soda Shoppe, Hartford, Conn. That's what comes of one belonging to a good outfit like the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union, which has the best contracts in the business contain­ ing the best working conditions. So, use your heads fellows, and save your money. Maybe some day you, too, can buy yourself an eatery. Of course, this ribbing is all in fun. But what I said about the SIU stands 100 percent. It it wasn't for the Seafarers and what they stood for, I would not have been able to own this place today. ed every one treated the same whether he was licensed or not, and overtime was plentiful on his ship, and with days off for all in port. I understand the Captain has quit the Calmar line and is now retired. It's too bad fellows like this are retired and the Capt. Blighs continue to sail. How is R. Gonzales the P. M? And Paul Hall, C. Fisher and the rest of the old gang? Say Ed, if you can give me any advice on how I can collect that Calmar dough I would appreciate it very much. I'd hate to see them get. away with the dough; they got enough during the war. If you ever get up to Connecti­ cut, stop in at the Ritz Soda Shoppe, and you can have any­ thing you like on the house. Francis E. McGillicuddy Ex-Bellyrobber (Editor's note:—For that retrocative pay, write to Calmar Steamship Corp.. 25 Broadway, New York City, giving full par­ ticulars. If you have any trou­ ble, let us know. Meanwhile, keep puttin' on the Ritz, Frank. Thanks for that invite. Maybe we'll get a chance to take ad­ vantage of it someday.) It took the winning of a lot of beefs plus hard work on the part of the Patrolman and Union of­ ficials to get today's conditions. So, keep up the good work. HAS DOUGH COMING I see by the Log that Calmar is paying that retroactive pay. It's about time. I must have a few hundred coming from them myself. What will be the pro­ cedure in collecting this dough? Also in the Log I notice that Capt.^H. H. Fletcher is still master on the Eliza Wheelock. He's one of the best Skippers I've ever sailed with. I made a trip,with him when he was Chief Mate on the SS Philip F. Thomas, and the boys were all for him. Buck Stephens made a mistake when he said that Capt. Fletcher was the only good Captain Calmar had. I hate to say it about this outfit but give the de-vil his due. Capt. Hans Vige was another man just like Capt. Fletcher. He want- BROTHER GETS BRUSH OFF AFTER SHIPBOARD INJURY Aid For Writers If you are about to write— or have written—-stories of the sea, but are stumped as to how to go about having them pub­ lished, you can toss your wor­ ries over the side. The Log is happy to an­ nounce that seagoing -writers now can have their stories, articles and booJcs read and appraised by people who know the score. An arrange­ ment has been made with a reputable agency of authors' representatives, who will read the material at no cost. If the stuff has possibilities, it -will be brought to the attention of publishers. If you've written something you think is of public interest, or if you plan some literary ef­ fort while at sea, why not avail yourself of this service? Send your manuscript — typewritten, of course—^to Carl CowL c/o Seafarers Log. 51 Beaver Stw New York 4, N. Y. Enclose stamped envelope addressed to your permanent residence to in­ sure safe return in case script is not up to snuff. To the Editor: I was getting down from my top bunk Monday night, Feb. 3, when my foot slipped from the lower bed and I fell, hitting my side a hard blow on the settee in my room. First thing Tuesday morning I sent word of this to the Mate and told him I was unable to turn to. I didn't see anyone all day, so on Wednesday morning I sent word to the Captain that I wanted medical attention. About six p. m. the Purser came in with a doctor, who felt my side, said nothing was broken and put a few turns of gauze around my side and left. The gauze didn't stay on 20 minutes. By Friday morning I was so sore, I could hardly sit up in bed, so I had the Bosun tell the Mate that if I didn't get some atten­ tion I was going to call the American consul. Friday after­ noon I was sent up for an x-ray. Saturday afternoon, the Chief Mate came up and told me I had four broken ribs, and on Sunday afternoon a doctor came down and taped me up—^six days after the accident. Several times I have asked for something to help me sleep, but have been told there is nothing on board. Up to the present time, Feb. 17, an officer or the Purser hasn't been up to see me or inquire as to my condition. Clark R. Pope Okay New York Beef Handling To Ihe Editor: We are taking this opportunity to thank headquarters *for their splendid cooperation in squaring away our beefs when we were in New York. We received everything we put in for, except a few minor items, and we will square those away in :time. Until you hear from us again--rafter the next meetingpublish ;this in the Log. Signed by the Four Delegates "ii �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen Friday. March 7, 1947 Seafarers Votes To Open Talks With Operators To Raise Wages {Continued from Page I) Acting New York Port Agent, fol­ lows: WHEREAS: The cost of living has increased since the present wage scale was negotiated with all shipping companies con­ tracted to the Seafarers Inter­ national Union of North Amer­ ica. and WHEREAS: Our existing agree­ ments provide for application to open negotiations for changes in the wage scale any time during the life of an agree­ ment, and WHEREAS; It is necessary to open negotiations immediately so that the wage scale can be adjusted to meet the present cost of living, THEREFORE, BE IT RE­ SOLVED: That the Seafarers International Union of North America go on record to im­ mediately open negotiations with all of its contracted .op­ erators for an increase in the wage scale in line with the present cost of living, AND BE IT FINALLY RE­ SOLVED: That in the event the shipowners attempt to stall us on this question beyond a reasonable length of time that we take the necessary steps, including economic action, to prevent such, happenings. When this resolution was pre­ sented, there was an immediate wave of suppoi't. Many Brothers took the deck to give their ideas on the subject, and although they looked upon a strike as some­ thing to be resorted to only if everything else failed, all ex­ pressed themselves as favoring strike action if the operators stall. 194G GENERAL STRIKE The last strike of the SIU, in September, came as a result of a decision by the Wage Stabiliza­ tion Board to refuse approval of increased wage scale negotiated By JOSEPH VOLPIAN As far back as men went to sea for a living, the courts have al­ ways considered seamen as being the "wards of the Admiralty Courts." This theory is an outgrowth of the conditions seamen had to put up with for years until they or­ ganized into unions. In the old days, men were shanghaied, given slop to eat, and vermin infested quarters in which to sleep. They were paid off with peanuts, and there was no such thing as an eight-hour day, overtime or days off. They were fair prey for every unscrupulous person, including shipowners, masters and anyone who came in contact with them. In those days all you had to have to go to sea was a strong back and an iron-lined stomach. Nowadays, a far better and more intelligent fellow goes to sea. He has realized that the best protection for himself and his brother seamen is to form a strong Union, such as ours, which is amply capable of taking care of his working conditions and welfare. Since the war, we have had a great many, young fellows go to sea. We are referring to those who are under 21 years of age. The courts have special rules to protect their interests. If a fellow under 21 years of age is hurt on a ship, he is con­ sidered to be an infant by the com'ts. GUARDIAN APPOINTED He can hire his own lawyer, but cannot agree on a fee. Before suit can be started, the court appoints a guardian "ad litem" to sue for the infant. If the case is settled, the judge has to approve the settlement. If, in" his opinion, the settlement is insufficient, he refuses to okay it. . If the settlement is satisfactory, he determines the value of the work done by the lawyer and sets his fee for him, which in most cases is very reasonable. After the case is disposed of, the money is deposited with the clerk of the court, subject to withdrawal by the infant with the court's consent, or until he reaches the age of 21 years and is considered a man. These precautions are taken by the courts for the sole purpose of protecting the rights and interest of those persons who are consid­ ered infants by reason of the fact that they are under 21 years of age. The courts feel, though we do not agree with them, that a fel­ low going to sea under 21 years of age cannot manage his own business affairs. ON THEIR TOES Our experience has been that the young fellows in our Union are on their toes every minute, and it would be very hard for any one to take advantage of them. However, experience has taught the courts that the aver­ age person under 21 years is im­ mature and can be taken ad­ vantage of by an older person very easily. The courts do not think that an infant is capable of entering into contract or of taking care of his money. In the case of the seaman who is over 21 years of age, he re­ tains a lawyer when he is hurt and agrees upon a fee, and any settlement that is made has to be made with his approval. He does not have to go to the court to set the fee of the at­ torney, nor does he have to have the approval of the court to settle his case. He is considered ma­ ture enough to be able to handle his own affairs. However, in the case of a fel­ low under 21 years of age, the courts have set up these safe­ guards to protect the boy against his own folly. by the Union. The winning of that strike meant the death of the WSB. Any new wages won in the requested negotiations will not be subject to review by any Government agency. In the successful action last year, the AFL Maritime Trades Department got its baptism of fire. Through the successful co­ operation of other AFL Maritime unions America's shipping was brought to a complete standstill. In the face of this, the Govern­ ment was forced to reverse itself. War Department Against Seamen Bill Of Rights •>'Tvi By FRENCHY MICHELET And so we came at length to Marsolova, Rosalia. The blessed the lofty summit of Monte Pelle- sun rides high in the heavens, grino by the torturous road that sweet — tomorrow comes the the Romans had followed in the wind and the rain! days of yore. That great monumental pile of Arabian and Norman architecture History tells us innumerable is The Cathedral. It Was a mos­ tales of the dead and gone gener­ ations that have lived and died there far below where Palermo smiles so sweetly in the Sicilian sun. But History is but a gossipyold crone at best, who weaves her fabric.with a warp of fact and a woof of fiction so we won't bother you with any of her OldWives' tales. Instead, you may sit here be­ side us on this lofty rock and lis­ ten while Rosalia points out the things of interest in the breath­ taking panorama below. That is the blue Mediterran­ que in the time of the Mussulman ean that is lapping so softly on conquest, but Bishop Offimilio the Sicilian shore. She wafted a converted it into a Christian host of conquerors to this sleepy church in 1170. land, but they all sleep with Many a devout Mohammond their fathers now while their has answered the wail of the erstwhile captives wander freedmuezzin who stood in its min­ men over their graves. arets and summoned the faithful That little boat floating so children of Allah to prayer. placidly on the glassy sea is And now for many centuries freighting two lovers to the love­ the priests of Rome have swung ly languid land of Makebelieve. the censer over the heads of the See, through the glasses, how adoring multitudes of Palermo reverently he touches her hand. and her environs. There is a poet beloved of the Perhaps in the not-too-distant beloved far removed who thinks future some New Messiah will that we are all of us islands in rise to preach the godlier religion the sea of life. Only in the spring, and more christian Christians he sings, when the balmy breezes will dole bread from her marble of youth float over our dreamy- alters to the poor and the lame heads, do we feel that our barges and the halt and the blind to the meet and that we are part of a glory of the God enshrined in single continent. their weakened hearts. You who know Brother MichFor, when winter comes—and come it shall—our hearts flee elet so well are well aware that from our hands to the innermost he rarely plays the pundit unless, reaches of our being and we seek of course, he feels called upon to teach Shuler to peel potatoes, so to touch each other in yain. We are all of us islands in the you will surely bear with him in this grammatical mood. lonely dismal waste WASHINGTON—The War De­ partment declared itself against the Seamen's Bill of Rights, when representatives testified recently before a sub-committee of the House Merchant Marine Commit­ tee that it is staunchly opposed to the bill to grant aid for readjust­ ment in civilian life of those sea­ men who rendered wartime serv­ ice. The War Department maintains that it finds no justification for granting seamen and their de­ pendents benefits equal to or greater than those provided for veterans of the present war. In their report to the commit­ tee it was stated: "The War De­ partment is not aware of any ef­ fort, during the present war, by members of the merchant marine,' or their representatives, to have military or naval status conferred upon them with the liabilities, privileges, and emoluments flow­ ing from such status. "Rather, they have apparently chosen to enjoy the usual rights of civilians, to introduce contracts of employment, plus the higher pay, liberal bonuses and free in­ "The unplumbed, salt, es­ surance provided for them during tranging sea." the emergency. It's sweet to bask in the warm "In the event that the Con­ Sicilian sun and dream of what gress should determine as a mat­ the moon may bring in her train. ter of national policy that addi­ The firm, round, dimpled, point­ tional benefits should be pro­ ing arm of Rosalia is richer with vided for members of the mer­ the promise of romance than the chant marine, the War Depart­ soft yielding lips of love. ment would offer no objection to TRANSPORT TO PAST an equitable extension of bene­ There, in that dense clump of fits through amendment to gen­ eral maritime laws especially de­ massive buildings, stands the Church of St. Giovanni Degli signed to protect merchant sea­ Ereimite. Her five -round domes men." stand out from the neighboring Of the national veteran's or­ structures like a bit of the wonganizations, the 'Veterans of For­ derous East miraculously trans­ eign Wars has also put itself in planted by some Alladin-like opposition to the bill, on the genie to the shores of the Western grounds that it might undermine World. the entire GI Bill of Rights. This church was built in the The National Commander of twelfth century by King Rugthe VFW, Omar Ketchum has gero. To see it still standing in stated that he intended "no dis­ all its wonted glory is to bridge paragement of the gallant (war­ the gap of ages, and to conjure time) service" of seamen, but he up in the mind a picture of metaladded that merchant seamen re­ clad knights battling the Saracen ceived "substantial benefits" dur­ infidels for possession of the ing World War II. Christian realms. The only national veterans or­ And there lie the awful Cata­ ganization that has pledged its combs — those ghastly tunnels support of the seamen's Bill of where the upright bodies of Rights is the American Veterans mummified Sicilians grin hide­ Committee. The AVC has been ously at you from either wall. in favor of the measure since it Did Casaer reck of this when was first introduced in the 79th Congress and, being the sole vet­ he stood on the banks of the eran's organization admitting Rubicond and resolved to brave merchant seamen into its ranks, the wrath of Pompey for all the it has fought vigorously for pas­ sunny fields of Italy beyond? sage of the measure. Pour us a drink of that dark AH, LOVE ! To define Rosalia, then—She's as sweet as the first kiss of love, she's as fresh as the dew on the rose, she's the sigh that burdens your heart when the girl of your choice is nigh, she's the wind that winnows through the hair of your darling when Venus rides high in the sky, she's the last lingering sip in the bottle when all of your francs have flown; she's the nap in the lap of the morning when the mate calls you fore and aft at the dawn. Tomorrow we asil from Pal­ ermo after a wonderful ten-day stay. 'While here, we have en­ joyed all the popularity of a leader in his prime; for word that your correspondent is the Chief Steward on the only American ship in port has spread like a se­ cret whispered in your motherin-law's ear. The customs officials would rather cut off their legs up to their ears than to incur our wrath by searching the sacred person of the guy what trots around with the magic keys to the fa­ bulous treasure trove. Daily we bowl up the Via Roma in a hansom carriage drawn by a belching horse who was evidently born and bred to a diet of beans, while the ragged street urchins point qut our comely person to an admiring throng. Oh, well, such is fame! �-Friday, March 7, 1947 V Page Fiffeen THE SEAFARERS LOG BULLETIN ttnclaimefl Baggage — New York PERSONALS Unclaimed articles and packages bearing the fol­ lowing^ names and/or identification tag numbers are being held at the 4th floor baggage room, 51 Beaver Street, New York City. Thc}-^ will be held another 30 days before being disposed of. Seafarers listed below are urged to call at or write to the baggage room for their property as early as possible: CHARLES MEAZZEL Write to Wilson J. Joyner, 1 Maple Street, Charleston, S. C. MONEY DUE JAMES WHITEHOUSE Get in touch with your mother at 307 Tower Street, Eureka, 111. 5. it i CARL R. MARTIN and ALEX. E. SULLIVAN Pick up your souvenirs at the New Orleans Hall. They were left ;here by Spider Korolia. t J. i JOAN F. HISKO Write or call your sons, John and Joseph, at Readington, New Jersey. NORTHERN WANDERER Alcoa Steamship Company Back wages, vacation pay and The bonus claim has been set­ transportation for the crewmem- tled and will be paid as soon as bers of the Northern Wanderer, itineraries from various ships are Alcoa Steamship Company, cov­ secured. Jack Gibbons, J. W. Clowes,* ering the trip from June 16, to Wages for R. S. Burnett, OS, No. 7217 (no name); Chas. J. Young, Paul Yancy, ArAug. 17, 1945, are now being paid. from June 16, 1945 to June 22, Hawley, Mis. Gei'tie Dyart, No. thur Gurtie Milne, John Rekstin, The one-month difference in 1945, can be collected if he writes William K. Vernier, Everette L. 8215: L. Olson, No. 1712. pay, the wage raise and the vaca­ to Mr. Gifford, c/o Alcoa Steam­ tion pay can be .secured by writ- ship Company, New Orleans, giv­ Kenneth Hogan, L. Logan, No. Penn, Walter C. Sweetser, Wal­ ing to Alcoa Steamship Company, | jng him the full details so he can 7310, (no name); No. 7251, (no ter M. Mitchel, Norman O. Dukes. Philip D. Jamison, Leonard E. c/o H. Garland, Pier 45, North' check up and make the payment. name); Mill Bratina; No. 469, (no River, New York. I Other claims for the Northern name); E. McCormick, Mickey Redmon, Alfred M. Robertson, Rpbert B. McCorkel, Pete F. ZaThe difference in transporta­ Wanderer are being handled and Tunnen. tion from Manila to San Francisco i will appear in the Log as soon Carlo Gomez, No. 8142, (no grnniczny, Edward H. Heacox, R. W. "BOB" WRIGHT is also being paid by the Alcoa, ^3 3^^^!^^^ Following is name); G 171, (no name); Lanier fkn-lysle C. Moss, Vicky C. Clark, Harry C. King, Bruel E. Bryan. R. H. Free; John Holm. who is confined to the New Or­ New York office. Each crew-j a list of crewmembers and money Clement Flores, Harold R. leans Marine Hospital, asks his member is entitled to $92.501 Joseph Bolger, Peter Kurkatransportation money over the j due them exclusive of transportamills, No. 126, Joseph Filipsen, Bronk, Jr., Charles Jabour, Carl fi iends to write him there. aniount listed. | tion and vacation pay. C. Grindberg, John B. Wilkes, No. 396, B/A RFIL; Forrest Mci i J. William M. Gray, Harold I. RAOUL PEPIN Kinley, John Asmont. Edward Williams, Ole Kuithll, Stone, Jose Valentin, Anthony Get in touch with your father, William V. Moody, Hlvaro Coti, "Metalica, Jessie Anderson, John L. Pepin, 1826 Govin Blvd. E., Eddie Frank Holec, Lee R. Stayer, V. Wagrath, Gustav Montreal, Canada, immediately. Joseph Hassinger 61.33 $ 64.57 Claude Hart Briggs, Clifton L. Alberton, Theo­ Bocek, Edward Burke. 33.36 Lusius Nickles 46.13 Arthur Woodard William J. Walsh, Harvey J. dore Harrette, Ahmed Abdelha99.47 Anthonj' Coffman 25.21 Harold Gillespie Soule, Eads A. Marcum, James J. mid, Joseph A. Spaulding. 60.81 Henry Williamson 16.17 Harry Dixon Earl Hoffman, William C. Lin- Plcgue, George Berkimer, Morris 59.09 Lynn Paasch 2.73 John C. Anderson gard, John Untich, Allen Bryant L. Shaeffer, Benjamin Green. 82.99 Victor Barker 3.73 Julian Supinski Wallace C. Clifton, J. C. HanHomer B. Broyles, Joseph P. Workman, Hipolito U. Cruz, Wil­ 82.99 Henry Black 34.06 Madison Hodges sell, Manuel Cruz, and Jose Mailiam Char. Leitch, John C. Mc­ Thompson, Juan S. Torres, A. W. 82.03 Robert L. Dice 87.98 James Renfroe Carthy, Hugh C. Malone, Byron Ecker, Howard I. Smith, Forrest sonet: These men, who witnessed Robert S. Burnett 50.93 87.67 Proceso Empefio the accident involving Manuel R. DeForrest, Raymond W. Mer- Gerber, Joseph O. Allard. 74.86 Kenneth Weatherwax 74.24 Jose Pagola Gonzales aboard the SS August rel, Leo M. Emright. Angelo Camerote 76.33 Jack Helms 65.19 In addition to the above, there Belmont, will please get in touch 68.49 19.59 Charles B. Bush are 12 packages bearing no name with Richard M. Cantor, 51 Henry Williamson Kenneth Weatherwax .... 18.67 Pantaloon Mondragon 50.17 or* number. Chambers St., New York City. 12.60 Conrado D..Reyes 50.17 Braxton Adams ^ Rafael Robles 50.70 Gerardo R. Satigan 50.17 BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. I Will the members who were on 51.00 Herman Saunders 272.53 Gaudioso Pelino Calvert 4539 the SS Duke Victory on July 11, BOSTON 276 State St. 50.70 Manuel Kassavatis 89.99 Falconeri D. Reyes Boudoin 4455 1946, please contact Mr. Sol BerBUFFALO 10 Exchange St enholtz, Court Square Building, Cleveland 7391 Bonus and Unclaimed Baltimore, Maryland. CHARLESTON 424 King Street Wages Subsistence Phone 3-36S0 4. 4. SCHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. $ 77.95 $109.25 Crewmembers of Peter LisNEW YORK Superior 5175 150.00 109.25 comb can get copies of pictures SS J. LOWE CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 C. E. Surrency. $1.00; J. A. Robert- taken on last trip by writing him 172.50 109.25 CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Meaquito St sun, $2.00; J. A. Hughes. $2.00; D. T, 109.25 86.40 at 501 Tasker St., Philadelphia, II. E. Gillcspi ...... Corpus Christi 3-1509 Triiax, $2.00; R. Pennington. $1.00; J. DETROIT 1038 Third St. 97.35 109.25 Pa. Cadillac 6857 A. Pearson, $1.00; E. V. Vliet, $5,00; J J. 155.00 109.25 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. R. Miller, $2.00; S. L. Murray, $2.00; P. Mclroso 4110 B. Livingstone, $1,00; W. J. Wilkins, 18.00 40.42 ED BOLEHALA Herman Saunders GALVESTON 308)4—23rd Street $1.00; N. S. Ward. $1.00; G. Wilkerson. 18.30 Your clothes off the Topa Topa J. E. Hassinger ... 2-8448 $1.00; C. DeLoch, $2.00. are in the baggage room, 51 L. H. Nickles 28.42 v.. HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. SS DOROTHY 58777 18.30 Beaver Street. A. K. Coffman ... Crew of SS Dorothy—$3.00. HOUSTON 1515 7Sth Street 72.85 R. Lancaster SS STEVEDORE Phone Wentworth 3-3809 Crew of SS Stevedore—$5.00. 109.25 R. S. Burnett JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Phone 5-5919 R. Remmler, $1.00. 18.30 M. KassavetiS MARCUS HOOK 1'/, W. 8th St. SS BANDELIER C. F. Hart 18.30 Chester 5-3110 G. B. Griswold. $2.00; H, V. Keane. MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. $2.00; T.'Kanaux, $2.00; A1 Stevenson. SS WM. PATTERSON J. C. Anderson .... 109.25 MOBILE 7 St. Michael St; $2.00; P. Pron, $2.00; E. L. Morris. Willard Workman, $3.00; Geo­ A. Camerote 109.25 2-1754 $2.00; C. Allen, $2.00; R. M. Hill, $2.00; rge Zanzar, $3.00; Fred N. MeNEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. M. J. Neth, $2.00; A. J. Stanton, $2:00; Magnolia 6112-6113 nerth, $3.00; Edward J. Rogg, C. >Meo, $2.00; H. Gfebbie, $2.00; W. C. NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. $1.50; Jones Mullen, $7.00; Ma­ Miller, $5.00; H. J, Stocker, $2.00; M. HAnover 2-2784 son Hulett, $2.50; W. F. Burke, NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street A, Perrin, $2.00, 4-1083 SS MIDWAY HILLS $3.50. Retroactive Pay NOTICE! SlU HALLS MONEY DUE 9 South 7th St. Crew of SS Midway Hills and S. J. Phone Lombard 3-7651 Gallagher, $16.00. PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Worth Ave. L. Kapczynski, $2.00. Phone: 2-8532 SS A. BELMONT PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. W. S. Blazer, $1.00; R. A. Floyd, Beacon 4336 RICHMOND. Calif. 257 5th St. $1.00; M. Romalho, $1.00; W. J. Black2599 man, $1.00; F. W. Smith, $1.00; G. PecSAN FRANCISCO .....;105 Matket St. chiar, $1.00; J. Markey, $L00; C. StanDouglas 5475-8363 genberg, $1.00; P. F. Savalli, $1.00; SAN JUAN, P. R. . . i^52< Petice ile Leon E. R. Hall, $1.00; R. J. Clark, $1.00: San Juan 2-5996 F. Young, $1,00; P. G. Salino. $1.00; SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. Fernandez, 8-1728 E. Hernandez, $1,(10; JJ. SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. $1.00; V. Paid, $1.00; J, Gonzalez, $1.00; Main 0290 C. C. Moss, $i:00; M. Bodden. $l;00; TAMPA 1809-I81I N. Franklin St.' P. R. Baker, $1.00; A. R. Swiszczowski, M-1323 $1,00; G. Igrragaray, $1.00; J. R. Ares. TOLEDO 615 Summit St. $1.00; H. W. Forbes, $1.00. WiLlitlNQTON w. <, - :'4«) lA^hita tUvd. SS JOHN BLAIR 'TdMMnal '4-3131 A. Sdrtori, $2.00; F. Vasihetti,'$2:00; VfCtOltrA, 'to.Jc. ... .to02 BtfUifkten St. Tardan 8331 C.' D. Segarra. $r/00;.'J. A. Adam.,:$l;00; VANGOOVER ...;144 W. Haitings Sti E. Bern'dsen, '$2;0O. toaaitic 7324 SS MAE Crew of SS Mae—$8.00. Retroactive Pay Waiting PHILADELPHIA Retroactive Fay NEWTEK SS CORP. Newtex Steamship Cor­ poration is now paying retroaotive pay for the following voyages: V. S. Hood, Voyage No. 4, -April 1 to Jiine 11: C. J. FIniay. Voyage No. 6, July 2B to August 25; and Coastal Skipper, Voyage No. 8, April 1 to May 15. Apply in per­ son -to the -Company office. Pier A2. iTorth 'Rhrer. Dr send a, letter Beeatt!|t«ttied hy suf­ ficient t identifieation. RESTORER The following named crew­ Leonard F. Nix 92.78 members of the cableship Re­ Raymond C. Matthews .... 50.59 25.47 storer can now collect the Timothy O'Brien amounts listed below. The money Jack Martin 131.20 12v61 is due for retroactive pay and Aiitoine L. Paul 78^80 overtime from Aug. 29, 1946 to Lawson Grey James A. Love 103.12 Oct. 31, 1946. 14.87 Ormohci C. Griffin $ 86.97 John W. Cooper 101.*48 Patrick Connor 94.58 Thomas S. Harper William K. Caird 98.89 John Haffie 11.22 11.37 Francis S. Wilson 96.03 James R. Sinclair Roy 'Fredette f'82.69 Nathan S. Frost 488.^ James 'D. -Waldron 80.75 Donald -H. MiiKenzle 8.74 96.82 James B. -Daley -Se.JB Brian 'L. 'Fisher Thomas' Owen-Davies ........ •20;44 Edward Owen 95.08 �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG TO seiN6 M m Friday, March 7, 1947 CONTRACTS CONDITIONS SECURITY w I r- : . • i^'v. SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION Of NORTH AMERICA • � 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 March 7, 1947 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. IX, No. 10 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SEAFARERS TAKES ACTION FOR NEW PAY INCREASES TO MEET COST OF LIVING PICKETLINE SHUTS EXCHANGE; COTTON HEADS SIGN WITH UFE PURSERS UNION SWEEPS ELECTION IN CUBA MAIL UFE BEEF PROVES EVEN TYCOONS CAN BE TAUGHT FIRST OF NEW SHIPS DELIVERED TO ROBIN HELPING HANDS SEAFARERS READY TO LAUNCH DRIVE TO ORGANIZE GREAT LAKES SEAMEN LUNDEBERG, WEISBERGER REELECTED BY SAILORS UNION MEMBERSHIP BALTIMORE FINDS TIME TO HELP UFE IN NEW YORK DETERMINED TO END BAD SHIPBOARD CONDITIONS FOUR ISTHMIAN CREWS HOLD MEETING IN CALCUTTA B.C. SEAFARERS PASS WORD ON SCAB NEWSPAPER NO ROTARY SHIPPING FOR LSU MEN; FRIENDS, RELATIVES COME FIRST SIU AGREEMENTS ARE THE SAME, WHETHER IN SAN JUAN OR NEW YORK IF YOU WANT A JOB IN A HURRY, MAKE A BEELINE FOR PHILADELPHIA DO NOT COME, SAYS CHARLESTON, SHIPPING IS SLOW MISSISSIPPI CREWMEN ON THE BALL IN N.O.--HAVE SHIPS IN TOP SHAPE SHIPS COMING OUT OF BONEYARD LEAVE NEW YORK SHORT OF RAITINGS AFL COUNCIL OFF TO A GOOD START IN DULUTH THIRTY SHIPS WILL BE CREWED IN MOBILE; NEW HALL IS READY SHIPWORKERS GO BACK ON LINE AS STRIKE GOES ON NMU INVENTS NEW DODGE TO MAKE MONEY PORT MIAMI HOLDS A LIVELY BRANCH MEETING WILLARD CREW MAKES DONATIONS TO HOSPITALIZED PICKETLINES TEACH WALL STREET TO BARGAIN FOOD DONE TO TURN ON WM. BREWSTER MALDEN MEN TAKE STAND FOR A UNION SLOPCHEST PRIMA DONNA PURSER LOUSES UP LANGUAGE AND SS JOHNSON SLOPCHEST GOES HAYWIRE WAR DEPARTMENT AGAINST SEAMEN BILL OF RIGHTS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/7/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d9f4c189b023edbe43583f7d401e157a.PDF 7f6d46141f7a426da1c4a03a70cc170a PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N.Y„ FRIDAY. FEBRUARY 28. 1947 SlU Leaflets Hearten Wall Street Workers NEW YORK, Feb. "28—^With hundreds of union-wise members of the Seafarers International Union aiding in the operation, the United Financial Employes, AFL, continued its organizing broadside yesterday by passing out union literature to the exploited white collar workers in the Wall ^Street area. Postwar Losses Total 131 Ships One hundred thirty-one ships have been sunk by mines since the end of the war, and 95 have been damaged according to a re­ port issued by Lloyd's of London. In reporting the loss, the Lon­ don insurance firm noted that the sinkings after this war com­ pared closely with those follow­ ing the first World War, when 137 ships were lost in the first 18 months following the end of hos­ tilities. After the first World War, drift­ ing mines continued sinking ships until seven years after the end of the war. The most dangerous waters for larger vessels have been the Mediterranean. 18 ships were lost in the Mediterranean and 14 were damaged. 11 of the vessels were sunk and 11 were damaged in or near Italian and Yugoslav waters. Of the 131 ships sunk, 45 were of more than 500 gross tons and 86 were under that size. Of those ships damaged, 64 were large ships and 31 were small. Shipping was suspended for three hours as the Seafarers join­ ed their brother-unionists of the UFE in bringing a vital message to the underpaid office workers. The sight of the Seafarers tak­ ing to the streets in their behalf has considerably heartened the financial workers and is spurring a strong response to the UFE or­ ganizational drive. Letters from individual broker­ age employes have been coming into SIU headquarters applaud­ ing the Seafarers demonstration of solidarity, and citing the con­ fidence they have instilled among the Wall Street workers. Target of the latest broadside was A. M. Kidder and Company, one of the nation's top moneymaking brokerage firms, which has been fighting desperately the attempts of UFE to bring Kid­ der employes the increased wages and working conditions that come with a union contract. COMPANY CALLS MEETING Prior to the operation, John Cole, UFE vice-president, an­ nounced to the Log that a letter had been received from the Kid­ der outfit requesting union rep­ resentatives to meet with com­ pany offluials at 3;15 this after­ noon. He said that the union would attend the meeting, the purpose Last Stages The National Labor Rela­ tions Board in Washington, acting on the recommenda­ tions of Howard LeBarron. Regional Director, has de­ cided that the NMU's flimsy charges in regard to the Isth­ mian Steamship Company bargaining election warrant a hearing. These hearings will begin on March 24. in New York, but will shift to other places if it is deemed necessary. The original recommenda­ tions called for a hearing within five weeks after the date of the report, but March 24 is the earliest that a Trial Examiner will be available. NEW YORK — Monday, Feb­ ruary 24, saw the start of a new feature in the SIU program of educating the membership in all phases of the Union structure. Beginning with this first dis­ cussion period, sessions will be held weekly, or more frequently if needed, to iron out any diffi­ culties or questions that may come up pertaining to the Ship­ ping Rules. If Monday's meeting is any cri­ terion, these sessions may prove to be a highpoint of the week foxseamen on the beach. Plenty of interest was aroused, and the men were serious in presenting the questions which puzzled them. Paul Gonsorchik, Dispatcher, led the discussion, and Patrol­ men were present to answer any query that went further than just interpretation of the Ship­ ping Rules. NEW YORK, Feb. 26—The CIO Shipbuilders' strike against the Ira S. Bushey and Sons' Brooklyn yards stood at the ci'ossroads today, pending announcement to­ morrow of the company's answer to a union plan for settlement of the four-week-old dispute. , The Bushey decision is expect­ ed to have important bearing on the future course of the strike, which has been supported from the start by the Seafarers Inter­ national Union. Fred Mesita, Chairman of Local 13 of the Industrial Union ~of Marine and Shipbuilding Work­ ers of America, CIO, told the Log that his union insisted on settlehient of the strike solely on the basis of the direct issues, which are recognition of Local 12 as bargaining agent for the yard's Maritime Trades Dept. To Meet In Chicago After SIU Convention Directly following the Convention of the Seafarers International Union in Chicago, the AFL Maritime Trades Department will also meet in the same city to take up any problems of the various unions affiliated to the Depart­ ment. The meeting will be held at the Hotel Morrison, and will commence on March 31. Each member union is allowed to send three representatives, but at the time the Log went to press there was no official knowledge of who would go as delegates from the SIU. Since the Department was first formed in Chicago in August of 1946, great strides haVe been made. In turn the raiding tactics of Harry Bridges were brought to a halt, the Wage Stabilization Board was forced to reverse a de­ cision which would have deprived SIU seamen of increased wages NEW YORK, Feb. 28 — The won through negotiations, and Maritime Trades Council of the Masters, Mates, and Pilots Greater New York will meet on were able to win a smashing vic­ the first Tuesday of each month, tory over the operators. beginning Mar. 4, it was an­ In practically the same period nounced yesterday by Paul Hall, of time the commie-dominated JOHN R. OWENS chairman of the powerful AFL Committee for Maritime Unity watei-front group. was born, did a god bit of dam­ The monthly sessions will be age, and then was scuttled after held at headquarters of the Dis­ the communist party saw that it trict Council of the International would not ever be able to rival Longshoremen's Association, 164 the AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ 11th Avenue, New York City. ment in power. The maritime group will con­ Refusal of the Mai'ine Firemen vene at G p.m., one hour before and the Marine Engineers to be­ the ILA district meeting in the Alert to the threat of what mil­ come affiliated to the group, and same building. itary control can do to workers, Joe Curran's blasts against the The decision to meet regularly the New York Branch of the Sea­ way the CMU was being operated was made at the last session of farers International Union adopt­ {Continued on Page 6) the council. ed a resolution opposing the ex­ tension of the Conscription Law which is due to expire March 31, 1947. •The resolution was proposed by Paul Hall, New Yoi'k Agent, and seconded by Joe Algina and 500 workers, and a working, con­ Freddie Stewart. Senators, Rep­ Charging negligence and ad­ resentatives, and the President of tract. herence to the communist party the United States were notified Bushey was informed also, line, NMU President Joe Curran Mesita said, that the Shipbuilders of this action. told a membership meeting this The text of the resolution fol­ would submit to arbitration the week at Manhattan Center that "outside issues" following con­ lows: he intends to ask the trial and WHEREAS: The present Selec­ tract negotiation. removal of Joe Stack, vice-presi­ The plan was a counter-propos­ tive Service or Conscription Law dent, by the union's national al to the company offer to negoti- is due to expire March 31, 1947, council. and (Continued on Page 3) Bolstered by the backing he reWHEREAS: It has been the reived from the membership experience of the SIU and other when he resigned as co-chairman Labor Unions in the United of the Committee for Maritime States of America and Foreign Unity, Curran said he would countries to have conscription prefer specific charges against used or threatened to be used in At the last regular coast­ Stack in the near futui-e. breaking our strikes. wise meeting of the Atlantic The action of Curran, if he fol­ BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED: and Gulf District, seven dele­ lows through with his threat, will That the SIU go on record as op­ gates were elected to the In­ disperse any remaining belief posing the extension of the Con­ ternational Convention of the that the feud raging in the NMU scription Law and notify our Sen­ SIU. Pictures and story ap­ is window-dressing for the bene­ ators, Representatives and Presi­ pear on page 6. fit of the national CIO. dent of our decision. . Maritime Council To Hold Regular Meetings In N.Y. Seafarers Takes Staud Agaiast Peacetime Draft Shipping Rules Clarified In New Union Feature ShipbaiUers' Pressure Forces Bushey To Negotiate With Uaion (Continued on Page 4) No. 9 Int'l Convention Curran Threatens To Bring Charges Against Joe Stack �Page Two THE SEAFA'RERS LOG Friday, February 28, 1947 m SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 £ HARRY LUNDEBERG - President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. 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 NOVICK, Editor 267 Phony Transfers Without any publicity, and by a series of undercover maneuvers, the United States merchant marine is being sold to foreign countries. Of course, this does not mean that those foreign countries will benefit. Oh, no, the peo­ ple who will benefit are the shipowners who never ac­ tually lose their ships even when they sell them. Sounds confusing, doesn't it. But confusing or not the shipowners are using this ruse to gyp thousands of United States..merchant seamen out of jobs, and the U. S. Government out of taxes. Here's the way the scheme works. Mr. Shipowner, in the United States, who made plenty of dough during the war, now transfers his ships to a dummy corporation in Panama or Honduras. The profits still go into the same pockets, but U. S. seamen no longer man the ships, and they are cut off from gainful employment. Since the end of the war more thail 100 ships have been quietly transferred to Panamanian or Honduran regis­ try, and more than 4,500 American seamen have been forced out of jobs. What is even worse, foreign seamen have been forced to take jobs on those ships at wages far less than the prevailing scale in the United States, and under conditions that are a throwback to the days of 50 years ago. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. All of this has vast implications for the working stiff who goes to sea to earn a living. On Panamanian and Hon­ duran ships the operators will set low wages and poor con­ ditions and thereby be able to carry cargo for less than companies paying decent wages. American companies will then put up a terrific howl and claim that they are being forced out of business, and that they will have to cut wages These are the Union Brothers currently in the marina hospitals, in order to meet the competition. But the competition is as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging of their own making, and no matter what happens, their heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. profits pile up. Men Now In The Marine Hospitals If this situation is allowed to continue, soon the Amer­ ican merchant marine will be only a skeleton. But Panama and Honduras will have thousands of ships, employing thousands of non-union seamen, while standards of Ameri­ can seamen are being beaten down. This is intolerable and seamen who have fought for years to come out of the depths are not going to take this without a stiff fight. Where does the Government stand in this contro­ versy? Well, the Government is doing exactly nothing, and by doing nothing has given the fat boys the go ahead signal. Although millions of dollars will be lost in taxes by such goings-on. Uncle Sam haS kept quiet and watched the merchant ships bemg transferred to foreign registry, or sold to dummy corporations in foreign lands. The seaman has been picked for the role of sucker in all this. But the Government and the shipowners are in for a rude shock. Seamen won't be the fall guys, and they have asserted, through their leaders, that this phony busi­ ness has got to stop. Men who sailed through combat torn waters are not going to sit around and watch their jobs being stolen away from them. If the Government won't put a stop to the racket, then the seamen will stop it with the best weapon in the world—economic action! NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL V. NORRGARD H. ECHEVARIA W. LEWIS CENTRAL MASON STEVE MOGAN O. M. STIREWALT JACINTO NAVARRO V. FREDERIKSEN JOHN RETOUR ROBERT (BOB) WRIGHT W. BROCE, Jr. JOHN HANLON K. SCHERREBECK R. MULHOLLAND J. W. DENNIS EWARD CUSTER TED (THE KID) THOMPSON W. HEMPEL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL LELAND McMILLIAN LAWRENCE McCUNE LONNIE TICKEL STEPHEN BRADLEY SEBASTIAN CARTER CLIFTON CARTER CHARLES SIMMONS JACK HAMILTON EMMANUEL COTTIS ELMER WALKER ERNEST SIDNEY WILLIAM LAWTON PETER LOPEZ PHILIP BAZAAR THEODORE BABKOWSKI DAVID HORN ROBERT SHEHEE MATHEW CARSON VERNER JENSEN. X X MOBILE HOSPITAL KARL LUNDBERG XXX STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL R. G. MOSSELLER J. S. WOOD E. E. CASEY W. G. H. BAUSE F. H. DOLAN L. A. CORNWALL F. CORNIER M. BAUCSKI E. D. MILLER M. MORRIS H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY W. BLOOM R. R. LEIKAS R. MCDOWELL Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 51h and 8th floors) Thursday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 pj». (on 1st and 2nd floors.) K. KORNELIUSSEN M. J. LYDEN J. H. DANIEL, Jr. S. W. LESLEY C. SULLIVAN. XXX GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM R. LORD E. CABRAL A. MABIE R. BROWN T. ALDRIDGE E. BOLEKALA M. MCCARTHY J. TIERNEY • ' �Friday, February 28, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Every Division Of iMaritime Must Be Organized In Guif Area By LINDSEY WILLIAMS still remains that the Gulf is loosely organized and until things Practically every form of mari­ are tightened up there is always time activity carried on any­ a danger. where in the world is found on Where in the past the organi­ the Gulf. This includes every­ zational work has been a series of sharp fights centralized on thing from fishermen to salvage strategic points, we must now crews and from inland water­ By PAUL HALL plan a mopping-up campaign to ways to tidewater. Quite a few months ago the AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ tie all the loose ends together and Many of the men work in the ment went on record to refuse to work any ships belonging to new build a solid functioning appara­ various divisions of maritime companies that signed contracts with the National Maritime Union tus. much more often than they do after that date. We took that stand in view of the raiding by Harry When the Agents' conference elsewhere—thug a towboatman Bridges and his commie CMU. convenes next month, this should will fish for shrimp during the Our resolution meant that AFL Seamen, Longshoremen, Team­ seasons, and end up the year on be one of the principle points on sters, and Tugboatmen would not even go near a ship that signed an off-shore trip. the Agenda and the work of the with the NMU after the AFL Maritime Trades Department made organizers laid out like a battle The chief reason for this is that its position clear. And that also meant that no new shipowner could plan. the Seafarers has penetrated all do business if he tried to make any agreements with the NMU. The Gulf was one of the prin­ different maritime trades, mak­ Our position was not an idle boast. We had, and have, the ing it fairly easy for any organ­ ciple factors in the original or­ strength to lock up any ship or company that violates our resolu­ ized maritime worker to change ganization of the Seafarers, and LINDSEY WILLIAMS tion. See the back page for details on one company that was caught from trade to trade as he desires. will continue to be a great factor SIU. Field Representative in its progress. in the act. In Charge Of Becansp of the rnmparatively What we did in the case of the SS Lawrence Brengle we can do great distances between ports Waterman, with Mobile as its Gulf Area Organizing again. We will do it again if companies persist in signing finky and the interlocking waterways, home port, will shortly be operat­ agi'eements with the NMU. it is necessary for the protection and Houston Bay Towing Com­ ing some 135 ships. The companies are smart in trying to get the NMU to repre­ of each craft that all be organized Mississippi is already operating pany which was operating a com­ sent their employees. They know that NMU conditions are much with a common affiliation. a large number of ships out of pany union. inferior to those of the SIU, and they know that NMU piecards New Orleans and plans to sub­ The volume of dry cargo and With the Seafarers, victory, the stantially increase their number. don't have the time or inclination to fight the membership's beefs. oil transported via the inland company Union Was liquidated waterway system from Florida to and an agreement signed with I Among these are three large NMU Loved By Companies Sure, the Steamship companies would love to have the NMU the Mexican border is greater the SIU. Organizational activity new passenger ships and more get in on the ground floor. But that is not the feeling of the sea­ than the entire tonnage handled in this field is being carried on are planned. Alcoa is putting two men. In every case these men would choose the SIU if they had by sea on either the east or west in all ports from Tampa to new luxury liners on the Island cruise run, and so on down the the chance. Seamen know what the SIU has done for wages and coasts. Brownsville, and progress report­ line. conditions of American seamen and they don't want to be represent­ If this shipping is neglected and ed everywhere. The men on the Gulf never ed by the NMU, a union that is constantly fighting within itself. left unorganized, it could easily j Included in this classification I were, and never will be, satisbe extended through the river ar­ Right now the SIU, and the AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ are the dredges, and the Seafar­ . fied with doing anything half teries, up the east coast inland ment have decided to unfreeze the Lawrence Brengle so that the ers is making steady inroads way. It's always a bang-up job shipowners would not be forced out of business. But that does not waterway system, via canal into' among them. with fhem. To do a job right re­ the Great Lakes out through the mean that other shipowners, or the NMU, can become cocky. quires planning and a thorough TANKERS If the same collusive agreements are entered into by new ship­ St. Lawrence and thus seriously working system. This is the Or­ The offshore trade is not be­ owners and the NMU, they will have to take the consequences of cripple if not break, a general ganizational Committee's job, and ing overlooked, and within the their action. They have sufficient warning, and they know that maritime strike. with the continued aid and supThe Gulf organizational com­ past month an agreement has we, have the power to back up our position. 1 port of the membership it should We reaffirm .our original position. New companies going into mittee of the Seafarers has work­ been signed with a company I be done well. the shipping business will either deal with the AFL throughout, ed on these linking waterways for which, although operating only or they will have to get used to the sight of their ships lying by a long period of time and has a few ships now, will shortly be the docks, with no Teamsters delivering goods, no Longshoremen made steady progress. The major operating a m.inimum of Ifi ships. to load cargo, and no Tugboatmen to warp the vessel out into the operators are under contract. As soon as the final details are One of the best contracts, the deep water. worked out, a full report will be To the members of the SIU, and to the members of the other Mobile Towing and Wrecking Co. made on this new contract. unions affiliated to the AFL Maritime Trades Department, our show being signed only recently. The main field of offshore or­ of strength in this case was all to the good. It proved what we have Because of the great hook-up By HUGH MURPHY ganizing on the Gulf at present known for a long time. Only the AFL has the power to do what which has its main terminal in is on tankers, and the main con­ VANCOUVER, B. C.—Recently we said we could do when we first adopted the resolution. New Orleans, everyone on the centration in the Sabine-Port Ar­ Gulf looks forward with interest when the North Sea, Northland Our Strength Apparent thur and Corpus Christi areas. to the Lakes organizing campaign Transportation Company, ran Through our combined strength we closed up the nation's This woi'k is being closely co­ which will sew things up com­ aground in Seaforth Channel in shipping during our General Strike, and we beat the shipowners pletely on both ends of the sys­ ordinated with the work being during the MM&P beefs. This power will come in mighty handy carried on in the Marcus Hook, upper British Columbia, the tem. for the future, when labor will need all its strength to fight off Philadelphia and New York areas quick thinking and efiiciency of what the Washington fat-boys ai-e cooking up. HARBOR CRAFT and real results should make the crew prevented a panic and Our victories are won solely through economic action. We don't evacuated all 85 passengers, in­ Great progress has also been their appearance soon. go sucking around the big shots when we have a legitimate beef— As a result of this work the cluding women and children, made in the organization of har­ we settle our difficulties at the point of production. And that's without a casualty. why we have built up such a good record for winning our fights. bor craft. Mobile, Alabama, is Seafarers is now in the position to start a campaign for bargain­ one hundred percent organized Since then all of the survivors Other unions are rapidly coming around to our point of view. ing elections on the ships of sev­ and the major tug operators»of have been praising the fine work Lots of union piecards used to laugh at our method, but now they eral tanker companies. Texas are under contract. done by the crew in handling this are laughing out of the other side of their mouths. difficult situation. The crew Despite all the gains that have One of the biggest victories By using our methods we won all our beefs, and by brownnosing, those guys allowed their membership to be cheated out of was the capture of the Galveston been made, however, the fact really did a fine job, and through their efforts prevented what plenty that was rightfully theirs. So now they are all adopting could have been a disaster. economic action, and it's about time. A week or so ago the Olympic UFE Fights Too Steamship Line vessel James S. Even the white-collar workers have come to the conclusion that Drain arrived here after a trip to economic action is the only way to force the bosses to come across Japan. After looking over the with some of their tremendous profits. For a long time office em­ workers was precipitated by the ship it was hard to believe she {Continued from Page 1) ployees were paid off in compliments and double talk, but now company's repeated refusal to ne­ had a crew aboard, as she was they are demanding real money instead of promises. ate and sign an agreement pro­ the filthiest ship that ever hit this Right here in New York the United Financial Employes, AFL, vided "the union would wipe the gotiate a contract with Local 13, port. is putting up a tough fight to force the brokerage houses to cough slate clean of all complaints which has been designated by the The performing by some of the NLRB as 'collective bargaining up some of their dough for the workers. Of course, the bankers against Bushey," Mesita added. crew was a disgrace to the Union. agent. have lots of reasons why they shouldn't do that, but the UFE has The complaints — or "outside Prior to the strike call, repre­ There was nothing for us to do in more reasons why they should. issues" referred to involve ap­ sentatives of Local 13 and the In­ this case but to pick up all per­ Office workers have always been underpaid and overworked. proximately 50 cases of back-pay mits and tripcards and have them Now they are demanding a decent wage, and we in the SIU are awards to Bushey workers hand­ ternational appealed to the SIU payoff. backing their play 100 percent. In their leaflet distribution we ed down on Jan. 7 by the Na­ for aid. We then called Seattle for a The Seafarers membership have assisted them by printing and giving out more than 100,000 tional La_bor Relations Board. new deck crew, which signed on voted all-out assistance to the pieces of literature. And if they have to hit the picketline, we'll Another issue which the com­ CIO shipyard workers, and when and set to cleaning out the filth. be there right alongside of them. That's what union solidarity really means. It doesn't just pany wanted "wiped off" involv­ the strike began on Jan. 30, the She looks like a different ship go for AFL unions—it goes for any honest union that is involved ed reinstatement of two shipyard white-capped men of the SIU now, thanks to the new crew's in a legitimate beef. The CIO Shipbuilders and the AFL Office workers as ordered by the NLRB massed on the picketlines in a efforts to make the ship live up in a ruling made on Dec. 27, 1946. powerful demonstration of trade- to our slogan, An SIU Ship is a Workers are the same to us. Both are honest, both need help, and Clean Ship. , The walkout of the Bushey union solidarity. both got what they asked for. Quick Thinking Prevents Panic Shipbuilders' Pressure Forces Biahey To Negotiute With Union �THE SEAFARERS LOG Pa{i& Four Friday, February 28, 1947 SlU Leaflets Help UFE Deal With Bankers WHAT ttWWK. QUESTION:—What type ship do you prefer to sail on, and why? J. O. SARTINL Steward: Give me those Victory ships any day! They are more modern and have belter equipment to worb with than any other ship : j ifloat. When you have good ;quipmenl it makes work much 3asier and more pleasant. Men who sail on Victories seem to ::ake pains to do a god job 'and •;il <eep the ship clean. Not that ->ther crews don't, it's just that •)n Vic's the men take extra spe:ial care and pride. Speaking :rom the viewpoint of a Steward, I think that it is easier to store food and prepare good meals on H Victory. JAMES WALKER, Second Cook: It may sound funny, but I like the Liberty ships. I know they are slow and pokey, but just be­ cause of that a man can make more money. On a small ship like a Liberty a man gets a chance to meet his shipmates and make friends with them. I've sailed on large ships and each time it was a relief to get back to a Liberty. In the days to come we won't see or even think about those good old tubs, but we should re­ member the part they played in making victory possible during the war, and I like them for that, too. "Bay screamed they would wreck his business," the handbill continued. "Today, profits in his line are higher than ever. And •.eamen's wages are in tune with ,he times." It emphasized that the "only way any worker can better his or her conditions and win increased wages is by collective bargain­ ing," pointing out that the em­ ployes of the New York Stock and Curb Exchanges already en­ joy wage and hour conditions considerably above the Wall WALTER MCLAUGHLIN, FOW: Street level, as a result of their I cast my vote for the Hog union eontract. Islanders. They are the real oldtimers, but they were built to BAD BARGAINING RECORD last. They are riveted all around, Up to now, Kidder has refused and can take a heavy sea without to bargain in good faith. Negoti­ breaking up like the Liberties.' ations bi'oke off about a month All the Hog Islanders I have been ago in the offices of the New on were smooth riding and that York State Mediation Board, means a lot when you are spend­ when company officials stated ing months on a ship. Another that nothing could be gained by thing that makes me in favor of a fact-finding review of condi­ the HI is that they don't have a tions in the Kidder concern. lot of fancy gadgets on them, and Kidder's anti-union philosophy a man doesn't have to spend his time messing around with new was summed up by Ambassador Bay, when he left for his lush contraptions. post recently. He said: CARL WAYNE, Ch. Elect.: This may sound selfish, but I can't help that. I like C-2's or Victories because of the electrical equipment aboard each one. They have electric winches and other equipment that makes a sailor's life more pleasant. On Hog Islanders and Liberties, there is little electrical equipment, and a seaman has to work his head off from bell to bell. There are lots of reasons for liking different types of ships, but the best reason is because work is easier on one ship than it is on another. Operator Puts Blame For The Decline Of Shipping On Wgh' Wages, Ignoring The Enormous Profits By ROBERT MATTHEWS In the February 24, 1947, issue of the "Journal of Commerce," Mr. Frank J. Taylor, President, American Merchant Marine Insti­ tute, has written quite an exten­ sive article in which he says, in effect, that the demands of the Maritime Unions for increased wages and better working condi­ tions will bring about the decline of the American Merchant Ma­ rine. He infers that the increases in seamen's wages has brought about the serious decline in in­ ter-coastal operations. He states further: "While it will be admitted that the cost of living has increased 51 percent since January, 1941, the unions find it convenient to ignore the fact that during the same period seamen's wages have increased more than 125 percent. In other words, seafarers are far ahead in the race against the cost of living. "A general wage increase is the principal demand being put for­ ward by the unions now, and in June, when most of the contracts expire, the unions have already stated that they will seek such things as a 40-hour week at sea, a four-watch system, longer vaca'tions, and the creation of a wel­ fare fund—all items which will further increase the cost of op­ erating American ships." An examination of the cold hard facts is all that is necessary to show up the fallacy of Mr. Taylor's statements. It may be true, as he says, that the cost of living has risen 51 percent since January, 1941. Most sources, however, say it has gone up 72 percent. It is not a fact that seamen's wages have risen 125 percent since 1941. In July 1941, the aver­ age wage for a seaman, based on actual fact, was $107.69 per month, and at this writing, the average wage of a seaman is $185.83 per month. Thus we sec that instead of ris­ ing 125 percent as Mr. Taylor states, the increase over a period of six years is actually only 72 percent. Mr. Taylor conveniently fails to mention that in 1941, when the average was of the seaman was $107.69 per month, this wage in comparison with shoreside work­ ers was decidedly sub-standard. All through the war years, when shoreside workers were getting increases in their wages to meet the increased cost of liv­ ing, the seaman's wages remained static. Now that the war is over, the seaman's average wage is still sub-standard. While the ship­ owner is reaping enormous prof­ its from exorbitant freight rates, they still do not recognize the fact that a seaman is entitled to a decent standard of living. j (Continued from Page 1) of which was not revealed in the letter. Curiously, one of the Kidder partners, Charles U. Bay, present U. S. Ambassador to Norway, is also "a diiecLur of a large shipping line. The UFE handbill distributed vestcrday pointed out that Bay had vigorously objected to "deal­ ing with a seamen's union at first, Mr. William Clayton, UnderSecretary of State, by no means a liberal, hit the nail on the head when he testified before the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries. He said that in his opinion the profits in the shipping industry are much too large. In fact, he thinks that they act as a restraint and limitation, a limiting factor on world trade. To throw further light on my statement that right now seamen's wages are sub-standard, I cite fi­ gures from the report of the Hel­ ler Committee of the University of California. According to the committee, it is iiecessary for the average worker, in order to maintain a minimum health and decency standard of living for a family of four to have an average an­ nual income of $3545.82. If the average seaman worked for 12 calendar months with no time off at home, (and few sea­ men have work for nine, let alone 12 months a year) he would earn the sum of $2229.96. Take from {Continued on Page H) "I am glad to get away from the strikes. In America, recon­ version has been slowed down by strikes." No mention was made in his statement of the rocketing prices, as a result of which. Ambassadors of high finance like Bay saw their profits zoom to unprecented heights while workers — white collar workers particularly—suf-. fered further drops in their standards of living. Meanv/hile, the militancy of the UFE membership was on the increase. Wednesday night, they voted almost unanimously to back the Cotton Exchange em­ ployes, also members of the AFL union, in their announced inten­ tion to strike should efforts to negotiate a new contract fail. The Seafarers likewise has prom­ ised the financial workers its full support. LAKES SlU REJECTS NLRB MAIL VOTE PLAN By STANLEY WARES CLEVELAND—A meeting was held recently at the Regional Of­ fices of the National Labor Rela­ tions Board here in Cleveland. The purpose of the meeting was to call the companies and unions together for suggestions as to an­ other method of holding elections aboard ships for the personnel. The Regional Director explain­ ed that due to a cut in his staff, the old method of shoreside ob­ servers wooold place an awful burden on his office. One of the field examindfs then went into detail as to the merits of voting by mail. He tried to put across to us the fact that if the voting coiUd be held by mail it would relieve the burden of not only the NLRB, but also the unions and companies involved. Representing the SIU at this meeting were Great Lakes Secre­ tary Fred Farnen and myself, and we immediately ruled out any form of mail vote. We felt, and always have felt, that the only way the seam'en can get a fair and non-interfering election is through the use of shoreside observers and that method alone. ALL OPPOSED Strange as it may seem, the NMU lawyer agi-eed with our point of view, and to top it off, the company dominated Lakes Seamen's Union went right down the line on everything, which is really something for the books. The lawyers for the Lakes Car­ riers Association, and there were quite a few of them present, would not commit themselves on anything, claiming that this was not a hearing, therefore, they weren't representing their clients, but were there on their own and whatever they had to say was only their personal views. A good way to get out from under. After two hours the meeting broke up with the SIU still hold­ ing the view of giving the sea­ men personal representation at the polls. This is a good example of the fact that even though-the Lakes are closed down at least four months each year, the SIU is in there giving its members representation all year around. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Fabitiary 29^ 1947 Page Fiyo I Excerpts From The 'SIU Organizers' Handbook' Talk Seafarers You're aboard an unorganized scow to put the SIU across. One of the best ways is to talk SIU whenever you get an opportun­ ity, but not to the extent of bor­ ing your listeners. Tell the unorganized men that the SIU is organizing all unor­ ganized seamen on one simple point. They can better their wages, working and living con­ ditions by joining the SIU and becoming active Union members in the fight to improve the condi­ tions of all seamen afloat or ashore. You can be a bum organizer or a good organizer. There are two kinds of bum ship's organizers to avoid being like. One is the guy who goes aboard, flips his lid right away, and lets everyone know who he is and what he is doing. The other kind is the strong, silent type who goes aboard, rides the ship for a year, and never lets anyone know who he is or what he believes in. Don't be either kind. A. good prganizer follows neither of these two courses. You should take the middle course, and set a good example by doing your job well, being a good ship­ mate, and not throwing your weight around. Tell the unorganized seamen the truth. Your Union has noth­ ing to hide. Remember that a lot of baloney will result in both you and the SIU being regarded as unreliable. Use facts, but don't try to talk everyone else down. Be logical in your discussion of the SIU's brand of unionism. Talk plain, unvarnished facts. The average seaman intesely dis­ likes the "super militant" blowhard who doesn't know what he is talking about. Give the unorganized man a chance to talk and ask ques­ tions. Let him do most of the talking, after . you have broken the ice, and you supply the cor­ rect answers. Don't brag when you talk about the SIU. Use cold facts and figures. That's what counts. To back up your statements, break out your SIU contracts and compare them with the non-un­ ion conditions aboard the unor­ ganized ship. Conditions under an SIU contract ai-e so far ahead of unorganized conditions that Comment Please The "Organizers Hand­ book" is the latest of the pub­ lications prepared by the Edu­ cation Department of the Seafarers. We'd like to have the opinions of the member­ ship of this booklet, so that future* printings may be re­ vised and improved. there actually is a world of dif­ ference. Use the Seafarers Log as an additional argument to back you up, and study all of the organiza­ tional material which you will receive from time to time. You must be up on your facts and figures. If you don't know the score, how are you going to show un­ organized men the light of union­ ism—SIU style? You must be up on your facts. That's important. New Booklet Reprinted in this page are five excerpts from the "Seafare r 8 Organizers' Handbook," which has just come off the press. Chock full of vital informa­ tion for every Seafarer, the handbook's purpose is to ac­ quaint SIU members with the fundamentals of union organi-i zational e:ffort, and thereby, to make every Seafarer a rank and file organizer. Be A Good Shipmate When you're aboard ship, your shipmates judge you by your ac­ tions. Never make the mistake of talking too much, or you'll be looked upon as a windy guy. Then no one will pay any attention to what you say. Your value as an organizer will be completely finished, and much valuable time and effort will be wasted. On the other hand, don't make the mistake of being a sourpuss who comes off watch, hits the hay immediately, and never Discuss SIU Structure, Conditions, Contracts Your SIU contract is one of the best organizing convincers in your kit. Show it to the unor­ ganized men and explain how their comparative conditions will be im.proved under an SIU con­ tract. Most unorganized ships make damn sure that the men get very little overtime. Your SIU con­ tract provisions covering the pay­ ment of overtime should be an eye-opener to the average unor­ ganized seaman. Everytime you see one of these unorganized men doing a job for which he would be receiving overtime on an SlU-contracted ship, break out your SIU con­ tract and show him the advan­ tages of being an SIU member. Don't forget to stress in your discussions the complete democ­ racy of the SIU and its meetings. In the entire country, there are very few unions which prac­ tice SIU democracy in electing the chairman, secretary and reading clerk from the floor of each meeting. Most unions have their meet­ ing run from the platform by their elected officials with very little rank-and-file participation. That's one of the things that make the SIU the democratic out­ fit that it is. Tell these unorganized men how trial committees, finance committees, auditing committees, and other regular and special committees are elected from the floor at SIU membership meet­ ings. • Don't forget to tell them also that these committees aren't only composed of rank-and-file mem­ bers, but are also run by them free from any interference or coercion from the officials. That's SIU democracy in action! Your SIU constitution is also a good pointer to demonstrate to the unorganized seamen. The provisions of the constitution show how democratically the Seafarers is run, and reveal how little control by the officials is actually ^ercised. Read your constitution through several times, and make those points in it which best illustrate the rankand-file control of the Seafarers. In the back of this Handbook, there are two charts which should be quite helpful to you in demonstrating how the SIU functions and its outside affilia­ tions. One of the charts illustrates the structure of the SIU, its var­ ious districts, and how the mem­ ber on the ship is represented in his beef. The other plainly shows the SIU's affiliation with the AFL, the AFL Maritime Trades Department, and other AFL unions. It's very important to remem­ ber that you must know the Sea­ farers structure, contracts and constitution if you're going to +alk to others about their good points. In your spare time, go through the contracts and constitution and mark those spots which should be of special interest to the average unorganized seaman. Then you will have little difficul­ ty in finding these parts when you want to refer to them. The best way to tell others about the good points of the SIU is to know the score about those particular points yourself. That's the best way! Running The Ship Union Style Tliis is a lot simpler than it sounds. To run a ship union style, it is necessary for the crew to hold regular shipboard meet­ ings. At these meetings, all legiti­ mate beefs should be thoroughly discussed and a record kept of same. An attempt should be made to correct or remedy the beefs aboard ship, but if this is not possible, then bring them ashore to your SIU representative. We'll see if anything can be done about them. Always remember that a union ship is a clean ship. Keep it clean. Any man who throws ship's equipment or gear over­ board, who deliberately smashes in door panels or fouls up his quarters, is not a union man. A good ship is a shipshape ship. The union style is good seaman­ ship, good shipmates, good trip and good payoff. If you want to drink, drink ashore. If you want to perform, then perform ashore. Remember the ship is your home while you are aboard, and should be treat­ ed as such. Hold meetings aboard ship us­ ing the ships meeting agenda contained in the SIU pamphlet "Order—How To Conduct A Un­ ion Meeting On Ship And Ashore." 1. Call the meeting to order. 2. Elect officers — chairman, secretary. 3. Read previous minutes — if any. 4. Ships delegates reports — reports of committees, etc., and action taken. 5. New business. 6. Good and welfare. 7. Adjournment. Remember that these meetings are not held until the ship is or­ ganized so that the majority of the crew supports or belongs to the SIU. In running the meeting, use the union literature contained in the Organizers Kit to the best ad­ vantage. That's what it's in there for—to be read, studi^, and above all, used sensibly.' Also make use of the latest copy of the Seafarers Log, and other organizational material as it IS published. The Log has much useful information in it, and contains a complete, up-tothe-minute record of the Seafar­ ers beefs and victories. It's a damn good organizational source book. speaks to anyone. Everyone will ignore you, and you'll never be consulted in any discussion con­ cerning the crew's beefs. Live aboard your ship in a normal manner, and everyone will regard you as a good ship­ mate. Never try to be the "voice of experience," and an authority or final judge on every subject. Act natural, eat, drink, and talk with your shipmates as you would with your shoreside friends. Your worth as an individual while you are aboard ship is judged by whether or not you are considered a good shipmate. If you aren't a good shipmate, you won't be much good as an or­ ganizer. • Always be ready to lend a help­ ing hand to the new guy who doesn't know what it's all about. These fellows look up to you as an example and as one who knows the score, so repay that confidence with a little assistance whenever it's necessary. Your attitude toward these new guys will pay good dividends when the ship votes, because these men are going to vote fo^ the Union representative that they like best. So, above all, re­ member to be a good shipmate and you'll also be a good or­ ganizer. There's More In addition to the material reprinted on this page from the "Seafarers Organizers' Handbook, the following top­ ics are covered in the new publication:It's Your Union, Brother; Getting a Job on an Unor­ ganized Ship; SIU Beef Rec­ ord — N M U Comparison; Compare AFL Maritime Trades Department and CMU; Handling the Commies and Their Propaganda; Con­ tact Union Hall—Bring Ship­ mates There; Stay With the Ship Until 'Voting Is Over. The booklet concludes with important final instructions and organizational charts. Your Job As An Organizer Any seaman—deck, engine or stewards department — is mea­ sured 'oy his ability to do his as­ signed job. This doesn't" mean the old philosophy of "Work like hell, from bell to bell," and it doesn't mean to a.sk any favors by being a job killer. It means just what it says. Do your job well. If you are shipping as a Cook, try your best to turn out good grub. If you're in the Engine De­ partment and have to pack a pump, cut right on the right end. If you don't turn to when letting go or tying up, you are only put­ ting an added load on your ship­ mates. DO THE JOB RIGHT. Any job you do, do to the best of your ability. As a result, your shipmates will respect you, and you will add to the prestige of the Union. If a beef comes up, j ou will be able to discuss it. in­ telligently and won't have to take any malarkey from tha ship's officers. A seaman who knows and does his job can always speak with au­ thority. His fellow seamen re­ gard him as a good ^shipmate. The oldtimers respect him and the newcomers look to him for assistance in becoming better seamen. Do your job, and don't be a job killer. Remember this al­ ways. It's not how hard you work that counts, but how well you know and do your job, A good Union man is always a good seamajn. 0 vTv\, • ' �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Galveston Asks, IDELEGATES Does Agreement Cover Romhes? By RAY W. SWEENEY GALVESTON—Well here we are again, "Beautiful Galveston by the Sea." Shipping during the past week has been fair here, but due to the fact that quite a few West Coast boys have piled into town under the impression that ship> ping is good, we have found our­ selves swamped with men wait­ ing for ships. So for the time being we have plenty of men around for the jobs that will come in. If you're thinking of hitting Galveston for a ship, it would be a good idea to change your plans and try one of the other ports. The other day Brother Brightwell and I paid off the SS Rich­ ard Rush of the Robin Line and we ran into some difficulty. The Stewards Department had quite a bit of disputed overtime and one item in particular stumped us. It seems that the Master order­ ed the Steward to keep the messrooms sprayed to kill the cock­ roaches. At the end of the trip, three men handed the Steward an over­ time sheet with no dates or time for a total of 57 hours each. The Steward disputed the entire 171 hours and handed it in as disputed overtime with the word "cockroaches" written on the bot­ tom of each sheet. EARL SHEPPARD Friday, February 28, 1947~ TO INT'L CONVENTION Based on the unanimous recom­ mendation of the Ci-edentials Committee, elected to examine the credentials of candidates for election as Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ trict delegates to the Internation­ al Convention of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union, the member­ ship has elected .seven delegates by acclamation. The successful candidates are Paul Hall, No. 190; Claude Simmons, No. 398; Ray White, No. 57; Carl E. Gibbs, No. 2341; Earl R. Smith, No. 20057; W. C. Tanner, No. 44; and Earl Sheppard. No. 203. The Union had previously gone on record to elect seven candi­ dates to the convention starting in Chicago on March 24, 1947, and since only seven qualified men accepted nominations, the committee made its recommenda­ tion in order to save the Union the considerable expense which would be involved in holding a totally unnecessary election. The report was submitted to regular coastwise meetings on Wednesday, February 26, and was adopted. The committee which ex­ amined the credentials consisted of William Higgs, No. 223; Don­ ald E. Woods, No. 34575; Sidney D. Turner, No. 7199; George E. Berry, No. 20225; B. Miller, No. 26202; and William Brown No. 29935. * - ^' 4|5ii|s|s CARL E. GIBBS (Continued from Page 1) also hastened the death of that disruptionist organization. The call to the meeting was signed by John Owens, Execu­ tive Secretary of the Department. Brother Owens is also SecretatyTreasurer of the International Longshoremen's A.s.sociation, The letter calling the meeting follows: Feb. 21, 1947. Mr. Harry Lundeberg, President Seafarers Int. Union of N. A. 105 Market St., San Francisco 5, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother:— The Executive Board has de­ cided to hold a meeting of the Maritime Trades Department at the Hotel Morrison in the city of Chicago commencing March 31, 1947. Each International Union af­ filiated with the Department will be entitled to three repre­ sentatives. You will make your own ar­ rangements and reservations. We are of the opinion that a meeting at this time will be helpful to the general picture. Kindly let me know who will represent your organization. With be.st wi.she.s, I am EARL R. SMITH W. C, TANNER AFL Maritime Group To Meet in Chisago Fraternally yours, JOHN R. OWENS, Executive Secretary, AFL Maritime Trades Dept. CORRECTED SHEETS Brother Brightwell handled the beef and had the men rewrite the overtime with the dates and time the work was performed. He then had the Steward sign and okay each man's sheet and hand­ ed them to the Master. At the time Brother Brightwell was told this would be paid on a supplementary pay voucher. After the pajmff everyone left the ship, including the Patrol­ man, who thought everything was all right. The men, however, didn't re­ ceive their money, as three or four days later, when the ship arrived in Houston, the beef was RAY WHITE raised again with the Houston Agent. I guess the boys were too embarrassed to come to the Hall here and let us know that they did not receive the money. It is my opinion that this is part of the Stewards Department routine duties, and I would like to ask some of the oldtimers to come to my rescue on this. This kind of beef is a new one, By SONNY SIMMONS and I can't find anything in the TAMPA—The anti-labor situ­ agreement to cover it. I hope I can get some answers ation in this town is becoming on this as I'm beginning to see worse by the day. All the local cockroaches in my sleep. newspapers, which have really turned into filth sheets, are laud­ ing the states of Georgia, Ten­ nessee, and Arkansas for their stand to outlaw the closed shop, and it makes a good union mem­ Members who forward ber sick at the stomach to read Iheir membership books to the rotten propaganda that is put the New York Hall for retire­ out daily in the Daily Times and ment are urged to mark the the Morning Tribune. envelope with the notation There is no pro-labor paper in "Attention; 6th floor/' in orTampa, and after years of taking der to insure quicker hand­ it on the chin from city officials ling of the matter. and newspapers, organized labor Muking of the envelope in is thinking seriously about start­ the mimner advised above ing a paper, by and for labor. will save time and will result in prompt return of the book It looks like something might to the eonder. come out of all this talk. There is a committee investigating such New Galveston Hall PAUL HALL CLAUDE SIMMONS It may sound funny in these days of housing short­ ages, but it is true that the Seafarers has a new Hall in Galveston. It is located at 308 Vz—23rd Street, just a block from the old one. The new Hall is a big improve­ ment over the one just va­ cated. Shipping is good in Galveston these days, so if you find yourself dovzn in that Texas Port, make a hee­ ling for the Hall where you can rest comfortably while waiting tor the Dispatcher's call. Tampa Trade Unions Consider Publishing Paper To Combat Anti-Labor Reporting in Daily Press RETIRiNB BOOKS a venture, and their reports to print anything about strikebreak­ ing and scab herding. date have all been favorable. A person living joutside of The SIU has taken the lead in Tampa may find it difficult, if not trying to get all labor in this vi­ impossible, to comprehend what' cinity, and that means about 40,is going on down here. To start 000 AFL-affiliated union mem­ with, the Mayor is owned body bers, consolidated so that the and soul by the corporations here, Chief of Police, the Mayor, and and the Chief of Police is the Tom Watson, the Attorney Gen­ one who pulls the strings that eral, wil have some obstacles make the Mayor dance. The thrown in their paths if they try Chief, by the way, is running for to run again. Sheriff in the next election. The anti-labor Judges down During the SIU Strike, this po­ lice big shot set himself in solid with the corporations by using the police force to break picketlines and escort scabs through them. A good labor paper would be a weapon to expose these phonieis, since the papers now in opera­ tion are firm believers in: a finky policy and so don't bother to here are another problem. They are always on the side of the bosses, and did what they could to give us a hard time during our strike. Then, when the Taxi Drivers, of the Teamsters and Chauffeurs, went on strike, one Judge handed down a ruling that made it a criminal act to talk about the strike, picket, ? or even give as­ sistance to the striking cab driv­ ers. If labor doesn't band together to beat these two-bit politicians, we might just as well give the state to Tom Watson and Com­ pany. By their actions the authorities here have labelled themselves as dictators—even Hitler could do no worse than these people—and they have turned this free communnity into a hell hole. Any man who doesn't support a platform to oust all those fak­ ers hasn't the interests of labor at heart. Labor in politics is pretty bad business, but here we ha'yje either got to clean up a mess or be moved out of here altogether. We have taken our choice, and we are going to fight the laborhaters tooth and nail, ' �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 28. 1947 Page Sevea New Season Brings Its Warning; Union-Wreckers Are Busy At Work By HERBERT JANSEN • CHICAG-O —The first activity of the 1947 sailing season began last week when the SS Gilbert, MS McCool, and the SS North and South America called part •of their crews to work. To most men around here this looked like an early fit-out, but after looking at the ice on the lake, I think they are a bit pre­ mature. Everyone here is anxious to get going, and there is quite a bit of betting as to the fit-out date. The fellows sure get excited when the fit-out time comes, as the pool gets pretty big and its a good slice to the guy that wins. It reminds me of the pools that "used to be held in Alaska, where the guys would bet on the hour and minute that the ice would break up. If a guy hit it right he didn't have to work all year. We received a report this week that the SS Rockwood has been sold to the Kelly Island Steam­ ship Company of Cleveland. Forf WHAT WE NEED IS MO«E HOURS, tAORt Vy|bRk,AA)D LESS PAV merly owned by the Tri-Lakes Steamship Company, she oper­ ated out of hei-e for a good many years, supplying this city with sand for buildings and road im^provements. OLD STANDBY She was an old standby and well known by many Chicagoans. Although she was cursed at times by many, whom she held up and made late for work, she was so well liked that if she wasn't seen for a couple of days we'd receive calls asking what happened to her. As soon ,as the ice breaks, she will leave for Cleveland where she will do the same work she did here for so many years. In looking over my files of last year, I came across a letter dated August 1, 1946, that had been handed to me by a self-appointed Stewards Department Delegate on the SS Theodore Roosevelt. This letter had been prepared by him and read to the members of the Stewards Department, call­ ing for (believe it or not) a re­ turn to the old days of a thirteen hour day, the elimination of cer­ tain jobs and the payment of half wages to those who assumed the eliminated jobs. This joker, whom we later found out was working for a ship­ ping company, went so far with his plot that he duped the de­ partment into backing him up and agreeing to walk off the ship. UNION HISTORY When we got word of what this stooge was trying to pull, wc made tracks down to the ship and called a meeting of the Stewards Department. We told the fellows how they had been taken in and how foolish they would be to follow such a program. We gave them a little history le.sson in the struggle that sea­ men went through to gain the eight-hour day. We told them how the companies fought the eight-hour day for years, sparing nothing to keep the seamen work­ ing long hours for little pay. After the short lecture, we told them if they still wanted to fol­ low the company stiff they could pile off as he had urged them to do. To their credit, not a man piled off. This little story is but a pre­ lude of what we can expect to see in the season coming and every season thereafter. Lettei's such as the one I mentioned, will be circulated among seamen, both organized and unorganized. We will see company stooges masquerading as working stiffs, pulling all kinds of tricks to weaken the union. Tliey will be doing their best to get your good will and cut your throat at the same time for the company's benefit. BEWARE The outfit that will be doing most of this knife-in-the-back work is the Lakes Seamen's Union, bastard child of the Cleve­ land Cliffs Company. They are going to have their stooges out in strength this year to bring sea­ men into their outfit by just such tactics as mentioned above. They will attempt to pit one worker against another; they will peddle cleverly written propa­ ganda and speeches promising seamen everything if they fall in line with them. Don't fall for their phony line. No employer is interested in your welfare, and that includes the Cleveland Cliffs Company. r ATTENTION! If you don'l find linen when you go aboard your ship, nolify ihe Hail at once. A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any good. It's your bed and you have to lie in it. NO NEWS?? Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE NEW ORLEANS BOSTON CORPUS CHRISTI SAVANNAH The deadline for port re­ ports. monies due, etc.. is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. No Hot Water On Diamond Hitch; That Means Hot Time For Chief By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK — You've heard many times about a seaman who got into hot water, well, here's a •story about seamen who wanted to get into hot water and couldn't. Of course, the difference is in the kinds of hot water. On the Diamond Hitch, Alcoa Steamship Company, the hot water was the kind you use for showers, and the Chief Engineer was the kind of guy who didn't give a damn whether the men showered or not. . Being an SlU crew, the men wanted to be as clean as the ship, at least. So they went to the Shipping is Not So Hot And Heavy But Is Stili Good in Baltimore Skipper and he put the heat on the Chief. That worked out okay, except that every time the men needed hot water, they had to follow the same procedure. They waited patiently for the ship to reach New York, and when it did, they blew their tops. First off, they sent for a Patrolman, and when he came aboard •he whole story. He went into action in a hurry, and talked turkey to the Old Man and the Chief. Now the whole matter has been straightened out. But if there is the same complaint when that ship hits another port, that Chief Engineer is going to find himself in hot water, the real boiling kind, that is. BUSINESS STILL GOOD Business and shipping have reached a peak here. If things on the second deck of the Hall. keep going along at this steady We had the floor oiled, the bulk­ gait, we may have to shanghai heads painted and a new head men in order to keep our ships crewed. installed. The Hall now looks the best it Rated men are at a premium, has in a long time. We are going so if you are on the beach, come to continue to make improve­ on up here where you will freeze, ments where we thing they're but where the shipping is good. necessary until the Baltimore Congress has got a bug in its Hall becomes tops. bonnet about economy. They We had a little run-in on the j want to cut down on expenses, waterfront down here last week. i and they are studying the budget At the moment I can't say too to see what they can lop off. much about it, but I will say that , Well, for a start, let them cut we handled the situation nicely.' ^oast Guard. The real credit for the win goes The CG has no reason for to the AFL Maritime Trades De­ standing guard over the mer­ partment, which scored another chant marine in peacetime, and victory on the waterfront. the money that organization is NO SNOW JOB wasting could be put to better use. The snow here in Baltimore By WM. (CURLY) RENTZ BALTIMORE — After several weeks of hot and heavy shipping in the port of Baltimore, things have cooled down a bit. I think, however, it is only a temporary lull. Don't misunderstand me, now, shipping is still fine—it has just dropped from excellent to good with plenty of activity taking place in this port. Along with the continued good shipping, the organizers have been kept busy legging it from ship to ship. There's plenty of organizing work to be done, so if any of j'ou care to do some vol­ unteer organizing, and I know there are many of you, come on down and give the boys a hand— they'll appreciate it. This -week we did a little work Port Buffalo Sends Its Report: Everything Is Really Solid By ALEX McLEAN BUFFALO •The winter is still join the active Lakes fleet this holding its own in this Lakes' year. port with everything solid, and The Lakewood, renamed the that- ain't jive talk. K.. V. Schwartz, is being recon­ All the ships around here are ditioned, converted from coal to solidly imbedded in the ice which oil, and is having new bins in­ now reacl/es out of the harbor stalled. into the blue of Lake Erie for Neil J. Cunningham, well miles. known to most AFL men in this Alth©.ugh the icefield) looks like area died recently in Lackawan­ it will remain around for awhile, na, New York. He was the re­ the newcomers are flocking into gional director of the AFL in the Hall to get the dope on the Western New York, and North­ union and when they can get a western Pennsylvania, having ship. held that post since 1938. The SS Sultana is in drydock Since taking the po.st he work­ here getting a new rudder. This, ed in that capacity handling or­ no doubt, will make the oldtimganizational work, negotiation of ers smile. There will be no ex­ cuses now for her to follow the agreements and grievances. He was the link between AFL acti­ seagulls. vity in this region and the na­ tional office in Washington. LAKEWOOD SOLD The sandship Lakewood, which At present in the Marine Hos­ operated for many years out of pital here in Buffalo are Daniel Buffalo, has bfeen purchased by Kirkpatrick, Francis Campbell, the Schwartz Sand and Gravel Charles Dovey, James Maloney, Co. of Cleveland, and will re- Chris Manaham and B. Oliver. has the city tangled up in knots. All those brass hats do is sit It's really deep. I don't believe around figuring new ways to pull I'll be accused of mixing in pol- a seaman's papers and thereby itics when I say that there is nO| deprive him of his means of livesystem in this town for snow re- lihood. moval or street cleaning. ONLY TO SEAMEN The stuff is still for the most It's hard to imagine the sted part laying where it fell. Maybe the city thinks everyone will be­ workers, the auto worker's, or any come disgusted and go out and other industrial employes being clean the stuff from the streets controlled by the army in times voluntarily. We've received a report that Calmar Line is supposed to buy •eight ships to run in the intercoastal trade. I'd just like to say that here are eight ships that will be running steady, so let's crew them up in a hurry when they come in. They sound like good jobs. Another thing that I'd like to bring to the attention of the members is the fact that if you have nine months seatime on deck you can apply for your AB exam. of peace. Yet that is exactly From the reports I've received what we are supposed to be will­ from men who have taken the ing to accept. I don't know about all the test in Baltimore, it isn't too other waterfront unions, but I do tough. So, it is a good idea to get your AB's ticket now before know that the Seafarers is against the standard is raised to three the CG, and we are not going to give ground in our fight. years deck time. �4 IJ • Hew Cman Line Of Unity Calis For Much Study h,': THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Friday^ February 28^ 1947 UNCLE JOE'S PIC BUSTS PR PEACE Murcia Hook SIU By SALVADOR COLLS the Generalissimo's smile stuck the picture up on the wall during the absence of the NMU officials. The way I got the story, the NMU Patrolman and Agent had noth­ ing to do with it and it was just a stunt. Some stunt. animous in bestowing the presi­ dency on the NMU agent. yhrough the fault of the NMU he has not been paid for the past six weeks, so he had no al­ ternative but to take a card with the panhandlers. Just the other day he hit up two SIU boys for a buck a piece, and they said he cried like a baby when they gave it to him, but they said it was worth the buck just to see him put on the weep­ ing and wailing act. That's about it for this week from San Juan, but Til be back next week with something to re­ port on shipping and bu.sine.ss. Mokes Progress With Tankermen SAN JUAN — The peace and quiet of this enchanted isle was shattered one day last week by By HENRY W. CHAPPELL By BLACKIE CARDULLO the soul-shaking report that a pic­ TOLEDO—When NMU Presi­ ture of Joe Stalin was gracing MARCUS HOOK—Things are dent Joe Curran resigned from a wall in the local NMU Hall. in fine shape in this port with the TOUGH TIMES that communist infested flea bag, ships coming and going, and the The source of the report was the CMU, the inner council of two guys who had been over to Organizers hitting them before I don't wish to dwell on the the NMU was split wide open. they pull the hook. the Hall, and after taking one NMU this week, but things must In spite of the pleas by his ex-j look made a bee-line back here be getting bad for them down Old Man Winter hasn't stopped ecutive board, Curran has made to spread the work. us in our campaign to reach all here in San Juan. Their Agent, this move in an attempt, so he the unorganized tankermen that When I heard the story, I told Kenny Washington has just been says, to achieve unity in the mari­ hit the port, and our efforts are the guys to sober up and stop elected President of the Panhand­ time industry, and to purge the showing definite results. the nonsense, 'cause no one would lers Union. This honorary organi­ NMU of the communist element zation has a few SIU beachcomb­ We are still concentrating on pull such a stunt. that has captured the union and ers in its ranks, but all were un­ the Sun Oil men, and it is a real robbed its treasury. joke to see the <NMU organizers When Joe Curran talks of a try to talk to these tankermen. merging of maritime unions, sev­ The old proverb, "if at first you eral items should be considered: don't succeed, try, try again," Why has he been content to play must have been well absorbed along with these phony commies by them—although they don't all these years, backing their show much spirit. phony moves all along the line? By CAL TANNER First they lose Isthmian, and Why has he cooperated with then they top it off by losing the MOBILE—The port of Mobile and layout with the one in Bal­ the governmental bureaucrats, is in very good shape with ship­ timore, and as everyone knows, Atlantic Refining Election. The when he knew who sponsored latter they lost when they had a ping hitting off at such a good that is a good Hall. these agencies and what their free hand, bucking only the com­ rate that we are suffering a man­ FIRST CLASS SET-UP purpose was? And why has he pany union. power shortage. The Hall will be equipped in a opposed the SIU on almost every I wonder what would have The guys insisted that it was From the way shipping has first class manner, as we have or­ happened if they'd had the SIU issue where sailors' welfare was true, so to satisfy them and my picked up it looks like we will dered new gear and fixtures. at stake? own curiosity I piled into my gas- be suffering that aNyful situation When the guys hit Mobile they bucking them in the fight. I think they'd have more luck DANGEROUS CHARACTERS wagon and rattled down to the of having jobs for anyone who won't believe their eyes after if they'd concentrate on organiz­ NMU hangout. wants them for quite awhile. having been used to the old These things we should bear ing the Old Men's Home. This When I mentioned last week place. I walked into the Hall and took in mind. The phonies who have business of organizing seamen The fellows who regularly ship dictated the policies of the NMU one look—lo and behold—there that we wouldn't kick if we got a seems to be too big a job for for years, and with whom Joe it was! I wiped my eyes, but sudden spurt of shipping, I didn't out of Mobile are on pins and them. Curran has played all the way, Uncle Joe was still up there on think that it would become a needles awaiting the formal tape VICTIMS OF CUPID are dangerous, and any moves the wall looking down at me reality in such a hurry. But, as I cutting and ceremony that we said then, I wouldn't kick and will of course have. Joe Curran makes toward unity from over his moustache. The latest couple to make a I'm not. I'll even take a steady From now on the boys here can will bear watching by the SIU. The real kicker to the deal date with the preacher is Buddy diet of it. go around with their head in the It is not my intention to oppose was that he was right up there and Gertie, who are to take the Well, the committee that was air and shoulders back. There the ultimate unity of all maritime next to a picture of Roosevelt. leap in the near future. We want sent out to inspect the prospec­ will be no sentimental tears shed unions. But it is my intention as to wish good luck and smooth I had seen enough, so I back­ a member of the SIU, to study tracked out of the building and tive headquarters has voiced its over leaving the old dump. sailing to you both. We'll keep As I said last week, we will and analyze all angles of this drove back to the Hall where the approval. Now that we have the a ship standing by just in case problem. I want to be sure that boys were waiting for my con­ green light we're not wasting any take pictures for the Log as soon the little woman starts to show time in getting to work on the as she is ready for occupancy. So never will these NMU mislead- firmation or denial. stand by for the grand opening. you who wears the pants. Don't building. ers, or any other group like them, Lindsey Williams was in town say we didn't warn you, but who I told them it was true, and Painters and carpenters are al­ be in a position to dictate the am I to talk. gave my humble apologies to the ready busy giving it a going over, recently and we were all glad to policies of our union. I wonder where Frank Snyder see him. Lindsey is SIU Field The NMU officials have bitter­ guys whose action I had question­ and from the looks of things it is, and why he doesn't step into Representative for Gulf Area Or­ ly fought the SIU when fair elec- ed. Even now it seems too much won't be too long before we'll be ganizing and he has been doing the Marcus Hook Hall and say hanging out the SIU shingle in iions have been held and won by to believe. a good job. (Ed. note: See article hello to us? our new home. the SIU. The commimist party j The way I hear it, some overby Brother Williams on page 3 Life sure is tough, for a seaman The new Hall compares in size line always comes to the front zealous member infatuated by of this issue.) when he is unable to answer the at this time, and every dirty Well, that's the story from Mo­ old call of the salt water if he trick in their book is thrown at bile for this week. Here's hoping gets the urge. Come on down us. we can report excellent shipping Frank, we promise we won't talk The NLRB is swamped with again next week. you into taking a ship. phony, trumped up charges of collusion, unfair practices, and anything else that will delay the By EDDIE HIGDON certification of the SIU. PHILADELPHIA — Things are the water right next to the ship. CORRECTION We all rushed over to the side The following from the union employees of the Seamen's looking good in the Port of Philly To sum it up briefly, the SIU as far as shipping is concerned. —and who should climb out but Church Inslilule is self-explanatory. Seafarers will not be has to battle the company and Brother William Marks, Plumbersurprised at the actions of the Board of Managers, and will the NMU to win any gains for its We paid off two ships this week, Machinist of the ship. one South Atlantic and one Wa­ know how to act as good Union men. members. For these reasons, I, After climbing aboard he stated as a member of the SIU, will con­ terman and after crewing them that the chow was so good on the SEAMEN! tinue to eye suspiciously any up we had to call New York for ghip he couldn't bear to miss it, The prices of Lodgings. Meals, Laundry, etc. at the Sea­ overtures of unity from Curran ABs as we had exhausted our and as he was unable to get a supply. and company. men's Church Institute have been decidedly increased BUT launch he hired the seaplane. While shipping is good here, In the Jan. 17 issue of the Log OUR WAGES REMAIN FROZEN. Boy, if a guy goes to all that I stated that Fred Bradley, Chair­ the weather is the opposite. As trouble to get his chow, it must The high standards that prevail on American ships today man of the House Merchant Ma­ with the rest of the East Coast, be good. That was the best com­ are as a result of Union organization and collective bargaining. rine and Fisheries Committee, we got a good dose of snow and pliment that could be paid to any was opposed to the newly intro­ have had the shovels out trying bellyrobber. We are trying to follow your example. duced Seamen's Bill of Rights. to clear a path to the Hall. This week I contacted the Cen­ Our Union, the Stationary Engineers, Firemen, Maintenance I have since learned that Mr. This cold weather sure makes tral Trades and Labor Union and and Building Service Union No. 670 CIO seeks the support of all Bradley was misquoted in the the Hall feel like an icehouse. spoke to Joseph McDonough the organized labor lo compel the Board of Managers to negotiate press. Representative Bradley Here's hoping something turns Business Manager. He's a swell has pledged his support to early up in our search for better head­ with us, instead of giving us the brush-off on the excuse that guy and a real union man. He passage of the bill. the Institute is a charitable institution not required by law to quarters. told me he was an ex-seaman and bargain collectively with its employees. While covering one of the ships still felt very much inclined to­ lying out in the stream here, I ward the fellows who follow the Charity begins at home; we are asking for more than experienced something that sea. charity in view of present day prices of the necessities of life. would warm the cockles of any He told me that if at any time Your continued patronage is solicited, for, without Seamen Steward's heart. the CTLU could be of assistance why the Institute? BUT we ask that you let management know While I was taking care of to us he would be more than ?7, in no uncertain terms thid you desire service from Union Em­ things, the crew knocked off for happy to see that we got any aid ployees. chow. Standing on the deck, I we might need. That was good THANK YOUl noticed a seaplane circling over­ to hear, and that's the way it head. After it circled a few times should be with the AFL all over. EMPLOYEES OF SEAMENS CHURCH INSTITUTE it swooped down and settled on Real trade-union solidarity. MEMBERS. OF SEFMBSU No. 670 CIO. Mobile Has Manpower Shortage; New Union Hail Keenly Awaited Philadelphia Has AB Shortage, But There Is Plenty Of Weather THE DOGHOUSE BLUES �• Friday, February 28, 1947 oT- i? THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Seafarers Program For Congressional Action INTERCOASTAL AND COAST­ WISE SHIPPING The great majority of Intercoastal and Coastwise ships today are being operated by the Gov­ ernment, through the United States Maritime Commission, with the exception of a few in­ dustrial carriers; such as Stand­ ard Oil, Isthmian Line, and a few lumber schooners. On this page is the concluding portion of SIU President Harry Lundeberg's message to the members of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee and the members of the Committee on Commerce. Last week's Log contained the first part of his message in which he criticized the transfer of American vessels to the Panaminian Flag, the Ships Sales Bill, and the present state of American shipping. In his remarks last week, President Lundeberg stated that the blame for the present sick status of the American Merchant Marine can be laid squarely to th^ Maritime Commission, the State Department, and the disinterested part the United State Congress has played. Brother Lundeberg went on to criticize certain gov­ ernment officials who are interested in destroying the present American Merchant Marine by giving it away to foreign countries. This week, President Lundeberg covers the status of inter-coastal and coast­ wise shipping, the Merchant Seamen's Wartime Service Act, the Coast Guard and the various problems confronting the seamen of America today. During the war, the United States Government saw fit to grant full citizenship papers and full rights to any alien who en­ tered the armed foi'ces of our country upon application after serving three months. We believe these alien seamen should be given the same privi­ lege as was granted to aliens who entered the armed forces, or at least given some kind of con­ sideration. According to law, on February 28, 1947, the Government will step out of the picture and leave A Bill could be drafted, intro­ it in the hands of the private op­ duced and passed by Congress, erators, who up to now, have giving these men their citizen­ given no indication that they in­ ship papers after serving on tend to resume private operations American ships for two years; in these runs. The private op­ after the United States Govern­ erators gave as their reason thaf ment was thoroughly convinced, they can not operate at a profit war for various ratings, such as We know these Bureaus can high government salary, func­ that these men were loyal to the with the present rate structure in officers and unlicensed seamen. function more economically un­ tion as a Judge in each port. American principles and policies, competition with the railroads, der the Department of Commerce Chances are these so-called as laid down in our Constitution, We find, at the same time, that who operate today under a more than under any other department. "Judges" would only handle We believe these men are en­ the American Merchant Marine's favorable setup. They have the proper machinery about two or three cases a week, titled to some consideration and ships are rapidly decreasing in The Maritime Commission, ac­ number, so that in many ports to handle these Bureaus, and it if that many; unless they go out Cong! ess should see that they cording to their own figures, is today an unemployment situation should be in their hands. The and create work for themselves. receive it. It must be remembered that if running the Coastwise, Alaska, has arisen among the seamen, Merchant Marine is a civilian op­ Besides paying the salaries, eration and should not be under something is not done for these and Intercoastal ships at a loss. and we know with the rapid de­ which we understand are going a semi-military setup. men shortly, they will be faced to be set at $8,000 a year, they are President Truman has asked crease of American shipping that with, the possibility of not being We took this up last year with also intending to have stenotype Congress to extend governmental in the future we will face a ter­ the then Secretary of Commerce, and clerical service, which will able to sail or work in the United operation for another four rific unemployment problem. Henry A. Wallace; but unfor­ be anothtr unnecessary expense States. A number of these men months, in order to give the In­ We can see no reason for main­ tunately, Mr. Wallace was not in­ to the United States Govern­ have no country to return to, due terstate Commerce Commission taining the training program for terested in developing the Amer­ ment; unless it is to create a few to the reshifting of European bor­ time to investigate the rail and Merchant Seamen under the aus­ ican Merchant Marine and saw more jobs for some bureaucrats. ders. water rate. pices of the Maritime Commission, fit not to fight for the jurisdiction We urgently request Congress This particular system, if it The situation is so bad on the with the thousands of American of his own department. Evident­ to take steps to help these alien goes into effect, will cost the Uni­ Pacific Coast, for instance, that seamen on the beach today. ly, the American Merchant Ma­ seamen get their citizenship pap­ ted States taxpayers several mil­ today there are only 13 coast­ rine and its functions were not of ers and become American citi­ We protested strongly before lion dollars a year, and no one, wise ships sailing up and down the Bureau of Budgets against much concern to Mr. Wallace. His at this stage of the game, has zens, as payment for their serv­ the great Pacific Coast; in a trade, ice and loyalty to our couBlrjr the attempt of the Maritime Com­ interests, no doubt, were else­ raised his voice against it. where not so many years ago, during the war. mission to get 18 million dollars where. there were 90 to ICQ ships op­ We know Congress is interest­ for the coming year for training We also found out that an ad­ COMMENT erating. ed in cutting expenditures wherepurposes. The Bureau of Budgets ditional burden of hundreds of We believe Congress and the allowed the Maritime Commis­ thousands of dollars a year will ever possible. Here is one place We believe the above prob­ Maritime Commission should im­ sion 51/2 million dollars, which we be heaped on American .taxpay­ where they can do a beautiful lems, which we have presented to mediately take steps to rectify absolutely believe is a waste of ers under the President's Ad­ job. Congress can then say they you, are of vital interest to the did their duty by the taxpayers. American Merchant Marine and this condition, so American ships the taxpayers' money. By no ministrative Bill. will again be able to operate in stretch of the imagination, nor We urge Congress to check in­ to the people who serve in it; At the present time, the U. S. coastwise and intercoastal runs. by any type of argument can the Coast Guard maintains what is to this immediately, arid also do and it is to the benefit of our MERCHANT SEAMEN'S WAR­ Maritime Commission state today known as "Hearing Units" or everything in its power to bring country that Congress immed-' that it is necessary to continue "Courts." This particular setup | the functions of the U. S. Steam- iately look into these matters and TIME SERVICE ACT this vast training program. hears cases of seamen who have boat Inspection Service and the rectify some of the injustices, We strongly urge Congress to In a short time, there will be violated their duties, etc. Only U. S. Shipping Commissioner's which we pointed out, and which pass H. R. 476, introduced by five men to each job in the Amer­ minor cases come before these Office back in the hands of the we know are facts. Congressman Peterson of Florida. ican Merchant Marine, and it is courts, because the American Department of Commerce where Our Organization is affiliated with the American Federation of The American Merchant Sea­ senseless to take more and more seamen are under the statutes it rightfully belongs. Labor, with a membership of men have been promised over a men into the Merchant Marine, of Federal Laws, and there are ALIEN SEAMEN 60,000 American seamen. We period of years that they would when figures show jobs are get­ definite penalties laid down for misbehavior and serious offenses have the welfare of the American be taken care of after the war ting scarcer and scarcer. During the war, the American was over. As you know, quite Merchant Marine found itself Merchant Marine at heart, and We believe Congress should of seamen. a number of American seamen take immediate steps to stop any Now, for some unknown rea­ short of skilled seamen and was believe all right-thinking Ameri­ were killed during the war; leav­ further expenditures of taxpay­ son, under the President's Ad­ forced to call upon and use alien cans feel the same way. ing families not properly taken ers' money for training purposes ministrative Bill, this system of seamen to man American ships We call upon Congress to do care. There were also thousands for the Merchant Marine. courts will be run by attorneys, to a certain degree. their utmost to safe-guard the of American seamen who were who will receive life-time ap­ Before these seamen were al­ American Merchant Marine; not crippled during the war, and who U. S. STEAMBOAT INSPEC­ pointments to these courts in lowed to sail on American ships, only for the sake of employment need hospitalization; some of TION SERVICE—U. S. SHIP­ every port in the United States. they were carefully scrutinized for Americans, but also because it them for the rest of their lives, These jobs will be under Civil PING COMMISSIONER'S by the Army, Navy and the Coast is necessary that we maintain a and some who will never be able Service, and in order to qualify, Guard as to their loyalties. large American Merchant Marine OFFICE—U. S. COAST to work again. a man must have a degree of law. as a national defense measure for GUARD HEARING UNITS Many of these men spent sev­ our country. This new system is supposed to At the present time, there is eral years during the war on go into effect June 1, 1947. nothing under the law of the We know how important the At the present time, the func­ American ships, helping the Uni­ land to protect these men and There are many reasons why American Merchant Marine was tions of the U. S. Steamboat In­ ted States fight her enemies. dui'ing the last war. We also their families, and we feel that it this is absolutely unnecessai'y— spection Service and the U. S. They sailed on ships carrying is the duty of Congress to pass Shipping Commissioner's Office contrary to the position taken by troops and ammunition; many of know the important role it played the Merchant Marine Service Act. is under the jurisdiction of the the American Bar Association, them were killed and many were in the first world war. We strongly urge Congress to United States Coast Guard. These who urged passage of this Execu­ There is no reason why our seriously disabled, while serving pass favorably on this legislation. two departments were transferred tive Order. country can not maintain a large under the American Flag. In the fii'st place, a seaman is Merchant Marine in peace time; from the Department of Com­ MERCHANT MARINE TRAIN­ Now, according to the Mer­ when we are always called on to merce to the U. S. Coast Guard, not tried for a crime in these par­ ING PROGRAM chant Marine Act of 1936, which furnish men and ships during ticular courts. As a matter of through executive action of the no doubt will be re-enforced war-time. fact, prior to the war, cases Under the Merchant Marine President, and was only meant to shortly," there can only be 25 against seamen, when they came Admiral Land stated, at one Act of 1936, the Maritime Com­ be a war-time measure. percent alien seamen in non-sub­ up from time to time for disci­ time, that American ships should mission was empowered to cre­ Under the President's reor­ sidized ships, and only 10 per­ carry at least 50 percent of our ate a training program for of­ ganizing program of last year, the pline, were heard by regular cent alien seamen in the Stew­ imports and exports, and that we ficers in the Merchant Marine. President issued an Executive Steamboat Inspectors, who passed ards Department in government must maintain a large coastwise These schools, operated by the Order, which placed the U. S. various fines on them; such as subsidized ships, which means United States Government, are Steamboat Inspection Service suspension of seamen's papers and intercoastal fleet for national there will be several thousand training not only officers, but and the U. S. Shipping Commis­ for certain periods, etc. They security. These memorable words alien seamen unable to sail on could not, at that time, sentence have not been lived up to. We unlicensed seamen. sioner's Office in the hands of American ships because of the a man to the penitentiary; and again bring them to your at­ the Coast Guard permanently; Due to the vast expansion of it still can not be done under law of the land. tention. nothwithstanding the fact that the Merchant Marine during the These particular alien seamen war, thousands upon thousands of. the jurisdiction, of these depart- these new courts; only minor in­ Respectfully yours, men were trained. Today, we | ments have been in the hands of fractions come up before these have served in the American HARRY LUNDEBERG Merchant Marine for a period of find that over one-half million the Department of Commerce for courts. Presidenl. SIU of NJl. years, and most of them sailed Now, why is it necessary to teamen's certificates were issued; a number of years, where they during the war. have an attorney, being paid a Secrelary-TreasM SUP. by the Coast Guard during the!really belong. �Page Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG JPriday, February 28, 1947 SHIPS' lilMUTES AMD MEWS CHERISHED DREAM HAS AN ABRUPT ENDING AT SEA t Tillamook Crew Returns To States \ ^ SIU Crew Whips Dixon Into Shape The SS B. F. Dixon has juSt completed her first trip manned by a crew of Seafarers, and she's beginning to look it. In the throe® of an NMU hangover when she was taken over recently by the A. H. Bull Steamship Company, the vessel is gradually assuming ship-shape condition, reports Brother Julio Evans, one of thfe LEFT: Coastal Stevedore stowaway leaves crewmembers. ship for transfer to passing Coastal Mariner in a "The Dixon looked a little lifeboat manned by Antonio Gonzales. Deck abandoned, when we took her Maint., (pushing off). "Shorty." OS (extreme over from the NMU crew," Evans right) and "Swede," Bosun (in foreground). said. Under the careful handling of the SIU crew, the ship is as­ suming shape, he added. ABOVE: On deck, left to right, are Seafarers The' ship's initial Seafarers Robert Scott. Ch. Elec.. Gonzales and "Shorty." voyage to Puerto Rico was a hap­ py one. On board, headed for the island's capital, were San Juan Port Agent Salvador Colls, his wife and their child. With their ship left high and dry on the beach at Swansea, Wales, 38 members of the crew of the SS Tillamook, a Deconhil Tanker, returned to New York -last week aboard the MS John -^rikson bringing with them tales of the difficulty encountered When they ran aground the night of Nov. 30 last. The boys had Coast Guard trouble, too, pre­ cipitated by the Chief Mate's gun-happy disposition. The crew was returned to the States after considerable effort to float the grounded vessel had hand-cuffed nine of the crew failed and a decision was made^ following their inability to com-' to wait until—with the advent of P^y with his order that they the spring tides—^more favorable change into working clothes and SPECIAL DINNER turn to in "five minutes," Broth­ conditions prevail. In celebration of the trip, the ' The Tillamook had arrived at er Lusko said. The men had al­ able Stewards Department, head­ ready started out for a shoreTwo days after his long-cherished dream of getting -Swansea Nov. 25 to discharge her ed by Steward Sixto Escobar and side eating spot when their 12^cargo oil. On the night of the to the United States appeared probable of realization, a Chief Cook A. Boyle, prepared a hour break came. But the Mate mishap she pulled out for the Dominican stowaway sat disconsloately in one of the life­ meal which was enthusiastically called them back to the ship and outer harbor. As the hook was boats of the MV Coastal Stevedore, awaiting transfer to referred to by Evans as "one of being dropped, the chain broke. gave his impossible order. a southbound ve.ssel that would return him to his native soil. the most luxurious dinners in Drifting in the heavy fog, the SKIPPER A 'GOOD JOE' The stowaway had managed^—— SIU history." ship ran aground on the beach Lusko telephoned the skipper, successfully to board the Steve­ crew into the sea. A short while In support of this claim, Evans at Porthcawl, Wales. Capt. G. G. Guerin, who, the Ray Lusko, Wiper on the Tilla­ Seafarer said, was a considerate, dore and secret himself just prior late, the stowaway was climbing forwarded a copy of the menu mook and Black Gang Delegate, square-shooter, well-liked by the to the Bull line ship's departure aboard the Mariner for the un­ of that dinner, served at sea, Jan. 29. Evans' statement seemed in said that when the tide is out, crew. The Captain came to the from Puerta Plata, Dominican happy return to Puerta Plata. Aside from this incident, the order, too. There were a great va­ there is a 75-yard breach of sand vessel im.m.ediately and ordered Republic, for the return of Voy­ age No. 11, two weeks ago. northern trip of the Coastal Ste­ riety of salads and appetizere. between the stranded vessel and the men released. The success of his illegal entry vedore was uneventful. She left For entrees, there was a choice fit the water's edge. The Mate preferred charges attempt was shortlived, however. New York on Jan. 13, and re­ for a king: Boiled ox tongue, HEAVY DAMAGE I with the Coast Guard, and the The hideout of the Stevedore's turned for the payoff last week. roast Virginia ham, and roast • Heavy damage was suffered by | cases were handled in the rou- unscheduled human cargo was prime ribs of beef. Or if lovers •the tanker, with her rudder and tine, white-washing manner, discovered on the first day out of fowl were present — joast •stearing gear completely smash­ Charges against four of the men at sea. young tom turkey. ed. The screw was knocked off, were dismissed without hearings, The Coastal Stevedore's skip­ Potatoes abounded in every and holes were punched in all The other five received varying per radioed the Coastal Mariner, Send in the minutes of possible variety and preparation. fresh water tanks, Lusko said, penalties, pointing up the imwhich was on her way to Puerta your ship's meeting to the The desserts were fitting, too. Several of the cai'go tanks con- possibility of overcoming charges Plata, requesting that she stop New York Hall. Only in that Cheeses, pies, cakes, ice cream, tained sand which had poured once they have been preferred, and pick up the stowaway when way can the membership act plum pudding and fresh fruit in through the punctures. | In cases like that on the Tillathe vessels met the next day. O n your recOiSunoridaiionS, were among the more prominent Heating and lighting aboard mook, it is extremely difficult to and then the minutes can be The following morning the dessert offerings. the ship was knocked out. The counter charges such as the pisprinted in the LOG for the All hands—and stomachs— Mariner hove into view, and crew was put on alternating 24- tol-packing Chief Mate instituted. benefit of all other SIU gave every indication of being crewmembers of the Stevedore hour shifts, with breaks at 12The 38 Tillamook crewmemcrews. pleased with the Dixon's first trip lowered a lifeboat containing her hour intervals to allow the men bers who returned on the Eriks­ dejected passenger and a boat under the SIU banner. to go ashore to eat. son were lavish in their praise of The crew worked on the beach the treatment they received from stringing lines, so that when the the Eriksson crew, Lusko said. CHRISTMAS DINNER AT SEA tide came in tugs could begin the The Tillamook men designated task of pulling the Tillamook Lusko to tell the Log of their ap­ .from her high and dry position preciation, and their desire "to 'into the water. thank all hands aboard the EriksOut on the West Coast thi.' The Coast Guard troubles arose son for their efforts in making when a gun-toting Chief Mate the return trip pleasant. week was enacted a stirrinf drama of sea rescue chock ful of heroes and sputtering victims Into the rough, storm-swep' waters off San Francisco, a boa' capsized, spilling its blue-clar crew of five. Their cries for heir spurred an intrepid giroup ol teen-aged Sea Scouts into action Giving the old rallying Scout-cry the lads of the sea society daunt lessly fought their way to the soaking victims and towed then ashorg. Back on the safe, dry land thej love so well, the victims—^livf water-logged members of the United States Coast Guard— blushingly gave thanks to their The SS Tillamook sits high and dry on the beach at Porth­ securers. . oxiuer improvisjed holiday decorations which hung from the cawl. Wales, near Swansea, while her crewmembers string lines The boys will probably be care­ overhead, crewmembers .of the SS ^^Brasil Victory dined sumplu-r for the refloating attempt. Job was later abandoned until ful from now on about going too ously while the ship was at Santos, Brazil. spring tides make task easier. near the water's edge. Stowaway On MV Stevedore Stymied On Second Day Out Send Those Minutes They'll Listen To Momma, Now �rUday. February 28, 1847 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief SANDS POINT. Jan. 19— Chairman O. B. Drummond; Secretary Charles J. Harlman. Minutes of previous meeting read and acepted. All depart­ ments report satisfactory work­ ing conditions. Under new business, the following items were reported to be in need of attention: trays for refrigera­ tor, escape panels for foc'sles, ventilation in crew's head. The pantry is to be checked, as well as the eight-to-twelve watch's foc'sles, which has a water leak­ age. & ALBERT K. SMILEY, Jan. 24—Chairman George G. Gordano; Secretary John T. Buck­ ley. Minutes of previous meet­ ing read, and motion carried to post them on bulletin board. Department Delegates reported everything under control. Mo­ tion carried: to have Deck Dele• gate see Chief Engineer about converting one salt water show­ er to fresh water. A lively talk was given to all Brothers to speak up and relieve their minds of anything they didn't understand, and, especially for new members, it was brought out that all should speak their minds, and have no fear of say­ ing what they thought. 4. s. JOSHUA HENDY, Jan. 28— Chairman Henry C. McDilda; Secretary W. J. Stradford. Steward stated that present supply of stores will last until port is reached. Requisition is to be ready for stores. Hospi- lal bunks are to be examined by doctor and Patrolman. Items needed for next crew to be presented to Patrolman. Ar­ ticle in Log stated that "Windy" Joe Oliver. Captain of Hendy, was hard, tough guy. He was squared away since, and is alright to sail with. 4« S. 3/ Following suggestions were made: that quinine tablets be left aboard ship; that all mem­ bers wear shirt while meals are being served; that garbage be moved farther aft. XXX ANACAPA, Dec. 10—Chair­ man Ray Holder; Secretary Bill Rowe. Department Delegates report no beefs. Motions car­ ried; that crewmembers getting off give ship's delegate notice that he can wire for relief; that Wiper take care of showers and heads, and seamen take care of passageways; that messboy be put on probation until he does belter; that an agreement be made for this vessel. Merry Sherwood Men Toast Their Friends The merry lads of the SS Robin Sherwood have rounded out a highly successful voyage. Aside from the little differences which exist p r a c t i c a lly everywhere, everyone got along first-rate. For their cooperation and ef­ forts in making the trip to South and East Africa a good one, Capt. Harry M. Scholder and Chief Mate Broeker drew praise from the crew. "We only wish we had more skippers and Chief Mates such as them," the crew said. "They were 100 percent for the men." Helping considerably in mak­ ing the trip an outstanding one was the Sherwood's Chief Stew­ ard, "who put out good meals throughout the entire voyage. The crew concluded their sign­ ed statement with words to the effect that all had "some hot shore leave in Africa." 4* 3* 4" TRISTRAM DALTON, Feb. 1—Chairman J. W. Puekett; Secretary A. G. Kondarskie.i Delegates report everything running smoothly. Recom­ mended that all hands having They Have Key beefs go with them directly to their respective Delegates; Mo­ To The Problem tions carried; that Fireman not An innovation to eliminate the attending shipboard meetings strange case of the missing foc'sle be reported to Patrolman on ar­ keys is revealed in the Feb. 12 rival in port. List of repairs/ minutes of the SS Evelyn. drawn up as necessary for next The plan calls for the Steward trip. Motion passed calling for to be in charge of all foc'sle keys each Delegate to recommend with each man depositing with full books for his men on ar­ him one dollar on receiving a rival. Recommended that next key. The deposit is to be refund­ crew check slopchests and ed upon surrender of the key at medicine chest thoroughly be­ fore signing on. the payoff. A subsequent motion was pass­ XXX ed to place the deposit money in­ to a treasury to be used as a recreational fund. That sort of opens the door to better things. Bosun Jack Parker and his X if mate Genevieve have announced CORINGA. Jan. 19—Chair­ the acquisition of a small craft, man Fidel Lukban; Seereiazy the first of a fleet they plan to John Mulligan. Motion defeat­ develop. ed to fine men leaving dishes Christened Linda Jean, the and other items in messroom. Motion carried: that cold sup­ Parker craft came off the ways pers be served twice weekly iti on schedule at 12:57 a.m., Feb. all tropical ports; that Dele­ 16, 1947. Tooting loudly, she is gates speak to Master about fix­ now operating under her own ing ventilation system: that steam. Both Jack and Genevieve are Ch. Eng. install pipe installa­ tions back aft for awnings. keeping her steady as she goes. Parker Craft Off The Ways WILLIAM CLAGETT, Dec. 22—Chairman Barney Rogers; Secretary Roland Johnson. Logs made at first of trip were lifted. Ch. Mate still disputes legal overtime. Motions carried: that payoff be held up if legi­ timate overtime is not paid; that an agricultural agent be! brought aboard to inspecf all food listed as bad by Steward; that ship be fumigated as soon as possible; that a repair list be made and turned in to Pa­ trolman. OVERTIME yOt/R TIME MEW SIU OVERTIME SHEETS READV. BE SURE eVERV - XXX JAMES TURNER (Isthmian), Feb. 4—Chairman Henry Twyman; Secretary Charles Hicks. Delegates elected. Requested that bath and face towels be issued at one time. Steward agreeing to this procedure. Sug­ gested action to remedy short­ age of soap and matches. Mo­ tions carried: to have lasli standby clean messhall; one man from each department to clean laundry; to attempt to procure library at first port. Lincoln's Birthday menu was By HANK first-rate by Steward and three cooks who "really know how If any of you brothers are suffering from those landlubbing to put it out." ailments such as: empty pockets, snow blindness, talking to your­ selves, restless sleeping in hotels, empty nights around town, portalto-portal love suits, nose colds and backaches—then come to the Hall. There ain't no doctors here but there are plenty of healthy ships to take you out of financial, psychological and physical misery. In fact, shipping is so good that Dispatcher Paul Gonsorchick doesn't have to wet the counter with occasional crocodile tears in trying to painlessly shanghai any gullible brothers breathing in his face. X X X X "Heavy" Torachuck, who weighs in fhe vicinily of 250 XXX pounds, just arrived from Aarhus, Denmark, on the Felix BRAZIL VICTORY, Jan. 7— Grundy, confessing that the trip was good all around except in Chairman Frank Hughes; Sec­ the romance department . . . Oldtimer Robert Barrett, citizen retary Joseph Barron. Ship's of Brooklyn, is fresh in town. What't new. Brother Barrett, any Delegate K o r o 1 i a contacted more Gulf shipping: for you? . . . Charlie Bush is in after a short Captain for draw on New snorter. Charlie says that the only oldtimer he's seen is Arthur Year's Eve, also issue of cig­ Berg down in Mobile, who was on the Mardi Gras Committee. arettes. Motion carried to ac­ X X X X cept report of Delegates. Mo­ If that poetic Seafarer, Aussie Shrimpton, is still in town, ws tions carried: that food be re­ turned to proper place after would like to ask him if any of his poems ever reached the pages of use; that black gang's showers the Saturday Evening Post, as once rumored? . . . Steve Carr wants be repaired; that Stewards de­ to know from Bud Callahan down there in New Orleans whether partment be given vote of his sure-to-win-and-never-lose system with the four-leggers is re­ thanks for the "wonderful ef­ covering from its recent shock, and whether Jimmy McCullough fort on the Christmas and New had also shared the expense of a total loss? Say, didn't you Year's dinners;" that all heads guys know that a man's best friend is a ship or a dog—never a and showers be disinfected by horse? man on sanitary work; that all 45. 4 X garbage be placed on fantail. Jimmy Stewart of the Third Deck is losing weight rapidly while he's practicing a new song called the "Sugar Blues." Every i 4 Snight he burns the midnight oil, drinking cups of horrible black Atlanta Victory Men sugarless coffee and sadly composing this song in painful disap­ Take Chance On Radio pointed memory of Lindsay Williams, now in New Orleans. It seems Brother Williams forgot a promise he made to sweeten To keep in touch with what's Jimmy's unsweetened life . . . Big Woody Roland, the cook, is going on in the world while they in town confessing that he never did open up his own restaurant are out at sea, the men aboard as he planned several months ago. the SS Atlanta Victory proposed ii. J. i. Marcus Hook News Department: It must have been like an the purchase of a radio from atom bomb going off in Arcus Hook recently, when a sensational contributions by all hands. thing happened to Blackie Cardullo, according to the Big Man him­ The proposal offered an incen­ self. He was dumped when 20 neighborhood kids playfully out­ tive to the men to contribute to­ numbered him. Perhaps you looked like a snow man, Blackie? , .. ward the purchase by recom­ That fine dispatcher. Bob Pohle, known as The Greek Lover of Mar­ mending that the radio be raffled cus Hook, should write a full book about his life. At least the other off at the end of the voyage. dispatchers might buy it, if nobody else . . . Men who invested money in X 4* 4* X the deal would be entitled to Well, Brother E. H. Piniarski is doing something we never chances to win the radio. heard of. He's saving money, which is a harder job to do than Good deal, eh? making the darn stuff, and probably is planning to get spliced or -miMs IS FILLED IN A/VO^ACH INDIVIDUAL CLAIM IS SIGWEDBV -pe -DEPARTTMENT -HEAID .XT'S VOUR WOR< AMD AtONeV. CUT and SUN something? . . . Bosun Bob Hillman, is doing the best he can with the tools he has, we hear. Is that a handicap? . . . There's just one little thing we would like to ask oldtimer Tommy Ryan. Did you get that tractor yet for your farm? A couple of trips more and you'll probably have enough to put at least a deposit down, if not more. X X X X Grin and Wonder Department: We just heard this tale. A Chid! Electrician fired the assistant electiician not long after he can®aboard. The reason? Oh, the man couldn't read blueprints! . . , Washington News Item: "The Veterans of Foreigns Wars Objectecl {Continued on Pufe 13) »• . -..vA ,7*. �THE SEAFARERS LOG P)I9» Ttr^tB FrMay, Fabruwry 28, 1M7 MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Kamaka Delegate Rips 'Rag Barrel,' Calls For End To Scant Slopchests do we have to put up with such slipshod and run-down slopchests? Don't our conditions count a little? By law, we can, and should demand heavy outer woolen clothing, as well as wool underwear. It clearly states this in the United States Navigation Rules 669 and 670. While I'm not attempting to be a sea lawyer, I'll be damned if I can see all this nonsense about an insufficient slopchest in these days, when there is no need for such an occasion to arise. In the meantime, it comes down to this: The Union has been noti­ fied. This beef will be turned over to the Hall in Boston, our payoff port, and I do hope the Union will use this port, as an example. CAN BE OVERCOME Now, another phase can be worked out at the same time. That is by the Union insisting by per­ sonal contact that Port Captains see to it that slopchests are ade­ quate before the ship sails, or To the Editor: find out the damn reason why! After all, the burden has been un­ duly heavy on the Delegates since the war what with the newcom­ ers and all. These beefs, if taken on any scale, are a little too great for individual Delegates. The Patrolmen will have to press the demands that all stale tobacco and cigs be thrown off at the end of each voyage, that they put good grade articles aboard instead of crap, and that they make sure its sailor's gear suitable for the performance of his accustomed duties in any type weather. We Delegates can do this, pro­ vided there is a more diligent effort on the part of the agents and patrolman, as a whole, to beef this out to the end on each incoming vessel. We have to show the shipowners we mean business. WE WANT A SAILOR'S SLOP­ CHEST!!! "Greek" Beits Ship's Delegate TRIP ON CLARK ASSURES BROTHER SHE'S BLACK CAT To the Editor: I shipped aboard the Waterman Liberty ship Abraham Clark from the .New Orleans Hall Jan. 30. We sailed for Mobile ori the next day. Nothing happened, not even in Panama City, Fla. Log • A - Rhythms Despite the intensely earnest Isthmian Dream efforts on the part of the Jack­ By Tom Baldrick sonville Agent, Brother Jimmy Banners, to get a substantial slopchest, Strachen Shipping, or In Tampa, however, the Clark I'm writing this poem on the If you will. South Atlantic Steam­ was nudged .gently in the stern Thomas Sim Lee, ship, slipped a neat one over on by another Waterman Liberty, An Isthmian ship is a picnic, us. And the SS William K. the Hall Kelly. Then followed you see: Kamaka, shifted to Charleston a very rough trip to Boston for and Savannah with bleary-eyed four days. There were no sights promises on behalf of the same I looked up at the bridge and I or bearings. people to rectify a deficient slopsaw the Captain, One night the "Old Abe" was chest. He was steering the ship while rolling as only a Liberty can roll. But, as usual, it was delayed the AB was nappm'; Our cargo went adrift. So what, all in good time, so that when I saw the Mate who was running says you? Well, the cargo was it opened at sea, it was the sor­ like a deer nine reels of steel wire, average riest excuse for a slopchest I have Bringing to the Bosun a cold weight three tons. We sure had seen in many a voyage. bottle of beer. fun securing them after we As I had pier-headed this tub, caught them on the wet heaving I wanted the facts on the situa­ decks, made more slippery by The 2nd and 3rd Mates, who are tion and I got them at the ship's quite young. having been fish-oiled. meeting. We delved quite Never do scold, just stick out I guess the Abraham Clark is thoroughly into the matter, and their tongue; a black cat after all. I remem­ we learned the following: I saw the Chief Engineer sit ber reading in the Log of the ves­ THE SCORE playing a harp. sel's previous trip. A well-balanced requisition on All the while proclaiming how he Woodie Lockwood the slopchest was turned in to was sharp. the company, after being beefed out by Agent Banners with the THEY WEREN'T CRAZY OVER HORSES I saw the 2nd Assistant, whose Old Man in Jax. Now along here name is Small. somewhere, something happened Teaching the Wipers how to duck —the requisition was obviously work and stall; filed in a handy waste basket. The company then obtained the services of an inferior jobber, and suggested some subsitutions: For heavy wool shirts—NOTH­ ING. Not even a flannel shirt, instead there were eight'cotton sweat shirts. For mackinaws or pea coats—nothing. Some of the boys had to break out their dress topcoats on account of this. The 18 pairs of wool gloves turned out to be cotton fleece-lined af­ fairs with a possible 20 per cent wool content. | Artie overshoes were non-exis­ The Chief and 2nd Cooks were tent, and its a little tough stand­ shooting crap. ing watches in the North Atlan­ While the tired galley boy was tic in oxfords. Tee shirts were taking a nap. at a premium, with six of these for the Black Gang. And not that this is an essential, but the six As I saw all this, I heard someone candy bars alloted each man were screaming— so old that they had turned white It was the Steward telling me to with age. Cigarettes, too, were quit dreaming. Seafarer Blackie Colucci dug into his files of memorable events and came up with this photo of ancient vintage. Just a bunch This poem may not be exactly taken last year when he was a crewmember aboard the Rockland Victory. Meat was abundant of junk that couldn't be sold on true on the hoof, says Blackie. but it was all in the cargo of horses carried to Trieste. In the galley it the beach—but good enough for But I keep hoping and praying was another story, so the lads held up the ship until edible beef was brought aboard. Picture seamen. Isthmian is soon SIU. shows some of the crew horsing around. That's Blackie stretched out in front of the group. Well, we notified the Old Man in the form of the minutes of the meeting regarding the inadequa­ Drop Him A Line cies of his slopchest, and upon ar­ rival in Rotterdam I contacted a To the Editor: Brother Karl Lundberg is in* flying, so I asked him if his out­ the mess rode the rest of the trip Mr. Bovin of the American confit was a first-class airline with with us. There was no food or the Marine Hospital at Mobile. "sulate, whose lukewarm interest Many of us have had exper­ decent planes and service. He as­ coffee served on the trip, and Ala. He would be happy toi hear in the whole business was sick­ iences similar to the one I will sured us it was, and said if it early in the morning we had to from his frierids in the Sea­ ening. That netted us four pairs relate here, but too few of us wasn't, the Union wouldn't al­ pace up and down the plane to of wool gloves. We followed up take the time to pass it on to our farers. If you know Brother low him to solicit business aboard keep from freezing. this action with communications Brothers. I feel that it is my Lundberg. why not drop him ship. Three of us reserved seats EXTRA COST to headquarters and Jacksonville. duty to pass this along to as many a line, now? on a plane leaving that night. The They finally set us down 12 Brothers as possible, so I am JUST TO HELP THINGS fare was the same as that on any miles from Hoboken, N. J., where sending this to you in the hopes Naturally, as luck would have other airline. we had to hire a car to take us to that you might find space for it in it, the William Kamaka was At the airport, a plane rolled New York. smgled out for a run up. into the the Log: up. "There she is, boys." Upon docking in Mobile re­ A small, i struggling airline Baltic to Sweden. Up there the Brothers^ it was quite a dis­ cently, the gangway was barely couldn't possibly give first-class Old Man attempted to get more appointment. Odr "plane" was down when a character scrambled service, when they have to pay gear, which in itself is an admis­ an old Army C-47, with the words aboard and introduced himself as commissions to parasites like this sion that the slopchest was lousy. LONE STAR CARGO CO. paint­ the agent for the United Travel "agent." I have found that the ' Anyway he returned with 12 pairs ed on the sides. The seats were Airways. only people who cater,to seamen vof woolen mittens—for children. two benches facing each other, 'CATER' TO SEAMEN ^ The outcome of our Swedish aiid the baggage went right in are the seamen themselves and their own organizations. This is "We cater to seamen," he said. with the passengers. stay was a draw for all hands to During the flight,' one of the just another glaring example. make their own purchases on the "Is anyone flying to New York?" Jay Blackburn Some of us were planning on passengers became aff-sick, and beach. Now, honestly, Brothers, Charges Airline Took Seafarers For Ride • :4'. . �THE SEAFARERS LOG Fiiday, Febiuavy 28, 1947 LAREDO VICTORY AND CREWMEMBERS Congress Does Not Represent Majority's Views, Says Seafarer To the Editor: A view of Ihe ship-shape SlU-crewed South Atlantic vessel, aboard which cooperation among all hands reached its peak. Most of the lads have been on the Laredo for the past two trips to Antwerp and Rotterdam. Crew and officers hit it off well, and the crack Steward department provides an excellent cuisine" in the best SIU tradition. ' In an off-moment, these members of the Laredo's Black Gang respond to a serenade by Brother P. R. Lopez. Left to right: A. J. Resler, J. H. Heslin, J. A. Seyfert, Lopez, M. Mahony and P. Walsh (kneeling). Page Thkteen Today it is impossible for a worker to get the truth from his commercial newspaper. The pa­ pers are all controlled by rich advertisers, and they are milliondollar businesses, anyway. Only in his union paper can a man get the truth. In view of this, let us consider some of the lies the press keeps telling us. We often hear that the 15 mil­ lion organized workt^rs are only a small part of the nation. This lie is typical. When you remem­ ber that each of these workers has a family of at least three, you realize that organized labor real­ ly represents 60 million Ameri cans. When you add to these thf vast number of workers not ye Sturdy hands of the vessel's Deck Gang in­ clude (kneeling, left to right): E. Butkowski, OS; W. Taylor, Maint.; J. Hulak, AB. Stand­ ing, (1. to r.), are J. Kumierski, AB; J. Michalisin, AB; J. Durmo and J. Lauritzen, AB. Adequate 'Bill Of Rights' For Seamen Held Essential; Ail-Out Support Urged organized, it becomes obvious that labor is by far in the ma­ jority. DISTORTION The papers tell us that because a reactionary Congress has been elected the American pectfde wanted labor slapped down. This is another distortion. Why? The Bureau of Census says there are 102 million qualified voters in this country. Yet only 34 million people voted in the last election, and only 18 million voted Republican. Therefore, we see that instead of the American people being anti-labor, as the papers scream, only one out of nine Americans voted for a hatelabor Congressman. Since when is one-ninth a majority? Why didn't the real majority go to the polls on Election Day. Most of them know that no mat­ ter who wins, he will only repre­ sent the owning class, anyway. Republican or Democrat, there is no difference. Both support the capitalist system. Many people are prevented from voting by rich man's laws like the poll tajc. Others are so busy slaving to keep their families alive they don't have time to worry about politics. WORKERS HAVE POWER While we are still living under this degenerate capitalist sys­ tem (or "free enterprise," as they prefer to call it), these conditions will continue to exist. But even though we cannot exercise our full political power, the workers of America are still the masters. How is this? you may ask. It is because we do all the work. We make everything go. When we stop everything stops. No trains run. nor ships move, no machines go, no communica­ tions are sent. This is the power of organized labor—the strike. The bosses know this and hate us for. Is it any wonder they HARDMPH!OM gEriALF OF THE MAOOPITV WHAT EFECTEDMe-ASOClT IO%,- want to take the right to strike from us? Without this right, a union is only a begging society. How much begging would it take to soften a shipowner's heart? Let's not go into that. If Congress tries to crush la­ bor, as it brags of doing, it will drag the capitalist house of cards down about its head. We of labor have shown too often what we can do if we have to. Steamboad O'Doyle Repine Hints Coast Guard Could Save Face—And Dough To the Editor: prosecutes the sailor with one hand, and poses with the other as his very good friend. They most certainly don't let their left hand know what the right hand is up to. I suppose the poor, mis-guided finks are all right, except that their feet don't match—they're both left-handed. Fred J. Repine (Editor's note:—For more on hands of the U. S. Coast Guard that will soften Brother Repine's heart, we suggest he read the item on page 10. It seems that not only don't the limbs match, they also have holes in them.) You once asked me what I would do if the C. G. (Collectors of Garbage) were to tell me they were going to jump off a bridge. Since then, I have been trying Dear Editor: dered service and were fortunate (Editor's note: The question to figure out a way to convince to survive in good physical and of a seamen's "bill of rights" them that is what they should With some apprehension I have do. Not only to save face, but mental health? has received the continued at­ more so save the taxpayers taken note of an article that ap­ Of what good is the educational tention of the SIU. As far money. peared in the Log, Feb. 7, under provision as contained in the ar­ back as March, 1345, the Port the heading "New Seamen's Bill Evei-yone, except those on the ticle to the latter seamen if they of Rights is Introduced in Con­ don't aspire to continue to make Agents' conference devoted) waterfront, seems to think that gress." the sea their future? Let's be considerable study to the mat­ the shipping commissioner is still Having served two and a half frank and realistic. The re-em- ter, before it presented what it the seamen's only friend. How­ years as a seaman in our mer­ ployment rights provision of the considered to be essential pro­ ever, I ask them, and myself, about the Hearing Units, wliich chant marine I am very much bill is of little benefit to both a visions of such a measure. are run by the same office. I interested in the bill. seaman and a member of the Since passage of the presently can only get one answer—the CG The original seaman's bill of armed services returned to civ­ considered bill lies solely in the rights which died in committee ilian life. hands of Congress, the only ef­ with the adjournment of the 79th Further what militant pro­ fective action in its behalf ob­ Congress, contained provisions gram, outside of "making an ap­ viously must be in the form of such as granting, seamen with pearance" at a hearing when the pressure on the Congress. In wartime service (those awarded bill comes up, has the SIU for­ the past few weeks, represen­ (Continued from Page 11) a continuous service certificate) mulated to secure the passage of tatives of the Union have been tonight to extending war veteran's benefits to former members of similar educational benefits ac­ the bill in Congress? in Washington conferring with the U. S. merchant marine on the groimds that it might undermine corded the GI in the letter's bill the entire Gl bill of rights. National Director Omar B. Ketchum Are you aw^are of the fact sea­ the various Congressional com­ of rights. Also similar civil ser­ said in a letter to members of a House merchant marine subcommit­ mitteemen studying the mea­ vice preference, and the granting men's organizations have made sure. The discussions have been) tee considering the proposal that veteran's benefits should be re­ of loans by the government for appearances before in hearings favorable. Meanwhile, SIU served for former members of the armed forces of the U. S. Empha­ purposes of buying a home, es­ conducted by committees which President Harry Lundeberg has sizing that he intended "no disparagement of the gallant (wartime) kicked around our bill or rights? tablishing a business, etc. urged all Union officials and service of seamen, he added that they received 'substantial benefits' I would appreciate a reply to members to write or wire the during "World War 11." PRESENT BILL ^ ^ ^ "While the present seamen's bill the questions I have raised here. Representatives and Senators of their own states, urging pas­ of rights contains, (as given in New Item—"A training program for young men who de­ David Gruber, the Log) certain provisions of the sage of the bill). sire to make a career in the American merchant shipping in­ New York N. Y. original bill, the present bill dustry has been started in San Francisco by the American Presi­ makes no mention of the bene­ dent Steamship Lines, Henry F. Grady announced yesterday. fits mentioned above. I am not The men will train in the company's home offices for ten months sure whether this is fact, due to and then go to sea as assistants to officers" . . . News Items— "Democrat Senator A. Willis Robertson of Virginia Scdd that esiithe ambiguity of the article Vincent Erato, Business Agent within a few weeks. which states, "the bill calls for for Local 1199-1, International mates of the shipping that the United States can economically Brother Erato, wishes to ex­ practically the same provisions Longshoremen's Association, who press the thanks of the ILA com­ employ during the next few years called for about seven million contained in the old one," and is heading a drive to coUect mittee to Seafarers who have deadweight tons of dry cargo vessels, including four million Ions then follows with an emasculat­ clothing for the orpljaned chil­ thus far contributed to the drive. ear-marked for foreign trade. This privately owned ocean going ed list of benefits. fleet, of about 1,000 ships, would be more efficient and faster, Seafarers who wish to contrib­ dren of Naples, Italy, reports that etc. New construction in the next two years probably will W I am sure, as seamen, we rec­ the drive is showing excellent ute clothing can leave it on the limited to three 22-knot passenger ships and six improved 6-3 4th floor of the New York Hall ognize the readjustment of dis­ results. So far the contributions cargo ships, unless the Maritime Commission's budget is in­ where it is being collected pe­ abled seamen is primary. But have been considerable and a creased, etCw etc. riodically. what of those seamen who ren­ shipment is expected to be made CUT and RUN Appeals For Aid To Orphans �Page Fourieen THE SEAFARERS LOG Paris Commies Break Picketline In Press Strike Friday. February 28. 1947 V V-v r;-' The communists are always in favor of labor — that is unless By FRENCHY MICHELET the working man demands a raise By JOSEPH VOJ.PIAN in pay from his communist em­ Our friend the publican, of man can be truly religious only Considering all the men going wages to the_ end of the voyage ployers. All of the countries en­ whom we told you in the last by helping the helpless and by to sea at the present time, it is a or until he returns to the port of slaved by the Reds know this to Log, has taken such a fancy to being a good fellow to his fellownatural thing that some 6f them discharge, whichever occurs first. their sorrow, but the workers of us that we have been taken to man. We can't for the life of us Under this theory the right to France just got an object lesson the bosom of the family. occasionally suffer illnesses, and see anything pious in gathering maintenance and cure may out­ that .they will remember for a that some others still more unThis is an altogether agreeable in churches and worrying the long time. ^ ,fortunate suffer injuries caused last the voyage. heavens with half-hearted prayA few days ago, on February arrangement when understood in efs. •Toy accidents. SIGNING OFF 13 to be exact, the employes of the literal sense, for the family As a result of these occurrences, Many times when seamen be­ J'Humanite, the commie daily boasts a maid of buxom charms TOO MUCH, TOO LATE various legal questions arise re­ come ill while on a voyage away called Rosalia. newspaper in Pai-is, went on garding unearned wages, main­ from the port of discharge, the There on the distant horizon, To see us ensconced in the best strike. They threw a picketline tenance and transportation. high on Monte Pellegrino, looms Captain upon putting in at a around the office, and everything chair of the comfortable parlor the stately Castello Utveggio. The writer has been approach­ foreign port, desires to put the was very orderly. But on Feb­ over the bar, with the family ed with inquiries concerning man ashore for treatment, and to Some son of the people climbed ruary 17, the situation changed grouped around in bug-eyed rights of seamen under the above sign him off the articles by mu­ and several hundred communists amazement, while we hold forth high on the heads of the herd to conditions, and this article is be­ tual consent. broke through the picketlines on the wonders of New York grasp enough money to build it. ing written to set the members' Somehow, either through na­ and restored telephone service in (where, incidentally, we own Then, just as he got it finished, minds at rest regarding a couple tural caution, or becau.se of the the offices. three' estates, a slew of limou­ came the inexorable Man with of the most troublesome prob­ advice of another crewmcmber sines and the controlling interest the scythe, and cut him down This was the first and only lems. who is a "sea lawyer," the ill man violence reported since the strike in the Empire State Building) like the wheat in its prime. We all l:now the ancient mari­ refuses to sign off articles. would warm the cockles of your His heirs converted it into a started. time rule based on the sound pol­ frigid old heart. hotel that has survived the plague He thinks such action might Employes of the paper are on icy that seamen are entitled to be work to his detriment later by strike for a 25 percent wage in­ of the German locusts and the For the past two issues we have cured at the expense of a ship­ depriving him of some of the crease, which is the same demand been attempting to tell you some­ English who gleaned in their owner for sickness or injury sus­ rights mentioned earlier in this being made by other member thing of the things of interest in wake. tained in the ship's service; and piece. unions of the General Confedera­ this fascinating Sicilian city of Today it stands a gutted vic­ this right extends to any illness or This is not so. As a matter of tion of Labor. While I'Humanite Palermo. But somehow or other, tim of the wrath of war, and a injury sustained in the ship's fact when a seaman leaves a ves­ has campaigned for the wage in­ something is forever luring us off still-imposing monument to mem­ service, whether in a home or sel with a hospital certificate crease, the paper has generally on another tack. ory of the man who planned so foreign port or at sea. from the Master, he loses none been unfriendly to the newspaper However, this little Rosalia here many happy days in its massive In certain circumstances, the of his rights by signing off by strike. really knows the town, so if you halls—while his sands were even law recognizes the seaman's right mutual consent and accepting Officers of the striking union, will tag along with us while she to treatment for injuries suffered wages earned to date of leaving the Union of Newspaper Employ­ takes us for a stroll to the Hotel on land while in the service of the vessel. es, denounced the communists as Neptune, we will attempt to The law protects the rights of strike-breakers, and expressed sketch the things of interest that the vessel. an ill or injured seamen, even regret at such action by a news­ she points out along the way. PART OF CONTRACT though he does not make written paper which represents itself as Palermo, says Rosalia, is a city This right is a part of the sea­ protest at the time he is left at being the spokesman for the of some half-million inhabitants. man's contract and roughly is a port for medical treatment. working class. There was little war damage here, considered to be part of the com­ for the sporadic bombing raids pensation for his labor and serv­ were confined almost exclusively ices. The fact that the cost of to the dock area, where most of cure is not barred, even though the wounds have since healed the sickness or injury was in­ under the ministrations of the curred without fault on the part journeymen of the various build­ then trickling to an end in the of the vessel, is well known to glass of life. ing trades. most seamen. By LOUIS GOFFIN But here we are at the im­ It is also known that they are ON VIA ROMA Most men, during their child­ thrill, a new port, a new sailor's posing portals of the Hotel Nep­ not entitled to treatment at the We are strolling along the Via tune. It has been estimated that shipowner's expense for a disa­ hood, dreamed of the days when, paradise. And they usually found bility which results from their grown up, they would visit the what they desired in the above- Roma now, a splendid road sug­ if all the liquor guzzled in the gestive of the skilled handiwork Hotel Neptune in one day was to own misconduct. Also disregard of many countries of the world. mentioned ports. Today it is a little different. of the early imperial Romans. be poured into a single vessel, the the advice of a physician stops Even in school, while turning resulting zombie would prove payment, from the shipowner, for the pages of the geography book, Most of these ports have been The great stone buildings that the pictures of far-away lands bombed out; the liquor and food adequate to float a scow of no subsequent care and cure. line the upper sections of this ma­ and strange people held out a jestic roadway are inscribed with little draft. The general rule which gov­ mystic appeal that challenged the an occasional vaunt of Mussolini's erns the seaman's entitlement to adventurer iii every boy. LIGHTS AND MUSIC ill-fated government. wages and cure when he falls ill But, alas, when most reached Rosalia is sitting beside us in in a foreign port, is that such in­ One promises that Italy shall a secluded corner of the Grande manhood these dreams were lost, capacitated man is entitled to find her place in the sun. An­ because of the restrictions of Salon. The lights are soft and other proclaims something about low. Some dame on the muted their job or trade. the Italian Eagles ruling the air. radio is raising hell about a guy Seamen, however, do not share But Italy needn't feel too bad what done her wrong, to a tune the fate of shoreside workers who about it all. No one rules any­ that our peasant ears suspects is remain confined within the boun­ thing long on .this troubled old high-brow stuff. But it doesn't daries of their own country; but sphere. We are all of us but meat matter. at a whim can sail to almost any "The bird is on the for the maggots by and bye. country of the globe. wing—all's right with the world!" The first of four vessels being They go, not as bold adven­ Look at the New Caeser. Yes­ Did we tell you that Rosalia is acquired by Waterman Steam­ turers swashbuckling through the terday he battled half the world a doll? Her hair is piled high on ship Corporation has been de­ cities and villages of foreign —today he disputes six feet of her head like a heavenly hay­ are almost nil; and the class of livered and will go into operation lands, but as men earning their women is much different that earth with the ravenous worm. stack for the celestial cattle. about March 10. livelihood taking ships to these If her eyes and mouth were Yet with the present Hie jacet gloria! The newly acquired vessel is lands, and seeing in their reality it was. Here is yet another shrine to] designed for anything sweeter wages and overtime we still have the former Navy attack transport the places described to them as the Virgin niched in the massive than loving, then it must be some a litle bit of a sailor's paradise. Wayne, now reconverted to C-2 children. wall. You find them on all the pastime! She's built like the I note that today there are cargo-passenger status and re­ What memories are brought to plenty of guys who crave Ger­ highways and byways of the other fellow's girl and has accesnamed the Beauregard. mind by the mention of such man and French ports as it was country. series like a ten-thousand dollar The Beauregard is now at the names as Bremen and Hamburg, in the old days. Even though Every home has its little candle- limousine. Todd Shipyard Corporation's Ho- Le Havre and Dunkirk, Bordeaux liquor and food are high, the lighted shrine sacred to the mem­ She is so ambeetious, this little boken yard and when she leaves and Ste. Nazarre, Antwerp and women are still around, and sail­ ory of some departed saint. This darling. She's only 16 and hopes for Bremen, Germany, will carry Rotterdam! ing into good ports makes each is truly a worshipping people. to study medicine soon. It's sweet a full Army cargo. The ship has Oldtimers remember them as a would-be sailor's paradise. They display all the reverence in to dream when one is 16. a deadweight of 9,750 tons, is real sailor's paradises. The best Her little sword is bright with The world changes, history the presence of their relics— 468.9 feet long and has a speed liquor, the cheapest meals, and changes, ,but seamen never hand of a martyred saint, piece the burnishing of a youth im­ of 16 knots. She has accommoda­ in many cases the nicest woman. change. We are today the same of the True Cross—that the Mus­ patient to be about the business tions for 12 passengers. To most men the mention of as seamen have always been. sulman does when he wails to of conquering the world. Vessels two and three are these names means only a dot The world isn't worth the con­ We are the only ones who rea­ Allah over a tooth of the Prophet scheduled for delivery within the on th- map, but to seamen each lized that childhood dream to or a hair from his veretable beard. quering, sweet. But you go ahead next-two weeks. They are the port h .s its own pecular memory visit and see foreign places, and We quarrel with no man for his and have your fun. You conquer Baxter, which is to be renamed for him. we are the only ones who really creed, but neither do we sub­ the world—we'll settle for an LaSalle, and the Sumter to be In sailing to these many lands became the bold adventurers scribe to a single article of any adorable mite of demininity for called Gateway City. seamen always looked for a new visualized by all in childhood. orthodox faith. We think that a our share. Seamen Only Ones To Realize Chiidhooii Dreams Of Adventure New Waterman Ship Sails Soon �Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. February 28, 1947 Operator Plays GIfl Tune—Calls Wages'Too High' (Continued from Page 4) TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Company •J 3 Vohmteer Organizers Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and 1945, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed below. , , ,. ~ ' Trohalakio, H .37 You would think that three war ydars in the United States Navy, from 1941 to 1944, would have been enough, but for Jack Blair it wasn't. Brother Blair re­ ceived his discharge after serv­ PART OF OPERATION ing quite a while in the Pacific Theater, and then he decided to When speaking of the high sail merchant ships to see what wages a seaman makes, the ship­ they were like. Shotwell, Sherword owner likes to throw in the cost Shuler, James B After obtaining his endorse Siekman, Walter E. of feeding the seaman and the ment as an Oiler, Jack got a job .Sijerkovic, Pcdrog overtime payments to make it on Isthmian's East Point Victory Siperkoric, P appear that a seaman makes and it was on that ship that he Skiba, John about twice what he actually got his first taste of unionism. Smith, Charles E In his own words, here is what Smith, Elmer W earns. Blair's impressions were: Smith, Hugh W Under no stretch of the imag­ "On the Eastpoint Victory I en­ •Smith. James H ination can a seaman's room and countered a pro-SIU crew, and Smith, James M board be considered as wages. after a few discussions I decided This is a separate and distinct that the SIU was the Union for Smith, William E JACK BLAIR Smith, William H item of operation the same as fuel me," he recalls. "I've never been sorry I made that decision." costs, depreciation, wharfage and Once the . decision was made. organize on the Eastpoint Victory Smithers, C. W freight handling costs. Jack started moving. He got a soon gave up,, especially after their offer of free NMU books As for overtime payments, if trip card, read^up on the Union Smuckler, Nathan was met with only laughter. the shipowner would put suffi­ Rules, studied contracts, and be­ Soper, Neal W Jack says that Isthmian men cient men in the ships to do the came a volunteer organizer, .... . , Southern, Paul "Organizing for the SIU is are waitrng mipat.ently for the Thomas E work, overtime payments would time when they will be repre­ pretty easy," according to Blair. be a thing of the past. sented by a real rank-and-file Stehowner, Johannes We have attempted to talk with "Afl you have to do is show the union, the Seafarers Internationunorganized men a SIU contract, , Stephens,' Asthon the opei-ators on Adequate man­ "7™Stokes. Frank ning scales. They have repeated­ and they can see for themselves grateful to the SIU because their ly told us that the number of men how much better our conditions wages have been increased due g^oj-y ]y[ carried in the crew of a given are." to the wage gains made by the' SYSTEM OKAY Strickler, Milan ship is the prerogative of man­ Jack's system must be okay, Union. Strilitz, Frank B agement and they have refused Brother Jack Blair is back on thus far to discuss this problem because t|ie Eastpoint Victory went SIU by an overwhelming an Isthmian ship again, and he is Sukia, E. D with us. majority. Fronj the reports which going to continue to sail Isthmian Sullivan, Dennis They say that if a given num­ Brother Blair sent into the Or­ so that the Company will not be ber of seamen were sufficient in ganizing staff regularly, the NMU able to stall for long when the Swift, Phillip A 1932 to keep a ship up, it should hardly had a chance fronr the be­ SIU is certified as the bargaining Tate, Frank S be sufficient today, forgetful that ginning on that ship. agent for the unlicensed seamen Temple, Charles E in 1932 a seaman had to work up The few NMUers who tried to of the Isthmian Line. Tholmer, Harold to 14 and 16 hours a day without Thomas, Ken. H any additional compensation. 4. Torres, Wilson Brother Edmund Larkin, vet­ Totty, John Treo, Raymond F eran of many tanker trips as a this his income tax and, social se­ curity and we see that a seaman has a terrific struggle to provide the bare essentials for his family. SlU HALLS volunteer organizer, has plenty of BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. good advile on how to get a mes­ Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. sage across to unenlightened sea­ Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. men. Cleveland 7391 He says, "Tell the tankermari CHARLESTON 424 King Street Phone 3-3680 about the SIU, and about its pol'CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. icie.« and record. That usually Superior 5179 works, but if it doesn't you al­ CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 ways have another arrow that CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Meequite St. can be used. Tell them about the Corpus Christi 3-1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. SIU contracts and then they will Cadillac 6857 be impressed, or I don't know DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Melrose 4110 tankermen." GALVESTON 308'/2-^23rd Street Well, Larkin does know tanker2-8448 ermen, and his methods have HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 58777 borne fruit on many voyages. Ed HOUSTON ...1515 75th Street has been sailing tankers for quite Phone Wentworth 3-3809 JACKSONVILLE .... 920 Main St. a long time, and he has always Phone 5-5919 carried the SIU message with EDMUND LARKIN MARQUS HOOK 1'/, W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 him. MIAMI j;358 N. E. 1st Ave. Ed has also sailed on Isthmian vide nioi'e opposition on tankers MOBILE .......7 St. Michael St. ships, and he know first hand than the NMU does. 2-1754 "The company stiff tries to inthat all the stories about IsthNEW ORLEAN3 339 Chartres St. Magnolia 6112-6113 mian conditions are true. But as Auence the younger men," says NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. HAnover 2-2784 he puts it, "It is our job as Sea- Ed, "by latching on to any beef NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street farers to correct these conditions and then telling the men that the 4-1083 for seamen, and soon Isthmian Union could not help them out. PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Phone Lombard 3-7651 also will have decent conditions Sometimes this kind of propa­ PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Worth Ave. for guys who go to sea for a liv­ ganda works, but sooner or later Phone; 2-8832 a volunteer organizer has a PORTLAND Ill W. BurnaJde St. ing." Beacon 4330 chance to show what the SIU can Brother Larkin's last trip on an RICHMOND, Calif 257 Sth St. do, and then it's curtains for the 2599 Isthmian scow really was a tough SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. one. Not that there weren't some stiff." Douglas 8475-8363 Right now Brother Larkin is SAN JUAN, P. R. .. .252 Ponce de Loon pleasant spots, all of which he re­ San Juan 2-5296 ported in a letter to the Log dated out on a ship practicing what he SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. February 7, but most of the time preaches, and you can bet your 8-1728 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. the men had to work like mules bottom dollar that he is spi-ead- TAMPA- Main 0292 and overtime was practically un­ ing the SIU word to all within 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. reach of his voice. And if he has M-1323 heard of, TOLEDO WILMINGTON VICTORIA, B. C VANCOUVER 615 Summit St. 440 Avalon Blvd. Terminal 4-3131 602 Boughton St. Garden 8331 144 W. Hastings St. Pacific 7824 NMU NO BOTHER On unorganized tankers the situation is much the same. There is one major difference, however, and it is that company stiffs pro- his way, he's going to continue shipping on unorganized vessels so that he can keep on doing the volunteer job that has made the SIU the most powerful seamen's union in America. 10.25 Truu, Alex 2.73 Tsronia, P. M 04 Tudar, Nicolae 1.96 Tuple, Steve 1.12 Turner, Arthur 2.28 Vain, Charles 1 12.27 Van Reynolds, Hy 1.37 1.32 Vasquez. Miguel A 5.57 Verecke, Arthur H 5.12 Villar, Frank M. , 2.60 Voorhees, A. H. ... 12 Wagner, Lewis M. 41.44 7.55 Waigaud, Alex 17.10 Walker, William J 3.18 Walsh, J. W 5.78 Walsh, Joseph 3.38 Ward, George G 16.04 Ward, John W 3.37 1.24 5.41 14.71 2.72 ^ Warner, Edward Warner, Sanford L Week, John A Weickgenamt, Albert Wells, Frank 0 3.11 Welsh, James D 97 Werner, Clarence L 6.24 Wiilik, M 3.62 Wilbert, William Jr 4.10 Williams, Egbert B 23 Williams, Ed. B .22 Williams, Lindsey 1.73 Williams, Sam D 24 Williams, Sidney 01 Williams, Stephen Jr 4.81 Wilso, Harry 08 Wisener, Ray D 3.65 Wolf, John R 5.22 Wolowitz, L. W -2.94 Wood, William L Wodbert, Francis B. Wright, William Wright, W. G York, Onus Jr Zorrage, Joseph NEW YORK 2.15 73 6,57 12 51 05 5.69 18.28 1.73 2.83 17.60 .14 7.55 25.48 .05 5.7401.54 16.65 43 18.23 12.01 22 06 12 15 1.06 3.84 59 9.71 06 61 5.83 46 ' .93 4.90 14.40 2.17 1.35 1.20 1.13 3.74 .15 7.03 2.21 .12; .19' PERSONALS SS TILLAMOOK JAMES F. CLARK K. Hellman, $2.00; R. Leikas, $1.00; H. Youngblood, $2.00; C. E. Anderson. Please contact D. E. Webb, 309 " $2.00; E. Vallery. $2.00; Wm. R. Dixon, E. York St., Savannah, Ga., im- ' $2 00; J. Filisky. $2.00; R. Pierce, $2.00; mediately. ' E. Cosby, $2.00; F. T. Hill, $1.00; M. Robinson, $1.00; 1. Leddon. $2,00. 4 4. i SS GADSDEN FLORIAN GLINSKI G. Van Tassel & Crew—$10.00. Please get in touch with your ; SS LAREDO VICTORY H. S. Gillespie, $2.00; F. Vanderavert, mother, Mrs. Rose Glinski, 200 f $1.00; J. Hulak, $1.00; J. Durmo, $1.00; Front St., Stevens Point, Wiscon­ L. BarciEzewski, $2.00; J. Mickalisin, sin. $1.00; J. Lauritzen, $1.00; B. Kalinkos, 4- 4- 4. $1,00; S. Birkeland. $1.00; W. Taylor, FREDRICK W. BROWN $1.00; H. Hill, $1.00; J. Kumierski, Contact Mrs. Anne G. Benton, $1.00; E. Butkowaki, $1.00. S3 IBERVILLE 293 Haverhill Street, Reading F. H. Mabe, $1.00; L. S. Bumatay, Mass. $1,00; Thomas Dennis, $1.00. JOSE VALENTIN ' INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Your papers, picked up by the ' Edward J. Sheehy. $1.00; H. Piva, $1.60, C. H. Dunn, $1.00; W. Hryszko, Pennsylvania Railroad, are wait­ $1.00; T. R. Edward. $1.00; R. Mor­ ing for you on the 4th floor, New ^ gan, $1.00; R. Gray, $1.00; Ed Bereford, York Branch. $1.00; R, Hind, 11.00. 4- 4. 4. J. Mesner. $5.00; Jamea H. Scott, $1.00; Robert D. Taylor, $2.00; J. Flynn, ALLAN McARTHUR • $1.00; G, W. Champlin, $1.00; L. De Get in touch with Mrs. Shirley Gange, $1.00; W. R. Carroll, $3.00; B. Wessel, Seamen's Church Insti- '' Malloy, $2.00; Pedro Thillet, $1.00; W. tute, 25 South Street, New York 1 E. Scherb, $1.00. GALVESTON INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS D. G. Leach, $2.00; W. J. O'Conner, $3.00; D. F. Scheffler, $3,00: A, L. Purvis, $3.00; E. P. Blanchard, $2.00; SS Fairport, $20.00. SS Richard Rush—$12.00 . J. W. Ray, $2.00; W, W. Stewart. $1.00; P. Cendrowski. $1.00; A. Hedden, Jr., $4.00. BOSTON SS WILLIAM RAWLE A, Smith. $1.00; Joe Samuel, $1.00; Brother Gabor, $1.00. 4, N. Y. > 4. 4. i . CLEMMON H. RADFORD Contact Lena Caton immediately at 435 Belleville Avenue, Brewton, Ala. it ie CLEOPHAS H. DOUGLAS Get in touch with Jessica* • Shain Lavin© immediately, at Room 824, IQO Milk Street, The t Sharaton Building, Boston, Mass. > �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Sixteen Wc ciriiqtjw^ _ J? The resolution on the right was passed by the AFL Maritime Trades Department in answer to the at­ tempted raids on AFL maritime unions by Harry Bridges and the communist-dominated CMU. Today, the CMU is dead. But this resolution is very much alive. Be­ low we print a letter sent by the Ponchelet Marine Corporation, in which it admits that it signed a con­ tract with the National Maritime Union before it even had a ship. The letter also tells of the action taken by the AFL maritime unions: "... THE AFL INTERNATIONAL LONGSHOREMEN'S ASSOCIA­ TION, AFL TUGBOATMEN AND AFL TEAMSTERS REFUSED TO WORK OUR SHIP." Friday, February 28, 1947 M Council Rusviers Ml Raiding BrWg**'™ "Mmmyinn "Me-ting in New York on September 28, the AFL Mari­ time Trades Department went on unanimous record to notiiy •11 shipowners or prospective shipowners, the U. $. Maritime Commision, and the President the United States that in the future When and if any new •hipping companies start up on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts that they must negotiate with the AFL all the way through. "If any new shipping oper* •tors make labor agreemanU with the National Maritime Union or the American Com. munications Association, then the AFL Longshoremen will refute to work these ships. "This action was necessiiat. ed by the situation now exist­ ing on the Pacific Coast where the CIO communist-domin­ ated Longshoremen refused to work ships belonging to the American Pacific Steamship Company and which are not only manned by AFL unlicen­ sed personnel but are under contract to AFL Unions. "In our opinion, this refusi^ is part of the ClO-CMU plan to force AFL seamen off these •hips and substitule them with CIO-CMU seamen. It is an out­ right attempt by the CIO-CMU to force this company to do •olely WBh MMan. or Friday. Octobor 4, 1946 5^ "We of the AFL Maritime Trades Department do not in­ tend to sit idly by while the CIO-CMU succeeds in their at­ tempt to abrogate an AFL con­ tract with this company, or force them into bankruptcy, thus losing many jobs for AFL members. We fully intend to protect all AFL Maritime con­ tracts with any and all t^ieans at our disposal, and this is fais warning to any individual or group of individuals that we mean business," (signed) John Owens, Executive Secy AFL Maritime Trades Dept. IB* AtMrtean Pcelftc Steamship Company out of As the letter clearly indicates, the AFL Maritime Trades Department completely stymied the NMU when it tried to man and work ships in vio­ lation of the resolution. AFL Sea­ men, Longshoremen, Tugboatmen and Teamsters worked together to show the NMU and the Company that the AFL Maritime Trades Department can back up any stand it may take to halt raiding on the part of other unions. But the Department has no desire to force the steamship owner out of business. Therefore, the SS Lawrence Brengle has been released, pending further study of the situation. Let the shipowners take note. Any attempt, by a steamship company go­ ing into business, to do business with the NMU will be met with the same resistance by the AFL. The exception in the case of the Lawrence Brengle is not to be con­ strued as a pattern for the future. The AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ ment reaffirms its original position, and has the strength to enforce this resolution. W: AFL Maritime Trades Department f; � 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 28, 1947 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. IX, No. 9 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU LEAFLETS HEARTEN WALL STREET WORKERS MARITIME TRADES DEPT. TO MEET IN CHICAGO AFTER SIU CONVENTION POSTWAR LOSSES TOTAL 131 SHIPS MARITIME COUNCIL TO HOLD REGULAR MEETINGS IN N.Y SEAFARERS TAKES STAND AGAINST PEACETIME DRAFT CURRAN THREATENS TO BRING CHARGES AGAINST JOE STACK SHIPPING RULES CLARIFIED IN NEW UNION FEATURE PHONY TRANSFERS EVERY DIVISION OF MARITIME MUST BE ORGANIZED IN GULF AREA QUICK THINKING PREVENTS PANIC OPERATOR PUTS BLAME FOR THE DECLINE OF SHIPPING ON 'HIGH' WAGES IGNORING THE ENORMOUS PROFITS LAKES SIU REJECTS NLRB MAIL VOTE PLAN EXCERPTS FROM THE 'SIU ORGANIZERS' HANDBOOK' GALVESTON ASKS, DOES AGREEMENT COVER ROACHES DELEGATES TO INT'L CONVENTION TAMPA TRADE UNIONS CONSIDER PUBLISHING PAPER TO COMBAT ANTI-LABOR REPORTING IN DAILY PRESS NEW SEASON BRINGS ITS WARNING; UNION-WRECKERS ARE BUSY AT WORK SHIPPING IS NOT SO HOT AND HEAVY BUT IS STILL GOOD IN BALTIMORE PORT BUFFALO SENDS ITS REPORT: EVERYTHING IS REALLY SOLID NEW CURRAN LINE OF UNITY CALLS FOR MUCH STUDY UNCLE JOE'S PIC BUSTS PR PEACE MARCUS HOOK SIU MAKES PROGRESS WITH TANKERMAN MOBILE HAS MANPOWER SHORTAGE; NEW UNION HALL KEENLY AWAITED PHILADELPHIA HAS AB SHORTAGE, BUT THERE IS PLENTY OF WEATHER THE DOGHOUSE BLUES SEAFARERS PROGRAM FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION TILLAMOOK CREW RETURNS TO STATES SIU CREW WHIPS DIXON INTO SHAPE STOWAWAY ON MV STEVEDORE STYMIED ON SECOND DAY OUT THEY'LL LISTEN TO MOMMA, NOW PARIS COMMIES BREAK PICKETLINE IN PRESS STRIKE SEAMEN ONLY ONES TO REALIZE CHILDHOOD DREAMS OF ADVENTURE NEW WATERMAN SHIP SAILS SOON Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2/27/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c037ea22eff811b529dfc0dd5279e8bd.PDF 7c71704ba69150fed6be64c6054a8e51 PDF Text Text iftHESpiiii v>^ '-y Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. FEBRUARY 21. 1947 SlU ON ANOTHER UNION FRONT No. 8 SlU Demands Inquiry Into Panamanian Ships; ITF To Discuss Action NE!W YORK, February 19 — The Coordinating Committee of the International Transportworkers Feder­ ation today discussed the fact that many shipowners are placing their ships under Panamanian registry in an effort to avoid having to employ union seamen. Figures dis­ closed at the meeting showed that a vast number of United States yessels have already been transferred, and more than 350 Greek ships are now sailingt^ " -SlU Again Takes To Street With UFE Leaflets All seamen's ujjjons are hostile to this, since Panama's seamen are very poorly paid, and this The notably anti-union Bushey Company is finally going to sit down and bargain with the will inevitably lead to a break CIO Shipbuilders. It was cooperation such as the picture above shows that forced Bushey into this down of union wages and condi­ move. Seafarers and shipbuilders united can't lose. tions in the countries where sea­ men have strong unions. In addition, the inspection While the banking interests rules in Panama are very lax, were frantically searching for and this may prove costly in new ways to stall the demands of The SIU sailing through the seamen's lives. the United Financial Employes, streets, distributing leaflets for The companies which have al­ AFL, the Seafarers again ranged the UFE in an inspiring dis­ ready affected the transfers have the New York financial district, play of union solidarity and started the union-busting ball distributing literature which ex­ NEW YORK—With a new contract signed, sealed, fraternal cooperation, evidently rolling by advertising for scabs plained the UFE side of the story. and delivered on January 29, 1947, the passenger ships op­ had an effect on the Wall Street to sail their ships. In three hours, on Tuesday, fat boys. Although the Seafarers Inter­ February 18, close to 50,000 leaf­ erated by the Alcoa Steamship Company were added to the national Union has taken a pos­ lets were handed out. Headed, The New York Cotton Ex­ growing list of vessels instituting the new conditions and change backed down very ition condemning the juggling of "UFE CALLS ITS OWN wages being won on passenger, freight, and tanker ships quickly from its obstinate re­ United States ships in this man­ SHOTS," the message was eager­ by the Seafarers. fusal to even talk to the union, ner, the ITF Coordinating Com­ ly grabbed by the Wall Street The new agreement, which supplements the agree- and has promised not to attack mittee, as the result of a sugges­ workers as they hit the street for -tment dated October 23, 1946, was the UFE's bargaining rights and tion by Brothers Paul Hall and their lunch hour. Morris Weisberger, decided to signed by John Hawk, Secretaryto negotiate in good faith. It is reported that the Wall table any action until the next Street circles are a little taken Treasurer; J. P. Shuler, Assistant The Cotton Exchange meeting on February 28. Secretary-Treasurer; Paul Hall, aback by the solid cooperation swears that it was misquoted Director of Orgpnization; and SIU CALLS HALT which the UFE is receiving from in that story in the Com­ Robert Matthews, Headquarters A resolution, drafted by SIU the SIU. But the UFE members mercial and Financial Chron­ Department Engine Representa­ President Harry Lundeberg, and potential members are gain­ icle. But it also might be that tive. For the Company Messrs blasted the practice by which ing new confidence for the job SIU support for the UFE Schilling and Parks signed. great financial interests are able which lies ahead. forced this sudden change of NEW YORK, Feb. 19 — A Four ships are covered by the heart. {Continned on Page 15) {Continued on Page 1 5) break of possible major signifi­ cance in the SlU-supported strike contract: the George Washington, SOLIDARITY DOES IT of the CIO Shipbuilders against and the Alcoa Cavalier, Alcoa the Ira. A. Bushey and Sons' Corsair, and Alcoa Clipper. All Brookly.n shipyards was reported are cruise ships, and although the today by Fred Mesita, Chairman GW is the only one in operation of Local 13, of the Industrial right now, the others will be run­ Union of Marine and Shipbuild­ ning by the middle of June at the ing Workers of America, CIO, as latest. the walkout went into its fourth These ships are the last word week. in comfort, both for passengers William McCaffrey, the union's and crew. They are air-condi­ international representative, and tioned throughout, newly paint­ William Scanlon, company per­ ed and renovated, and promise to sonnel manager, met this morn­ be good berths for SIU members. ing at which time the shipyard While the Cavalier, Corsair, workers demands were present­ and Clipper have a capacity of 96 ed to the company. Under terms of a "gentlemen's passengers each, only an average agreement," the striking local of 60 are expected to be car­ agreed to remove picketlines ried. Should there be any in­ from the yard's entrance, while crease in this amount, the Com­ the company promised to refrain pany has agreed to employ ad­ ditional members in the Stew­ from putting scabs to work. ards Department. Officially, however, the strike continues pending ratification of The complete text of the sup­ any. agreement reached by the plemental agreement appears on conferees. This is the first time pages 7 and 8;, keep these pages Lefl to right, AFL Office Workers' Vice-President R. M. Daugherty; Local 205, UFE Presi­ the Bushey outfit has indicated a for future reference. They may dent M. David Keefe, and an unidentified Seafarer give out handbills in the financial district. willingness to negotiate the dis­ mean more money for you—or pute, which began Jan. 30. Far right is John Cole, another Local 205 official. save you from filing bum beefs. Seafarers And Alcoa Sign Passenger Ship Clauses Bushey Agrees To Meet Shipmen As Strike Holds United Action Wins �V.. ^ :..V ;ES Page Two TL'i. THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 21, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 % ^ X X HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., imder the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE NOVICK, Editor 267 Peacetime Conscription The men who make it a life work to be fftliticians learn early that words are valuable mainly to hide what they are really trying to say. The man who learns this the best usually winds up in a position of major importance. With hands patriotically lifted in the air, they say that the United States needs a large standing army so as to protect us from foreign countries. They try to prove that a large navy is a necessity to prevent other nations from conquering u^ A big air force is another must, according to the big shots, so as to enable the United States to withstand in­ vasion should it come by air. There is not one single grain of truth in any of the above arguments. Atomic warfare has made large armies and navies silly holdovers from the past. A million men are not a good match for one atom bomb. Why, then, do the Washington legislators go down the line for conscription of young men in time of peace? The answer is simple, and is the other string to the antilabor bow that all Congressmen are equipped with. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. By fair means or foul, the big businessmen of .the United States have resolved to break up unions and thereby send workers back into economic slavery. Through their lackeys, the elected representatives who sit in the Halls of Congress, they have started a flood of laws that will, if passed, push the U. S. labor movcm.ent back 50 years. But they are not satisfied with just that. They like to make sure of their ground, and if the bills they favor are not passed, they want another weapon to fall back on. That is where conscription comes in. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals 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 writ­ ing to them. A vast conscript army in an ever-ready source of strike-breakers. During the days of the 1930's, when the American labor movement was just emerging as a factor in our economic life, the National Guard of various states STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL was called out to disperse pickets and club helpless men R. G. MOSSELLER J. S. WOOD and women. What the NO did, conscripted soldiers may E. E. CASEY be forced to do. W. G. H. BAUSE F. H. DOLAN We. all know only to well that the Army has no mind L. A. CORNWALL of its own, but obeys blindly. Soldiers moved trucks when F. CORNIER the Teamsters were on strike; Army battalions stood ready M. BAUCSKI to run the railroads when the Railroad Unions were on E. D. MILLER M. MORRIS strike, and this was a large factor in breaking that strike. After the end of the war, many United States soldiers were trained in the use of billy clubs and tear gas. Taken by Itself, this piece of information is not frightening, but when this training was accompanied by lectures on break­ ing picketlines and the handling of "mobs," then it became a matter of concern to all vmrkers. It took a great deal of publicity to force the Army to halt the training of soldiers as strike-breakers. If the brass-hats get the go-ahead signal now, nothing will stop them in the future. It may be that the men who are drafted for peace­ time training will not be used as strike-breakers. But labor cannot afford to take that chance. The only way to make sure is to fight the program now, before it is too late. H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY W. BLOOM R. R. LEIKAS R. MCDOWELL K.- KORNELIUSSEN M. J. LYDEN J. H. DANIEL, Jr. S. W. LESLEY C. SULLIVAN S" S" it NEPONSIT HOSPITAL J. R. HANCHEY C. M. LARSON J. S. CAMPBELL R. A. BLAKE L. TORRES L. CLARK H. SELBY J. FIGUEROA C. SCHULTZ L. L. LEWIS E. V. FERRER H. BURKE 5, 5, S. BALTIMORE HOSPITAL CLIFTON COATES CASIMIR HONOROWSKI CHARLES SIMMONS CLYDE MILLER THEODORE BABKOWSKI THEODORE CARROLL MATTHEW CARSON MAX BYERS JOHN OSSMOW PETER LOPEZ ROBERT SHEHEE LAWRENCE McCUNE FRANK NIXON DAVID HERON You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Stateii Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—-ItSO, to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday>—1:30: to 3i30 pmi. (on 1st and Znd floors.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM t t t 4. t BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM R. LORD E. CABRAL A. MABIE R. BROWN T. ALDRIDGE E. BOLEKALA SAN JUAN HOSPITAL JUAN OLIVER WALTER JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. FELICIANO . R. SEIFO J. TIERNEY X X % ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL C. RASMUSSEN D. MCDONALD J. KOSLUSKY M. MCCARTHY �Friday. February 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Seafarers Asks Congress For Action On Program For Merchant Marine By PAUL HALL One of the most nauseating dishes cooked up at the San Fran­ cisco meeting of the national council of the Marine Cooks and Stewards union last December was an item probably served as "Unity-a-la CMU." It was a proposal by the MCS New York agent Sid Kaufman, that the Committee for Maritime Unity (which rerecently went through a much-needed scrap job( move in and take over the East Coast longshoremen of the American Federation of Labor. The stomach of any honest trade-unionist would have turned at the first smell of such finking crap. But not so with the officials of the MCS, whose guts have long been filled through with the poisons of the communists' trade-union diet. The finking raiding proposal was neither new nor surprising. Any guy on the waterfront with the least bit of savvy would ex­ pect just that sort of thing from these characters, whose mouths shout workingclass slogans, but whose hands hold the knife that rips the back of labor. Always one of the major obstacles in the way of communist waterfront ambitions, the AFL longshoemen have long been the commies' chief target. Commie inspired attempts to move in on the International Longshoremen have been made before. But the wings of these redbirds were clipped, and we'll clip them again if necessary. Specifically, though, what can be done, what will be done about this finking threat to our Brother outfit in the Maritime Trades Department? Agents Will Discuss jVIatter As far as the Seafarers International Union is concerned, the matter will receive careful attention at the Agents Conference of the Atlantic and Gulf District, and at the International's conven­ tion to be held in Chicago in March. The entire question will be discussed very thoroughly on the basis of our considerable—and bitter experience with the commies in the past. Out of these two meetings will come specific recommenda­ tions for combatting the latest in the sickening list of commie-dis­ ruptive trade-union tactics. In addition the matter will be placed on the agenda of the AFL Maritime Trades Department, and on the agenda of the Maritime Councils in every port of West, Gulf and Atlantic coasts. * This latest commie-led maneuver shows up sharply one of the fundamental reasons for the organization of the Maritime Trades Department. The powerful alliance of AFL waterfront unions was forged not only to strengthen its affiliates in their fights against the operators, but also to successfully defend ourselves against the raids of commie unions. We stand prepared to smash the foul tactics of these red raiders, who, in order to carry out the dictates of Mother Russia, must completely eontrol the maritime industry. SIU Expansion Program Valuable Definite signs of the value of the Seafarers' expansion program are now becoming more and more evident. Added to the tremen­ dously important victory in the Isthmian election are several new contracts signed recently with dry cargo operators. And, while other unions are experiencing tough shipping, the Seafarers is enjoying uniformly good shipping up and down the ports. Credit for this healthy condition must go not only to the all-out efforts of the organizing department, but also to the membership for its keen foresight in voting against indiscriminate issuance of membership books. At the time this policy was put into operation, some considered it an unwise move because it had the effect of cutting down the Union's income. Now, however, the wisdom of the move on this score is undisputed. For the time being, the threat of unemployment has been throttled. We can thank the membership for another move that con­ tributed to the Union's smooth functioning. The recently voted re­ quirement that every man must make one trip on an unorganized ship, unless exempted because of other union activities, has had tremendous educational value. As a result of this ruling new mem­ bers are able to gain first-hand experience on the benefits of union­ ism. The new man learns—and sees—the value of Union tactics. The experience pays double interest—the man is come of an asset to himself, and to his Union. The progress we have made should furnish us with greater power in continuing our important drive in unorganized fields. We must keep steam up. We must complete the program we have laid out. In doing so, not only will the size and strength of the Union multiply, but the membership will acquire on-the-spot know-how at the same time. SIU Prestige Grows Speaking of the size and strength of our Union brings up an importantly related matter. The Seafarers is now following a policy in all ports which is adding stature and prestige from out­ side sources. We're gaining new friends all over, and we're putting into practice the principle of real trade-union solidarity. And we're We are taking this opportunity to call your attention to various problems which face the Ameri­ can Merchant Marine and the American .seamen, who make their living sailing on American ships; and also the people ashore; such as the shipyard workers, who are vitally effected and in­ terested in maintaining a large American Merchant Marine. We hope you will read our ideas on the subject, and give them serious consideration. ships with; the foreign operators immediately charter out these ships on long-term contracts to American exporters and impor­ ters, at a rate much lower than American operators can charter out ships. This condiion prevails both in the dry cargo and tanker field. On this page the LOG is proud to start the text of the message sent by Seafarers President Harry Lundeberg to the members of the House Merchant Marine and Fish­ eries Committee and the members of the Committee on Commerce. Due to space limitations, the entire message could not be printed in one issue. Next week the concluding sections will appear. These foreign ships haul Amer­ ican imports and exports, and pay from $100 to $150 less a month for each sailor they hire. They feed badly; they have poor manning scales; and in a num­ AMERICAN SHIPPING ber of cases, are subsidized by Department, and the disinterest­ their government; pay little or no The great American Merchant ed part the United States Con­ taxes, and can operate at a profit. Marine, which reached its peak gress has played. of about 50 million tons during The American banker, who It is the opinion of many peo­ the war, is rapidly dwindling lends money to foreign coun­ down. At the rate ships are be­ ple in the maritime industry that tries and foreign operators to en­ ing laid up by the millions'of tons the Maritime Commission has not able them to buy American built all around the country; at the laid down a strong enough policy ships, owned by the United States rate ships are being sold to for­ to safe-guard the American Mer­ Government, gets a nice fat in­ eign governments and foreign chant Marine. It appears they terest on his money, at the ex­ operators, and at the rate Amer­ just establish policies from day pense of the American Merchant ican capital is buying ships and to day. Marine. The Merchant Marine Act of putting them under the Pana­ Every day more and more manian Flag, it will not be long 1936 was specifically passed by American shipyard workers and before the American Seamen will Congress to build and maintain a American seamen are out of large American Merchant Ma­ be in the breadline with the high­ work. Moreover, this *is daily est wages in the world, but with rine, which would be large weakening the national defense enough to take care of the needs no ships to sail. status of the United States. Before the war, the entire of the United States in peace or The Ships Sales Bill, in its American Merchant Marine was war; and the Maritime Commis­ sion was created as the adminis­ present form, is practically ruin­ approximately between 12 and 13 trative body to enforce the act. ing the American Merchant Ma­ million tons; this included the rine. There are certain people tonnage on the Great Lakes. The SHIPS SALES BILL within the United States Govern­ way the American Merchant Ma­ Last year Congress passed a rine is decreasing, it will not. be Bill to dispose of all surplus ment, who do not believe the long before we are back to the American tonnage. The Bill was United States should have a large same tonnage we had before the supposed to protect American Merchant Marine. These people, war. There are various reasons shipping, but it did not work out however, are in favor of allowing for this, which we will attempt that way. We find today that foreign flag ships to carry im­ ports and exports to the United to point out to you. foreign buyers and countries are States, so foreign countries can In our opinion, the major blame purchasing American ships by make the money to buy Ameri­ for the sick status of the Ameri­ the hundreds. They can afford to can products. can Merchant Marine today can buy them with American dollars One advocate of this theory is be laid squarely in the lap of the on long-term plans. American Maritime Commission, the State banks lend them money to buy Mr. Clayton, Assistant Secretary of State. This is no idle state­ doing this great job simply by helping other unions in their beefs. ment, for Mr. Clayton has, from Most recent example of this was the active aid given in New time to time, expressed so pub­ York to the CIO Shipbuilders in their strike for a union contract, licly. Besides the theories of Mr. and to the AFL United Financial Employes in their drive on Wall Clayton, there are others within Street. In Tampa, our Branch stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the the State Department, who are more interested in giving Ameristriking AFL Teamsters, and the Waiters and Bartenders union. At the outset, some of the membership were of the opinion that ] can ships away to foreign counthe Seafarers was taking part in beefs that should be no concern of, tries, than helping to build a ours. No doubt, they now understand that all labor stands—and powerful Merchant Marine. Our falls—together. Union solidarity cannot be measured on a favor-for-1 Organization fought consistently favor basis. Proof is that we, ourselves, were helped by other ^ hard for a decent Bill for the Unions during our own General Strike. No occasion has arisen American Merchant Marine. where we might return that aid. But that is not the basis for As a result of the present Ships labor cooperation. Sales Bill, the records will show Our stand has contributed strength to the entire labor body. that thousands of ships are being When we throw pur support to one union, all American labor of ^ goijj foreign operators. Furthwhich we, the Seafarers, are an important part, picks up the gains, ermore, hundreds of ships are beSolidarity is ndt something achieved by words. It is built on the j^g laid up in American rivers picketlines; it is forged at the point of production. and bays, and the active Ameri­ Every SIU Hall—and this will come up before the Agents can Merchant Marine is dwind­ conference should be so established physically and organizationally, ling away. that if called upon, it can play a vital part in helping other trade The only American operators, unions in their just beefs. who buy tonnage today, are the industrial carriers; such as Stand­ Action At Point Of Production ard Oil, Isthmian Line, and a few The point to be remembered is that in doing so, the Seafarers companies, who carry their own will be educating the working stiffs of other unions in the prac­ products. tical advantage of SIU policies and practices—the value of eco­ The records will show that the nomic action at the point of production, as contrasted with the American government today is political bull-s ... of the commie-dominated unions. helping to build up the Merchant This type of assistance, if continued along with the rest of the Marine • of foreign countries. SIU program—organizational and educational—will aid the Sea­ Some of them have already farers, and the trade-union movement in general. The Seafarers passed the tonnage they had prior must fight continually against the tactics of some so-called "labor to the war; others are rapidly leaders," whose idea of bargaining is to go crawling to the bosses, coming up to their pre-war ton­ instead of fighting with their economic strength in honest, trade- nage. union style. The crawling approach if continued will reduce labor It must be remembered that to nothing. the American taxpayers spent 20 We know now that a defeat of any union is a defeat for all billion dollars to build a great unions. We must use our economic power to keep the bosses, the American Merchant Marine. It reactionaries and commies from smashing the labor movement. must also be remembered that Can this action be successful? Yes. Let us continue on our the United States Legislators, chartered course—Let us continue to fight our beefs the hard way through Congress, enacted a law —Job action. Most of all let us continue to realize that a defeat for one union is a defeat for all unions! (Continued on Page 8) t J �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Four Staff Officers Signs Mor-Mac; Wins Two Polls WHAT itWIMC... QUESTION:—^What do you think of the SIU policy of helping other unions in their beefs, as we are now doing with the United Financial Employes, AFL? ! MICKEY HEALEY, OS: OSBORNE WILLIAMS, Cook: If other unions can't depend on j us for help, who can they de­ pend on? We know how bad the situation is on unorganized ships; it is just as bad in unorganized industries. When we go out on the picketline to help the Long­ shoremen, or the Shipbuilders, or the Financial Employes, we are just strengthening the whole la­ bor movement and making it tougher for the bosses to bust us up. No sense kidding ourselves, labor is in for a hard fight. We are going to need all the help we can give and get from each other. I've been in the SIU since 1940, and I have seen some of the things we all went through before our Union became as strong as it is. It's a good idea for us to get behind other unions if they have just beefs. Recently we helped out the ILA, the MM&P, ihe ClO Shipbuilders, and now we are assisting the AFL Financial Em­ ployes. We have won a hard fight against our own employers, and if we can do something towards helping others, I am all in favor of doing it. That's how a strong labor movement is built. » Mor-Mac operates approxi­ mately 80 ships, and the new agi'eement covers more than 100 Pursers, Wage increases averaging $40.00 per month, and overtime rates of $1.60 per hour, are features of the contract. These apply to the freighters, and passenger wages are still un­ der negotiation. The elections which- the AMMSOA won were all hotly contested by the NMU. There was lots of mud-slinging by the commies, but the good reputa­ tion of the AFL Pursers Union was more than a match for any­ thing the NMU could do. PAT ROBERTSON, OS: Great Lakes Seamen Held Ready For Unionism As SIU Prepares To Launrh Organizing Drive There exists a general tend­ ency among salt water seamen to refer to lakes seamen as "farm­ ers" and, because of the seasonal nature of the Lakes maritime in­ dustry, to regard organization as virtually impossible. When the question of organization on the Lakes is discussed, the answer is generally "it can't be done." Nothing can be farther from • the truth. A little study of our Union history shows that not only can the Lakes seamen be organ­ ized, but that actually their or­ ganization ..and ..struggle., have been responsible for many of the greatest gains made by seamen anywhere. In 1912, three years before the passage of the "Seamen's Act," sponsored by Andrew Furuseth, the Lakes seamen were on the picket lines fighting one of the greatest battles in maritime his­ tory. It was this fight, led by the American Federation of Labor and waged against the greatest of odds, that was responsible for the passage of the act, and the subsequent organization on a na­ tional scale of seamen in the old International Seamen's Union. The question will then be askC|d> "If the Lakes seamen were Despite the obstructionist tac­ tics of the NMU, the American Merchant Marine Staff Officer.^ Association has signed a new contract with Moore-McCormack Lines, and has won two NLRB elections recently. These facts were announced by Tom Hill, East Coast Representative of the AMMSOA. In the election covering the 17 ships of the Atlantic, Gulf and Helping out other unions is one West Indies Steamship Lines, the of the best things we can do. NMU was snowed under by a 12 When we have trouble, we ex­ to 1 margin, and in the New York pect help from other unions, and if they have trouble it is only right that'we should assist them. The SIU had a hard time in the early days of our organiziiiion, and if we can help other unions over the bumps, we ought to do it without one moment's hesita­ tion. When we were asked to volunteer to distribute literature for the AFL Financial Employes, there were plenty of guys who came forward to do their part. EDWARD JANASZAK, Cook: • I agree with that 100 i>ercenl. We are all working stiffs and v/e should support each other. The bosses always help each other over rough spots, and we should do the same thing. Of course, that doesn't mean that we should allow ourselves to be used by the commie unions, or by the rack­ eteering unions; but when an honest union comes to us with a beef, we should get right out on the line with them. The SIU has a fine reputation for doing the things we have done in the past year, and all SIU members are proud. By EARL SHEPPARD Friday, February 21, 1947 the first to be organized, why are they not organized today?" The answer is that the ship­ owners on the Great Lakes rep­ resent the greatest financial mon­ opoly ever known in American history, the Steel Trust. Literally tens of millions of dollars have been spent by the Steel Trust to prevent organiza­ tion on the Lakes. The two watch, twelve hour day system was maintained on the Lakes long after it had been abandoned elsewhere. To main­ tain this system, the owners, tak­ ing full advantage of prevalent unemployment, paid higher wages, established a continuous discharge "fink" book system, company-union hiring halls, and a large group of professional rats to maintain a constant agitation against unionism. The millions of dollars that have been spent by the Steel Trust have not stopped organiza­ tion any more than any amovmt of dollars could succeed in bring­ ing about successful organization. This business of calling Lakes seamen "farmers" and crying "it can't be done" sounds much the same as the weeping and wailing that came from some people when the Seafarers tackled Isth­ mian. In many ways, the problems to be faced are the same. Isthmian is U.S. Steel, part and parcel of the major- factor on the Great Lakes. Isthmian was won after a long tough fight, and by using the same methods combined with the experience that has been gained in the Isthmian drive, the Lakes can and will be organized. The SIU today is the strongest and most respected organization on the Lakes because of the fact that, despite all obstacles, it has remained in the field and kept punching at all times. Much money has been spent, but sum­ med up, it is a small amount when compared to the benefits that have been gained. This season the Seafarers In­ ternational has allocated funds for the purpose of making an allout drive. These fund^, even the entire treasury of our union, are but a drop in the bucket when they are compared to the immense finan­ cial resources of the Lakes ship­ owners. The thing that is going to or­ ganize the Lakes is manpower and hard work, not cash. Every member of the Seafarers, both or­ ganizers and the rank-and-file, must join hands, pitch in and work like hell to do the organi­ zing job. The NMU is no longer- a factor. The abortive strike of last year, when a few men called a strike without even consultmg the Lakes seamen, has thoroughly discredited the NMU leadership. On the other side of the picture, the Seafarers has succeeded in signing new contracts, winning bargaining elections and to a great degree bettering the condi­ tions of all Lakes seamen. Add to this the off-shore record of the Seafarers, and you have the record, a record of achieve­ ment which the NMU cannot ap­ proach in the slightest. The only thing that it needed to make the Lakes one hundred percent Seafarer is the full-heart­ ed support and cooperation of the membership. This support won Isthmian, and this support will organize the Lakes. The membership as a whole is showing a great interest in this drive but interest alone won't win the fight. All men who have sailed the Lakes should contact the organizers immediately and find out what they can do to help. Chipping, painting, splicing, cooking and oiling are the same on the Lakes as anywhere else. A lot of steam is made with "backs and shovels, but all in all, a sea­ man's life is about the same on fresh water as salt. TOM HILL and Puerto Rico Steamship Com­ pany election; the ratio was 6 tol. The New York and Cuba Mail Steamship Company has already voted, but the results will not be announced until February 26. NO COMPANY VOTES It is interesting to note that in the two elections already certi­ fied, the companies were not able to muster one single vote. Elections to select a bargaining agent for Staff Officers are un­ der way in the United States Lines, American South African Line, Black Diamond Steamship Corporation, and Overlakes Freight Company. 125 ships in all are involved, and when the results are made public on or about April 1, the AMMSOA is confident that all four will have rolled up a de­ cisive majority in favor of rep­ resentation by the AFL union. Check It - But Good Check the slop chest be­ fore your boat sails. Make sure that the slop chest con­ tains an adequate supply of all the things you are liable to need. If it doesn't, call the Union Hall immediately. �Friday. February 21. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five New York Business Still Booms; Rated Men Still At Premium By JOE ALGINA Oldtimes Returning To Boston; Shortage Of Rated Men Hits Port By JOHN MOGAN NO Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: NEW YORK — All the Patrol­ men of the merchant marine men in this port are being kept really keep the sea lanes of the pretty busy these days, what with world open. more ships coming in here than UNION-BUSTING IDEAS we have seen in many a month. The Senators in Washington Truly, the days of decent ship­ took office with the avowed in­ ping have returned, and not tention of stripping Labor of all many men stay on the beach un­ its rights and privileges. They less they really want to rest. threatened to outlaw the closed Rated men are still at a pre­ shop, deny industry wide bar­ mium, and if there are men in gaining, and a whole host of the outports who want to ship other things that would have put fast, just contact New York and labor in a strait-jacket. we will tell you what jobs are What they didn't count on was available. It sure does my heart that Labor would not take these good to report this state of af­ changes sitting down. The men fairs. and women who work for a Some of the boys who came living are not going to stand in recently had some hair-rais­ around and watch while the fat ing tales to tell about the weather boys cut the guts out of all they in the.North Atlantic: Seas that have fought for. were stories high,y wind that And so now the bureaucrats could push a man overboard, are backing water fast. They say and nights that were so black that they didn't mean all the you couldn't see one inch in front of your face. The boys kept the ships sailing WEU.WHADOVA ICNtoWand they are the same guys who I DIDTMAT.' are referred to as lazy and nogood. In peace, and in war, the BOSTON—Business and ship­ this area with regard to the ex­ ping for the port of Boston re­ tension of Maritime Commission CHARLESTON mains good for the third week in control over coastwise and interHG'JSTON a row. So much so, that there is coastal shipping. This port would NORFOLK actually an acute shortage of really suffer if these services were JACKSONVILLE rated men. In fact, it looks like curtailed at this time. BALTIMORE We received very favorable old times on the board, with a MARCUS HOOK dozen or more jobs going beg­ replies from all of the solons, TAMPA and especially Congressman John ging. NEW ORLEANS On the surface of things it F. Kennedy, whose district cov­ would appear that the industry ers nearly the entire waterfront, The deadline for port re­ was heavily overmanned; but»the and who called up from Washing­ ports. monies due. etc., is the question quite naturally arises: ton to assure us of his 100 percent Monday preceeding, publica­ cooperation. Where are the men? tion. While every effort will The SS William Rawle just be made to use in the current Last week we had occasion to issue material received after call New York for a couple of paid off here and the following that dale, space commitments rated men, and found that the Brothers donated one dollar generally do not permit us to same situation exists there also. apiece to the boys in the marine hospital: A. Smith', Joe Samuel do so. Under the circumstances we and Brother Gabor. can only issue new permits and consider ourselves lucky if there are rated men around looking for an opportunity to ship. The Yarmouth will have been crewed up by the time this goes to press. This will just about by the Company." That can pears that Savannah will soon be By ARTHUR THOMPSON empty out the Hall, as the major­ a steadily busy port. We haven't mean almost anything. ity of book members currently at­ SAVANNAH —- As Gabriel done bad all along, but we did As for other ships in port, we tending meetings will imdoubt- Heatter might say, "Ah, there's have a few slack periods. nasty things they were quoted edly make bids for the Yarmouth. good news tonight"—The South still have the SS Zachary Taylor, as saying. In fact, they are all We also have a piece of bad This past week also saw two Atlantic SS Co. has gone and which is paid off and crewed up; Labor's best friends, and they the SS Beloit Victory, ditto and news to report. The body of Har­ payoffs hit this area, one of which bought four ships. They will be the SS Raphael Semmes, which rison Whittmore was found float­ wouldn't do anything to hurt was the SS William Rawles called the Southland, Southport, only called for two replacements ing in the river a few days ago. their friends. (Bull). Southwind and Southstar. Two and will be well on the way to No one seems to know how it This change of heart proves more will be bought, but I don't WAY IT'S DONE Shanghai by the time you read happened. that Labor has plenty of power, know when. this. Brother Golding, who is a fa­ He's not registered in this port and that if we choose to use our The Southland pulled in this The good old Jefferson City and never shipped from here. He power and influence, the men miliar figure at the New York Hall, was Steward on this vessel, morning, but I haven't had a Victory just paid off yesterday lived in South Carolina and prob­ who play the bosses' game will and did a beautiful job in assist­ chance to go aboard yet. She and, as usual, there were no ably shipped through Charle.ston. find themselves out on their; ing the Patrolman at the payoff. used to be the SS Black War­ beefs, and all hands were ap­ However, Charleston has no backs. parently happy. This kind of co-operation is rior of the Isthmian Line. We are the people who built record of his shipping since the These ships will take the old If all ships were like this a strike and no ship in Savannah the United States, and we are really appreciated, especially in ports where one Patrolman cov­ South Atlantic run to LeHavre, piecard's life would be a bed of has reported a man missing. the ones who fought for it. All London, Antwerp and Rotter­ roses. But then life might be a ers all three departments. No marks of violence were re­ we ask is a decent break, and The other payoff was the SS dam. They are 10,000 ton cargo bit too dull at that. we are not going to allow a bimch ported on the body and the coro­ William Kamaka (So. Atlantic), ships having a speed of 15 Va BAD NEWS of over-stuffed stooges for the which paid off in good style. A knots. Thai's about all we can say for ner declared the cause of death bosses cheat us out of what is The Ocean Steamship Co. also $50 log on one of the crewmemthe business at hand and it ap­ was accidental drowning. our rightful due. bers of this ship might have been announced the purchase of two squared away, if the member had 7,000 ton C-I-A type ships, one remained over the weekend; but of which has already been de­ he wanted to get started for home livered to the company in New immediately and charged up the' York. They are the Cape Ruce and $50 to profit and loss, mostly loss. the Cape Nome. These ships Together with the organizing make the run between Savannah work going on in the port, which VANCOUVER, B. C. — The to someone else. That's real news unable to stomach the food served have a speed of 14 knots. They'll was also rather hectic this past them. Prince David, which was recently consumption. week, the flow of shipping kept and New York in 48 hours, which The complaint was dealt with TOUGH SHIP all hands going around the office. is 12 hours better than the ones sold to a British Company, hasn't by the Patrolman who went gotten very far on her voyage The British ship, Brighton, re­ aboard and some changes were Brother Sweeney, in particular, they ran before the war. ONE HITCH had a mighty busy week. to England. We've just received cently arrived here from Colom­ agreed to by the Skipper and The only hitch in this announ­ Of course, this business may be a report that she had a rough trip bo, Ceylon, after what was re­ Company Agent. After the little a flash in the pan, but there is cement is the fact that the ships from Vancouver and had to put ported to be a very hungry trip. conference the crew agreed to the The Skipper cabled the Hall here changes and the vessel pulled every indication that it will con­ will "be used when conditions while at sea and requested an out. tinue, in which case the port will warrant resumption of operations into San Francisco for repairs. The trip, from what we've official of the Union to meet her need another Joint Patrolman. Since then we've heard that heard, was also rough on the when she docked so we could get The members have really taken there is more trouble aboard the crew with many of them hanging a first hand story of the condi­ up that advice not to sign on un­ ship, and the firemen have walk­ over the side and the messroom tions on board. The Skipper less a Patrolman is present, so It may sound funny in ed off the .ship in Oakland, Cali­ that even in Portland the crews these days of housing short­ •empty at mealtime. If that's the wanted a witness so the matter fornia. case it mu.'^t have been really could be reported to the British will hold up signing on until rep­ ages, but it is true that the , The cableship Restorer is rough sailing. Seamen's Union. resented by the Union, as was Seafarers has a new Hall in changing her base of operations the case last week during one of We've always know that the A Patrolman covered the ship —she is going to handle repair Galveston. It is located at our busiest days. Log really gets around, but a let­ when she hit port, and she was operations in the Pacific. As she 2081/2—23rd Street, just a ter I received recently shows really in rough shape. A report expects to be away from the I went up to the ship myself block from the old one. The what happens to one copy of it. is being made to the British West Coast for about a year, she and explained to the crew the new Hall is a big improve­ The letter was from Scotland and Seamen's Union in an attempt to will operate out of Honolulu. SUP tanker rider which has been ment over the one just va­ was written by Malcolm McMil­ rectify the objectionable and causing some difficulty, and also cated. Shipping is good in The Restorer is under an SIU lan, Labor Member of Parlia­ starvation conditions aboard the contract, and it is the first union accepted written charges against Galveston these days, so if ment, who says he reads his copy ship. a book rtiember, who was accus­ you find yourself down in contract in her history. We got of the Log from cover to cover, ed by his shipmates of being a that Texas Port, make a beeA few days after this incident an excellent agreement with good and enjoys every part of it gashound, of failing to perform line for the Hall where you I got a call from the English Blue conditions and wages, also a 40 his duties, and of stealing from can rest comfortably while He also says that when he is Funnel Line ship, Bellerophon. and 48 hour week. In fact, she a shipmate. wailing for the Dispatcher's through with it he sends it on On contacting the vessel it was now has the best working agree­ Also during the week we con­ call. to a friend of his in North Scot­ found the deck crew was in a ment of any ship in the Domin­ tacted all the Congressmen from land. who likewise passes it along state of semi-starvation, being ion of Canada. Savannah Looks To Future As South Atlantic Buys Four More Ships For North European Run WITB THE SlU !H GAHADA New Galveston Hall ,| �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six MM&P Charters Local In Duluth; Weather Slows Other Activities Friday. February 21. 1947 SIU VOLUNTEER By EINAR NORDAAS DULUTH — Things are good Also in the local picture, the and bad here in Duluth as far as girls on strike at the-Glassblock organized labor is concerned. On store are still out in force. The the dark side of the ledger the strike has been in progress for reactionaries in the state legisla­ over six months, with no weak­ ture are working overtime to ening on the part of the girls. shove through an anti-closed shop The strikers are members of Re­ bill. If they succeed it will come tail Clerks Union Local 3, AFL. We've ben suffering a spell of up for referendum vote in 1948. sub-zero weather for the past The State Federation of Labor week, so the girls, rather than has called a meeting for this month in St. Paul of all AFL or­ stand out in the cold, let old man ganizations in the state to fight winter hold down the picketline. Vernon Pickelman is a vetsuch legislation. It'll sure get a They didn't have to worry about earn of two Isthmian ships. He anyone crossing the line as the fight in this state. .streets are pretty well deserted says that Isthmian ships are We don't intend to sit idly by right now. pretty rugged, but that all the and watch the state become a re­ Until the cold spell lets up the seamen are looking forward to plica of Florida, where the antibest place to be is in front of a the time when the SIU will be closed shop law has made life fireplace, and not on the water­ doing the bargaining for all of miserable for everyone, not just front. them. the labor unions. On the sunnier side of things • there is a new AFL outfit being formed here on the Lakes. The pilots of the Bulkcarriers are be­ ing organized into a local of the Masters, Mates and Pilots. By EDDIE HIGDON I attended the last meeting of the Pilots, and was highly pleas­ PHILADELPHIA — Improve­ crowding the Dispatcher's desk ed by the enthusiasm shown by ments ' in the operation of the has been eliminated. the new members. In accordance with the effort They have already received Seafarers Hall in this port have already been made, and the drive to standardize a new shipping their charter from the MM&P to increase service to the mem­ system has been put into effect. and are well on their way to be­ bership will continue in full Announcements of further coming a strong outfit. swing until we are satisfied that changes in the operation and The Duluth branch of the SIU everything possible is being done structure of the Hall will appear takes this opportunity to wel­ in that direction. in the Log as they are made. come the Pilots into the AFL. Among the physical changes SEARCH FOR QUARTERS LITTLE LOCAL NEWS that have already been made in Philadelphia Makes Imprbvements In Hall And In Shipping System Locally there isn't much do­ ing right now, although every­ thing isn't dead in the harbor by any means. Just the other day they transported a house from Superior, Wis., over here to Du­ luth. So you can see there is some activity up here. the Hall, was the installation of a public address system. The micro­ phone has been placed on the Dispatcher's desk, with two speakers located at vantage points in the Hall. Now the shipping calls reach everyone, and the necessity for Chicago Seafarers Are Anxious To Start Organizing Campaign By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO — Until this week it looked like a late start for Lakes shipping out of this port, due to the heavy weather and the large ice fields on Lake Mich­ igan. Now, however, we have had almost a week of balmy spring weather and the ice on the Lakes is quickly melting. With the spurt of warm weather hitting the port, the boys have started to ask when shipping will start. I guess they have a premature touch of spring fever; however, it won't be too long before they'll be going back to the ships. While most of the men coming in are concerned with the open­ ing of shipping, a good percent­ age of the Brothers are pledging themselves to assist the SIU in the organizing drive when it gets under way. MEN CONFIDENT All the men coming in are confident that the drive will be a success, and I can assure all of them that it will definitely be a success if we all pull together. If we get in there and hit them with all we've got there can be no doubt as to the outcome. There are, of course, some ob­ stacles that will have to be con­ tended with, namely, the NMU and LSU. The NMU will use all kinds of methods to sabotage this cam­ paign and we can look for some new tricks to come out of their bag of sell-out tactics. They are fighting a negative campaign on the Lakes now, for their own record has ended any chance of their doing a job for themselves. The Lake Seamen's Union, run by the Cleveland Cliffs Company, will be doing all it can to dis* credit the SIU by using all its resources and power to spread anti-labor propaganda to the un> organized seamen. SOLID FRONT Neither of these groups will succeed if we form a .solid front. Let's show the LSU and the NMU that we are a real Union, and cannot be swayed in our de­ termination to organize Lakes seamen. We have gained top wages and conditions in the maritime field and we will continue , to fight for an even better life for seamen. We won't let any phony union or employer stop us from gaining that end. That's our program, and it's the best. James Tuphy, who is well known around the Lakes, met with an accident while working at a shoreside job. A large seg­ ment of ice fell from a roof and struck him in the body. At first it was thought he was in grave condition, but x-rays showed no serious injury. He is now recuperating in the Marine Hospital here in Chicago. Tom Wickham Away back in 1904, Thomas Wickham was a young squirt of 18 with a strong desire to see what lay over the far horizons. He had an overwhelming urge to see what the wide world was like, and what better way is there "to satisfy such a desire than by go­ ing to sea. For the past forty years he has been doing just that. He has had a long and colorful career as a seaman, and he has sailed in every capacity on deqk from Cabin boy to Second Mate. Brother Wickham joined a sea­ man's union thirty years ago, and he has been a union member ever since. When the SIU started he was among the first to join. Tommy took part in both World Wars, as well as a few wars of his own. In 1921 he was made a prisoner of war in Punta Arenas, Costa Rico, when he be­ came involved in a boundary dispute between that country and Panama. However, that doesn't mean that he wasn't in the thick of things. If you think that, then you don't know Brother Wickham. REAL OLDTIMER Even now, at the age of 61, Tommy is as good a sailor as most men half his age. He can work aloft with the best of them, and can hold his own with any man on the deck or below decks. He went through many strikes The Second World War found and job actions, and can tell Tommy right there as usual and plenty of stories about the old raring to go. Being a real sailor days. Always a Union militant, he didn't pick his runs, so he was he was in the forefront of the available for the first ship that battle to improve the wages and called for a man, and he travel­ conditions of seamen. led in all waters. Brother Wickham doesn't re­ He was torpedoed only once, gret one single day that he has The search for cleaner, and when the SS Benjamin Smith spent at sea. In fact, his only re­ more ample quarters for Phila­ went down in January; 1945, gret is that it is now time for him delphia Seafarers continues. to retire. Word has just come from the Those who know Tommy, or committee designated to inspect have sailed with him, will be suitable locations, saying they sorry to learn that he is on his have turned down a building way to the Sailors Snug Harbor. which was under consideration. His rest is well deserved, and it Careful investigation proved it is the earnest hope of all his to be far short of the commit­ buddies — he numbers them in tee's standards. the thousands — that he lives in Shipping at the moment is By CAL TANNER comfort to a ripe old age. pretty good, but there are few ABs around to take the jobs call­ Brother Thomas Wickham — MOBILE—There is a good pos­ ing for that rating. We are ex­ sibility that we'll be changing our a credit to his calling and his pecting more companies to start address down here soon, as we've Union. He's a real Seafarer! sending vessels here for payoffs found a building that is much in the very near future. This more satisfactory than the one prospect of greater activity is we now occupy. certainly okay with us. At the last membership meet­ Dispatcher Harry Collins, and ing, a building committee of Patrolman Ernest Tilley are turn­ three members was elected to in­ ing in fine jobs in the perform­ spect the new building, and give ance of their duties. Their help, the final approval or disapproval. and the splendid cooperation If it gets their okay, and we which the membership is giving, can get the necessary repairs and accounts for the smooth way in By J. S. WILLIAMS renovations made in the new which this port is now function­ Hall, I'll be pickipg up my hat CORPUS CHRISTI — Business ing. We're also getting the full and coat, and the Union will and shipping have been a bit slow cooperation of the other AFL out­ switch its base of operations from in this area for the past couple fits in this port. this old joint. of weeks. At the same time, how­ PAYOFFS WERE CLEAN The address of our prospective ever, there aren't many men on Two payoffs here on Monday headquarters is 1 South Law­ the beach waiting for jobs, so were clean. The Topa Topa and rence Street. One thing in favor the situation isn't too bad. Although there have not been the Waltham Victory were the of the switch is the fact that it will be an easy number to re­ many contracted ships coming in ships paid off, without any lately, we have been kept busy trouble, all beefs being settled at member. contacting the unorganized ships the point of production. SHIPPING FAIR and we seem to be making good At this point I should like to Shipping is going along at a headway on that score. stress the importance of having all Delegates aboard vessels com­ fair rate with men going out to Things are also looking good in ing into this port notify the Hall the regular Alcoa and Waterman the organizing efforts of the other immediately of their arrival here. ships that stop off here, but we ports around here. I was down to Prompt notification will enable won't kick if we get a sudden Brownsville and Port Isabel last week and everything is in good us to get out to the ships with­ rush of shipping. out delay and will insure settle­ We are still contacting the un­ shape and going smooth down ment of all beefs before the pay­ organized ships that hit Mobile there. off. with good results. There never is We had.the Cape Breten, Bull a dearth of unorganized ships, so Line, in with no beefs and in we are kept pretty well on the good shape. She had Brother ball. Red Hall aboard her as Chief When and if we get the new Bellyrobber, and for once a ship Hall, we'll pretty her up and take came in with no squawks about some pictures for the Log, giving the Stewards Department. all the Seafarers a glimpse of the I'll sign off for now and I hope Union's new home in the good old to be able to report better busi­ port of Mobile. ness and shipping next week. SIU Committee Investigates New Hall In Mobile Corpus Christi Is Busy With Organizing Work �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 21, 1947 Page Seven And The Seafarers International Union Of N.A. GENERAL RULES Employment. The Company agrees that only mem­ bers of the Union shall be employed in all unlicensed personnel ratings on their Passenger vessels or Ameri­ can Flag Passenger vessels taken over on bareboat charter, with the exception of the following: Cadets, Super-Cargo, Pursers, Doctors, Concessionaires, and female employees other than Stewardesses and Wait­ resses. . Except, as provided herein, all other provisions of the General Rules of the agreement shall apply. RECK DEPARTMENT Special Working rules arid wages for certain ratings in the Deck Department of the SS Cavalier type pas­ senger vessels and the SS George Washington type passenger vessels: Monthly Wages Boatswain—Cavalier type passenger vessel....$235.00 Carpenter—Cavalier type passenger vessel.... 225.00 Boatswain—George Washington type pas­ senger vessel 225.00 Carpenter—George Washington type pas­ senger vessel 225.00 Section 1. Quartermaster's Duties, (a) While on watch. Quartermasters shall not be required to leave the wheelhouse or navigation bridge for any purpose unless relieved by another Quartermaster or by an Able Sea­ man. The sending of the Quartermaster on watch for tools or supplies or for the purpose of carrying messages shall not be deemed as adequate reason for his leaving .the bridge or wheelhouse without proper relief. (b) Quartermasters shall be relieved thirty (30) min­ utes during each watch for coffee by one of the AB's on his watch. However, the AB shall not receive any extra compensation for such relief. In port Quarter­ masters may be required to stand gangway watches without payment of overtime except on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (c) The Quartermaster shall be responsible for the rigging of the flags upon arrival or departure of the vessel fiom any port. Other members of the Deck De­ partment shall not be utilized for this purpose except when ship is being dressed. Section 2. Watchman's Duties: (a) Watchman shall be required to stand watches of eight (8) hours on and sixteen (16) hours off. They shall be required to make their regular rounds for the key stations and punch the clocks. They may be required to stand gangway watches in port. (b) Any watches stood on Sunday at sea shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. He shall receive over­ time for all watches stood on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in . port. (c) Watchmen shall not be required to perform duties normally under the jurisdiction of a Master-at-Arms. Where no Master-at-Arms is carried, his duties shall not be delegated to other members of the Deck De­ partment. (d) Any work performed by watchmen other than their regular and accepted duties shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. Except as provided herein, all other provisions of the Deck Department Working Rules and General Rules of the Agreement shall apply. ENGINE DEPARTMENT It is agreed that on the SS Alcoa Cavalier type pasenger vessel a Second Electrician will be carried in­ stead of an Assistant Electrician and the wages for the Second Electrician shall be $271,50 per month. It is also agreed that the Second Electrician must hold an Electrician's endorsement. Except as provided herein, all other provisions of the Engine Department Working Rules and General Rules of the Agreement shall apply. STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Cavalier Type Passenger Vessel Manning And Wage Scale Number Rating 1 Chief Steward 1 Second Steward 1 Chief Cook 1 Second Cook 1 Larder Cook Monthly' Wage Rate $325.00 220.00 260.00 220.00 220.00 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 5 3 1 1 1 1 1 5 2 2 1 1 1 1 I 2 1 Third Cook 195.00 Crew Cook 205.00 Chief Baker 250.00 Second Baker 211.25 Butcher 222.75 Galley Utilitymen 150.00 Deck Steward •. 155.00 Lounge and Smoking Room Steward. .. 155.00 Saloon Steward 160.00 Waiters 150.00 Room Stewards 150.00 Night Steward 155.00 Chief Pantryman 195.00 Assistant Pantryman 165.00 Night Pantryman 165.00 Dishwasher 150.00 Messmen 150.00 Bellmen ^ 150.00 Porters 152.50 Bartender ; 175.00 Gloryhole Steward 150.00 Linen-Storekeeper ."i •195.00 Captain Waiter 150.00 Officers' Room Steward 150.00 Stewards-Utility 150.00 Stewardess 175.00 If at any time the above Manning Scale is not suf­ ficient to give required service to the passengers and crew, the Company agrees to add such personnel as deemed necessary. Section 1. (a) Routine Duties for members of the Stewards Department shall be to prepare regular meals, the cleaning and maintaining of licensed officers, staff officers and chief stewards and passengers quarters, dining rooms and messrooms, all enclosed passage­ ways, smoking and lounge rooms, bathrooms, toilets, galley, pantrys and all departmental equipment. (b) Any work necessary for the service of passengers shall be performed by the members of the Stewards Department assigned to those partieular duties such as deck service, handling deck chairs, layout of games, handling hand baggage from deck to passengers rooms when taking on passengers, and from passengers rooms to custom inspectors' office when passengei's are dis­ embarking. Section 2. Selection of Personnel, (a) Recognizing the fact that the following are essential to the welfare of the passengers, the Union agrees that the Company may select and employ men for the following ratings from those members of the Union who are available provided such men are suitable to the Company. The Company shall be the sole judge of the man's suit­ ability. The Company agrees to make every reason­ able effort to obtain suitable men from within the mem­ bership of the Union, and if such men are not available from among the Union membership, the Union agrees that the Company may secure men for these ratings from any source. Men so selected may remain in the employ of the Company provided that they become members of the Union. The penalty provided in Article 1, Section 3 of the General Rules shall not be applicable to this section. Chief Steward Store-Linenkeeper Second Steward Chief Cook Head Waiter Chief Baker Bai'tender Larder Cook Storekeeper (b) The Company agrees to select all other unli­ censed personnel in the Stewards Department through the offices of the Union. Section 3. Passenger Vessels, (a) These rules shall be in effect for passenger vessels and shall not be con­ sidered as being in conflict with freight ship working rules for members of the Stewards Department. Section 4. Overtime Work, (a) All work performed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in port and Sun­ days and holidays at sea shall be paid for at the over­ time rate. (b) The hours of work for the Stewards Department shall be eight (8) hours within a spread of fourteen (14) hours. Any work performed in excess of eight (8) hours or outside of the fourteen (l4) hour spread shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (c) Members of the Stewards Department assigned for the exclusive service of the crew shall perform theii' regular duties between the hours of 6:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M. Section 5. Saloon Service for Officers, (a) No officers or crew members except the Master, Chief Engineer, Chief Mate, 1st Asst., Purser, Cruise Director, Chief Steward and Doctor shall be served in the saloon during the passengers meal hours or be entitled to bell service. The Second Steward's room and Purser's office shall be entitled to bell service. (b) No member of the Stewards Department shall be required to serve meals to officers or crew [except those entitled to dining salon service as in Section 5, Para­ graph (a)] outside their respective messrooms, without the payment of overtime. This section shall not be con­ strued to apply to passengers or unlicensed personnel served during regular working hours on account of illness. Section 6. Late Meals, (a) When members of the Stewards Department are required to serve late meals due to the failure of officers eating within the prescribed time, the members of the Stewards Department ac­ tually required to stand by to prepare and serve the late meals shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (b) When meal hours are extended for any reason at all and the unlicensed personnel are unable to eat within the regular prescribed time, all members of the Stewards Department required to stand by to prepare and serve the meal shall be paid- at the regular over­ time rate for the time meal is extended. This shall not be construed to mean overtime shall be paid when meal hours are shifted as per Article II, Section 37, Para­ graph (c) of this Agreement. Section 7. Extra Meals, (a) When meals are served to other than officers or crew in the messrooms, fifty cents per meal shall be paid. This is to be divided among the members of the Stewards Department ac­ tually engaged in preparing and serving the meals. No extra meals shall be served without the authority of the Master or Officer in charge of the vessel. (b) All meals served in the passenger's dining saloon other than to passengers, the Captain, Chief Engineer, Chief Mate, Chief Purser, Chief Steward, executive of­ ficers of the Company or Government Officials, shall bo paid for at the rate of fifty cents for each meal served to the waiter actually serving the meals. How­ ever, when the complement of passengers aboard vessel is not sufficient to require the service of the dining room crew, guests shall be served during their regular eight (8) hours without extra compensation, providing passengers and guests combined does not exceed 96 perosns on the Alcoa Cavalier type vessel and shall not exceed 200 persons on the George Washington type ves­ sel. Section 8. Stores and Linen, (a) Members of the Stewards Department shall not be required to carry stores or linen to or from the dock but when stores or linen are delivered aboard the ship, the storekeeper and linenkeeper shall handle their respective stores without the payment of overtime within their regular pre­ scribed hours. When the ship is in port and no pas­ sengers are aboard, members of the Stewards Depart­ ment on day work may be required to handle stores and linen aboard ship within their regular working hours without the payment of overtime. Section 9. Cleaning Chill Boxes, (a) Members of the Stewards Department shall be assigned by the Steward to clean domestic refrigerated walk-in boxes and shall be paid at the regular overtime rate for the time that the work is performed. This shall not apply to re­ frigerators in pantrys, messrooms, bake shops, etc. Section 10. Chipping and Painting, (a) Members of the Stewards Department shall not be required to chip, .scale or paint. Section 11. Sougeeing, (a) At sea when members of the Stewards Department are required to sougee, over­ time shall be paid for the actual time worked, how­ ever, porters and utilitymen shall be required to sougee in their regular prescribed hours without the payment of overtime. This section shall not apply to waiters and bedroom stewards on day work when full comple­ ment of passengers is not carried, however, bedroom stewards shall be required to spot up within their regu­ lar hours witkout the payment of overtime. Section 12. Shifting Ship, (a) When a ship is making a shift as prescribed in this agreement. Article II, Sec­ tion 21, it shall be considered in port and overtime shall be paid to the members of the Stewards De­ partment on duty on Saturdays, Sundays, ,and holidays. Section 13. Required Complement, (a) When mem­ bers of the Stewards Department are required to do extra work because '^a vessel sailed without the full complement required by this agreement, or because of illness or injury, the wages of the missing or disabled men shall be divided among the men who do their work, but no overtime shall be included in such wages. This shall not apply when extra work is not necessary due to the fact that the amount of passengers carried does not require the services of the full complement of the crew. (b) In port members of the Stewards Department shall be paid overtime for work in excess of eight (8) hours caused by the shortage of the department but there shall be no division of wages because of such shortage. Section 14. Galley- Gear and Uniforms, (a) The Com­ pany shall furnish all tools for the galley including knives for the cooks. White caps, aprons, and coats (Contin-ued on Page 8) �Friday, February 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Alcoa Seafarers Supplementary Agreement (Continued from Page 7) worn by the Stewards' Department shall be furnished and laundered by the Company. The white trousers worn by the galley force shall be laundered by the Company. (b) The uniforms worn by the Stewardesses shall be furnished and laundered by the Company. Section 15. Fireroom. (a) Members of the Stewards Department shall not be required to enter the engine or fire rooms for any purpose. on day work they may be required to work in store­ rooms, linen lockers, toilets, passenger and officers quarters, messrooms, galleys, bake shops and butcher shops, steward department passageways, and do gen­ eral cleaning including sougeeing, within their regular hours without the payment of overtime. (c) When members of the Stewards Department are on day work they shall be allowed fifteen minutes for coffee at 10:00 A.M. and fifteen minutes at 3:00 P.M., or at a convenient time near these houfs. (d) When members of the Stewards Department are on day work they shall receive one full hour from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. for lunch. (e) When any members of the Stewards Department on day work are required to change their hours so as to serve visitors, parties, or other persons in the dining saloon, they shall be knocked off of their day work at least four hours prior to the time of beginning such service or shall be paid at the regular overtime rate for all work performed outside of their regular day work schedule. Section 19. Penalty Work. Any work performed by the Stewards Department that is not recognized as routine duties in this Agreement shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. Section 20. Authority of Chief Steward, (a) Nothing in these working rules shall be deemed to detract from the authority of the Chief Steward who shall be final authority aboard the vessel in all disputes in the Stew­ ards Department subject to, the pi'ovisions of Article II, Section 9, of this agreement. Section 16. Minimum Complement, (a) No members of the Stewards Department shall be laid off Sundays or holidays while at sea, or in port other than home port. (b) On ships arriving or sailing on Saturdays, Sun­ days or holidays the Stewards Department shall only be paid overtime for the hours actually worked. (c) When the full complement of the Stewards De­ partment is carried and the passenger complement aboard ship does not require full Stewards Department service, members of the Stewards Department not re­ quired for the service of the passengers may be placed on day work and shall be subject to the working rules for day workers as provided for in Section 18 of this Supplement Agreement. (d) When the ship is in home port and no passengers are aboard but officers and crew are eating aboard, the minimum Stewards Department required aboard on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays for the purpose of preparing and serving meals shall be; 1-Chief Cook, 1-Crew Cook, 1-Butcher, 1-Baker, 1-Galley Utility, 1Officer Bedroom Steward, 5-Messmen, 2-Steward Utili­ ties, 1-Linen and Storekeeper; other members of the Stewards Department whose service is not required by the Company shall not be turned to on Saturdays, Sun­ days, and holidays in home port. For the purpose of this agreement, the home port shall be considered the port in which they sign articles. The above members of the Stewards Department Number Rating shall be required to do all cooking, baking and serving 1 Chief Steward the officers and crew in the home port. 1 Second Steward Section 17. Cleaning Toilets, (a) No members of the 1 Storekeeper Stewards Department who are required to handle food 1 Linen Keeper ; for the unlicensed personnel shall be required to clean 1 Bartender toilets or baths. 1 Deck Steward Section 18. Day Work, (a) At sea and in port other 1 Lounge Steward than the home port, when members of the Stewards 1 Stewardess Department are on day work their hours shall be from 1 Assistant Stewardess 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon and from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 1 Captain's Steward P.M. In home port when members of the Stewards 1 Head Waiter Department are on day work-their hours .shall be from 15 Waiters 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon and from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. 1 Smoking Room Steward Monday through Friday. 1 Dining Room Utility (b) When members of the Stewards Department are 9 Bedroom Stewards George Washington Type Passenger Vessel Minimum Manning And Wage Scale Monthly' Wage Rate $325.00 220.00 195.00 165.00 185.00 155.00 155.00 175.00 150.00 150.00 205.00 155.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 2 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 5 5 Bellmen Night Waiter Crew Pantryman Assistant Crew Pantryman .....'. Messmen Officer's Bedroom Steward Gloryhole Steward Bath Steward Chief Cook Second Cook Third Cook Fourth Cook Fifth Cook Night Cook Crew Cook Chief Butcher Second Butcher Chief Baker Second Baker Galley Utility Chief Pantryman -. Second Pantryman Third Pantryman Night Pantryman Pantry Utility Stewards Utility : 150.00 150.00 . 162.50 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 260.00 220.00 195.00 180.00 175.00 175.00 205.00 222.75 190.00 250.00 211.25 150.00 195.00 180.00 170.00 170.00 150.00 150.00 All working rules and conditions contained in this agreement will also apply to the SS GEORGE WASH­ INGTON except that to the ratings listed in Section 16 (d) there will be. added: One (1) Pantryman and one (1) Pantry Utility. This supplement agreement is being signed subject to the ratification of the membership of the Union and in case no notice is given the Company within thirty (30) days from January 29, 1947, it shall be deemed ratified by the Union and binding on both parties hereto. This supplement agreement shall automatically go into effect on January 29, 1947. Dated: January 29. 1947 ALCOA STEAMSHIP COMPANY, INC. Signed:— R. P.- SCHILLING L. A. PARKS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Signed:— JOHN HAWK J. P. SHULER PAUL HALL ROBT. A. MA-TTHEWS Seafarers Asks Congress For Action (Continued from Page 3) to protect the American Merchant Marine. At the rate we are going today, it is our definite opinion that the law is not being lived up to; and the ones responsible for admin­ istrating the law—the Maritime Commission—are not doing the job they are supposed to do, which is to protect and maintain a large American Merchant Ma­ rine. Last year, our Organization went on record requesting Con­ gress, when they passed the Ships Sales Bill, to insert a clause in the Bill to the effect that all American ships sold to foreign countries and foreign owners should be made to pay the Amer­ ican standard of wages and working conditions, while plying in and out of American ports in competition with American ton­ nage. This, we feel, is no more than fair. "Why should our coun­ ty spend billions of dollars to build a merchant fleet, and then make it so easy for the foreign countries to buy American ships? For immediately after acquiring American tonnage, the foreign operators put them in the Amer­ ican freight markets; thereby un­ der-cutting the rates of American operators, and driving American It cost the American Govern­ ships off the seas. ment approximately three mil­ lion dollars to build each one of The least we should insist on, these tankers. Today we find, and Congress should see that it due to the peculiarities of the is enacted, is that these foreign Ships Sales Bill, which prohibits countries, who receive our ships, American operators from chart­ do not sail the ships in and out ering government tankers, the of American ports, carrying Am­ only ones who are buying these erican cargoes, unless they pay the American standard of wages; tankers from the government are then they will come down to a companies who carry their own comi?etitive level with American products; such as Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, etc. operators. American operators can not char­ We would also like to know ter a government vessel. why hundreds of ships, which Meanwhile, the foreign coun­ were turned over to the Soviet tries and operators can afford to Government and Great Britain buy American tankers and chart­ during the war under Lend Lease er them out to carry oil in and Agreement, have not been turned out of this country for far less back to the United States, to than American operators are able whom they belong. to do, because American ships At the present time, they are pay higher wages and they must using American ships; built with repair their vessels in American American money, without the yards. While foreign vessels have cost of a nickel, and competing their repairing done in foreign directly with American shipping. yards, where wages and ma­ This is outrageous, and we feel terials are much cheaper than in it is the job of the State Depart­ the United States. Consequently, ment to see that these ships are there again, we are making it returned. possible to build up the Merchant The American Government, Marine of foreign countries with during the war, built approxim­ American ships; while the Am­ erican ships are tied up in rivers ately five hundred first-class tankers. These tankers are turbo- or sold to foreigners. electric driven and carry approx­ We urge Congress to make an imately 135,000 barrels of oil. immediate and serious study of s- . the Ships Sales Bill and make proper recommendations, in or­ der that the American Merchant Marine and the thousands of peo­ ple engaged in the maritime in­ dustry in our country will be protected. have to be repaired or overhauled in American yards; rather op­ erators can pick any country they wish—where work is cheapest, and put their ships in for repairs; thus saving millions of dollars in repair bills. PANAMANIAN SHIPS At the present time, there are several American companies, in­ cluding the largf^t American oil company; namely Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, who is operating a fleet under the Panamanian Flag. At the present time, the Re­ public of Panama has twice as large a merchant fleet as they had prior to the war; and at the rate American companies and foreign countries are putting their ships under the Panaman­ ian Flag, the Republic of Panama will soon have the largest Mer­ chant Marine in the world. There are various reasons for this: (1) When a vessel is registered in the Republic of Panama, it does not come under the rigid Steamboat Inspection Laws which an American vessel comes under. (2) Operators do not have to pay high taxes. (3) They can hire seamen at any wage and under any condi­ tions they see fit, because in Panamanian ships, seamen of all nationalities are gathered up in various ports of the WPrld where they can be hired the cheapest. (4) Panamanian ships do not It must be remembered that this fleet was built with American taxpayers'" money and owned by the United States Gov­ ernment until they were bought by these companies, who regis­ tered them in the Republic of Panama, in order to operate them cheaper. Today, even the Greeks are operating American built ships under Panamanian registry. We believe that it is the duty of the!' Maritime Commission and the United States Congress to in­ vestigate this matter thoroughly and pass legislation which will stop this practice and also pro­ tect the American Merchant Ma: rine. (The conclusion of this report will appear in next week's LOG.) �Friday-, February 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Bandelier Voyage Rugged Enough For All The last voyage of the SS Ban­ ' all the men aboard. One instance delier, Pacific Tankers, started I will show to what lengths he went to make the crew toe the off all wrong from just about the mark. first day. On that day, October Harry Gebbie, Wiper, dropped 14, 1946, the Chief Steward came a cup in the mess room, and be­ aboard at the last minute, and cause of this the Skipper order­ before the trip to Curacao was ed him to eat out of a tin plate well under way the whole crew and off the bits instead of in the was already starting to feel the mess room. effects of this. After one full day of this Cap­ Food shortages were the rule tain Langbehn relented, but the during the entire length of the pattern had already been set. voyage. Even where food could The Bandelier loaded oil at Curacao and then headed across the ocean for England. In Shell-rfcTTHiMS MOPF haven, the Skipper posted a no­ wecAwRuw tice that no women were to be our OF! allowed aboard, and then he and his officers violated that ruling. Not only were women brought aboard for the enjoyment of the licensed personnel, but they were served three meals a day for two days while the crew had to make do with short rations. Soon the Bandelier crew put England behind them and head­ have been procured, the Master ed for the Mediterranean. In of the ship refused permission to quick succession Vada, Italy; Has Tamura, and Bari, were visited. do so. At Bari, women were again When the crew tried to hold a shipboard meeting to protest. brought aboard for the officers, Captain Langbehn objected, and and again food was served to quoted the WSA Order of Decem­ them despite the fact that the ber, 1944, in support of his po­ crew had boon without sugar, butter, eggs, and potatoes for al­ sition. most two months. He stated that he had to have a After discharging cargo at written request before he would permit the crew to hold meetings. Bari, the Bandelier headed back This the crew refused .to do, and across the Atlantic Ocean for as a result no meetings were held Carapito, Venezuela. On the way throughout the trip, nor was the over a pressure spray-painting vessel in any port long enough pot disappeared. No one in the to contact the SIU until the voy­ Deck Department had any idea age ended in New York on Feb­ what had happened to it. It was thought that the pot had been ruary 11. swept overboard in the heavy From the first the Captain tried seas. to show the crew that he was However, this absence of evisupreme master of the ship and 1 dence did not stop Captain Lang­ behn. Before the ship made port in Carapito he posted the follow­ ing notice: SS Bandelier At Sea Jan. 25. 1947 NOTICE TO ALL UN­ LICENSED PERSONNEL: Going ashore in any foreign port shall not be permitted for the duration of this voyage until the person or persons re­ sponsible for the disappearance of the deck department pressure spray-painting pot, either dis­ close its whereabouts on the ship or volunteer to pay for its replacement. The two lengths of spray hose that had previously vanished can be replaced by requisition,; but this is not so regarding the mechanical equipment, hence it must be bought and paid for in cash. Not wishing to impose a pen­ alty on all unlicensed person­ nel for the acts of a few it is my earnest desire to settle this as quickly as possible. F. H. LANGBEHN. Masterj Left to right, Glenn Jenkins, AB; Jimmy Drawdy. and Ray Gonxales, Patrolmen; and Joe Warner, AB. Glenn and Joe were locked in the linen closet for a good part of the trip, and both were in irons for a while. Note the bandage on Joe's right hand. That's from the irons. Brothers! Joe Warner, who was one of the men locked in the closet, was the last to be released. He re­ ceived special treatment, and on January 26, the Skipper had him locked up for the remainder of the voyage. out to the ship that forced the Skipper to release him. In the course of the trip Cap­ tain Langbehn contrived to place at least one log against each member of the crew. But this could not stand up under ques­ Warner was only allowed to tioning from the SIU Patrolmen. take a shower every three days, was permitted to go to the toilet only twice a day, and at Trini­ dad and Halifax the Captain did all in his power to get Warner to quit the ship. The provisions of this notice On February 1, Warner was were rather hard to live up to, and in Carapito a few of the given a companion in misery. Glenn Jenkins, AB, was put in irons for insubordination, and he stayed there for the rest of the trip. Finally, as with everything else, this brutal trip came to an end. As soon as the ship made fast in the port of New York, the crewmembers made a beeline for a telephone to call the Hall. They wanted fast action, and they got it. Patrolmen Ray Gonzales, Joe Volpian, and Jinnny Drawdy, were dispatched from the SIU, and Bill Armstrong, from the men went ashore for a fast beer. SUP. By this time the Captain They were discovered by the had taken Warner and Jenkins Captain and he ordered them to up to the Coast Guard to place return to the ship within five charges. minutes or he would log them all. IN IRONS The men quickly returned to Upon return to the ship, Jen­ the ship, but the Master logged kins was not placed back in irons, them all anyway, and they were but Warner was, and it was only placed in the linen closet where ^ they were kept for 25 hours. 1 the fact that the Patrolmen came The Shipping Commissioner only allowed a total of three logs to stand. Right now the situation stands thusly: Captain Langbehn has Warner and Jenkins up on charges before the Coast Guard. But he, himself, is also being charged with certain violations of his duty. No matter what happens, SIU and SUP members now have suf­ ficient warning, and it will be a long time before a Seafarers crew will take a chance sailing with this latest copy of Captain Bligh. iBiiiiilii ElilElEE'E ii; si: For dropping a cup in ihe mess room, Harry Gebbie, FWT, was forced by Ihe Skipper to eat his meals out of a tin plate from the bits. After a day of this, the Captain reconsidered. But Brother Gebbie will not soon forget the Master's high-handed methods. "A lough Irip," was Ihe concensus of opinion when the SS Bandelier arrived in New York Harbor. There was plenty of reason for this opinion. Read the story on this page and find out what it's like to sail with a Skipper who hasn't the interests of his crew in mind. �THE SE AF AR EHS LOG Page Ten Fziday, Februacy 21. 1947 John Knapp Dies In France; At Rouen Rites Mine-Tom Signal Hills Still In Yard John Raymond Knapp, who died aboard the SS Richard Rush while the vessel was in France, was buried in a Rouen cemetery on Jan. 10, after a simple, but im­ pressive ceremony attended by his Seafarer shipmates and the ship's officers. j The SS Signal Hills is still un' dergoing extensive mine-damage -repairs in Genoa, Italy, where it I is reported she will be in drydock for at least two more months, according to Vincent Keller, a member of the crew. Funeral services were conduct­ ed at the chapel by the Reverend Menard, and the flag-draped cas­ ket was carried to its resting place by six SIU pallbearers. They were: Joseph Gill, Jacob Otrera, Raymond Kryling, Leon E. Foskey, Charles C. Kershaw and Floyd Hillier. The Pacific Tanker vessel was struck by a mine off Savona, FLORAL OFFERINGS Italy, last October, and was tow­ As the coffin was lowered into ed to Leghorn, and later taken to the grave, the Reverend Menard T.a Spezia, From there she was closed the burial service with the transferred to the repair docks Lord's prayer and pronounced at Genoa. the benediction. Floral offerings The mine explosion causing from the Rush's crew and officers ' great damage was sustained Oct. and from the Union Maritime, the • 6, 1946, after the ship had clear- company's agents in France, were ''ed Savona, where she had un- placed at the grave. loaded a cargo of high-test gasoDeep regrets over Brother 'line. Knapp's passing were expressed About 6:30 in the morning the by his shipmates and the officers vessel was struck in number 9 alike. Knapp, who died on Jan. ^ tank portside, the explosion 6, made friends easily and those sent water, fuel, oil and steel with whom he came in contact flying 500 feet into the air. found his friendship worthwhile. EYE-WITNESS REPORT After the first stunning effects crewmembers assembled at their boat stations in a prompt and or- BROTHER WANTS BEEF AIRED AT MEETING Dear Editor: My ship pulled into port on i Friday, Jan. 31 at 6 o'clock at . night. The Waterman company . terminated the articles, while the ^ship was in. the stream, at 12 mid. night the same day, without givj ing the crew money with which to come ashore. The crew was not paid off un­ til Monday, Feb. 3, although they were paid until the previous Fri­ day. Only if they worked on Monday, Feb. 3 were they paid for the weekend. Oilers in port are supposed to have the weekend off. The ship broke watches on Friday at 6 o'clock. Are we going to con­ tinue to let the company pull this trick? ..(If J am not at the next mem­ bership meeting. I wish one of the membership would bring up this subject. Robert P. Hanley to him." Every member of the crew, whose presence aboard ship was not necessary, attended the fu­ neral of their shipmate, Capt. Ranstrom added. I oeaicurer pallbearers, shipmates of the late John Knapp. carry his casket from the chapel after the funeral service. Born on March 21, 1902, Knapp had been a member of the Sea- The crew, most of them asleep, ,:was awakened by the general , alarm bell, and in a report of the derly manner, waiting to aban­ don the ship, as it was at first i mishap. Keller related: thought the stern of the ship > ."As I came out on deck I saw was blown off. The crew stood • some of the deck had been blown by the boats for about four hours, through. I then looked into the with all the men acting calm and pumproom which was flooded orderly in spite of the ship's; with about 15 feet of water. After dangerous condition. • seeing that, I ran back to my When it was seen that the ship room to get on some clothes, as was in no immediate danger of when the alarm rang I didn't sinking the crewmembers left wait to put on anything but a their emergency stations. pair of shoes." of the explosion had worn off, the farers for close to four years, and shipped as a Fireman, Oiler, and Watertender. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Knapp, of Port Jervis, N. Y. CONDOLENCES TO PARENTS Messages of condolence from the entire personnel aboard the Rush were sent to Brother Knapp's parents by the ship's master, Capt. Richard R. Renstrom, along with details of the funeral ceremony. Captain Renstrom's letter to the parents said that he had "en­ deavored to see to it that your son was placed at rest in the very • best manner possible," and that ' all due respects had been paid CREW PRAISED The Reverend Menard (back to camera) leads members of the crew of the Richard Rush in prayer at Brother Knapp's final resting place in Rouen, France, cemetery. Parker Cops Second Skate Crown In Week With Wins In 440, 880 And 1-Mile Events Later when an investigation was made into the accident, the inve,stigating committee c o m mended the crew for its fine con­ Scoring his second major triumph in less than a week, duct. When it submitted its re­ port to Washington, it included speed'-skater Jack Parker raced home first in three events high praise for the gallant way to win top honors in the 27th Annual Winter Carnival at the Engine Department had kept Utica, N. Y., last Saturday. The flashy Bosun was awarded the plant going under such try­ ing conditions, while not know­ the carnival's trophy for being the outstanding performer of the day, adding to the champ-* ing if the ship was going to stay pionship laurels bestowed upon trying to get himself in shape for afloat or sink. him at the neighboring city of next month's Metropolitan In'toor Championships to be held The committee also lauded the Rome, four days earlier. in the Brooklyn Ice Palace. This fine conduct of the Deck Depart­ Parker received medals for his ment during the emergency and victories in the 440-yard and 880- indoor event is one of the high­ gave both departments letters to yard men's open races, his time lights of the skating season, and that effect. being 0:42.1 in the former event attracts most of the top blade speedsters in the area. Most of At the time the ship took on and 1:53 in the latter. Jack's competition has been on its cargo in Corpus Christi one TAKES 1-MILE the outdoor ice, and he feels he of the crewmembers had- a pre­ Feature attraction on the card won't be at his best on the arti­ monition of what was to occur. was the one-mile open event, ficial ice. He's going to take a Brother Keller says, "While we which Parker took handily by crack at it, nevertheless, just for were taking on our cargo of highbeating last year Carnival cham­ the excitement that comes with test gasoline, one of the Oilers pion. The skating Seafarer was top-level competition. had a bad night and dreamed clocked at 3:36.2. Never extend­ PLACED LAST YEAR that something was going to hap­ ing himself, Parker paced him­ In spite of his comparative in­ pen to the ship. «e asked the Jack Parker with latest trophy self well, holding second place experience in the indoor field, Old Man if he could pay off, and after what happened later he until the final lap. Then he let Parker took a medal in last year's anticipating for the past several go with a burst of speed that car­ meet at the Brooklyn ice-spot for days—the arrival of a baby. Jack sure was right." ried him over the finish line 40 crossing, the line third in a speed and his wife, Genevieve are The Signal Hills began its ill- yards ahead of his nearest com­ event. He says he'll be satisfied anxious for an heir—or heiress— fated voyage at Corpus Christi, petitor. and won for him the with a. similar showing this year. to step into the "old man's" Texas, on September 13, with a third medal for the day and title Overshadowing all the events,' skates and take his place at the crew that had signed articles in of Carnival champ. past and future, in Parker's car­ starting line when his legs begin New York. The. stocky Seafarer is now eer, is one he has been eagerly to slow up. �Friday. February 21, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven SIU Ship's Minutes In Brief SEAFARER SAM SAYS MIDWAY HILLS. Nov. 12— Chairman Arl Newman; Secrelary D. O. Pierce. Delegales reported all okay. List of tines for various offenses drawn up. New Business: At next port of call. Patrolman to be called aboard and the water tanks be inspected. If the water is un­ fit for use and nothing is done about the situation, the crew will give the Skipper 24 hours notice to have the condition rectified. Beef about leaving linen in passageway discussed. Cleared by delegates. X X BIENVILLE. Dec. 28—Chair•man Talley; Secretary Willianf Ruggie. Good and Welfare; Motions carried that cooks quarters be changed to PO messroom which is not bein^ used: that all crew's quarters be fumigated, painted and thoroughly dried before sailing on next voyage: that a scrub board, ironing board, and at least two irons be supplied; that proper representation be aboard before anyone signs off, also all beefs must be settled to the satisfaction of all before signing off: that air condition­ ing and heating system be checked and fixed: that ice machine be replaced or re­ paired. its. The G. Washington Upholds Tradition With the birthday anniversary of the"father of our country," coming up tomorrow we are moved to give space to the min­ utes of the SIU ship bearing his name. Like their illustrious forebearer, the crew of the SS George Wash­ ington, at a recent meeting, blazed the way for better things. There were recommendations that the sun deck be waterproof­ ed, and that the Master be ap­ proached in regard to placing the seamen in dry foc'sles. Also urged were recommenda­ tions for racks to be placed in the messhall to hold condiments, and for greater effort in keeping the vessel's cups hnd dishes clean. Brother Hunt was chairman of the meeting, while Brother Char­ les did the recording. 4. 4. JOHN MILLEDGE. Sept. 8— Chairman P o z e n : Secretary Early. No new business. Good and Welfare: All^ agreed to slick with Bosun in regards to time-off in port. What he says will be accepted. Chief En- gineer is to be informed thai the steering gear is to be re­ paired as soon as possible. Chief Steward is to see Chief Engineer about crew's refriger­ ator. Agreed that only in case of emergency will anyone be allowed to eat chow in galley. Agreed that each crewmember shall donate $1.00 to go to Patric Forest for keeping recre­ ation room clean. Money to be collected by ship's delegate. SAN ANGELO^ VICTORY. Jan. 24—Chairman Jack Giller: Secretary Franklin Smith. Delegate gave their reports. Ch. Mate hired customs men to stand gangway watches in Ma­ nila, Hilo, Cebu and Saigon. First Assistant refused soap powder to Engine Department, issuing the soap to licensed personnel only. No overtime pay for election day, as com­ pany did not allow time off to vote. Recommended that four men who had signed pledge cards previously be admitted to Union because of their consis­ tent - battles in behalf of our membership aboard ship. 4. 4, 4 NEWBERG. Jan. 5—Chairman L. L. Phillips: Secretary John Siler. Motions carried: that hook be dropped on arrival at Corpus Christi until Union Pa-trolman can be contacted in regard to paying off at new wage scale: that we see SIU Patrolman about turning; on water fountains, in crew's pas­ sageways. Brother Stewart of the Engine department was in­ formed by Boston Patrolman that crew would be paid off under new wage scale. 4 4 4 ALCOA PEGASUS, Jan. 5— Chairman Sullivan: Secretary Bischoff. Discussed matter of getting draws in American money. Motions passed: That Delegates look into matter: that Purser try to take back foreign money which crew has left over: that present mattresses be replaced with innersprings: that crew will be advised not to Sciil if ship is not fumigated Antinous Accident Victim On Mend Henry Bildc, who was severely injured I'ecenlly in an accident aboard the Waterman vessel SS Antinous, is recuperating, accord­ ing to word just received from Jerry J. Palmer, Deck Delegate on the SS Maiden Victory, now in Bi'emerhaven, Germany. Brother Bilde is wearing a plas­ ter cast as a result of the injury to his back. He is, however, out of bed, and is "walking around and in the best of spirits," ac­ cording to Palmer. Palmer added that Bilde "is ex­ pecting to arrive on the next hos­ pital ship from the 21st Station Hospital here in Bremerhaven." at end of next trip: that crew is not to pay off until all pay, beefs and overtime are squared away: that prices of cigarettes be investigated. 4 4 4 ALMA, Jan. 19—Chairman J. Graley: Secretary "Red" Sully. Minutes of previous meeting ac­ cepted as read. Delegates gave their reports. With a few min­ or disputes in the Engine de­ partment everything reported okay. Recommendations for ship repairs submitted, along with request for fumigation. All books are to ba ready for the Patrolman before the pay­ off. Motion unanimously car­ ried to give J. Eleridge an SIU permit card. \ 6ETITOFF 0 3 YOUR CHEST/ SAM WAfHS "PD KNO\AJ YOOR BE£fS,yOLJR SOSGESnOMS, IDEAS OM MEMBERSHIP ACTIV/ITIES AMD ACTiOMS,E-rG.— IN SHORT, ANVTHINJSTHAT CAN BENEFIT SEAFARERS . WRiTE TQ : SEAFARER SAM THE S.I.U. voe> Si BEAVER 4 4 4 WILLIAM BREWSTER, Jan. 26—Chairman Bankert: Sec­ retary Haase. A repair list will be turned in, and Steward was elected to inspect the rooms. Agreed to give a letter of recommendation to four mem­ bers of the crew. Brother Doyle expressed thanks of all hands to Brother Wolch for his help and guidance throughout the trip. Motion carried that letter be sent to Log about our dog, Kilroy, the ships mascot, who attended the meeting. 4 4 4 Bcrea Victory Crew Bans Wipers' Pin-Ups The pin-up girl is on her way out. The photographic female pul­ chritude was started on the road to oblivion with a send-off in the form of a motion passed by the lads aboard the SS Berea Victory at the Jan. 26 meeting, held at sea. The beginning of the end to an American era was pronounced tersely, as follows: "Motion carried that Wipers re­ move pin-up girls from heads as this practice does not look good." Theer will be one moment of silence out of respect for the memory of those choice morsels. 4 4 4 LAREDO VICTORY, Feb. I—Chairman Harvey Hill: Sec­ retary R. A. Wickham. One man in each department to be chosen by delegate to clean laundry. Steward requested those needing mattresses to ad­ vise him now or before ves­ sel reach port. Discussion on payoff and sign on within same day: matter to be left to Pa­ trolman's discretion. One min­ ute of silence out of respect to Brothers lost at sea. •BuiU-tteS.ltt- foanvMion / NBvj YORK4.NY. CUT and RUN By HANK First of all, a shout of congratulations and a sincere wish for continued good health to Jack Parker and his wife, who just gave birth to an eight-pound, four-ounce baby girl, who will be called Linda. Thanks for the cigar, "Pop" Parker . . . That man from New Orleans, the great Percy Boycr, the mustached Bosun and a swell skate in more ways (and saloons) than one, is fresh in town, con­ fessing that The Champ, Moon Koons, must still be in New Orleans, as usual . . . Jimmy Mulligan humorously laments the fact, that after his six-week trip to the islands he only paid off with five dollars and twenty-five cents—which is about enough for four or five heavy meals and a few packs of smokes, eh Jimmy? . . . Eugene "Jimmy" Crescitelli reveals that Brother Johnny Flynn is in town celebrat­ ing and that he has refused to join Brother Flynn in his celebration. Must be some old birthday he forgot to observe or something? . .. Attention Johnny Johnston: Did you know that two of your friends have asked for you on two occasions. One of them was AB-Bosun Kenneth Dickenson. The other was Edward Baggus ... If you want to see a big smile on his face and watch him in his glory then ask Bill Higgs to'get a guitar to play and sing a song called "Union Blues!" 4 4 4 4 Brofher Eddie Kelly, who loves fo go fishing and will keep on frying fo own his own fishing boaf some day, jusf blew info fown from a shorf frip. Eddie says fhe besf European port is Bremen: fhe besf Mediferranean porf is Genoa, Ifaly and fhat Marseilles isn'f so good. Eddie smilingly says fhat Brofher John Flannery is one of fhe nicest guys but he could also haunt a house reasonably. John has no vices, but fhe funny thing about it is, he's just like a woman—he brings all his troubles fo Eddie. The latest accomplishment up John's sleeve is fhe fact that he has bought a sextant and will be frying fo raise himself in fhe future up info fhe topside life aboard ship. Happy climbing, Brofher Flannery! 4 4 4 4 Bosun Bera Smyley just sailed with his shipmate, AB Bill Shorten, who had been beached since the strike in this town and also hospitalized. They sailed with Paddy Walsh and Peg Leg An­ derson on the SS Monroe Keith heading for Lisbon, Portugal . .... Leo Siarkowski and Ozzie Okray came into New York last week from a trip but it seems that they're making another trip . . . Charlie Fischer continues to be a familiar sight in the hall. Is he shipping. Nah, just waiting for his wife to arrive here from England. Yens Nielsen, the oldtimer of an AB, just sailed out with his familiar pipe for a Far East voyage . . . After four years of Army life, oldtimer John J. Giordano, citizen of Brooklyn, is waiting to ship out soon . . . Oldtimer J. D. Lewis just registered for shipping. What's new. Brother Lewis? . . . Does anyone know the name of the fa­ mous "Beachcomber" anchored amongst the coffee beans down in. Santos, Brazil? 4 4 4 4 If happened recenfly on one of fhe Sfreefs of Dreams, other­ wise known as fhe Times Square secfion—which is fhe happy, expensive melfing pof of dollars and sense. Bosun Mike Rossi, fhe smiling, musfached, faxi-driving, saloon-waifer of a happygo-lucky Seafarer—accidenfly met one of his former shipmafes, now a chief in fhe gold deparfmenf. Well, affer fhe usual round of jokes, memories, some convincing conversation and cokes or something, Mike was merrily shanghaied down fhe coast for a frip aboard the Stephen Leacock. headed for Rio. etc. Also aboard is a famous ex-pugilisf. If should be some trip, Mike ... ' If all Ihe Commies in Ihis country got together and went to Russia fo taste fhe Life of Communism as it really exists, they would never be Commies again and frying to rule and ruin cur ' country with their decaying minds and flaming dreams. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday, February 21, 1947 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Boxcar Sailors Mastered Every Trick Of The Jungle Dear Editor: What has become of the old boxcar sailor? Today many of our members think this is some kind of drink, but plenty recall the day when a sailor was as much at home on a rolling freight as on rolling deck. In prewar days, when shipping was good in one port, the grape­ vine would carry the word to the dead ports, and pretty soon the job-hungry would be pulling into the local railroad yards from all parts of the country. This was once the only mode of transport a sailor ever used. SKILL NECESSARY In those days, a seaman had to be as expert at catching a grab iron as he was at a monkey's fist. He kept a sharper lookout for the RR bulls than he ever did for white water. If shipping was bad all over, he would take to the road until it picked up. Often he would follow the fruit crop. Many of our piecards can still pick prunes with the best of them. In those days, a sailor could rustle up a chicken or a sack of spuds as quick as John Farm- cannot be arrested for vagrancy. This is due to an old Federal law, which protects seamen out of work from the "no visible means of support" routine. Just show your papers, tell them you are on the way to a ship and you can't be held. (If the judge heard of the law, that is). Perhaps, as jobs get scarcer, some of the boys would like a few lessons in the ancient art of getting into a boxcar without a stepladder. Just apply to one of us Knights of the Road. You'll find us around the Hall arguing about the best recipe for Mulli­ gan. Be sure to bring along an onion or a potato. "Sfeamboat O'Doyle" THE END OF THE TRAIL w V ' 'ji Log'A' Rhythms Ab-sho-looly The things that you say when you're stewed, boys. Are the things you mean when you're not. But you haven't the gall to say them, that's all. Until you make whoopee a lot. Alcoa's MV Manrope Knot as she discharged her cargo of bauxite in Trinidad recently. Crew member Michael Baal "shot" the picture. Bishop Slaps At Labor Critics, Says They Court Dictatorship The things that you say when you're stewed boys. Are the things that are close to your heart. And I'll just bet a ten, if you start something then. It is something you wanted to start! So, here's to the brew as it stews, boys. Last summer, a few ill-advised file workers who recognize that And here's to the stews that it Dear Editor: brews. I'd like to avail myself of the which has been preached in this old men and a few misled com­ columns of the Seafarers Log in country since its inception. Name­ munists made an agreement to hold seamen's wages at a certain an attempt to refute some of the ly, united we stand, divided we level. When a majority of the fall. intimations and statements be­ As for tribute, do you classify American seamen through their ing made by certain columnists. what NAM members pay as tri­ duly elected representatives ne­ I'd like to address the following bute? No, you don't. Why call gotiated higher wages and con­ remarks to David Lawrence, union dues tribute? ' The dues ditions through the shipowners, Westbrook Pegler, and other paid by union members today are this group, known as the Wage AVAST! BATTEM , columnists of the same caliber: used to defray administrative Stabilization Board, ordered the What, may I ask, do you use -ORSOMPW... costs, build welfare, recreational. seamen to work for what they for brains when you think up and the communists had agreed these things you say? I'd like to was enough for a dumb sailor. NoW!-Vo(J use Mr. Lawrence's recent article /It didn't work. Why? Because the LlSTEMT60Si entitled: "National Unions Have seamen are united on a national Own System of Laws" as an il­ basis, and they refused to accept lustration. I this dictatorial mandate. Thus, The courage you get when you're Men of your caliber keep talk­ dnto the lap of a power-mad govplumb soaking wet. ing of monopoly when referring I ernment bureau can be Ihrowhi Ought to be labeled "90 Proof to Labor. However, you consis­ the blame for the greatest strike Booze." tently forget the monopoly en­ in maritime history. —Barleycorn joyed by the National Associa-'; UNITED SEAMEN tion of Manufacturers and such J er himself. He was an expert at Dear Editor: organizations. | Why? Because someone want­ "pie-snatching and carrying the I picked up "this poetry at a bar Also, you forget to mention tht • ed to show his power. Why did banner"—panhandling to you. • in Honolulu. NAM'S assessments that are lev-1 the dictator lose? Because sea­ A favorite trick was to ask the ied against the members to de­ and strike funds. These are very men all over the country remem­ Vic Gardecke, butcher for a piece of meat to go fray the expen.ses entailed but­ necessary, because of the fact, bered what they learned in cle SS Santa Clara Victory with your bread, then ask the gro­ tonholing men like yourself and that it takes money to fight mentary school—united we stand, cer for some bread to go with your lobbying members of Congress money. No union funds find their divided we fall. SignedyMom" meat. You would let some solid into passing such detrimental way into the hands of journalis­ Also the contributing factor citizen see you pick up a butt laws against Labor as those you tic parasites or crooked politi­ By WAYNE McALLISTER (previously planted), and then propose. Who, do you think, en­ cians. Perhaps, that's why you was a large strike fund which when you asked him for a smoke joys the monopoly over our law­ hate us as badly as you do. Con­ enabled men to eat and live while The letters I get. they waited for common sense to he would give you the pack. Ah, makers? gress will probably try to abol­ They are quite a few. come to light. That strike fund hobo days! ish the closed shop and other GOVERNMENT OF THE But the one I like best. was built not by tribute, as you Some sailors became quite weapons with which the slave PEOPLE . . . Is the one sent by you; put it Mr. Lawrence, but by vol­ well-known in the jungles. I be­ The tendency for a good many has been able to arm himself. On untary contributions by members Each word that you write lieve Ropeyarn nearly got elect­ years has been for the govern­ that score I don't doubt you are Is to me like the lights. ed King of the Hoboes once in ment to be the master of the cit­ right. However, they wouldn't of a democratic union. Which brightens my days Last winter another man tried PhiUy, but he had to leave town. izen, rather than his servant. It dare put such a proposition to a And fills lonely nights. Incidentally, the added mobil- is high time that we got back to vote of the people. The landslide the same thing. A bureaucrat ihy which 10,000 freight cars give, the state from whence we start­ against it would be larger than named Krug managed to with­ To me they are treasures. and by which a sailor could get ed: A Government of the peo­ the one for Roosevelt over Lon­ hold over three million bucks To have and to hold. from a lot of hard working out of town in any direction al­ ple, by the people and for the don in '36r The joy that they"bring me miners. I don't remember read­ most instantly, was often a great people. ABUSES PUBLIC Could never be told; ing a single column in protest to Onelp in affairs of the heart. Par­ The right to work and earn a You are right again when you I like to get letters ticularly in the "shotgun belt," it livelihood has never been de­ say that the present Congress this. From Jack or from Tom, However, the Supreme Court was a useful talent to take quick nied anyone in these United was elected on a mandate of li­ But the ones that I love leave without worrying about the States. This right certainly would beralism. However, it has cer- has yet to hand down its de­ Are the ones signed 'Mom.' passenger schedule. be^ denied if your theory is fol­ trainly started to abuse the pub- cision, and it ha,d better be care­ Easy shipping during the war, lowed. Under all foreign isms, He that put it there. You say the ful, for a wrong decision could and juicier pork chops, have con­ the citizen becomes the servent public wants no authority set up well lead to open rebellion. Peo­ verted many of the boys from of the government and does what that can freeze their food supply ple like yourselves, Mr. Law­ riding the rods to riding the cush­ he is told to do. or keep them cold in winter. Yet rence, are certainly no help in If you don't find linen ions. Old time 'bo's who once To remove the closed shop and you criticize the very people who preventing such disasters. when you go aboard your rode the blind and dodged the national unions, would be a dic­ would break that authority, be­ The people of the United States ship, notify the Hall at once. cinder-bull with the best of them, tatorial measure and hasten a cause it already has existed for want true democracy. Most un­ A telegram from Le Havre or today, look down their noses at police state. a good many years. Only recent­ ions already have it, but can you Singapore won't do you any the poor bums who go by in box­ Today, national unions do not ly the government, that same say the same for our govern­ good. It's your bed and you cars. Never mind boys, you'll be have their own system of law. supposedly servant of the pub­ ment? have to lie in iL The laws and rules of a union lic, attempted to take over that back. Ira E. Bishop Few seamen know that they are made by democratic rank and power from those who hold it. Aliom 111. . ATTENTION! �SPIC AND SPAN SIU-MANNED PASSENGER SHIP Seafarers conlribuie to the smooth, safe sailing of the passengers pictured above in the lounge of Mississippi Shipping Company's 10,000-ton passenger-cargo liner, Del Norte. The IBVz knot vessel has accommodations for 120 passengers and 124 SIU crew members. She plies be tween New Orleans and East Coast ports of South America on a 47-day round trip schedule This is not the Lounge for the crew, but since an SIU ship is a clean ship, even the passeng gers' quarters are kept spic and span. The SS De! Norte is the newest of the Mississippi Steam ship Company's passenger fleet, and the above picture was taken on the mciiden voyage. ALIEN SEAMEN'S WAR RECORD RATES CONSIDERATION i)ear Editor: I realize that our Union has made great strides forward the past year, and will make even greater advances this coming year. Our rank and file, should again, as in the past, give our of­ ficials the complete and neces­ sary cooperation, which has gain­ ed for us so many victories, and will win for us so many more. One of these battles will be to extend the waiver granted to alien seamen to facilitate their sailings on American ships. This waiver, I understand, is to ex­ pire in the near future, and when it does expire, it will be disas­ trous for all of us who are es­ pecially desirous of becoming naturalized. HAD LOYAL WAR RECORD Our actions during the war should have spoken of our loyal­ ty to America. At least, we alien seamen should be rated a little higher than the conscientious ob­ jectors who were hustled off to detention camps during the war. Few Americans realize what a Wonderful country they are liv­ ing in and it is usually the new­ ly-arrived alien who is quick to notice the differences between the country of his birth and the country of his choice. Few unions are so democratic as om- SIU. At least if a man should disagree with an elected official, or vice-versa, the prob­ lem is discussed openly on both sides. Thereby heightening an interest, not only in the Union, but in the best course to follow. Also, the solidarity and mutual understanding between the of­ ficials and the rank and file is vastly increased. NOT LIKE SIU In some foreign* unions, if a member should openly disagree with union policy, or with an of­ ficial, he promptly becomes a marked man for the rest of his union life. Due to an outmoded American law, alien seamen are not per­ mitted to ship coastwise. Yet in Galveston and Fort Arthiur, I have seen the Dispatchers tear- Page Thirteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 21, 1947 Marine Hospital Personnel Lauded By New Orleans Man Dear Editor: I would like to write a short letter in behalf of the U. S. Ma­ rine Hospital in New Orleans. I have been reading the Log for over two years, and so far I have never seen or heard a good word expressed about the hospital here, its nurses or doctors. I know that I speak from ex­ perience, having been here since Nov. 1944. Many men write in conplaining of the conditions but, if all the seamen could only realize that a lot of ailments cannot be checked in two or three days, as in my case it took six months, and then months of treatment and operations. PRAISE My family and myself cannot praise the doctors for all they have done, and the nurses with always a smile or a glad word. Do not think for a minute that they like to see you suffer, as there ara times when that comes to all of us. Other groups in the hospital we don't want to forget are the nurses in the operating rooms, and those who have charge of the SS August Belmont Crewmembers Wrestled Tough Food Problems Dear Editor: The conversation aboard this ship goes something like this: "Hey, Joe, lend me a spoonful of sugar 'til chow time, will ya?" You're not dreaming. Brother, for that is actually what liappens at coffee time aboard the SS Aug­ ust Belmont. The funniest doings I've seen aboard any ship occur on this one at coffee time, chow time, or any time where a bit of sugar is required Whenever the occasion arises, off you troop to your foc'sle to get your half-pound of sugar, or whatever remains of it. Ten days out of Philly, on the return trip, an acute sugar short­ age was the main topic of the special meeting called by the dele­ gate. With the consent of all haiids, enough sugar was set aside for baking bread, "until we hit port," and the remaining 19 pounds was distributed amongst the crew, one half-pound per man. your ration and when it was gone, your coffee was drunk un­ sweetened. This applied only to coffee, because we had run out of tea three weeks earlier. The borrowing occurs mainly at coffee time, when time is short and the man has forgotten to bring his own sugar.' The debt is promptly repaid at chow time, however. This ship signed articles in New York and was stored for a 60-day trip to Norfolk, Lisbon NO HOARDING and back. Instead, due to the This seemed to be the best way coal strike, we lay 20 days in to avoid hoarding. You received Norfolk awaiting coal and then Thank you very much for printing the article headlined, "SIU Corrects Deck Hazard on ing their hair trying to sell mem­ bers on shipping on tankers going coastwise. The main reason for not taking the ships was because New York and Boston were too cold. Aliens meanwhile, could sail only on a few ships that wei'e going foreign, and which hadn't at the time called for any crews. In order to maintain our Union conditions and contracts, we must keep those ships crewed up, and especially the tankers, which were among the most difficult to organize. Thomas "Aussie" Dawes BACON SCARCE The dock workers there don't believe in hurrying, so unload­ ing proceeded rather slowly. We ran out of bacon but managed to get some Swedish bacon that was as salty as the Atlantic, but they would not supply us with other meats. Our meat supply ran low, and we had very little variety on the way back. By the time we finished load­ ing chemically treated wood pulp destined for Philly and New York, we ran out of butter and potatoes. Eggs were rationed one a day per person, and we rereceived no cakes or puddings for dessert. Soup crackers joined the missing list six days later, and coffee lasted until we reached port, with 12 pounds to spare. According to the Steward, none of our very scarce commodities were obtainable in Sweden, due Span Splice," in the Jan. 31 issue to strict rationing there. of the Log. Outside of all this, however, My brother," Johnny Steeber, we had a very pleasant trip. whose picture was printed along Walter Blazer with the article, is the Deck (Editor's note:—At one point Delegate aboard the ship. "We were all very pleased to see his in Brother Blazer's letter, he picture—he was also in the group changed from writing in ink to picture on page 4. a pencil. He added a post­ Each issue of the Log is more script saying "as you can see, I interesting than the one before— even ran out of ink.") from the articles about the ships down to the jokes. Please keep up the good work! Jeanne Steeber Mobile, Alabama (Editor's note: The Log thanks Seafarer Johnny Sleeber's sister for the gracious plug. We promise to "keep up the good work"—in fact, to improve upon it whenever we' can). Plugs Log For 'Good Work' . Dear Editor: headed for Sweden and a 90-day trip. En route, we ran out of "canned cow." We unloaded a half cargo in Gothenburg, then proceeded to Stockholm where unloading was completed. By that time, the evaporated milk supply had been replenished and fresh milk and ice cream had been added to the larder. meals. There are about 16 dif­ ferent diets to be prepared every day, so just let some Stewards try and figure that headache out. Yet in all the time I have been here the food has been good and plenty when a man is fit to have more. OVERWORKED STAFFS In the Log of Jan. 24, Brother Bause said the truth. The facili­ ties of all marine hospitals are overworked, with not enough doctors or nurses, and overtime something they do not know about. Let us give credit where credit is due. let's not forget the ma­ rine hospital at New Orleans and all the persormel. Also a word should be said for our Patrolman R. Birmingham for his unfailing Sunday after­ noon visits with the latest news in the Secffarers Log. Let us hear from all the sea­ men on the good points as well as the bad points in our marine hospitals. There is plenty of good to be found in these hospi­ tals. Charles Tiller New Orleans, Leu (Editor's note: The Log en­ deavors to present both sides of a question, whenever pos­ sible. It has, in the past, pub­ lished favorable articles by hos­ pitalized Brothers. Prominent among these were items by William Bause, in the May 31, 1946 issue, and a group letter from Brothers in the Norfolk Marine Hospital, which ap­ peared Aug. 23, 1946). LAREDO VICTORY A SAFE BET FOR GOOD TRIP Dear Editor: I have a straight tip for the Brothers, and the three Delegates aboard this ship are in complete agreement on it. If you would like to have a pleasant trip, sailing with 100 percent SIU members, and good officers, then the next time you see the SS Laredo Victory on the shipping board in our Union Halls, take this ship and see for yourself. You won't regret it. By the way, if you ever go to Antwerp, and providing you like to drink good beer, pay a visit to Angela's Cafe Rotterdam on Koolkaal St., 6., or Eddie's Black Cat Cafe on Kuipersstraat. You can enjoy fine recordings from rhumba, bolero, and boogie woogie to La Traviata. And there is a chance that you wUl meet some of our Brothers there. Pablo R, Lopez Engine Delegate Photos Of Trip Of San Angelo Victory Wanted Dear Editor: While I was aboard the San Angelo Victory, the boys and my­ self had some pictures taken. I • would like to have duplicates of these shots that covered our trip to "Rio, Montevideo and Buenos Aires. If Bob Petersen, Oiler, or Tiny, the crew messman, still have these pictures in their possession, I would appreciate it very much /|| if they would send me copies of the shots. Vincent Meehan 2940 Tremont Ave. Bronx, N. Y. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourleen Friday. February 21, 1947 Ships, Girls Abound In Miami; Seafarers Are Needed For Both Agent is Charles Starling. the Brothers there is a Hall down here and more guys are needed. THE SIU PATTERN Ever since the Seafarers Inter­ One word of advice to Broth­ national Union Hall opened in The Agent and Patrolman are ers putting into Miami: Don't Miami, Fla., there have been diligently spending their time send any personal laundry ashore numerous questions asked about lining up the port in true SIU unless it is absolutely urgent. By JOSEPH VOLPIAN this Hall. Mostly, what the boys manner. They are having the Hall These laundry men wait in every repaired and painted so that the nook and corner, it .seems. They want to know is where it is lo­ We have heard of more than drivers have to answer for cruel, boys will feel more at home. all have the characteristics of a cated, who is the Agent^ and how They are taking care of the beefs Jessie James, without the gun. It one instance of buckaroo masters harsh, inhuman and unlawful general conditions are in that and doing a good job of it. How­ was reported to me that some in the last few years. And this treatment. This day is when the vessel ever, they had some trouble when men were charged as high as is true, despite the fact that port. pays off at it's destination. Prop­ $1.75 to $2.00 for sponging and there is plenty of legislation in There was a little mixup on the they first started. erly made complaints are lodged the books for the purpose of It seems that the companies pressing a two-piece suit. address sent to the Log, and some with the authorities resulting in As they were about to sail, making any potential "Captain hearings at which all sides get an of the boys were almost across did not want to recognize the the street, but couldn't find it. I presence of the Union, and they some of the men went looking Bligh" remember that his crew opportunity to present their story. chased all over town and was directed the skippers of each ves­ for the laundry man to get their is composed of human beings* — Findings are made on the evid­ walking back when I happened sel to go to the Seamen's Insti­ shirts. I don't know whether they guys like himself, trying to earn ence, and penalties are enforced to discover it. For all you Bro­ tute here and pick up men. Of carried fire axes, etc., or not, but a living the hard way. based on what was done; not thers who want to visit the va­ course, they were brought to a if it had been me I probably Every once in a while we run who did it. cation city and ship out from this screeching halt by the Agent. across a ship's master who ex­ Crews which find themselves I was asked by men about the would have done so. Hall, the address is 1352 First emplifies a total disregard for in the unfortunate position of Ave., N.E., Miami, Fla. The Port sick care there and made it my the rights and privileges of the being under articles with un­ Paul Parsons. business to inquire into condi­ men who ai'e in the unfortunate reasonable officers should be tions. I found that the Agent had position of being subject to his mindful of the fact that the law LEAK ON SEMMES god reports from all concerned. command. is a two-way proposition. MAY BE POOL ERE It gives the master almost dicA person applying for licensing CHINA IS REACHED as a ship master of steam has to tatoi'ial rule during the term of meet requirements by way of the voyage but he and his officers Dear Editor: are accountable for wrongful acts, qualifications and character. Just a few notes as to what has the day of reckoning being reach­ The rules say he must satisfy been taking place aboard the ed ultimately at the final port. the authorities that his ability, Raphnel S e m m e s , Waterman, Of course there are remedies experience and habits warrant since we signed on here in Sa­ which the crew can try to use By SALVADOR COLLS belief that he can safely be in­ vannah for a trip to the far east. while on the voyage. Upon re­ trusted with the duties and re­ Although the ship needed many SAN JUAN — Business in the quest, the master must grant a sponsibilities of master. repairs, we started on what look­ port of San Juan during the past reasonable opportunity for sea­ Like most laws of the United ed to be an uneventful trip, Fri­ week was the best it has been in men to present grievances to the States, provision is made for pen­ day, Jan. 30, but it didn't remain a very long time. Shipping on American Consul for settlement. uneventful for long, as about 350 the other hand was not up to par, alties upon satisfactory proof of By this means, the men may be miles out of Savannah we broke with only a few ships touching bad conduct, intemperance, in­ able to tone down a highhanded capacity, inattention to duty, or down with one boiler out of com­ port. ship's captain during the progress If a person is to be treated as an willful violation of laws of the mission. I think shipping to this port of the voyage so that life will be We limped back into port and out-patient he is cared for by the will improve when the Ponce Ce­ sea. more bearable until the final port reports have it we'll be here ten Public Health Service, but if hos­ The punishment may be sus­ is reached. ment outfit gets the two addi­ or fourteen days for repairs. At pitalization is required, the sea­ There is an old and very true tional ships it has ordered, which pension or revocation of papers. the same time we hope to get the men is sent to the Jackson Mem­ These ., same requirements and saying that "a little knowledge should be around the end of the other needed repairs made. May­ orial Hospital where the best of month. Also Waterman is getting checks are present also in the is often a dangerous thing." be while they're at it they'll fix care is given by competent doc­ Too many skippers regai'd three or four C-2 ships to run in case of all the ship's officers gen­ that big leak down below, 'cause tors and pretty nurses. erally. themselves as legal authorities here from the Gulf. if they don't it will make a nice There were some beefs about after reading a copy of the Ship­ With the addition of these ships TYRANTS PARADISE swimming pool by the time we the ruling of not being allowed ping Code in which certain pen­ hit Shanghai. in these marine hospitals, if a dis­ we should have enough shipping Life aboard ship can be made alties may be imposed for various They'd better get busy and fix charge was less than a month. to keep us busy for quite a while. plenty disagreeable by the pres­ infractions of the law. the leaks we have already as they However, even if you have spent The extra ships shouldn't make ence of one iron-handed officer. SEAMEN'S RIGHTS are coming on faster than they only one day aboard, just request it difficult for the officials, as the But ship life becomes hell when Unfortunately, it does not oc­ can be stopped. Last night the a hospital slip from the master boys on the southern run are this ratio is increased — the ves­ cur to these lunk-headed skip­ good Union men, all knowing the coal oil got loose and squired all of the vessel you happen to be sel whose officers are an iron pers that each seaman under their over everything. And today, the on, and present it to the medical score when it comes to shipboard handed clique with only one ex­ command is entitled to certain unionism. coldest day they've had in officer-in-charge. You will have ception. constitutional liberties. Most of these men square their Georgia in seven years, we have no trouble in obtaining treatment. We have in mind the skipper of Occasionally a group of selfbeefs away themselves, leaving no heat. an oil tanker who just completed esteemed little tin gods get com­ PHONE COMING little for the Agent to handle. We've got a god crew aboard, a four-month voyage, the des­ mand of a vessel, and act as if Many of the men arriving in a real international set-up. There cription of which can be found in CIO RAID the ship were their pleasure are Indians, Jamaicans, Puerto this port, found there was no the pages of this issue of the Log. On the local labor scene, there yacht and the crew their slaves. Ricans, Italian, Spanish, and even phone in the Hall, but one has It is our understanding that the Unreasonable searches are made a hill-billy represented. been ordered and it will be in­ has developed a little tension be­ crew has brought criminal charges The boys aboard all feel they stalled as soon as possible. There tween the CIO and AFL. The at all hours; shore leave is pro­ against this individual who hibited; ship's compartments are can put up with all the incon­ is a reported upsurge in shipping General Labor Confederation, thought he was a law unto him­ converted into prisons; single veniences I've mentioned but here and, in my opinion, there CGT-CIO, is trying to organize self by keeping them in irons in and double irons are polished up; there is one that has us all down. will be a need for many men to everything on the Island and is a number of ports, without re­ The toilets are on the fritz and to man the ships. At present there not stopping with the unorgan­ twelve for one loggings are levi­ ed; laws protecting life and lib­ porting the fact to the Consul or top that off we are stuck in the is a shortage, and there has been ized maritime workers. any of the law enforcement agen­ It is trying to break up the ILA erty are forgotten, and proper mud at the pier. So, with the a request to reinstate Brothers cies. suction pumps working in the in bad standing to man the ves­ and UTM, two affiliates well procedure is circumvented. By so doing, he deprived these The unlicensed crew on a mud they overflow sometimes sels in this port. The request was kijown down here. I don't think men of their civil liberties such and the whole mess sure makes presented to the regular meeting the CGT will succeed in their "Bounty" ship of that type leads as: the right to bail; the right to for rough wading. raiding attempts as the two AFL a dog's life until the voyage ends. held Feb. 12. file writs of habeas corpus; the waterfront unions are sticking to­ The taking away of shore leave The Chief Engineer has said to rights to earn a livelihood; and This Hall needs more publicity. hell with it, along with the Elec­ gether and presenting a solid alone is likely to cause drastic what is the first principle of the I saw many oldtimers here, but action such as jumping ship. But trician who doesn't know where front. American conception of justice, the light connections are for the it is my belief that in the near The nights here are becoming the crew should always remem­ that a man is innocent until future there will be a real short­ boxes. a little cooler now, and it is en­ ber that there is eventually a day proven guilty. age unless some men come down While we are tied up here we joyable to take a stroll at night of accounting for the voyage — As we go to press, this petty to relieve the situation. a Jay when the self-inflated slave are taking in. the town. All the under the big round moon. de.spot is sweating aplenty. A lot of talk is going around native Georgians see us coming and from the taxi cab to the bar about the expected exit of the they soak us extra for being Coast Guard from its position of WE CROSS "yankees." interference in merchant ship­ THE Rl\/Efel& The Skipper we have is ugly as ping. The boys all want to lend NISHT-SI6M a bear. I don't come in contact a helping hand in giving them an UP Al^ SID/ with him so everything is going added push toward the place The Seas Shipping Company CLREW/ marked EXIT. ta be alright. has announced that the dispatch As you can surmise from the from London reporting the tank­ SUN. HONEY AND OH BOY! above mentioned mishaps this is er Belle of the West as being on a real hard luck ship. If she So much for that, but serious­ fife is erroneous. The Company doesn't fall apart, or hit a mine ly, fellows, come on down to the reports the vessel as not being in I should be back in the big city land of sunshine, milk, honey and any difficulty. A United Press about June 1. beautiful girls. Get away from dispatch early this week had Harold Farrington that cold weather up North. Tell listed the vessel as being aflame. Dear Editor: San Juan Slow, But More Ships Are Due To Come 'in I SeasShippingReports Belle Of West Is Safe 'V. .v.-' V-- • •' �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 21. 1947 Page Flfleen Resolution On Panamanian Ships Halt Ship Switch WHEREAS, the American Merchant Marine during World War II was built up to approximately 50 million tons by American tax­ payers. at a cost to ihem of approximately 20 billion dollars; and To Panama Flag, Says Seafarers WHEREAS, the American Merchant Marine today is rapidly decreasing and if nothing is done by the Maritime Commission and (Covtinued from Ptge I) Congress to stop this decrease of American ships we will find our­ to mask their vessels under Pan­ selves with an American Merchant Marine of less tonnage than we amanian registry, and called upon had prior to the war; and By FRENCHY MICHELET Congress to immediately inves­ WHEREAS, in 1936 the Merchant Marine Act was passed by tigate the condition. This is a view of Palermo, fair­ should sure get fat and sassy in Congress, which had for its purpose the building and maintaining This resolution was unani­ est flower in the garden of Sicily, this jointof a large and substantial American Merchant Marine to take mously adopted in San Francisco, as seen by a non-too-observant But then we figure: what the care of the commerce of this country and to establish national deand at a special New York Branch seaman as he wends his dreamy hell, if that old spider can get ;fense; and meeting today, the same resolu­ way along her dusty, sun-drench­ that fat living in it, why, a slug WHEREAS, in the last few months millions of tonnage of tion was passed without a dis­ ed streets. or two of vermouth shouldn't senting vote. (See text of reso­ A short stroll from the docks make a lot of difference at this American built ships, built by the American taxpayers' money, have lution on this page.) been bought by foreign operators and transferred to foreign flags, takes us to a narrow street, lined stage of the game—so we order Besides discussing the change including the Panamanian flag, and also American capital has on either side by the hovels of a bottle without further ado. of registry of American owned transferred a number of U. S. Governmenf boughf ships fo Pana­ the poor. A handsome boy of AH. PEACE vessels, the agenda of the Co­ manian registry: and perhaps six, with dark flashing The stuff is good. It warms us ordinating Committee meeting WHEREAS, today the Republic of Panama has a merchant eyes and agreeable features, deep inside. It's good to sit here also included the welcoming of darts before us chasing an ema­ on this glorious Mediterranean marine tonnage twice as large as it had prior to the war; and Captain William Ash, MM&P, WHEREAS, the Republic of Panama is not a seafaring nation as the representative of'4;his new­ ciated dog. morning and dream of the port and does not by any stretch of the imagination need this type of est ITF affiliate. They tumble pell-mell into a over the distant hill. tonnage in connection with the export and import trade of their Also present at the meting were miserable one-room shack. A gi­ History tells us that Ponce de the following; William Dorchain, gantic peasant woman, presum­ Leon scoured the New World in country; and WHEREAS, American capital and foreign countries who trans­ United States Representative of ably his mother, cuffs both boy search of a Fountain of Youth. ferred their ships under the Panamanian flag obviously did this the ITF; Emmanuel Pithavoulis, and ring hack out again and bonds But we who were born and bred back over her crude stone oven. there know that it's just as apt tor several reasons; namely, to save taxes, to opexale ships with Federation of Greek Maritime cheaper crews, and to avoid regular steamboat inspection service; and Unions; Fred B. Clausen, Danish We saunter a trifle closer and to be found within the precincts WHEREAS, this condition not only weakens the American Mer­ Seamen's Union; J. Scott, Na­ of the Old, for the only Fountain are rewarded with the delicious chant Marine and puts thousands of seamen and American ship­ tional Union of Seamen of Great of Youth on this good green earth aroma of garlic braising in real yard workers and longshoremen out of work, but also weakens the Britain; Einar Johansen, Nor­ lies in the -seeking thereof. olive oil. We sniff and sigh ap­ wegian Seamen's Union, Ernst To follow the sun is to be eter­ national ddfense of the United States of America; preciatively. She turns her lined, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Seafarers In­ Rabcrg, Swedish Seamen's Union; heavy-featured faee.and nods in nally young in heart.. It was the beloved vagabond poet* of Eng­ ternational Union as an organization petition Congress to immed- W. J. Van Buren, Secretarysmiling agreement. It is the Freemasonry of con­ land who so knowingly dubbed ietely invesfigafe this condition and fake proper steps to safeguard Treasurer of the ITF; and Paul Hall and Morris Weisberger, noisseurs, for an appreciation of Adventure the "True Romance:— ihe American Merchant Marino; and representing the SIU. "Who holds by thee hath heaven BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that it no action is taken by good food makes brothers of us in fee to gild his dross thereby Congress that we inaugurate the policy of boycotting all Pemaall. Food, too, has its romantic And knowledge sure that he manian ships sailing in and out of American ports; and asppcis, but: one must serve one's endure a child until he die." apprenticeship to life ere he BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we also inaugurate the Two grimy bewhiskered Amer­ learns that the aroma of prop­ policy of Closing up all fink halls shipping seamen to Panamanian' BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St; Calvert 4E39 erly braising garlic is every bit as ican beachcombers stagger past, vessels in American ports until such time as Panamanian-flag regis­ 276 State St. sweet as the perfume of the rose. a little the worse for the cup that tered ships running in and out of American ports pay the prevailing BOSTON Boudoin 4455 cheers. "Ya know," one confides She bears her trials with the 10 Exchange St. scale of American union wages and live up to the prevailing man­ BUFFALO to the other, "these foreigners Cleveland 7391 stolid endurance of the animal ning scale of American ships and to adopt the working rules now in CHARLESTON 424 King Street aint bad Joes at all." that browses in the distant fields, force and effect in American union vessels; Phone 3-3680 We Americans are truly a race this woman of the people. CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we send this resolution apart. We are the only people Superior 5175 "Perhaps tomorrow," she in the world who go to another Maritime Trades Department of the American Federation of CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. thinks, "things may be a little Main 0147 man's country and look upon the Labor for action and introduce this resolution to the Seafarers In­ CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. better. Does not the Good Book ternational Union of North America's convention being held in Corpus Christi 3-1509 guy as a "foreigner." say that the meek shall inherit DETROIT 1038 Third St. Chicago in March for the purpose of setting up a policy to^be car­ We once saw three American Cadillac 6857 the earth?" ried out by the East and West Coast seamen affiliated with the soldiers celebrating something or DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Perhaps, Madam, but the earth other by shooting holes in a bar American Federation of Labor; Melrose 4110 GALVESTON 30823rd Street will be but a son-y patrimony by mirror in Gran. They got highly BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we request support on this 2-8448 the time the quick and the strong insulted because the MP's made by the American Federation of Labor and also notify Congress HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. get around, to handing it over to 'em cut it out. 58777 of our action. HOUSTON 1515 75th Street the likes of you and yours. If a foreigner ever pulled Phone Wentworth 3-3809 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. caper-like that in a gin mill in BUREAUCRATS Phone 5-5919 MARCUS HOOK 114 W. 8th St. Two stevedores shuffle along America the "cops would beat Chester 5-3110 on the opposite side of the street his head all the way to MIAMI 1356 N. E. 1st Ave. bound for the docks, evidently, the can. And he'd play hell try­ RAYMOND L. PERRY. Steward MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. where they will earn about one ing to get out again in less than 2-1754 Write to, or call. Special Ser­ NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. hundred lire an hour for work­ 39 years—and a dark night, too. vice Department at New York Magnolia 6112-6113 ACCIDENTAL APPRENTICE Hall immediately regarding your ing cargo. NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. KAnovcr 2-27S4 The lire is theoretically pegged By the way, they tell us that beef with the Hotel New Yorker. NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street at two hundred and twenty-five the Maritime Commission is still (Continued from Page 1) 4-1083 PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. to the American dollar. But the operating their ridiculous Stew­ EDWARD^ M. PHILLIPS The Commercial and Financial Phone Lombard 3-7651 Italian government's economists ards Dept. Retraining School. Write to Ernest Wainwright, Chronicle, a bankers publica­ PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. Phone: 2-8532 are about as trustworthy a tribe There's a tripcard man aboard P.O. Box 717, Norfolk 1, Va. tion, gives the tipoff on the at­ PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. as their American counterparts. who has a certificate of gradua­ Beacon 4336 titude of the financiers toward We often wonder by what ab­ tion from this boon-doggling pro­ RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. the UFE. JAMES R? WIGHT 2599 struse arithmetic the American ject. He cooks as though he got 105 Market St. In the issue dated Thursday, SAN FRANCISCO Contact C. A. Lester at 76 Mereconomists arrive at those pecu- his culinary education by wapDouglas 5475-8363 February 13, a long write-up is SAN JUAN. P. R. . . .252 Ponce de Leon lar cost-of-living charts that they dering into a chance afternoon rimac Road, Portsmouth, Va. devoted to the fact that the New San Juan 2-5996 S. 4- J. try to palm off on labor every cooking lecture and taking cuffSAVANNAH 226 East Bay St. JACK PEABER York Cotton Exchange is refus­ time we get around to asking for notes on a shortsleeve shirt. 8-1728 "Tiny" E. T. O'Mara would ing to even sit down to negotiate SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. a living wage. We think that'this Union should Main 0290 a contract unless the union agrees We will take the ads of one of immediately take steps to bring like Jack Peaber, Electrician off TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. to an escape clause by which M-1323 the large food chains in any news­ this glaring waste of the taxpay­ the SS Celilo to get in touch with members are free to leave the TOLEDO 615 Summit St. him; Ward B, Marine Hospital, paper of, say, the normal year ers' money to the victims' atten­ 440 Avalon Blvd. union during a fifteen day period WILMINGTON of 1939, and compare it with that tion. The Stewards Dept. Re­ Portland, Maine. Terminal 4-3131 each year. VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. of 1946. training School is an out and out Garden 8331 HAROLD V.^GOHN This is a.trick which is used to If the prices aren't uniformly steal of public funds. It cannot VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. divide the union forces, and in Pacific 7824 Your mother is holding some 25 percent higher than the gov­ be defended except on the char­ ernment's experts say they are, acteristic bureaucratic gj'ounds important mail for you and is this instance it is being employ­ then we will undertake to eat a that it provides jobs for the faith­ anxious that you communicate ed to stall the UFE and force a showdown. with her. dozen hot cakes cooked in the ful. More than 70 percent of the Maritime Commission's Stewards How sad a thing it is that the KARL AGNE HELLMAN Cotton E.xchange employees are the annals of American history. Retraining School by the sorriest scum as well as the cream must The Swedish Consul has been members of the UFE, and they Today our Army and our Navy shoemaker in the house. often rise to the top of the po­ are being denied sufficent funds have agreed, unanimously, to go notified that your mother passed A smiling publican with an litical cauldron. enormous paunch, barely covered It is one of the inevitable evils to protect our precious heritage on strike March 3 unless a new away, and that your father is anx­ ious for you to communicate with by a greasy apron that is evi­ attendant upon the democratic of Liberty, while miserable para­ contract is signed by that date. , Whatever happens, the UFE is him. dently an utter stranger to soap way of life that many of the prin­ sites on the body politic are still assured of the active cooperation 4' 4> apd water, invites us in to sample cipal administrative tasks should able to wrangle enough dough to FRED BRUGGNER hjs wares. fall to the lot of the basets of teach shoemakers a smattering of the Seafarers, whether it is to Please get in touch with the of cooking in order that they help them publish and distribute We preer into the dungeon-like self-seeking men. SIU Port Agent at Marcus Hook, literature, or participation on the iiaj:erior dubiously. If germs acWe are living right smack dab might qualify for nonexistent Pa., immediately. picketline. jobs! tually thrive on dirt then they'in the middle of an era unique in SIU HALLS PERSONALS SIU Again Takes To Street With UFE Leaflets PERSONALS • T r. , ' •>- iSr" �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 21, 194> A' FIRST IN WAR, FIRST IN PFACE ... .. i ii~- FIRST IN MARITIME! 1+ IS v\o acGidei^'f +hcH"i-he Seotarers Irrternorfional UKIIOH has groLon-frona "fhe original 2,doo members m 1938 ix5"tirie G2,OOOi-hat notu hold SlU books • The SlU has consisten1-|q se"bH^e pace in getting betfer condi1"ipns-For its membership, and thus for the entire uJcfterfrorrt. From the verg -first" dags dotun to i-uinnmg the Isthmian eiectionr ft"' � 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 21, 1947 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. IX, No. 8 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU DEMANDS INQUIRY INTO PANAMANIAN SHIPS; ITF TO DISCUSS ACTION SIU AGAIN TAKES TO STREET WITH UFE LEAFLETS SEAFARERS AND ALCOA SIGN PASSENGER SHIP CLAUSES BUSHEY AGREES TO MEET SHIPMEN AS STRIKE HOLDS PEACETIME CONSCRIPTION SEAFARERS ASKS CONGRESS FOR ACTION ON PROGRAM FOR MERCHANT MARINE STAFF OFFICERS SIGNS MOR-MAC; WINS TWO POLLS GREAT LAKES SEAMEN HELD READY FOR UNIONISM AS SIU PREPARES TO LAUNCH ORGANIZING DRIVE NEW YORK BUSINESS STILL BOOMS; RATED MEN STILL AT PREMIUM OLDTIMES RETURNING TO BOSTON; SHORTAGE OF RATED MEN HITS PORT SAVANNAH LOOKS TO FUTURE AS SOUTH ATLANTIC BUYS FOR MORE SHIPS FOR NORTH EUROPEAN RUN MM&P CHARTERS LOCAL IN DULUTH; WEATHER SLOWS OTHER ACTIVITIES PHILADELPHIA MAKES IMPROVEMENTS IN HALL AND IN SHIPPING SEASON CHICAGO SEAFARERS ARE ANXIOUS TO START ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN SIU COMMITTEE INVESTIGATES NEW HALL IN MOBILE CORPUS CHRIST IS BUSY WITH ORGANIZING WORK SUPPLEMENTARY AGREEMENT BETWEEN ALCOA SS CO. AND THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF N.A. BANDELIER VOYAGE RUGGED ENOUGH FOR ALL JOHN KNAPP DIES IN FRANCE; SHIPMATES AT ROUEN RITES MINE-TORN SIGNAL HILLS STILL IN YARD PARKER COPS SECOND SKATE CROWN IN WEEK WITH WINS IN 440, 880 AND 1-MILE EVENTS ANTINOUS ACCIDENT VICTIM ON MEND SAN JUAN SLOW, BUT MORE SHIPS ARE DUE TO COME SEAS SHIPPING REPORTS BELLE OF WEST IS SAFE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2/21/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a88d9389bfe12551338b30531ba58e27.PDF 338d3b988a8ce74c2bc82e6a724d3807 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. Anti Communists Win Easily In MFOW Election WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 — A statement released today by V. J. Malone, President of the Mar­ ine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders, and Wipers (Independent) shows that the communist forces in that union have been com­ pletely repulsed in their attempts to take over the leadership. By large majorities, the com­ munists and fellow-travelers in the MFOWW were defeated for office, and even where they were strongly intrenched the housecleaning swept them into discard. Also voted down was a pro­ posal that would have affiliated the MFOWW with the late and unlamented Committee for Mari­ time Unity. The vote on this was 3,679 to 732. Malone, running for President polled 3,946 votes. This was the largest vote received by any can­ didate. Anti-communists also captured the Port Agent jobs in San Pedro and New Orleans, long time CP strongholds in the MFOWW. NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. FEBRUARY 14. 1947 UFF IS NOT ALONE No. 7 Isthmian Case Goes Before NLRB; Company Objections Overrnietf If the recommendations of Howard F. LeBaron, Re­ gional Director of the National Labor Relations Board, Second Region, are approved in Washington, then the election to determine a bargaining agent for the unlicensed Isthmian seamen will go into its final round. In his report, dated February 10, Mr. LeBaron held that the company's allegation, that the seamen on 44 of the vessels which were votecw were not employes of the Com­ cd, Mr. LeBaron has recommend­ pany but of the Maritime Com­ ed that a formal hearing be held Men to distribute literature was the SlU's reply to a request mission, was not true, and rec­ within five weeks of the date of for help from Local 205. United Financial Employes. AFL, now ommended that the Board dis­ his report, and that the NMU be engaged in a drive to organize the underpaid brokerage workers allowed to bring its evidence in miss this part of the objection. in New York's financial district. For three hours Tuesday. at that time. He held further that the sea­ February 11. the SlU gave out leaflets in support of the UFE. This, he states, will obviate the men on 37 ships, acquired after necessity of a one-sided, or ex the voting began, were not elig­ parte, investigation, which will ible to vote, and recommended probably have to be followed up that this objection be dropped with a formal hearing anyway. also. (Text of Report on Page 6) The Company's third charge, that Chief Stewards should not have been included in the voting NEW YORK, February 11 — would be appreciated by the on the grounds that they are al1 e g e d 1 y supervisory employes, In a stirring demonstration of in­ UFE and the national AFL. STACK DEFEATED ter-union solidarity the Seafarers Fifteen squads, each in charge was also taken up and disposed of on the basis of a ruling of the Walter Stack, brother of Joe International Union today took of a group captain, were dis­ Trial Examiner, who previously Stack, pro-red Vice-President of the field in support of the United patched to strategic points in the had directed that Chief Stewards the NMU, was defeated for the Financial Employees, Local 205, financial center at the height of be included in the bargaining post of San Francisco Agent. OEIU, AFL. More than 25,000 the noon hour when the office The Committee for Maritime unit. Stack has long been alleged to be leaflets, prepared by the SIU, workers were on their way to Unity, communist-dominated CIO COMPANY OUT the leader of the communist were distributed by 200 white- and from lunch. water-front grouping, which Thus, if this report is accepted, started out with a fanfare of In this way thousands of po­ capped Seafarers in the New York forces in the Firemen's Union. The complete repudiation of financial district to outline the tential UFE members were ap­ the Isthmian Steamship Com­ ballyhoo to which it never lived the communists in the MFOWW need for organizing the under­ prised of the fact that the SIU pany will be ruled out of the pic­ up, at last called it quits on Sun­ leaves only a few maritime paid and exploited workers in is throwing its full support to ture, and only the NMU's phony day, February 9. charge of collusion will stand in The decision was made and unions under CP control. Those the brokerage business. (See Local 205. the way of SIU representation The response to the leaflets was page 6 for the complete text of announced by the CMU Execu­ remaining under the domination for the unlicensed seamen of beyond all expectations. There the leaflet.) tive Board after closed meetings of the reds include the NMU, the on the preceeding two days. This is not the first time that were few, if any, office workers Isthmian. CIO Longshoremen, and the Mar­ As far as the NMU is concernIn a face-saving statement, the the SIU has used its strength to (Continued on Page 6) ine Cooks and Stewards. organization blamed the dissolu­ aid another union in winning a Malone has long carried on a tion on the action of Joseph Curjust beef, or in organizing in the fight against the commies in his face of odds. ran, co-chairman of the combine, union, and he was instrumental who resigned in December be­ In the past year it was a com­ in the fight to prevent the Fire­ cause he felt that the CMU was men from being taken over by mon sight to see Seafarers side not really working for maritime by side on the picketline with the the CMU. unity. MM&P, the MFOWW, the ILA, The CMU Conference, schedul­ It is a very bad situation when­ and the CIO Shipbuilders. The diligence with which the ed for March 15, has been can­ ever the reputation of a union is Now the UFE-OEIU has ap­ officials and organizers in the Na­ celled, and all that remains to do so bad that working seamen are pealed for assistance in organiz­ tional Maritime Union follow is to settle the committee's finan­ forced to vote for a company ing, and the same whole-hearted the communist party linb has had cial affairs. union in self defense. a marked affect on the success of support is being rendered. The final action to dissolve the That is exactly what happened At a special meeting, called be­ the various oi'ganizing drives un­ pro-communist group came on in the case of the Atlantic Refin­ dertaken by that union during fore the demonstration began, the ing seamen when the company the heels of three distinct shocks NEW YORK, Feb. 15—The SS SIU adopted a re.solution support­ the past year or so. George Washington, which arriv­ ing the UFE in its drive, and Not only have the campaigns union polled 266 votes while the to the set-up. First and foremost ed here today from Bermuda, 24 voted to suspend shipping for failed, but there has also been a NMU was garnering a mere 125. was the resignation of Curran, hours late, due to inclement three hours so that as many men complete breakdown in the The Atlantic Refining seamen followed by a decisive vote in the weather at sea, will not make her as possible would be available to NMU's servicing of its member­ now Jiave another chance to re­ MFOWW and MEBA to abstain regularly scheduled departure to­ give out the throwaways. view their position. They have from active participation in the ship. morrow, it has been announced It is already an established rejected communism in the labor affairs of the so-called Committee Paul Hall, New York Port for Maritime Unity. by the line. Agent, read a message from the fact that the unlicensed seamen movement; and if they are sin­ Curran's move, which came as Cancellation of this week's UFE requesting the assistance of of the Isthmian Steamship Com­ cere in wishing to organize into a bolt from the blue, has had farpany have voted for the Seafar­ sailing was made to permit an­ the Seafarers, and also read into an honest union, they can vote to reaching repurcussions. ers aa their bargaining agent, and nual inspection of the vessel by the record a telegram from Frank come into the SIU as a group The commies in the NMU, led the Coast Guard. The Washing­ Fenton, AFL Director of Organi­ now comes the news that the by Stack, McKenzie, and Smith, without losing their legal bar­ ton will resume her weekly sail­ zation, stating that anything the company union won in the At­ gaining rights. (Continued on Page 3) ings Feb. 22. SIU could do in this matter lantic Refining election. SlU Takes To Streets To Aid AFL Financial Employees NMU Loses To Company Union In Atlantic Refining Election George Washington Cancels Departure For C.G. Inspection •••TC. .li.r v..'::;-. CMU, Repudiated By Three Unions, VotesTo Disband �Page Two THE SE AF ARERS LOG Friday. February 14, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INXERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 t, % HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- Vresideni 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK Secy-Trcas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., imder the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE NOVICK, Editor They Also Served There's more than one way to skin a cat! And there's mere than one way to build a strong union. During the recent strike of the Seafarers Interna ticnal Union tliere were a number of men who stood picket duty and prevented the many companies from finking out on runs. These men deserve a lot of credit, and the Strike Clearance Card they all carry is proof that they have done tlieir duty as good union men. * But what of the men who were at sea when the action was taking place? Many of these men were in foreign ports where strike action is mutiny, and does not help out the cause of the Union. And quite a few of them were on unorganized ships as volunteer organizers. In the SIU, volunteer organizer means just what it savs. Nobody can force a man to ship out on an unor­ ganized ship. The men who do so ask for the job so that they can spread the word of the SIU to seamen who would not otherwise hear of the advantages of the Seafarers' brand of unionism. Hospital Pfltients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. By militant action and by organizing the unorganized the SIU has become the strongest seamen's union on the waterfront. Remember, it took men on the picketline, and men on the lousy rustbuckets to bring the SIU to where it now is. That's the way it is, so don't look down your nose at the guy who wasn't on the picketline in September, 1946. He may have been doing an important job on Isthmian or on a tanker End Of The Road There's a lot more comfort along the waterfront these days. Not because of anything that is happening in Wash­ ington, where the red-tape experts are busfly trying to throttle labor, but because the red-tinged Committee for .Maritime Unity has finally shut its doors for good; From the time the CMU first started, it was easy to-see that a little trouble would'scuttle the whole or­ ganization. It's not that unity on the waterfront is not important, it's just that honest, working, seamen could not see unity in a group that included all the commie sellout-artists from way back. And they weren't wrong. In quick order the MFOWW and. the MEBA were sold down the river to increase the prestige of Harry Bridges, commie grand com­ missar of the American waterfront. So the Committee for. Maritime Unity,, cursed by be­ ing the arm by which the commies hoped to dominate the U. S. waterfront, fades away, and- t^ere is not a voice raised in protest. The only comforting fact about the whole situation, is that the CMU came to an end before it could do any more damage to tile just objectives of s?.vmen. than it- already has. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals 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 writ­ ing to them. BALTIMORE HOSPITAL CHARLES SIMMONS CASIMIR. HONOROWSKI CARSON McCOY^ THEODORE. BABKOWSKI THEODORE CARROLL JOHN DUKO JULIUS MORGAN BARNEY HENKIN MATHEW CARSON PETER LOPEZ FRANCIS O'BRIEN CLYDE MILLER GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTGHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER' AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM SAN JUAN HOSPITAL JUAN OLIVER WALTER JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. FELICIANO R. SEIFO 4- 4- S* STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL C. BONAFONT R. G. MOSSELLER J. S. WOOD W. G. H. BAUSE H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY E. D. MILLER C. KOLSTE. R. POWELL M. MORRIS L. A. CORNWALL JOE LEWIS M. J. QUINN G. LUETH NEW vORLEANS HOSPITAL W. HEMPEL D. McDUFFIE You can contact your Hos­ pital' delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6ih floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 pjm. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday —1:30 to 3:3(1 pjot. (on. 1st. and 2nd floors.) V. FREDERIKSEN ROBERT MULHOLLAND EDWARD CUSTER KAY SCIIERREBECK. W. LEWIS V. NORRGARD H. ECHEVARIA JOHN O'DONOHUE CENTRAL MASON STEVE MOGAN ROBERT B; WRIGHT JACINTO NAVARRO O. M, STIREWALT JOHN RETOUR J. W. DENNIS W. BROCE, Jr. A. F. SMITHART ^ » 3^ BRIGHTON HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM G. VICKERY R. ALBA-NESE G. GILLAN R. LORD J. ESPENSHADE �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Febraury 14, 1947 Page Three Membership Is The Only Victim In Power Struggle Within NMU By EARL SHEPPARD By JOSEPH VOLPIAN Lately there has sprung up a little racket by the steamship companies, in cooperation with the Coast Guard and War Ship­ ping Administration, which has just come to our attention. It should be of great interest to our membership. Some time ago, a .Steward signed on a ship and, as is usual, he was supplied with bed linen to be distributed when and as needed. During the course of the voyage, which incidentally was a shuttle run between England, France and Belgium, which last­ ed over eight months, quite a bit of Ihe linen disappeared. The linen locker had been broken into several times and the Steward himself, during the course of the trip, was hos­ pitalized for about eight or nine days and was off the ship com­ pletely. At the time of the discharge, the company refused to pay him off and he was sent to the Coast Guard for trial. He was not charged with taking the linens himself, but was charged with negligence in failing to report the •fact that the linen was missing. At the trial, this man did not have a lawyer and, despite the fact that the Master admitted that the Steward had reported missing stores on several occa­ sions, and despite the fact that he was off the ship for some time and other people had access to the linen locker, he was found guilty. SIGNED RELEASE He then went to the Shipping Commissioner's office and signed a mutual release and was given a voucher by the Commissioner to present to the company, to be paid off. This voucher called for the full amount of wages and bonus, less his draws. When he presented the voucher to the company, they refused to pay him except on the condition that he allow the company to take off $537.00 from his pay. He refused to do this, but fin­ ally was forced to permit this because he was broke and he had a family to maintain which re­ moved the case from the hands of the Union. He then went to an attoimey who communicated with the com­ pany and its attorneys and tried to dispose of the matter amicably. However, with no success. ARBITRATION After much stalling, the com­ pany consented to an arbitration before Captain Rylander, the Shipping Commissioner, for the Port of New York and there with the seaman represented by coun­ sel and the big shots from the company and their lawyer, an arbitration proceeding was held and several days later Captain Rylander handed down his de­ cision awarding the money that was unlawfully taken by the com­ pany, to the seaman. The Com­ missioner based his decision upon the following reasons: 1. The linen was not in his (the Steward's) continuous custody especially for a per­ iod of about eight days when he was in the hospital and not on the ship. 2. The linen locker was broken into a number of times by persons unknown. 3. The linen locker was unsuited for the purpose by being in the crew's quarters, easily accessible and easily forced. The Mate furnished locks a number of times for this locker but the neces­ sary repairs for security were not made. 4. The mutual release signed by the Master and the seaman should have been honored and the seaman paid his wages in full after which an agreement could have been reached for an adjust­ ment of this shortage. According to the law as inter­ preted by the Supreme Court of the United States, a seaman is not an insurer of the stores or tools left in his custody. He is only responsible when he will­ fully takes or destroys this prop­ erty. We believe this decision hand­ ed down by the Shipping Com­ missioner will put the brakes on this budding racket. The word "union," used to de­ scribe an economic organization of workers, is one of the most grossly misused word in the Eng­ lish language. The company associations, founded and maintained by the Standard Oil, Tidewater Associ­ ated, Sun Oil, Atlantic Refining and others, are being treated generously when they are called "company unions." The truth of the matter is that the National Manufacturers As­ sociation comes much nearer be­ ing a union, inasmuch as it at least unites one specific group, the employers, in the defense of their particular interests. Another misuse of the word i^ when it is applied to organiza­ tions completely dominated by racketeers or political groups. In this type of organization "democracy" is only a word and freedom of expression unknown. The members of such organiza­ tions are slaves and the organi­ zations to which they belong can only be classed as "captive un­ ions." The great and important dif­ ference between these and the "company unions" is that slaves can, and frequently do, revolt. To build our own union, the Seafarers, we had to first rid ourselves of the domineering la­ bor fakers who rode our backs for many years. Today we see a revolt taking place in the NMU, a revolt that goes much deeper than differ­ itself to the task of becoming ences between Curran and Stack, strong so that it may continue to or communists and anti-com­ organize and grow even though munists. the NMU destroys itself. The NMU has been a "captive AGAINST BETRAYAL union" almost since its incep­ The real revolt in the NMU is tion, a captive of a small group the revolt of the rank and file of smelly piecards operating un­ against both the Currans and der the tutelage and direction of Stacks and the phony policies the communist party. they have pursued. These are the policies that have Regardless of how much one kept the wages and conditions of may sympathize with the current the NMU below the level of the pronouncements of Curran, Stone, Lawrenson, and company, Seafarers, that have kept the it is waterfront history that they NMU in the position of chasing cracked the communist whip for the bus that has passed. The policy of the NMU misten years alongside their present enemies Stack, Myers, McKenzie, leaders has always been to get contracts at any cost, and to hell and the other Moscow stooges. The whole history of the NMU with wages and conditions. In is filled with such fights for 1939 they traded away waterpower, from the days of the "Mar­ tenders for a Lykes Brothers' iners Club" to the present CMU contract. In 1940 and 1941 they labelled debacle. the fight for war bonuses as The membership of the NMU, "barking at the moon" (Frederthe seamen as a whole and all or, , , ,, ... . ick "Blacky" Myers own words) ganized labor, are the victims of i , • j .i. i. f, . T ' and only received the bonus after this struggle for power. the Seafarers had struck and The shipowner is the only one 'who benefits, for such chaos and In 1940 they distributed a pam­ disunity can lead only to the phlet called "The Yanks are not ultimate wrecking of , the union coming" and then in 1941 when , and the throwing of a large group of unorganized seamen on the l ^ . immediate American intervenBad conditions and low wages' will follow as sure as darkness All of this is history and has follows light. been told and retold. It is the For that reason and to protect fore and aft policy against which the interests of all seamen, NMU the NMU membership has form­ as well as SIU, the Seafarers re­ ed the resentment which is now fuses to take part in the NMU materializing in open revolt. leadership squabbles, and devotes The big question is: "What is the NMU policy today, and does it differ essentially from that of the past?" POLICY OF CONFUSION The only difference is that in the past the NMU. leadership were united on an aggressive pol­ In line with the policy of com­ sistant secretary of labor, John icy of betrayal, while today they pursue a defensive policy of con­ plete support by the SIU to the Gibson. So far he has been unsuccess­ fusion. Regardless of how thick strike, Paul Hall, SIU New York ful, but the union spokesman ex­ or thin you slice it, however, it's Port Agent, has sent a telegram pects the pressure being brought the same old communist "rule to Mayor O'Dwyer, (see below) to bear by these groups will ef­ or ruin" tactic. uring him to use his good offices fect a break of some kind in The Isthmian elections are a classic example of this policy. to effectuate a settlement of the Bushey's finky tactics. Due to the solid backing the Beaten decisively in the bargaindispute. Shipyard Workers have in this | ing election, the NMU leaders are William J. McCaffrey, interna­ beef, no one has attempted to ^ today holding up Seafarers—Isthtional representat ive of the cross the picketlines since their mian negotiations with phony lUMSWA has reported that the installation, and the only ship to | claims of "collusion," thereby de­ latest efforts to bring about a leave is one of Bushey's own frauding hundreds of Isthmian seamen of the right of union repmeeting have come from the as­ tankers. scntation. The CMU bastard raid on the ILA and the American-Pacific Co. Coos Bay affair were frantic gestures of a dying dynasty. The following is the text of the telegram sent to Mayor By clinging to the heels of the O'Dwyer by the Seafarers International Union in behalf of SIU in the general maritime the striking CIO Shipbuilders, Local 13 of the lUMSWA: strike, they managed to revive The Seafarers Inlernafional Union of North America, themselves somewhat, but their affiliated with the AFL. is strongly urging you to exercise desperate rule or x'uin policy your good offices in trying to effectuate a settlement in the came out again as the true role labor dispute existing between Local 13 of the Industrial of the CMU power clique was ex­ Union of Marine and Shipbuilding Workers of America— posed. CIO and the Ira S. Bushey and Sons Company of Brooklyn. RUSSIA FIRST As long as Russia needed oil, This anti labor company has refused all attempts of the dating back long befoi-e Ameri­ U.S. Maritime Commission. U.S. Conciliation Service, and ca's entry into the war, they left various other agencies which have tried to mediate the the tankers alone, neglecting to strike, now in its ninth day. In addition, the Bushey Com­ negotiate contracts with com­ pany is in open defiance of an NLRB order certifying the panies in which they had been CIO Shipbuilding Workers Union as the sole bargaining certified and selling out to Stand­ agency for the shipyard employes of this company. ard Oil Company in the 1939 tan­ Our union is vitally interested in seeing the Bushey ker strike. Company recognize the lUMSWA, and sit down with them Suddenly, however, when the at the bargaining table in good faith to negotiate a union SIU has succeeded in partially or­ contract. We are backing the Shipbuilding Workers in this ganizing such companies as Cities beef one hundred percent, as we know that their strike Service, Tidewater Associated, against Bushey is a just one, and we intend to keep on sup­ Mathiasen Tankers Inc., and porting them in their fight until it is successfully won. others, they appear on the scene with their shysters and enter a (signed)PAUL HALL, Seafarers International Union. CIO Shipbuilders Keep Picketlines Solid; Seafarers Sends Wire To Mayor O'Dwyer NEW YORK, Feb. 13—As the strike against the Ira S: Bushey and Sons shipyard in Brooklyn enters its third week, the twentyfour hour a day picketlines of the CIO Shipyard Workers, Lo­ cal 13, remain firm in the strug­ gle for recognition and a union contract. So far, Bushey, who has a finky anti-labor record, has re­ fused to meet with the Shipyard Workers, NLRB certified bar­ gaining agent for the 500 em­ ployees, or any other group try­ ing to effect a settlement. The United States Conciliation Service has been unable to bring about a meeting, and likewise the committee appointed by Mayor O'Dwyer has had no suc­ cess. CMU, Repudiated. Votes To Dissolve (Continued from Page 1) have been iDrought out into the open, and the rank-and-file has lined up against them and the CMU. So overwhelming was this feel­ ing that the NMU Executive Council, dominated by commun­ ists, would not allow the member­ ship to vote on whether or not to continue affiliation. The truth about the organ­ ization, as published in the Sea­ farers Log, and the fact that the CMU did not in any way advance the cause of working seamen, were the deciding factors in forc­ ing the combine to give up the ghost. Text Of Telegram To Mayor (Continued on Page 8) '• 7^'.: ii-ijiixi'xs'fj- \-r '.v*. ' ' - �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG The Patrolnien Say— WHAT Another One-Man Crew ttmiiK.,. QUESTION: "^Vhat has been your experience in sailing on unorganized ships? ANTONIO GONZALES, Bosun: RICHARD EGAN, FWT: As a rule I found conditions on unorganized ships below the SIU standards. There was practically no overtime, and the officers had no idea that sefunen should be treated decently. Mostly we had to be careful of tcdking unionism because the officers were eager to fire all union men. When we explained what the SIU could do for seamen, the unlicensed seamen were glad to sign up in our Union. Plenty of officers were converted, too. when they found that the SIU had helped in the fight for officers' conditions also. Unorganized ships have no sup­ port in their beefs, and the com­ pany can do anything they, want to with an unorganized crew. On the unorganized ships I've sailed on, overtime was unheard of, and conditions were like something out of the old book. Most people are easy to talk to about union­ ism, but there are always a couple of company stiffs to make things difficult. But even these guys have to give up when you contrast the difference between union conditions and non-union conditions. WILLIAM MEAGHER. Asst. Electrician: CARL SENARGHI, DM: Sailing on an unorganized ship was just like I had heard. Sea men had nothing to say about beefs, and the officers acted like tin Gods. The food was okay at the start, but towards the end of the voyage it became worse and worse. Most of th'e men on board were pro-SIU, but what con­ vinced them that all seamen need a strong union was that when a beef came up we just couldn't do anything about it. It will be a happy day for seamen when these anti-union companies are forced to bargain with the SIU. What struck me most on an un­ organized ship was that the men had no idea how conditions could change as a result of belonging to a union. They accepted things as they were, and they thought that I was fooling them when I told them that the SIU would back them up and fight for them. When they found out that the SIU had the power to go to bat for the unlicensed members, these non-union men saw the light. The SIU record was also a big factor in inducing men to join our Union and fight for sea­ men. Tampa AFL Unions Take Lead Against Anti-Labor City Heads By SONNY SIMMONS '• TAMPA—The Central Trades Council of Tampa now has a new President, Brother Oscar Blood• worth of the Office Worker's Union. We are sure that Broth­ er Bloodworth will do a good job in carrying on the good work of^ the local council. - The esteemed Mayor of this town, who is pretty well-famed for his general finky attitude, re­ cently took it on himself to at­ tempt to balance his cockeyed budget by decreeing a ten per­ cent tax on all public utilities. A true friend of organized la­ bor who has always been in the •forefront of all labor battles in this area. Brother Frank Diez, head of the Cigar Workers Union, threw a monkey wrench in the Mayor's plan by instituting a pe­ tition campaign to force the question to a vote. All AFL. Labor in Tampa is busy getting signatures and the seamen are doing their part. Brother Diez has shown that labor is on the *move in Tampa and will not submit to the man­ euvers of the politicians. PHONY PRESS The local press, as usual, is eulogizing the Mayor and trying to picture him as a world savior, cr a little Tom Watson. This is part of the general antilabor campaign, but .organized labor is in the fight to.the finish. and will buck the Mayor and his .schemes so long as he continues to serve the bosses as he has done with everything from dictator de­ crees to the police force. Judge Parker ruled against the Teamsters and the Cab Drivers in their strike, and all the bosses' forces in the city are trying to smash them. Regardless of all the difficulties, however, they are carrying on the fight and the en­ tire labor movement is support­ ing them. GOOD SHIPPING Tampa got its share of the cold weather wave, but, at the worst, it is still a lot more comfortable here than anywhere north of Hatteras. In addition to the good weather we always have the sit­ uation is improved now with good shipping. The Waterman scow, Erek Hopkins, the South Atlantic, Southland and the Bull Line, Evelyn were in, and five more ships are due this week—which perks things up considerably. As a result of labor's determ­ ined stand, the Mayor and his anti-labor crowd are growing a little union-shy and are awaken­ ing to the fact that unless they quit their anti-labor activities they are damn liable to be expoliticiaris after the next election. Tampa labor is going to fight this battle to a finish. Distress Signal A campaign is now under way to bring about installation of the latest and most effective lifesaving apparatus aboard all mer­ chant vessels. Sponsor of the move is the British National Un­ ion of Seamen, which is utilizing every possible means to publi­ cize the need for safety measures at sea. At the recent meeting of the British Trade Union Congress in Brighton, the seamen's unk)ri demonstrated a new parachute distress signal-for ship's lifeboats; Sent up against a background of heavily overcast night skies; the rocket soared- to a height of 1500 feet and was easily visible two miles out at sea. It was revealed later that the signal had been seen as far as 25 miles away. Constructed so that it is not affected by dampness or direct contact with salt water, the locket is thrown into the sea a few tyards from the life-boat. It then ignites automatically and is pro­ jected 1500 feet above the life boat, throwing off an illumina­ tion of 150,000 candle-power. Similar . demonstrations have been staged in Norway, Sweden and the United States, and the NoFW«gian government has al­ Friday, February 14, 1947 ready approved the apparatus for installation on its ships. The British seamen's union hopes to effect a statute requiring all British ships to carry the lifesaving ^partus. i a- t Welfare Fund Prospects for a government sponsored welfare fund for sick and injured Norwegian seamen appear favorable. A bill provid­ ing for the establishment of a welfare committee and a welfare fund for seamen is now before the Nprwegian Parliament. Contributions to the fund would be 240 ore per year for every insured seamen serving aboard a Norwegian ship, with the State providing 120 ore, and the shipowners and seamen con­ tributing 60 ore each. The bill provides further for a special welfare committee to ad­ minister the fund. It is to be ap­ pointed for a period of three years and will comprise repre­ sentatives of the Government, shipowners and seafarers. Additional details as to rules for membership in the fund, method of payment, etc., will be decided upon, as. soon as the bill has been passed. Payment of the benefits would start as of Jan. 1, 1947. NEW YORK—Last week's Log had a story of the Mate aboard the Loop Knot who was a oneman deck department. Well, I've found his brother. When I went aboard the Nampa Victory last week, I found the Mate busy as a beaver and the crew up in arms. Just as with the character aboard the Loop Knot this guy was acting as Bosun, AB, and at times, OS. I could see right away that he needed straightening out. Un­ fortunately, however, the books were closed and I could not offer him membership in the SIU. Nevertheless, due to his un­ tiring efforts we collected a little overtime for work he did on deck, such as Carpenter work, etc. HE LEARNED He didn't like it at all wlien the dough went into the pockets of the men who were supposed to do the work, but he can write it up as experience. I found the Old Man to be just as bad. He couldn't understand why a s-Mcssman should be paid overtime for serving meals in his room. Also, for better than a week, he had instructed the Messman to make up' the rooms of the Second Mate and Second Assis­ tant after hours. After a little discussion he saw the light, and all overtime was collected. The only casualties of the whole operation were my ears, which are still ringing from his pained yells. Whatta voice! James Purcell 3» 4- 4" Cheap Skates Several of the steamship com­ pany purchasing agents have cut requisitions on their own hook, and h.ave taken to sending in­ ferior food to the ships. This means that unless the Steward is on the ball the ship will sail short of food, and the quality of the food will be very poor. The Steward is responsible for the quality and quantity of food aboard the ship, and if he finds it is not up to par, he should notify the Hall so the situation can be straightened out in a minimum of time. Don't let the chiseling purchas­ ing agents make your trip a nightmare. The Union has fought hard and long for decent condi­ tions, and that includes food. So keep on the ball and make sure that there is good food aplenty on board before the ship leaves the dock. Howard Guinier Ray Gonzales 4> 4> Mercy Visit DETROIT—I went out to the Marine Hospital last Tuesday and among the patients in the hospital we have Sisters Mabel "Waldon, Countergirl on the Greater Detroit last season and Florence MacDonald, pantry girl on the Cleveland HI for the past three seasons. They are getting along fine, and have plenty of time to swap opinions on the D & C waterfront situation. Withholding statements from the D & C Company are expected to be sent out from the company's offices Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 3rd & 4th. —Herb Miller �Fridar' Febrauxy 14, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five Events Of A Busy Week In N. O. Afier an eight-month trip, the Alcoa Pegasus came in clean and in good condition. Here she is discharging her load of bauxite to lighters in the Mississippi River. Most of the crewmembers said that the trip was uneventful, and that the food was swell. The payoff was no trouble either, and the men were well satisfied over a good trip and a satisfactory payoff. It's pretty had to get the crew to pose when they have been paid off and they are waiting to enjoy liberty in New Orleans. The photographer prevailed on them to stand still for a moment, and this is the result. Standing, left to right, G. LaBrecque, A. G. Home, W. E. Duck. W. F. Helms, G. F. Bischoff, and R. Barger. Kneeling are A. Rathbone and J. Miller. Same story with the Black Gang. They're in a hurry to spend some of that hard earned money, too. In the usual order, H. L. Wold, E. Osborne, J. Di Orio, C. B. Moody, and J. Hicarvet. Ricarvet is holding up a piece of bauxite. Gathered around this table, SlU and Company officials hammer out 15,000 hours overtime for the crew on the first voyage of the SS Del Norte, Mississippi Steamship Company. Quarters for the Stewards Department are also to be enlarged so that more hands can be carried in that Department. Left to right around the table, Scotty Findley, Deck Delegate; Red Gibbs, Patrol­ man; Mike Early, Jim Richards, and E. W. Lisbony, Mississippi SS Company; Steely White, New Orleans Agent; Farrell Winborne, First Mate, and Dick Birmingham, Patrolman. Here are a few of the men who were responsible for the high standard of food aboard the Alcoa Pegasus. In the middle is B. A. Muslo. Second Cook. To the left and right of him are W. B. Zaunseil, Chief Steward and J. Groeschner, Utility. The James Duncan also hit New Orleans recently. Directly above is a picture of the Engine Department and at the right are some other crewmembers, including at least one from the Stewards Department. Above, from left to right. J. Falasca, S. Belich. L. Borrego, M. McCarthy, M. McKay, and E. Pease. At the right, in the usual order. D. Strelow, F. Behan, J. Johnson. B. Guthrie. W. Liebers, H. Karlson, S. Stephens, and K. Liebers. K. Liebers looks like the only Stewards Department man in the picture, but we could be wrong. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six Friday, February 14, 1947 Report Of NLRB Regional Director UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BEFORE THE NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD SECOND REGION In the Matter of ISTHMIAN STEAMSHIP CO. and SEAFARERS' INTERNATION­ AL UNION, AFL Case No. 2-R-6030 REPORT ON OBJECTIONS miss this portion of the Com­ TWO OF MANY pany's objections. The Board in its Order Direct­ ing Election provided that all un­ licensed personnel in eligible classifications employed aboard vessels owned and/or operated by the Company whether as gen­ eral agent for the War Shipping Administration or as owner were eligible to cast ballots in the elec­ tion. In view of this, the under­ signed finds no merit in the Company's contention that em­ ployees aboard vessels operated by the Company as general agent are ineligible. The Company in its objections also alleges that the following vessels were acquired since Jan­ uary 18, 1946 through purchase of bareboat charter but, despite this fact, the Board did not per­ mit the unlicensed seamen serv­ Left toi right are Bill Brown, and Jack Giller. two of the ing on these vessels to vote in many SIU ; members who volunteered to sail Isthmian during the election. jhe campaign to organize this company. Both put in many Steel Artisan; Sea Cardinal; months on that job, and their efforts were certainly worthwhile, Marine Arrow; Sea Shark; Belle as the count in the election proved. White caps off to these of the Seas; Oriental; Pampero; militant Seafarers! Sirocco. Twin Falls Victory; Richard AI- pany counsel, submitted a list Cape Catoche; Cape Domingo; Cape Elizabeth; Cape Friendship; vey; James W. Cannon; George of unlicensed personnel in the Cape John; Cape Meredith; Cape B. Chamberlain; Harry Glucks- deck, engineering and stewards' Sandy. man; Harry Lindsley; Harold I. departments who on March 18, Thomas Sim Lee; Aram J. Pratt; James Turner; James D. 1946, were serving aboard all the vessels which were then owned Pothier; William Tilgham; Alle­ Trask. The Company, through its and/or operated by the Company. gheny Victory; Citadel Victory; Buoyrus Victory; Legion Victory; counsel, refused to supply the The date of eligibility under the Longview Victory. dates on which the above listed Board's Order Directing Elec­ Marquette Victory; Minot Vic­ vessels were acquired by the tion is March 18, 1946. Unlicensed tory; Oberlin Victory; San An- Company. However, on April 4, personnel aboard all of the ves­ 1946, A. V. Cherbonnier, Com­ sels listed on the April 4, 1946, gelo Victory; Trinity Victory. On January 14, 1947 the Na­ tional Martime Union, CIO, here­ inafter referred to as the NMU, and the Isthmian Steamship Company, hereinafter referred to as the Company, filed objections to conduct affecting the results of the election held during the period March 20, 1946 to Novem­ ber 18, 1946, pursuant to an Or­ der Directing Election of the National Labor Relations Board, hereinafter referred to as the Board, dated March 19, 1946, and an Order Amending Direction of Elections dated April 18, 1946, and a Further Order Amending Direction of Elections dated Oc­ tober 17, 1946 the results of which were set forth in a Revised Tally of Ballots issued January 9, 1947. Pursuant to the Board's Rules and Regulations, Section 203.55 the undersigned hereby issues his Report on Objections. The Company alleges that sea­ men employed aboard vessels managed by the Isthmian Steam ­ ship Company as agent for the War Shipping Administration, and/or the U. S. Maritime Com­ mission, are not employees of the discussing this concrete evidence (Continued from Page 1) Company but are employees of who refused to accept one, and of union solidarity. the United States and that the many people came back for more, Appreciation of the work done U. S. Maritime Commission with­ stating that they wanted to make by the Seafarers was voiced by drew the vessels listed below sure that others in their office M. David Keefe, President of Lo­ from agency management by the would receive the message. cal 205, in a letter to Paul Hall Company, notwithstanding which The narrow streets in the finan­ after the distribution had been the Board permitted the unli­ cial area were clogged with completed. censed seamen serving thereon to people reading the circulars and Brother Keefe characterized vote in the election: Alamo Victory; Hubert Howe Bancroft; James L. Breck; Wil­ liam N. Byers; Claremont Vic­ WHAT GOOD IS COLLECTIVE BARGAINING? tory; John Constantino; Peter V. These are fundamental questions that must now be answered Daniels; Francis Drake. by every employe in the financial industry. A time for decision William Eaton; Edmund Fan­ is approaching. The issues are swinging out into the open. You ning David Dudley Field, Gabriel must face them honestly now, for sooner or later you will Franchere; Hawkins Fudske; have to choose sides. Stephen Girard; William GlackThe Seafarers International Union of North America. AFL, ens; Grainer Victory; William B. has already chosen sides. Ogden; Michael Pupin. We're supporting the UFE in its drive to win recognition Sea Fiddler; Sea Flasher; Sea from the die-hard employers in the brokerage business. Phoenix; Sea Scorpion; William D. Hoard; James Ives. THE SIU HAS LEARNED Anson Jones; Thomas Kearns; We know how good a Union is! We remember the Mary A.. Livermore; Norman E. days when seamen were shanghaied and made to endure untold Mack; Mandon Victory; Horace hardships. We remember when seamen stood long, weary Mann. watches for short pay, and with intolercLble living conditions. Winthrop L. Marvin; W. W. Today, our ships are clean and comfortable. Our working McCrackin; Samuel Mclntyre; conditions are regulated. Our pay is adequate, and is guaran­ Joacquin Miller; Francisco Morateed by our Union contracts. zan; J. Sterling Morton. These changes were won by a strong Union! Nicaragua Victory; Ocean Tele­ UFE HAS LEARNED, TOO graph; John Barton Payne; Clerical employes are taking the long way home. But. George Read; George Uhler; Hor­ wherever they have charted their course to win Union recogni­ ace Wells; William Whipple; tion, they have scored substantial improvements. UFE has Frank Wiggins. achieved contract gains in wages of 68.5% in three contracts The Company, through its covering Exchange units. counsel, refused to supply the Today, strengthened by its AFL affiliation, UFE is pre­ dates on which the above listed pared to extend similar benefits to its brokerage units and to vessels, were, in fact, withdrawn ALL employes in the industry who join with it. by the U. S. Martime Commission from agency management by the YOU NEED A UNION Company. On the basis of data Collective bargaining will correct the inequities of inade­ supplied by U. S. Martime Com­ quate base pay, uncertain overtime, and the total lack of job mission it is clear that the above .•security which plague your business. listed vessels were all under The SIU, AFL, stands four-squared behind the UFE, AFL, agency management by the Com­ in effecting its program. Join UFE today with complete con­ pany both on March 18, 1946 (the fidence. eligibility date set herein) and This was published and distributed by the Seafarers In­ on the dates when all of the ships ternational Union as a gesture of fraternal cooperation with: and each of them were ballotted. Local 205, OEIU, AFL The undersigned therefore recommends that the Board dis­ 40 Exchange PJ., Room 306 New York 5, N. Y. SIU Distributes 25,000 Leaflets For UFE What Good Is A Union? the UFE campaign to organize banking employes as an "uphill fight," but stated that with the cooperation of the SIU, "now we know we cannot lose." The text of the letter follows: Mr. Paul Hall Director of Organization Seafarers Int'l Union Dear Brother Hall: Today's SIU distribution in .behalf of the United Financial Employees, AFL, had an elec­ trifying effect. Every member of our organ­ ization is deeply grateful for' the whole-hearted cooperation that the SIU is extending to our effort. Our cause is a just one. It has been a dirty, up­ hill fight, but now we know we cannot lose. On behalf of our member­ ship, our officers and myself, I wish to extend to you and to your membership, our sincere thanks and appreciation for your support. Fraternally yours, M. David Keefe, Pres., United Financial Emplpyees Local 205, OEIU, AFL For a long time office workers have been among the most poorly paid employees. The rise of the UFE has been spontaneous, and it has grown steadily since first making its appearance^ Even the threats and coercion of the banking interests has not been able to stymie the union, and where contracts have been won, the workers have acheived worth-while gains in wages and conditions. The CIO Office Workers Union has declined steadily since the AFL entered the field, and with the support of the Seafarers, of­ ficials' of the UFE look forward to many new contracts in the near future. communication participated in the election. It therefore appears that the vessels listed in the Company's objections were ac­ quired subsequent to the date of eligibility. The Company has shown nothing to the contrary. The undersigned therefore re­ commends that this portion of the Company's objections be dis­ missed. INCLUDED STEWARDS The Company, in its objec­ tions, also contends that the Board erred in including chief stewards, who are allegedly su­ pervisory employees, in the bar­ gaining unit. The Board had pre­ viously considered this issue, which was raised before the Trial Examiner at the formal hearing held on the petition, but never­ theless directed that chief stew­ ards be included in the bargain­ ing unit. The undersigned there­ fore recommends that this objec­ tion be dismissed. The NMU in its objections al­ leges, in substance, that prior to and following the date of the for­ mal hearing on the petition the Company aided and assisted the Seafarers' International Union of North America, AFL, hereinafter referred to as the SIU, by enter­ ing into an argument with the SIU personnel and deny employ­ ment to members of the NMU, for the purpose of insuring that the SIU obtain a majority of votes cast in the election and that pursuant to such agreement the Company discriminated against against NMU by discharging and refusing to employ NMU mem­ bers. The NMU further alleges that both before and after the commencement of the election the Company ,through its super­ visory officials, had made known its preference for the SIU bx en­ couraging applicants for employ­ ment to become members of that organization and at the same time denied available employment to members of the NMU. INTERVIEW WITNESSES In support of its objections, the NMU has submitted numerous statements and affidavits. To date. Board personnel'have inter­ viewed, and received sworn state-, ments from, approximately 10 witnesses which present evidence raising a question of fact which can be resolved only extensive investigation or formal hearing. It is estimated that it will take from three to six months thoroughly to investigate all of the NMU's objections. This is based upon the Board's past ex­ perience in maritime cases with respect to the difficulty of obtain­ ing information from individuals who are often inaccessible be­ cause of absence at sea, as well as the fact that some of the in­ cidents referred to by the NMU allegedly occurred in numerous ports on the Atlantic, Gulf and West Coasts. Assuming a com­ plete and time-consuming ex parte investigation at this time, shiuld the Board find the said in­ vestigation disclosed substantial and material issues, a formal hearing would be necessary. Con­ siderable time must further elapse in order that- witnesses could again be made available for formal testimony and cross-ex­ amination by all parties. The undersigned must also take cognizance of the very sub­ stantial drain on the Board's limited funds which would flow from such proceedings. Of para­ mount importance, however, is 'he consideration that in repre(Continued on Page 9) �r T H E S 'E A F d R E'R S L O G Friday, Fabraury 14. mVT Page Seven Cliicago i^nt Follows A Hunch, Saves iSelf From Icy Vacation By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO—The usual practice here on the Lakes is for the Agent or Patrolman to ride the ijassenger ships on payday to square away the beefs, but if I had observed this custom I would not have been here to file my weekly report. I was up in Milwaukee to make the trip on the Milwaukee Clip­ per over to Muskegon, Michigan, but something told me that the Clipper would get over to the Michigan side of the Lake and there she would stay. Acting on the hunch 1 didn't make the trip but handled everything in Milwaukee, and just as I thought, the next day the company announced that the Clipper is on the other side of the Lake and in the ice, but solid. If 1 had made the trip 1 would have been on an involuntary va­ cation for three or four days. The Milwaukee Clipper oper­ ates between Milwaukee, Wis. and Muskegon, Mich., carrying new automobiles both ways, when she can get through the ice. During her summer run' she makes one and one-half trips daily carrying passengers and automobiles. Also running between these ports are the carferries which operate all year around. How­ ever, this is the first year since the war that the Clipper has been in service the whole year. ICE FIELD FORMED During a severe winter, like the one we are having now, a westerly, northwesterly, or a strong north wind blows all the ice that is formed over to the ALLTMIS ICE AMD KO BOURBON y Michigan side of Lake Michigan, forming an ice field, which has been known to extend out in the Lake about twenty miles, and have a thickness of over five feet. During the past few years the weather has not been so severe, but years ago it was nothing for ships to be stuck in the ice for weeks at a time. During a severe winter in the 20's, I worked on the SS Ala­ bama on a steady run between Chicago and Grand Haven, Mich­ igan. Right in the worst part of the winter we were stuck in the ice off Muskegon for two weeks. RUGGED FORTNIGHT It was a real rugged two weeks we spent aboard that old scow. She was a coal burner, carrying all kinds of freight, and after about seven days we ran oflt of coal and tobacco. For two days we were burning up the cargo to maintain steam and keep warm. With the cigarettes all gone, the fellows were hunting in all comers of the ship for butts they had tossed away, /ftter awhile we made up a concoction of straw and flavoring, and believe it or not it didn't taste too bad. After two days of this we were getting desperate, but we were saved when a supply of coal and cigarettes came out to us on a horsedrawn sled. We got a good head of steam up, and when the wind shifted • we dynamited our way out. RIGHT AT HOME Those were rough days and this winter brings such stories to mind again. If any of you broth­ ers have hankered to make a trip with a Byrd Expedition, you can get the same thing by coming up here and shipping on one of thesfe year-round Lakers. You'll have all the experiences of an expedi­ tion right here in the middle of the USA. We have received a report from the head of the C&B Lines that the City of Grand Rapids will remain a coal burner for the com­ ing season. We had heard she was switching to oil, which would not have been so good for us. If she had switched it would have meant the loss of twelve jobs to us and that's not good. NO NEWS?? Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: CORPUS CHRISTI SAVANNAH CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE BALTIMORE MARCUS HOOK The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due, etc., is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue mEiterial received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. Company Handouts Are Far Cry From Union Contract Conditions By HENRY W. CHAPPELL TOLEDO—Great Lakes District Officials are still busy working on our 1947 contracts. However, it is too early to give any infor­ mation as to their provisions. All seamen can rest assured that the new agreements will surpass any wages and conditions now in ef­ fect anywhere. In addition to higher wages and better conditions over the old contract, these new contracts will contain, of course, the usual pro­ visions guaranteed to union sea­ men that unorganized seamen still have to contend with. Rotary shipping, always a part of our contracts, will be con- Stormy Weather Does Not Slow Need For Rated Men In New York By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—The weather up here is something that we should have had around Christmas time, but if we couldn't have a white Xmas, at least the snow now is not stopping our shipping. In fact, since the snow fell last week, business has picked up. That means that we are still hungry for rated men, and if there are some men on the beach in a port where shipping is slow, they should get in touch with the New York Hall and we can probably do something for them. There are more tankers in this port than ever before in my me­ mory. Dry cargo ships come in every day, and between the two groups of ships the Patrolmen are kept pretty much on the run. Waterman has started taking ships out of the boneyard, and as soon as they are ready for Retroactive Pay Seafarers writing to the be­ low-named companies for re­ troactive pay should address their communications as list­ ed: South Atlantic Steamship Company—Savannah Bank and Trust Bldg., Savannah, Ga. Mississippi Shipping Com­ pany — Hibemia Bank Bldg., New Orleans, La. Los Angeles Tankers — 365 West 7th Street, P. O. Box 380, San Pedro, Calif. Deconhil Tankers—311 Cali­ fornia Street, San Fran­ cisco, Calif. Pacific Tankers — 433 Cali­ fornia Street, San Fran­ cisco, Calif. service, there will be many more jobs up on the board. ORGANIZING PLANS Fred Farnen, Detroit Agent and Secretary-Treasurer of the Great Lakes District, and Henry Chappell, Toledo Agent, are here in New York planning strategy that will be used in the Great Lakes Drive which starts soon. They have been in conference with Brothei's Paul Hall and Bull Sheppard, and what they are cooking up will be of benefit to all Lakes seamen. Congress has appropriated an­ other $50,000 to investigate the Maritime Commission. If that keeps up, the investigation will cost more than the MC . wasted during the whole war. Sooner or later the stalling will have to come to an end, and when that happens there will be a story that the people of the United States will remember for a long time. It's going to embarrass a lot of people, but they played fast and loose with the taxpayers' money, and they deserve everything that happens to them. ANTI-LABOR LAWS Congress is also considering anti-labor bills by the score. It seems as though every Congress­ man has a different idea on how to handcuff labor and break the back of the working stiffs. But they all agree on one point, and that is to really stymie Ijie labor movement. They ought to force all Con­ gressmen to study history, and then they would be able to see for themselves what shackling labor means. They would learn that break­ ing up the labor movement in Italy, Germany, and Spain led to dictatorships in those countries, and that it took a bloody war to bring democracy back to two of them. It's a shame that the people who are supposed to represent us in Congress are not smart enough to learn from the mistakes of other lawmakers in other coun­ tries. TWANVCSI'LLPUTU , IN THE BANkJ tinued, thereby guaranteeing a job to the man most entitled to it. When a job is called into the Hall by the ship's delegate, it is posted on the board and the old­ est registered man gets it. No more of the old bootlicking and paying for jobs. No more do the good jobs go to the pets of a company stiff, nor is a berth gained by a ten» spot being handed to the right company man. JOB GUARANTEE All these phony tricks are elim­ inated and jobs are distributed democratically. No one in the SIU has to save a fin for a ship­ ping master, his job is guaran­ teed by the date on his card. On an SIU ship, as provided in our contracts, a Mate cannot fire a man in order to replace him with some relative or friend. This practice has been the rule for years on Lake Carrier ships and has been approved by the high officials of this association. Also, when a Mate or Engineer wants some work performed that calls for overtime, there can be no disputing the subject, as all duties and working hours are clearly defined in all SIU con­ tracts. The SIU strictly abides by all of its agreements and also insists that the company do likewise. When any welching is attempted by the ships' officers or company officials, then the SIU represen­ tatives step in and right the wrongs. STRIKE, LAST RESORT Our policy is to keep amicable relations with the company. We do not call a strike because some AB wants more water in his soup, as the shipowners would like un­ organized seamen to believe. Strikes are expensive both to the Union and the company, and are used as a last resort after every other channel for reaching accord has ben exhausted. If there is no other course open for seamen to gain their just de­ mands, and a strike becomes necessary, a democratic vote is held and the seamen decide if they want to hang the hook! The Union's membership de­ cides if a strike is to take place,, and a majority must be in favor of strike action. This is union democracy and the Seafarers' way of doing things. AdvlcR From Agent: Notify Hall As Soon As Your Ship Ties Up By EDDIE HIGDON PHILADELPHIA — Things are beginning to look up in the port of Philly. We've had four pay­ offs in five days and it looks like more are on the way. With the assistance of Brother Ernest Tilley, I've been covering most of the ships that come in here. Tilley is the former Pa­ trolman from Baltimore who is now holding down the same job here. We've been kept quite busy running around to the various ships for payoffs and such, and with Brother Tilley we handled everything right there at the point of production. . I can truthfully say that Bro­ ther Tilley is Baltimore's loss and Philly's gain, as he is a good man to have around when beefs are on the fire. We're still looking around for a bigger Hall, as on meeting nights only about half of the membership can get into the Hall. I've been scouting the town for a new location but as yet I have not found anything satisfactory. It seems that buildings of the type that we want are very scarce, but we will keep our scouts out and something will turn up eventually. Now that we are getting a lot of ships in here for payoffs, I'd like to ask the delegates of all ships hitting Philly to contact the Hall just as soon as they hit the dock. If they give us the name of the ship and whei-e she is tied up, we will hit the ship and square away the beefs, if any. It happens every once in a while that the boys do not. let us know when a ship hits port, and when the payoff comes along the Patrolman has to work his head off, or hold up the ship until all beefs are squared away. If the delegates let us know in advance, we can square away the beefs before the payoff and save time—and, what is more important, get the boys what is coming to them. �THE SE AF ARERS LOG Page Eight Friday, February 14, 1947 AMONG THE BEST Frisco Shipping Is Out Of Fog And Starts Humming Once Again By W. H. SIMMONS SAN FRANCISCO — The old Gold Coast has finally come out of the fog with things really on the hum again. Shipping is good and gaining right along. With things as they are now, I am a happy fellow with no beefs at all. I see that we now have a num­ ber of new faces appearing in the differeht Atlantic and Gulf Of­ fices. I want to take this oppor­ tunity to say "hello" to all of you new officials and hope to see you at the Agents' Conference. During the past ten days, we've had the Josiah Bartlett, Joe Marti and the Albert Burleson in for payoffs. Reports have it that Seattle, Portland and San Pedro have had a few payoffs too. I'd like to put in a word of praise for two organizers whom, I believe, most Isthmian crewmembers know and have had the pleasure of meeting many times in this port. They are Brother Ed Turner and Serge Nova, whose pictures appear on this page. These two men did a lot of good work during the recent Isth­ mian organizing drive, and de­ serve a hand for their untiring ef­ forts. Many thanks to the good work done by these two men. New Agent Gets Sun And Shipping Dope In San Juan By SALVADOR COLLS SAN JUAN—Having just left the icy climes of New York to assume the duties of Agent here in San Juan, I'm soaking up the Enchanted Island's sunshine with real appreciation. After reading the reports of the weather now being "enjoyed" in Pictured here, aboard Isthmian's Marine Robin when she New York, the warm breezes car­ stopped off at San Francisco, are (left to right) Thomas Smith, essing the Island are most en­ Ed Turner and Serge Nova. These Brothers are among San joyable. Francisco's top-notch organizers. The past two weeks have been tough ones for Brother Butts as he has had a lot of beefs, most of them on the Island ports. He re­ ports shipping as being very good during the past two weeks, but about 100 ships under the Sea­ any member desiring to act in has slowed down this week even farers' Banner. this drive can do so by contact­ though we have quite a few In order to make this driye a ing headquarters in Detroit, giv­ ships around. complete success, I am calling ing in detail their suggestions. SHOREGANG WORK All of the AFL waterfront I have requested from Head­ 6 _ unions in the Great Lakes Dis­ quarters an agreement for the trict have offered their coopera­ shoregang and as soon as I get tion, and I can see no reason it I will start working on it. why we cannot be successful in I am going to try my best to organizing all of the bulk freighters on the Great Lakes un­ get a better agreement as I see that the boys are very interested der the SIU. in these shoregang jobs, especial­ We know that each season the ly when shipping gets tough. SIU has set the wage standard on When I took over there were the Great Lakes and that the four ships in port, but I had no Lake Carriers have kept their lime to cover them as I was wages in proportion in order to checking our equipment. I'll be stop us from organizing. out there and on board the next We know that our working time these ships hit the Island. upon each and every member to conditions are the best in the in­ After looking over the Hall, I contribute in any way possible dustry, but in order for us to can report that the San Juan their assistance. make this drive successful each Branch doesn't have to take a The Organizers who are to be and every one of us must explain back seat to any other Hall, as it in charge in the various ports these facts to all the seamen on is as comfortable as could be have not all been selected, and the Great Lakes. found anywhere. Report Of The Great Lakes Secretary-Treasurer By FRED FARNEN BUCKO MATE On Saturday, January 22nd, your Secretary-Treasurer and Agent Herbert Jansen met with Brother Harry Lundeberg in Chicago to lay out an organiza­ tional program for the coming season on the Great Lakes. The following are the proposal^: Organizers will be placed in the various Lake Ports from Buf­ falo, New York, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin on or about March J 5th, to contact all ships during fit-out and to arrange meetings in these ports in order to en­ lighten the unoi-ganized seamen on the Great Lakes to the advan­ tages of sailing under an SIU contract. This drive will be paid for by our International and under the direction of Earl (Bull) Sheppard, By STANLEY WARES International Organizer, who was CLEVELAND — With winter in charge of the Isthmian Drive more than half over and spring on the East Coast in which the breezes just around the corner, SIU was successful in bringing it won't be long before the men will be called back to their ships to get them ready for another busy season on the Great Lakes. When the Ethiopia Victory was in here recently, we made efforts to have the bucko Chief Mate pulled off, but due to difficulties beyond our control, he went out on her when she sailed. • Agents should be on the look­ out for this Waterman ship and the Mate. The crew has been promised that this character will sail no more SIU ships. Cleveland Awaits The Spring Thaw On Great Lakes NMU Members WITH THE SIU IN CANADA Lose In Fight After checking up on ships ly­ ing in ports within a radius of 65 miles of Cleveland, we find that (Continued from Page 3) there are over a 100 ships waiting million and one objections against for that well-known signal that men sailing these tankers having every seaman loves to hear: "An- | the right to choose a union to rep­ chors aweigh and full steam resent them. ahead!" It is significant that despite When we hear that old familiar their brewing, Messrs Curran and soud it will signal the start of the Stack see eye to eye on such organizing campaign that is to disruption! take place on the Lakes this They tried the same tactics on spring. the Standard Oil of California, The groundwork has been care­ and other West Coast Tanker out­ fully lain for this drive. When fits, and were repudiated up and the ice breaks up it will go into down the entire Pacific coast. full swing, and unorganized Lakes' The Seafarers won the elec­ seamen wiU learn that the SIU tions and today sail these ships is the only bona-fide union for under the best tanker contracts ever known. seamen. NOW'S THE TIME if I WANT SIU VANCOUVER, B. C. — The Prince David, sister ship to the Prince Robert has finally sailed out of this port for Blythe, Eng­ land, where she will be delivered to her new owners. We spent quite some time with local representatives of the new owners straightening out the agreement covering wages, over­ time, time-off, and other condi­ tions. After conferring with the rep­ resentatives we reached a satis­ factory understanding and the ship sailed January 17. The report has reached us that the NLRB has announced the end of the Isthmian campaign with the SIU the victor. The overwhelming victory of the SIU in this election, as well as the poor showing of the NMU, is definite proof that the seamen sailing Isthmian are fed up with being pushed around. Their choice is without doubt deliber­ ate, and the will of the majority. The corrupt and frantic at­ tempts of both the Company and NMU in trying to block the SIU from negotiating an agreement for the seamen sailing Isthmian will no doubt receive the con­ tempt of all seamen. History has, a habit of repeat­ Now is the time, as never be­ fore, for all seamen to be or­ ing itself, and today we see the ganized into one strong mili'^ant membership of the NMU joining union. Grouping-together in one ' the unorganized seamen in a • strong body is the only way the wholesale repudiation of NMU seamen can keep the shipowners leadership policies and crying for from trying to return seamen to Seafarers leadership. The Seafarers has no desire to conditions of 10 or 20 years ago. see the NMU wrecked, but it has All unorganized seamen should I the duty of providing a haven take time to look at the record. ' for the NMU membership when There you would see the SIU has the wreck occurs. always set the wages which are If even one single company re­ the highest in the world, and the mains unorganized, then the shipLake Carriers Association and the I owners have a fortress from rest have followed later like which to launch their attacks on RETROACTIVE PAY obedient little sheep. wages and conditions. The recent increases gained for Don't let these shipowners kid Collapse of the NMU would the men aboard the Canadianyou into believing that they are mean many companies without National and Canadian-Pacific giving you those high wages out union contracts. Steamship Companies ships are of the goodness of their hearts. The Seafarers must organize at present being paid. Any mem­ The hard cold facts are that the against such a contingency. A SIU forced them to shell out and strong Seafarers means security ber having worked for either one of these companies should apply there's no disputing that. •for all seamen, come what may. ' to their offices for this money which is retroactive to June 15, 1945 for the $12.48 boost and to June 1, 1946 for the $20.80 in­ crease. This little bit of hay should come in handy to everyone, and is long overdue. Further in­ creases and better woi'king con­ ditions arc still in order, and must be obtained to give the seamen the standard of living they are entitled to. There have been a lot of re­ ports coming in of beefs on over­ time in the CPR which could be very easily fixed up. The thing to do when in doubt is to put it down on paper and turn it to the Mate or Engineer. Then, if he says it is not overtime that is the time to beef. ATTENTION! All Canadian seamen on Coastwise vessels should never neglect to pick up their discharges on leaving a ves­ sel. When you register at the Hall for a ship and have no discharges to show, or prove your rating, or length of serv­ ice, you only handicap the Dispatcher. In addition you cause yourself inconvenience and perhaps unemployment. Always remember, when you are dispatched to your, new ship, the Mate or En­ gineer is going to ask you for discharges. See that you have them. A lot of the fellows go about this the wrong way. They think something is overtime and with­ out asking the Mate about' it come running to the Patrolman saying the Company will not pay it. The only way to find out is to turn it in. Then, if it's not paid, that's the time to beef. SIGN ARTICLES Here's a tip that cannot be stressed enough. When going aboard a ship, don't be a sucker. Be sure to sign the articles before turning to. Before going to work, get up to the Purser's office and get your name on the articles. Don't risk your life and limb by failing to sign on, for that is ex­ actly what you would be doing. If anything happened to you while on board ship and you hadn't signed articles, you would be up the creek. If you tried to get compensation the company could turn around and say it is not responsible for you, as you are not on the ship's articles. Don't take chances. Demand to sign on before turning to — It's the law. The SIU has taken up the ques­ tion of turning men to before signing articles with the Depart­ ment of Transportation and we were assured that seamen do not have to work before being cov­ ered by articles. There are penalties to be in­ voked against any company that insists upon this. The seamen is guaranteed his rights under the terms of the Canada Shipping Act. Report any infractions of this to the Union Hall. . �Friday, Febraury 14, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Berger Hansen Page Nine NMU Hopes Fade OnLakes;Record is Death Warrant By EINAR NORDAAS Although born in Brooklyn, DULUTH—When the organiz­ Brother Berger Hansen, Bosun, By FRENCHY MICHELET ing drive opens on the Lakes this • got his early sea training as a Moved by a brotherly regard continental Europe is about to spring. Lakes seamen will be Norwegian sailor. Not that he for the editorial staff of the Log stand tip-toe to peek into the shown the difference between a didn't like Brooklyn, it was just and by a natural concern to do realms of perpetual ice and snow. phony political front union and that he was raised in Norway, our part to avert a threatened a real sailors' union. She IS justly renowned for her and at the age of 14 he decided calamity, rather than by any celebrated Lacrima Christi, a Now that the recent develop­ to go to sea. ments within the NMU have ex­ mere urge to be scribbling (Ye wine whose name, one of our la­ It wasn't until 1921 that he posed the true picture of how Editor tells us that news is so tin friends tells us, may be ren­ came back to the United States, that union has been only a front scarce that he*may eventually be dered in English as the Tears of and soon after that he joined the for the communist party with reduced to the terrible expedient Christ. ISU. Since then he has been sailors' rights and welfare given of printing Shuler's recipes), we Several years ago we persuaded sailing American ships. When secondary consideration, the SIU have determined to hasten to the a gullible skipper to buy a whole the ISU broke up, he joined the can go ahead unretarded by any rescue of our harrassed friends case of this heavenly nectar (vin­ SIU in 1938, and has been an ac­ such internal conflicts, and gain with a little account of our so­ tage of '29, yet!) for cooking pur­ tive member from that time to for the Lakes seamen the best journ in the Sicilian port of Pa­ poses. About three days from this. lermo on the good ship Thomas wages and conditions. New York he came pounding on Brother Hansen was on the When the drive opens we ex­ Heyward. our door. Mediterranean run during prac­ Incidentally, this "good ship" pect to find more opposition from "Please, Steward," he said, tically the entire war period. He the company-sponsored LSU and stuff sort of slipped out in the ' please give the cooks a little of was at Oran when the American those men who say they believe confusion of trying to both com­ that wine to put into the food— troops made the landing there, "Why," he says, "in the old that the company gives more pose the above paragraph and to and although the docks and other days a seaman was a slave. Now money and grants concessions out hunt out the keys on this damn just once!" installations were hit by dive typewriter at one and the same LIVING WELL it's different, and seamen are just of the goodness of its heart. bombers, he was happy to see These seamen do not seem to time, so perhaps we had better as free as other workers. The It's good to be alive in this that no ships were damaged. Union did that for us, and we understand that the only reason qualify the term. fruitful land. To live a day in After the end of the war, Han­ would be fools if we ever forgot for this benevolence is the fear The Thomas Heyward is a the Mediterranean is surely pre­ sen tried his hand as a volunteer that." that unionism will spread among Liberty ship. ferable to hibernating a year in organizer in the Isthmian Drive. Brother Hansen ended the in­ the crews, and union wages and As if that in itself isn't bad mere existence. He made a trip on the John terview with some practical ad­ conditions will become a matter enough, we have just crossed the The man who pledges his youth Wanaxnaker to the Baltic, from vice. of course, and not a reward for miserable North Atlantic on her to secure his declining years has January to March, 1946, and he "Every SIU man should serve rejecting the union. in the dead of winter via the made a sorry bargain with life, was happy to hear that the Wan- as volunteer organizer for at When every seaman's duties route of the Great Circle, under for merely to be alive is not amaker went SIU in the election. least one trip. That would spread are clearly defined in a contract, the impression that we were necessarily to live. "It was sure tough on the the job around to more people, there can be no chiseling by the bound for Bremen, Germany—a Machiavelli tells us that Wanamaker," he recollects. "We and would also make the mem­ ships' officers as the companies mistake that the Army saw fit to had a labor-hating Skipper and bers more appreciative of the will be expected to live up to rectify only after we had crossed Caesar Borgia abandoned all thought of pleasure, and took inFirst Mate. They made life mis­ wages and conditions won by the their agreement. the 14th meridian. finitismal pains to assure his suc­ When you unorganized seamen erable for all of us. I hope that SIU. Need we say more! cession upon the death of his guys like that get their due now "The job has to be done," he are contacted by an SIU Organ­ Our natural inclination is to father Pope Alexander. But what that we have won the election." concluded, "and if we all get in izer this spring, give him a min­ give you a minute account of the 1 Caesar didn't know was that there and plug, then we can't ute or two of your time. It won't STRIKE DUTY postwar fate of those celebrated when the old buzzard got around lose, and we can win more ad­ take long to learn the real score, shrines of antiquity whose flagto dying, he himself would also and it will pay dividends. In September, 1946, Brother vantages for all seamen." be dying. Hansen was on the William SeaLire are the medium of ex­ ton, American Pacific. He piled change here, but cigarettes are off when the General Strike was oou LA! I the only true lever for prying called, and made his way to Bal­ loose what you want from the timore where he stood picket lAfAEmuSi- shopkeeper's hands. duty. ASMTOR THIS I The people are desperately At the end of the SIU strike, By JOHN MOGAN poor, However, tyrannical gov­ he assisted in the MM&P beef, BOSTON—Business and ship­ ing probationary books, and the ernments have plundered them and when that was finally over ping in the port of Boston has book members, who realize that for so many ages past that they he grabbed a job on the Ameri­ been pretty good over the past a little competition for jobs is have learned to wear their pov­ can Eastern's MV Gadsden. in the making. couple of weeks—a mild boom, erty with a grace born of in­ He is still a part of that crew Illustrative of the favorable numerable generations of pov­ we would call it. although he has recently been in situation is the fact that once in The West Coast tankers hit this erty-stricken ancestors. the hospital for a short while. a while —very occasionally— it area quite regularly, usually dis­ Now that he has recovered, he The men are strong and well charging either at Portland Or becomes necessary to issue a new has already rejoined the ship. stoned courts have so often re­ formed, and the women — but Boston, with an occasional scow permit for a 'pierhead' job, while sounded to the historical tread that's another story and must Berger Hansen takes his union reports have it the commies have for Providence or Fall River. of this fair isle's long-departed wait another day. Meanwhile we responsibilities seriously. As he A goodly number of contract about 15 book members for every immortals. are off with the gang for addi­ sees it, a union is only as strong available job. as the membership. That's why freighters are hitting the port, Unfortunately, a number of our tional research in this fascinating he volunteers for the tough jobs, also some of them paying off, but ORGANIZING PROGRESSES worldly shipmates have succeed­ subject. Organizing work in the port the greater number are in transit. and that's why his shipmates ed in decoying us into the local have confidence in him and pick However, even these latter ships continues to progress very gin mills, so that we have thus him as Delegate almost every usually take a couple or three smoothly. Tankers are covered far been unable to follow our pretty completely, considering men each. trip. natural inclination to spend all the obstacles placed in the way of our time in meditation within His long years of sea time give EASTERN CREWS by panicky company officials. these hallowed walls. Brother Hansen the knowledge to Of course, the big deal for the And a good many of the members compare sailing then and now (Continued from Page 6) port is the crewing up of the who make this their home port DON'T LEAVE YET and, according to him, there's seritation proceedings before the Eastern ships, which is schedul­ deserve commendation for the just no comparison. However, the time has not Board time is of the essence. It ed to begin very shortly. This spirit of cooperation they mani­ been entirely wasted. We should is the considered opinion of the will take away a lot of members fest whenever there is an organ­ soon be able to give you a very undersigned, that the interest of who have been adorning the Hall izing chore to perform. learned treatise on the purely all parties and the public is best for a long time eyeing those The outlook for the immediate culture aspect of the science oi served and served most rapidly ships across the harbor. When future of the port is fairly bright. anatomy. We are fast becoming and reasonably by adopting a the Yarmouth and Evangeline Two scows are scheduled to pay Income lax •statements from quite expert on the subject simp­ procedure which would obviate are both running, steady jobs for off within the next couple of from the following companies ly by squatting at a bar-side table the necessity of a prolonged ex approximately 250 members will days: the Topa Topa (Waterman) are now at the Chicago Hall. and reverently watching a little parte investigation, with the pos­ Anyone who has worked for be providedi and the Kamaka (So. Atlantic)— honey-haired darling laden with sibility that there would follow a Since at the present time no and, of course, the tankers pop these companies during 1946 a tray of beer glide gracefully by. very extensive hearing on the book members have to wait long into sight unexpectedly and in and have not received their record. Palermo is as pleasant a place statements can have them by for a job, and current activity is the most unexpected places. The undersigned therefore as "is to be found in all this de­ So, at the present writing, writing for them to the Chi­ daily making available to those recommends that rather than em­ licious land of dark-eyed dolls cago hall. book members additional jobs, there are no indications that the barking on an ex parte investiga­ and spicy garlic dishes. Cleveland & Buffalo the SIU can be said to be in a shipping register will gather any dust. Steamship Company and the healthy condition. Lying in an agreeable latitude, tion, the Board direct a formal By the way. Patrolman Jimmy she is the principle city of the hearing on objections to be held The policy of taking in new sand boat companies, name­ ly Construction Aggregates members on a quota basis is also Sweeney reports that the crew of island of Sicily—an island that on not more than five weeks no­ Corp., Tri-Lakes SS Co., and a very sound idea, inasmuch as the SS Celilo has contributed a lies at the toe of the Italian boot, tice to the parties. it keeps everybody on his toes— total ot $34 for Brothers in the and from the map, seems to serve Marine Transit Company. Signed—Howard F. LeBaron, both the permit-book men seek­ hospital. as a sort of footstool on which Reg. Director. NLRB, 2d Reg. Mild Shipping Boom Hits Boston; Union Awaits Crowing Of Eastern Full Text Of NLRB Regional Director Lakes Seamen �;• • Pifiday, Pebtuapy M. 1S47 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Ten MmVRS AMD MEWS Sharswood Men Hit Skipper, In Vessel's Ration Report Pioneer Lads Rub It In —^With Snow While Seafarers in the north­ ern latitudes have been suffering in silence the effects of the cold wave that has gripped most of the country, the fact has come to light that all is not chattering teeth and watery eyes among the boys who wear the emblem of the Brotherhood of the Sea. The minutes of the shipboard meeting aboard the Alcoa Pio­ neer on Jan. 19, after arriving at the Log office encased in an icy envelope, started off with the salutation: "Greetings, you snow-shovel­ ing brothers." . A quick glance at the postmark, — Trinidad, BWI — brought forth a groan. Visions of warm breezes, sunny shores and tropical gear came to mind. "Oh, to be in the Indies now that winter's here." HANDS IN HARMONY The pleasant weather that the boys aboard the Pioneer are en­ joying has apparently extended to the conditions aboard ship, for John Reed, the recording sec­ retary of the meeting reports: "All is smooth and serene here with the. Deck, Engine and Stew­ ards Departments all pulling to­ gether in the well-known SIU manner." • During the meeting proper the crew handled the usual run of business in a shipshape manner. After agreeing to take weekly turns at cleaning the ship's laun­ dry, the crew decided to contact the Captain through the ship's delegate about giving draws in American money in all ports that do not have laws against it. BEAT UP LOCKERS From this the crew agreed that all lockers, due to their beat-up condition, are to be replaced at the first opportunity, also they agreed to get needed screens and windchutes while in Trinidad for the foc'sle and messhall ports. In addition the decision was reached to send both crew and saloon toasters ashore for repairs. About this time the report came from the Skipper that the draws would be made in American money while the greenbacks aboard ship lasted. In concluding the meeting under the relaxing tropical skys, all hands stood in sile/ice for one minute in tribute to the memory of all brothers lost at sea. Handling the gavel during the meeting was brother George Dunn, while the proceedings were recorded by Brother John Reed. CORRECTION # , Due to an error in trans­ mission, the name of the at­ torney handling the distribu­ tion of clothing in Italy un­ der the auspices of the ILA was printed incorrectly. His name is Luigi Palumho. It's exciting when Union Brothers meet unexpectedly. It's even more so when the Seafarers happen to be blood brothers, as well. This unlooked-for pleasure came to the Pilutis boys, pictured above in a Durban Taxi cab, which they hailed in cele­ bration of their meeting. That's Joseph on the left, and Victor alongside of him. Joe, off the Robin Sherwood, and Vic, working on the Hibbing Victory, met accidentally, when their vessels called at Durban at the same time. They hadn't seen each other for three months and didn't know when they'd meet again. They made the most of their three days together in the South African port. Taxicabs in Durban, by the way, seem to work the same way they do in the States, if you'll observe the photo above. Both put their flags up when they have a fare aboard. (Editor's note: The following article, endorsed by the crew of the SS George Sharswood, was submpted to the Log by George Morris, Engine Dele­ gate; Fred Kagelmacher, Deck Delegate; - James Davis, Stew­ ards Delegate and Peter Davies, recording secretary). The SS George Sharswood, Soutl} Atlantic Steamship Com­ pany, signed on an SIU crew in Charleston, S. C., Dec. 4, 1946. South Atlantic had just acquired this ship under bare-boat charter. When we, the crew, signed on, we were promised by the Cap­ tain of the vessel, and the com­ pany agent, that fresh stores, a new slopchest and other needed items would be sent aboard in Savannah, Ga. Our Steward submitted to the Captain and the Port Steward a list of those foods we needed for the first three months of the nine-month period on articles. Right at the start the Stewards department ran into'trouble con­ cerning the amount of sugar and flo"br aboard. However, we had refused to sign on until more of this stuff was promised. Always promises! itself rationed to one stale egg a day for breakfast, and generally only one cut of meat per meal. •The Night Cook and Baker ia tearing his hair out trying to bake without eggs. The Chi^l Cook is doing all in his power to skimp along as best he can. This report on our nutriment status does not end our woes. The cigarette and slopchest situ­ ation, is equally deplorable. There has been no range in sizes of the clothes available. They must have figured that one man was going to constitute the crew aboard this ship. The situation reached such a state that the Purser was oblig­ ed to post the following notice ten days before our arrival in the States: "The slopchest below will be open for the last time — today, Sunday, from 3:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. There is NO gum, candy, BUCK. OP. MEM? OWE EGG AMD EVERY OAV.'' SHORT SUPPLIES It probably is needless to men­ tion that the Steward never got all he asked for. Before we ar­ rived in Le Havre, another list sweatshirts, cards, dungarees, -was submitted to the Captain, socks (we have wsize 13 only), containing need for fresh meats, shorts (size 14 only), gloves, etc., that were very badly needed. handkerchiefs or dress shoes." We hit three ports, so there HEAR YE I was no excuse for our companyAn energy-saving: poster would minded skipper in not obtaining sufficient supplies of fresh meat have exclaimed: "NO MORE SLOPS!" and eggs. In Le Havre, Liverpool Most glaring example of the and Glasgow, we saw a paltry quantity of fresh produce trickle Captain's fink rationing concerns aboard. When we left Glasgow, cigarettes. The commissioner had only six weeks of the expected assured us that there were enough to last three months. The three-month-trip had elapsed. When the liarassed. Steward re­ Captain, however, has seen fit to up list of offenses and post it marked to the Captain that he order our "good Joe" Purser to on bulletin board. One minute did not receive what he needed, ration us with only a carton and of silence for Brothers lost at the following classic remark was a half a week. sea. Considering that the cigarettes made by our belly-robbing "old % % ^ are not an issue when in port, man": MARQUETTE VICTORY, "Ha-ha! I knew that we this has meant that many of us Jan. 12—Chairman John Lopez; wouldn't get all of it." have been returning to the Ten­ Secretary William Kumke. Mo­ For the expected 16 days of nessee. and -Montana hills and tion carried that Steward also our return trip, the crew finds rolling our own with one hand. put in order for ice trays. Mo­ tion carried that Purser make up a draw list before entering any port- in order to prevent any delays for crew to go ashore. Delegates reported everything satisfactory. Mo­ tion carried that everyone stay out of galley unless having business there. Motion carried that Chief Engineers sign re­ ceipts for overtime which in turn will be given to men. Good and Welfare: Men to put cups back in sink when fin­ ished with coffee. All hands to use ash trays for cigarettes and matches. % % ^ HELEN, Dec. 15—Chairman Sagarin; Secretary Sidney Segree. New Business; Discus­ sion about keeping messroom Catering to—not robbing—the bellies of the crew on board clean. Penalty for violations to the SS Hibbing Victory was this able Stewards Department, be 25c for first offense and headed by Chief Steward Juan V. Rivera. "Their cooking and douMe for each succeeding vioserving was of the best," says the Hibbing's Engine Delegate, Vincent Russo. (Continued on Page 11) MINUTES UF SIU SHIP M^TINGS DIGESTED FOR EASIER READING ETHIOPIA VICTORY, Jan. 17—Chairman Cassidy; Secre­ tary Yingling. New Business: List of repairs made for better­ ment of ship. Good and Wel­ fare: Suggestion that all foc'sleal be unified according to depart­ ments and this matter be re­ ferred to the patrolman for verification before revamping them. Passageway soogieing discussion with suggestion that Stewards Department handle this. Recommendation that messroom be made to accommo­ date all hands and this matter be referred to Patrolman. FELIX GRUNDY. Jan. 19— Chairman Burke: . Secretary Shaio. Due to Shortage of soap, one cake will be issued to crew. At beginning of next voyage, crew will take more interest in checking stores that come aboard. Steward asked men to try to save coffee and cooper­ ate in keeping messrooms clean. Suggestion that no fines be placed aginst men who fail to clean-up after themselves; in­ stead, matter to be taken up at next meeting and if fines are levied then the money is to go to Brothers in Marine Hospitals. Suggestion that delegates draw CHOW C H U RN E RS illllillllilBjSii , -y - » ( I �Friday, Febraury 14, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings (Continued from Page 10) lalion. Molion carried that whoever is in charge of clean­ ing heads and rooms be notified they have two hours each day * and overtime on Sunday to do (NAME OF SHIP NOT this work. Some crewmemGIVEN) Dec. 7 — Chairman bers have complained of shirk­ Betts; Secretary Kneece. Dele­ ing on the job. Each depart­ gates reported everything in ment delegate is to investigate order. Old Business: Discus­ all complaints and see to it that sion over deficiencies in slopthey are rectified. Motion car­ chest. New Business: Motion ried that any brother who de­ carried for delegates to inves­ liberately misses a watch be tigate deficiencies in slopchest fined double the prev'dling un­ and make consequent report at ion rate and be made to pay next meeting. Good and Wel­ same to man standing the fare: Men who leave dirty cups watch. Only exception is legi­ around will be fined 25c. Money timate excuse. Motion carried to be divided among the Seathat character named Craven ; farers Log and. the hospital who shipped as Chief Freezer, fund. Agreed that all hands and quit one hour before sail­ will wear suitable gear at table. ing time be sevierely reprimand­ Laundry situation ironed out to ed by the union. Such men can­ satisfaction of alL not be tolerated. X X i. Brass Glistens Through Smoke Screen okay. Engine Repartment dele­ gate reported Captain not co­ operating with crew. New Business: Delegates to look over the ship before she sails from next port and have repair work completed. Good and Welfare: Crow asked not to* throw ashes on deck after messman puts ash trays on table. Suggestion made that anyone caught not helping to keep messroom clean will bei brought up in headquarters. Crew quarters that are in bad condition must be looked after before ship sails. Messman asks crew to take care of messroom and help keep it clean. Crew asked not to get careless with silverware and not let it walk away from messroom. Sugges­ tion made that all three dele­ gates go before Captain or who ever has the authority to have something done together. Crew decided not to tolerate any crew member going around buzzing to the mates and en­ gineers our union business held at our meeting. If anything we want them to know our delegate will tell them. Page Eleven SEAFARER SAM SAYS: ^HECK THE STORES SETORG THE CREW SIGNS ON . IF THE SOPPLieSARE INSUFFlCICNT OR OF POOR QVAUITV AIOTIFV THE DEPARTMENT DELESATES ATONCE. NOSHIPSHOOUO SAIL WTIL you ARE SAfiSflEP WITH THe STORCS ! Things promise to be hot fo-' one of the officers aboard the Bessemer Victory when she winds up her present trip in the States if the charges that one 4. t i crewmember has made are found CAPE RACE, Jan. 11—Chair­ to be true. man James Ward; Secretary At the shipboard meeting held John Pritz. New Business: Jan. 19, the crew approved a By HANK Bosun made motion to see that motion that upon their return to XXX Grab your gear, Brother, leave those last few nickels and dimes crew would have more space the U.S. they would investigate AMERICAN PRESS. Dec. G— and those nightly beefs home with your ever-loving wife and hop by opening gunners' messhall. the report that one of the officers Chairman A. Schroter; Secre­ over to the Hall. New York shipping is red hot in all departments Motion passed. Motion carried tary N. A. Cobb. Reports of and better than these last few weeks of good shipping . . . Paul, to get cold water in the scuttle­ ship delegates heard and ac­ Eddie and all other friends, send their best regards to Brother Joe butts either by installing cool­ SCTrfA^l ^ cepted. Discussion held as to Ehrhart who shall be launching himself into the Eternal Splice— MArr.uri ers in passageway, or removing the possibility of storing deck otherwise known as the landlubbing sea of matrimony—sometime the cooling system from the and engine room cleaning gear* this summer over there in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Congratula­ top of the turbine. Motion car­ some other place than the crew tions, Joe! . . . Steward Harry Drummer and Paddy Walsh were ried for new wringers and laundry. Arrangements made supposed to hit Baltimore to ship out. Something happened, how­ washing machine. Delegates re­ to stow gear in Stewards lock­ ever, to Brother Drummer, and he's now anchored in the Staten ported everything running er. Resolution that the crew of Island Marine hospital, while Brother Walsh is getting ready to smooth. Good and Welfare: the American Press go on rec­ grab the first Wiper's job on any Waterman ship handy . . . Happy Deck and Engine Depailments ord to support any opposition Pete King, Peg Leg Anderson and little Benny Rabinowitz just sail­ gave vote of thanks for the to anti-labor legislation which ed into town after paying off in Charleston from their short trip to swell chow the Stewards De­ is before Congress now, or any France . . . Big Frank Bock, the oldtimcr, just grabbed a job as a partment has dished out. Sug­ that may come up in the fu­ second assistant deisel engineer. Good sailing and organizing, Frank. gestion that crew donate what­ ture. Motion carried to support X X X X ever money each person can received 20 cartons of cigarettes the electricians in. their de­ Oldlime F. Johnson. Ihe best deck engineer we've seen on spare to be pooled and given to while the crew was under ra­ mand for quarters separate a ship, is in town for a ship . . . Last week. Clyde "Coffee" Mor­ the fellows in the hospital for tions. from watches. gan came in after paying off in Portland. Maine, which is a busy cigarettes and other needs. The crew vows that they will port for tankers—which means that our Boston Hall is a good smoke out the culprit if the re­ shipping port for tanker men. indeed . . . Looks like Brother port is true. Wonder if they will D. D. Stoiry. the oldtimer. is continuing to do a swell job in detect him by his nicotined fin­ organizing the Isthmian men. Keep up the good work. Brother gers, or will it be by his smoker's Story, and let's see more men following your example. We hack? shouldn't slack our organizing efforts one inch for the men who In relation to the dipping into need and want the SIU. To keep sailing Isthmian ships and the slopchest by one of the of­ other unorganized ships means a lot to those men and to our­ its. ficers, the crew passed a motion XXX selves. MV MANROPE KNOT. Nov. SANTA CLARA VICTORY, that the Patrolman is to be X X X X 1—Chairman A. Bourgot; Sec­ Jan. 22—Chairman Raymond aboard to check the slopchest, Here's a truthful and humorous explanation of a seaman we retary S. P. Dowling. New Pomykala; Secretary Morris and the rationing and pricing of found in a newspaper clipping: "A sailor is a guy who is worked too Business: Motions carried: that Phillips. Delegates reported no the cigarettes. hard, gets too little sleep, takes verbal abuse no civilian would take, all overtime beefs be settled % X X beefs in their departments. does every imaginable job at every imaginable time, never seems before payoff; to notify the WARRIOR POINT. Feb. 2— Good and Welfare: motion car­ to get paid, never knows where he is going, can seldom tell where next crew to check the food Chairman Dave Kosevich; Sec­ ried that commode in Deck De­ stores before sailing the ship: he's been, accepts the worst with complete resignation, and last bu# retary Joe Koone. Old Busi­ partment head be repaired. to notify the' patrolman to have not least—he really likes it" . . . Brother Edginton, the mustached Suggestion made that garbage! ness: System of donating 25 the articles changed from nine juice-doctor, says that he hears that Brother Paper Bag Wilson is ia cents for postage and other be dumped over the side while months to three months on' all town right now. Well, let's hear from you. Brother Paper Bag Wil • business agreed upon. New at sea, and while in port it be Alcoa "Knot" ships; that the son . . . Our apologies to Eddie Kasnowski's mother. We only pulled Business: Motion carried thai dumped on the port side of the crew is not to be made to paint his galley leg about the cookbook and gravy overtime pot. Your deck aft of the house when gar­ anyone guilty of leaving cups over the side while lying along son, Eddie, is such a good cook that one of these atomic days some on messroom tables or any bage cans are filled. Suggestion side of the SS Auditor; that no steamship company is going to name a ship after Eddie, no fooling. place other than where they that all crewmembers cooperate X X X X six-inch or larger brushes are belong, should donate one doland keep the messhall clean, Here's a letter we received from Henry Chappell. Toledo to be supplied for painting; that lare, half to Seafarers Log, and and those who use washroom Agent, who now is visiting New York: "Brother Hank, I have the First Asst. be instructed half to SIU hospital fund. Fine clean it after use. Union mem­ noticed George Curran's statement in your column recently not to do Wipers work such as of $5.00 to be levied against bers stood in silence for onei where he says we could be a little more active here on the Lakes painting. Good and Welfare: anyone damaging toaster. Mo­ minute in tribute to Brothers in our organizational work, which is right. However, last year, Repair list of 15 items read and tion carried that Navy messlost at sea. despite the phony strike of the NMU and all the opposition the approved. room which is being used as ^ » company-sponsored union, the LSU. could offer, this district 4. 4. 4. library be cleaned by the three with the help of Bull Sheppard. won an election of a fleet of MIDWAY HILLS, Nov. 2— departments. Each department JOHN MILLEDGE, Oct. 13— former Lake Carrier ships. This election was recently certified Chairman A. Newman; Secre­ Chairman Russell; Secretary to rotate one week at the task. by the NLRB at Washington, after both the NMU and the LSU tary D. O. Pierce. Motion car­ Early. Delegates reported no Decision reached to have meet­ made all the protests they could think of to the NLRB. This ried that mattresses and not beefs. New Business: Six men ings once a week for durationi district has been alseep for years but we now have our secre­ pads be furnished crew. Good were approved for pro books, of voyage. tary-treasurer (Fred Farnen). a guy we all know and like and and Welfare: Have crew dele­ and two were approved for full XXX who has guts. The results of his work will show this year when gates obtain information for HILTON, Nov. 24 — Chair­ books. Good euid Welfare: Bowe get a few more Lake Carriers ships into the SIU. Several of making crew recreation room sim stales that he is receiving' man Harry H. Haniir; Secre­ them are ripe now. And now that the NMU has rung up Finish-, in Navy Gun Crew quarters. tary Maurice Henderson. Deck no cooperation from topside ed With Engines, we will be able to go to town up here on the Decided to have sanitary work­ and Stewards Department dele­ and are giving him too much Lakes." ers keep heads much cleaner. gates reported everything interference. CUT and RUN 'I! �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve GAY BLADES CUT UP IN THE CUBAN CAPITAL HE ^/s ^TRm NFW ORLEANS ARRIVES I Friday. February 14, 1947 RUSSELL JONES DECK MEN LAUD STEWARDS DEPT. Dear Editor: YOU BUY ME ANOm HO NEY ? /MSH •' THIS* PLACBjE\JEN g STAND HERE:' •r> A CHANCE^ fst' 4' V While his shipmaies on ihe Sealrain New Orleans matched wits with the local belles a Sea­ farer artist, who signs his name as "Davy Jones." sketched these lively proceedings in a Ha­ vana night-spot. Bellyrobbers Do A Bang-up Job, Win Plaudits Of The Jean Crew Dear Editor: Fai- too often one reads letters in the Log complaining about fun­ ctions of the Stewards depart­ ments on SIU ships. Yet praise is.seldom given when a good job has been done. Follows, real praise to a group of men who have earned it. On Jan. 11, the SS Jean was in Maryland drydock. No food had been prepared since Jan. 8, and the messrooms were in a filthy condition, which is natural and a typical state of affairs, when a vessel has been in drydock. About 5 p.m. the new SIU Stewards department came Ggfl -MAT'S REAUY CLEAM! L. ious. Gann's cooking has packed on several pounds that some of the holdovers lost, and Kaiser's baking is a source of never-end­ ing surprise to the men. It is so good, in fact, that all hands hated the thought of buying shore-bak­ ed bread in port. The messmen have given prompt, courteous service, and there hasn't been a beef in the messroom. MORE TO BE DONE But the job done by this swell Stewards department didn't end at that point. Not satisfied with what they had already done, the boys started cleaning up all mess­ ing space. The messrooms and quarters have been thoroughly cleaned and painted where nec­ essary. "Pop" Kaiser mentioned, when he cleaned the galley range, that he found everything there but the Chief Cook from the last trip. Tom Bowers and all his boys deserve rich praise for the fine job they have done, for the only difference between a miserable coastwise trip and a happy one is the food served. We want to go on record as being truly appreciative of Tom's efforts, with accompanying praise for the efforts of the men of his department have exerted. There will be few changes in this crew, if they decide to make another trip. Henry N. Goldman. Deck Del. Hugh C. Randall. Engine DeL SS Jean, At Sea We, the sailors of the Russell R. Jones, would like to say a word of praise for Chief Steward G. T. Oliver and his department for their excellent work and the extraordinary fine, cooked meals .served to us on this trip. The food and the baking surpass,any­ thing any of us. ever before ex­ perienced at sea. So, if you ever ship with Stew­ ard Oliver, you can be sure of being fed—and how! This is one of the cleanest ships that has ever paid off in Charleston, without a beef in any department. The Steward had a lot to do with keeping the men happy. Members Deck Department SS Russell R. Jones ical wreck. Ah, but what a time was had. on this There were quite a few oldC. W. timers on the beach in New Orto say former land. N.0.| WOTTATOWMI Before sailing for Italy Alcoa Liberty, the SS aboard, led by Steward Tom Scripps, I would like Bowers, Chief Cook Charley Gann hello to my friends and and Night Cook Ray Kaiser. Not shipmates up in Yankee to be forgotten are John Diana, WoTTATlMei The North is my home, and I , Dick Fitzgerald, Mike Rossi and Bill Swoboda, messmen and util­ generally ship from Philadelphia or New York, but it seems as ity. though I just have to take a FULL STEAM UP swing along the Gulf ports once The boys turned to with a ven­ geance, and started to clean a year or so. Just to renew old things up. At 7:30 a.m. on Sun- friendships and visit some fav­ dp}/, all messrooms had been' orite joints. thoroughly cleaned and a fine I shipped , aboard the Scripps breakfast was served. in New Orleans. Three weeks in It was only through working half the night that this was pos­ that "most wicked city in the leans, and there are several of sible. Since that date, the food world," and I had to admit de­ them in Pensacola, Fla. To name has been nothing short of luxur­ feat — I'm a financial and phys­ a few, there's Santos Garcia, Bob Thii-ty's Quite Enough By WAYNE MCALLISTER There's a fellow on the poopdeck Way aft the beam astern. Who is sorry for the lesson It was his fate to learn; The day was filled with sunshine And the sea was calm and blue. When the thought first hit the Bosun And he knew just what he'd do. With cot tucked neatly under arm. His smokes within his grasp. He left his clothes behind him. And took himself up aft; TANKER MAN, When once atop the deck-house. He gently made his bed. NEW SIU MEMBER, Then he stretched out bare and APPRECIATES LOG naked. Dear Editor: His hands clasped under his head. Just a line to let you know how much the Log is appreciated by He didn't want a sunburn. a new member. With a tan he'd be much pleased. I was on a Texas oil tanker Thirty minutes was enough when the NMU pulled that To be flciked out in the breeze; phoney deal, just before I joined Now his thought — it was a good the SIU. They always managed one. to get copies of the Pilot aboard. Thirty minutes would suffice. As a consequence, I read a good But sleep soon overcame him. many of these communist-infect­ And he slept through thirty — ed rags. twice. That's why I'm in a position to tell at a glance the difference be­ When at last the Bosun did wake up. tween straight trade-union paper, And the sleep had left his head. and the NMU'.s red propaganda He looked not unlike a boiled rag. lobster. Harold Le Doux He was burned a cherry-red; Likes Log Every Week Dear Editor: / I am a member of the SIU and receive great pleasure from read­ ing the Seafarers Log. To insure my continued enjoyment of the paper I would appreciate it verymuch if you would send it to me every week at my home. E. E. Stewart Baltimore. Md. Blackie Gardner Counted Out Financially In Lively Tussle With The Wicked City' Dear Editor: Log -A- Rhythms Rutledge, "Blackie" Bankston and "Slappy" Creel. We have been here in Pensa­ cola for two weeks now waiting to load, but we should be get­ ting out in a couple of days. This is a typical Florida anti-labor town. The local gestapo just has to see a merchant seaman a little unsteady on his pins and — bang! —into the clink he goes. . That's all for now. Thanks for listening and I'll be seeing you when I get back. Good luck to all, and steady as she goes! Blackie Gardner (Editor's note: Brother Gardner nominates New Orleans as the "most wicked city in the world." Any of you Brothers think dif­ ferently? Let's hear cibout it, if you do.) W>WT TMOSa- spMfjy sfoe V? ? Now this story must be- ended. But first, some good advice: All you sailors wanting suntans. Don't sleep through thirty —. twice! Next-to-the-last Trip By I. H. PEPPER I've had enough of a seaman's life, I want to settle down. I'll buy a little chicken ranch In some far inland town. I've had enough of ships and sea. Of wine and women auid song, I've seen now what I went to see — Been at it too damned long. Sick to death of seaport towns. Salt water in my veins; Tired of all the ups and downs —^ At last I've got some brains. But before this tale gets higher. There's one thing I should add: I'm the most accomplished liar. This side of Trinidad. �Friday, Febrarary 14. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen Maritime Commission's New Steward's Experience Proves Some Guys Lure Draws A Withering Can Stretch Things To Cover Any Error Salvo From The 'Steamboat' Dear Editor: that he would see this for himself, as if he couldn't believe anybody, or that something like this could happen to him or to the mattresses. So he came aboard the ship, measured the mattre.sses and found them short-sized in length and width. Well, as Brother Gottschalk breathes and watches his food, this Maritime official sud­ denly remembered something within his wellpaid noodle, and seriously settled the issue by stating that these mattresses were specially made mattresses which stretch to the proper length when you sleep on them. Ah, that seemed to be enough for the beefworn ears of Brother Gottschalk, at least, if not to the others. So right now,' you can find Mike roaring with laughs about this ridiculous Mari­ time stiff. Mike continues to wonder, incidentally, if the genius of a fool may also have some self- Last week I was informed that Steward Michael Gottschalk had a humorous tale to divulge for in his struggle for decent con­ Dear Editor: publication, a tale all about some ship's mat­ ditions? Has it ever lifted a The Maritime Commission has finger against the guys who try tresses. Well, ship's bilges or ship's mattresses, announced it will give a "Chief to push him around? The an­ I knew it would be a good one. So I rushed up Petty Officer's" rating to anyone swer to all this is a shouted: to the third floor where most yarns are spun, mostly by such old-time weavers as Stewards and with a Junior Engineer's endorse­ "NO." ment. Speaking as a guy who Do you deny that the only cooks. happens to have a junior en­ thing in God's watery world I found Brother Michael Gottschalk, familiarly dorsement, here is my answer to that ever got the sailor any­ wrapped in a long, dark brown overcoat and that the Commission: thing beside sweet talk are the gray fedora anchored on his gourmetic head, Deeir Admirals: seamen's unions? Do you deny smilingly surrounded by the following brothers: I just heard of your offer to that you nautical YMCA is just Steward Walter Walsh, Fireman Herbert Kreutz, give me a Chief Petty Officer's a job-creating agency and a and Chief Electrician Frank Roth. Such Brothers playsuit if I can join your cir­ fink-training machine for the are sailors, not mattress makers, so naturally they cus. Sorry, Kelly,, the answer only know the plain, unfeathered facts abrjut these shipowner. is NO. You can keep your bellthings. WHAT DO YOU TEACH? bottoms and gob caps: I'm Well, good old Mike, with a smile coiled on his What do you teach those poor face, began to spring his mattress yarn. It all strictly a civilian. Not that I'd 'AT'S THE TFOUfiLt- — guys, anyway? I have yet to happened aboard the Grace Line ship, SS Robert be anything else if I wore your You GUVS THOUGHT meet one who could tell who H. Harrison, before she was turned over to the monkey suit. THEV Wgf5g MATt^eSSCS Andrew Furuseth was, or who South Atlantic. Twenty-eight brand-new mat­ Your aping of naval customs — THEV'RE /, knew anything of the seamen's and titles is the laugh of the tresses came aboard as ordered. Inspecting them, piU-OWS; I fight against profit-mad own­ legitimate armed forces. Ask Brother Gottschalk nearly swalled his soup-tast­ ers. I have yet to meet one who ing tongue, when he discovered that they were a naval officer what the Navy knew that a few years ago sea­ short sized all around. The skipper was then thinks of your fake titles and men worked for a dollar a day informed. He measured the mattresses and found he'll turn six colors and give and ate condemned food. Why them to be one foot short in length and four you a 21-gun salute. don't you teach them history Your's is just a college for inches short in width. He in turn called the Port instead of marching? ' fiinks. What possible reason Steward, who measui'cd the darn things and dis­ The trouble with you sit- covered the unfortunate shrinkage, also. A Mari­ have you» for remaining in ex­ j^wn sailors is that you all time Commission man was called on the phone istence now, when there is. a stretching sheets for these specially made mat­ suffer from stenographer's and advised of this situation. large surplus of men looking tresses. Whether he has or hasn't, Mike will not spread. Get on your feet, go for every job? Now at this point, it presumabl3'^- was believed under any sensible circumstance unless unconback to the galley and the by Steward Gottschalk, the Grace Line Skipper WHAT IS IT? ciously shanghaied, take a chance on sleeping on messhall. You'll never under­ and the Port Steward, that-this Maritime Com­ What is the Maritime Ser­ any self-stretching mattress. Who knows if the stand seamen by riding the mission man who would know his onions, at least vice, anyway? It is a scabbydarn contraption won't stretch in the wrong di­ Potomac ferry. love child born of the affair his mattresses, since he is responsible for all rection and strangle him in bed? Who knows? So I'm sorry, boys. The old jorts of things, and that he could and would between the shipowner and the Why, the Martime official knows, of course. "Steamboat" isn't going to join very easily straighten out this small, but never­ bureaucrat. What has it ever He may be serenely, but dangerouslj', sleeping on the Ovaltine Navy this trip." theless important, calamity. Well, the Maritime done for the seaman? the darn things in his own home, right now. You can put away those red expert answered the phone call with the opinion It has put him in uniform, "Cut and Run Hank" anchors. When I want to join yes. It teaches him to sir and your collection of salted seasalute his superiors, yes. It nuts, I'll send you a letter. In pumps him full of anti-union­ fact, I'll drop it in the first ism, yes. But has it ever got mail-buoy I see. him a dollar more to feed his Dear Editor: two of each every week. They he forgot to set the alarm. He Steamboat O'Doyle kids? Has it ever helped him are not only cutting us short on slept until seven-thirty the next In the latest edition of the Log the chow, but I guess there is a morning. He didn't even stop for you corrected a typographical er­ shortage of linen, too. breakfast as he hurried down to ror in the article of a few weeks ago, which said that a ship's en­ I've got a little story that I his new job. He was a half-hour late for the gine had to generate 45,000 HP think is too good not to be men­ job, and the boss fired him. He to make 12 knots. Now you say tioned: trudged his weary way home,, it needs only 4500 to make the There was a young Swede who feeling mighty low on losing the 12 knots. came over to New York from I'll go you one better. As most Stockholm. He found a job, and first job he had in the United members of the Black Gang, and the boss told him: "Now Helga, States. Sitting on his bed, he deject­ a lot of the fellows who -have there's one thing you must re­ edly looked at the clock. In a fit sailed Liberties (and who among member. I always insist on the of anger, he jumped up, grabbed seamen hasn't) the Liberty ship strictest punctuality." the clock, shook it and then, is rated at 2500 HP. I have sail­ "Ja," said Helga, "I are a gud heaved it violently to the floor. ed several of these ships that vorker." A couple of miiiutes later he could do 12 knots, and one that "No," the boss said, "punctu­ picked it up and surveyed the BKOTHJKK wANlS lO KNOW could make 13. So I can safely ality means that you have to be twisted mass of springs and cogs. say that an engine needs to gen­ here on time every morning." HOW LONG BOOKS WILL BE CLOSED Liside the jumbled works he no­ erate 2500 HP to do 12 knots. I am writing this in my own behalf, and if necessary, in behalf "Oh, veil dot's easy," Helga an­ ticed a dead cockroach. While I am writing this letter "Veil, no vunder she vouldn't* of all other trip card or permit men. that on the SIU ships I always swered. "I vill buy an alarm vork," he exclaimed. 'The «iIn the Savannah Union Hall today, I saw a notice that I think had better linen service than I clock today." jineer iss dead." is very unfair to some SIU men. The notice states that unless a trip get in this hospital. Here we get That afternoon, on the way card or permit man'actually stood 100 percent picket duty, he one clean sheet, and one clean home, Helga bought the alarm Clifford Larson Marine Hospital is not eligible to put in an application for a pro book. That means pillow slip each week. At sea, I clock. Before he went to bed Neponsit, New York that he .had to be ashore and not on a trip. never had any trouble getting that night, he wound it up—but Now this really does seem iinfair. If I, or any other man, had , been on the beach when the strike was called, I am sure that I, or TO EUROPE WITH THE MEREDITH VICTORY they, would have been in on the beef 100 percent for the SIU. On all ships that I have sailed, I have always worked in full cooperation with my shipmates, and have always followed their c* • decisions all the way. ... . » I would like to know just how long this new ruling will be in effect. I know that those trip card and permit men who were on picket line duty should come first for pro books, but I don't think it fair to keep a man away from his pro book because he was on a ship at sea when the strike was called, such as I was. It stands to reason that my presence on the picketline was impossible. Anthony C. Parker ANSWER:—^The Union fully appreciates the circumstances involved in your case. Brother Parker, and it sincerely hopes that a change in shipping conditions in the very near future will make possible the reopening of the books. The books are closed only temporarily, in line with the will of the membership as expressed by vote at regular mem­ bership meetings. Naturally, it is a protection for the older At left, the vessel plows her way through the English Chan­ members against the possibility of unemployment. The books nel, off Land's End, Bishop Rock. will be reopened from time to time, as conditions warrant, to Gil Parker, the Meredith's cameraman, focuses his lens on eialde permit and trip card men to procure pro books. .some barges, in the photo above, as they were tied up in th* Once you. have your book, and we hc^ that is soon, youH canal which runs through Rotterdam, The Netherland. appreciate the intention of this ruling. Larson Generates Some Cockroach Power wimimmfmiKt. Ill fe �Pag6 Fourteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Deplores Attitude Toward Those On Unorganized Ships During 1946 General Strike Friday. February 14, 1947 HONOR THE BEARER DUES liW. m. MJUt. . MVS iDH 1 1946 N.YJJAN 1 ?94fi mJAN 1 DUES YEAR—19 1046 IJUf. ro. MAS. • •WNOV ll WB NOV 11 f""? Ui finv H1 Aran. WHtt Personally, I think I would To the membership: N.Y.2.IAM 1 l.qj.R KU Nnv 11 fO/r«? I have become aware of the have had a lot more fun in a week MAT VOLL'Mng fact that many men who were on of tramping a picketline than I lUU the picketlines during the 1946 had during my four month trip General Strike are inclined to aboard an Isthmian hell ship! " 1 lOlT look down upon those of us sea­ Altliuugh I personally was at By JOHNNY JOHNSTON men and organizers who were at sea doing a job for the Union by Aok. organizing Isthmian men, it is sea during this period. The Flying Cloud was the •srr. fastest sailing vessel ever to sail As a volunteer organizer I also injust to criticize a man for under Captain Josiah Perkins signed articles on the Red Rover, being at sea during the strike, OCT. Cressy, she sped from New York Isthmian, Aug. 24, 1946 for a even if he was aboard one of our MOV. to San Francisco in 89 days, a trip to India. One-half hour be­ contracted ships. record equalled only once, and We have contracts to honor, fore the General Strike was call­ DEC. then by the Flying Cloud herself. ed on Sept. 4, we cleared New and once a ship has cleared a port that is not yet struck, we York Harbor. On that trip she logged 374 Volunteer organizers receive one month's free dues for each miles in one day, and she still The critical attitude of a few of cannot order the ship to be haul­ month spent aboard unorganized ships during a drive. Many holds the best average sailing the members toward those of us ed around. SIU members have the words "VOLUNTEER ORGANIZER" vessel time from an Atlantic port It is only an accident that a stamped in books to correspond to the number of months they long voyages under the Ameri­ man happens to be on the beach endured bad conditions and low wages so as to carry the SIU can flag. On her maiden voyage when a strike breaks, for who word to unorganized seamen. to San Francisco. can say a month, or even a week, in advance that there is going to ^ % When the war was over the be a strike. There is every pos­ United States owned more ships sibility in the case of the '46 than ever before in history. If General Strike that up until a all the ships the U.S. owned at few days before the strike broke the end of the war were to pass most men were unaware that a By PAUL PARSONS a given point at the j-ate of one strike was going to take place. If a man shows a strike clear­ In most of these frauds #e per minute, sixty per hour, it From the first day that Stew­ ance card that proves him to have ards started shipping from the Port Steward s hands are tied. In would take five days, thirteen been at sea during the action, board in this Union, instead of many instances I know the Port hours, and twenty minutes, to there is no reason to criticize him. obtaining jobs from the com­ Steward would like to do the ' review that long line of ships. It would be a continuous and If a man has any of the legiti­ panies, some of these operators right thing, but his operations imposing array of military might, mate excuses approved by the have been trying in every way are limited by" the purchasing but remember, we didn't build membership he is above attack, to place the Steward in the agent to those of a glorified er­ them because we seamen like the because he was physically unable middle of any beef that might rand boy. idea of war. to participate. arise from inadequate supplies.* STEWARD'S JOB it' The latest of these attempts by If criticism of non-participators A Steward is supposed to be The draft of a vessel is the is desired, let these few members the companies pertains to the able to order his own supplies, GEORGE W, CHAMPLIN distance said vessel is immersed company requisition. It works aim it at the men who were on and we all know that is not hard in the water, or the depth from who were at sea is not justified, the beach when the strike broke, like this: When the ship pulls in­ to do. Of course, there is money the bottom of the keel to the as we were out there doing a job and went home to sit it out on to its home port, the Steward involved, but even if he is in­ water line. takes an inventory of all sup­ for the Uuion just as important their front porch. competent it is far better for one Draft marks are painted on both plies, and makes a requisition, George W. Champlin as pounding the bricks. finger to be in the pot than the sides of the stern and rudder only to find it is not accepted by many hands of the company and post in the following manner: the company. Also at times he the ship-chandlers. The numerals are six inches high finds the inventory too is not ac­ with six inches space between At times these purchasing cepted. them, The bottom of the numer­ agents will load a ship with many The company instead makes al rests on an even foot of draft. unnecessary supplies — supplies out is own requisition and con­ This method makes it impos­ firmation of stores ordered. This that will never be used and were sible to estimate by eye the (This article is not an inter­ falls the task of preparing those they bring to the ship's Steward never ordered by the Steward. amount of draft. If the water and ask for his signature, stating In the instances that I have pretation of the agreement as delicious concoctions which round covers half of a number, the draft it covers the Stewards Depart­ off a Seafarers' meal—the des­ that the stores cannot be obtain­ seen it happen, I have mentioned would be equal to that number it to the Port Steward. He would ed until he signs for them. ment. It merely makes sug­ serts. of feet plus three inches, and so Usually the list is short many always confess ignorance to the gestions to that Department in One sure way of winning the on. answer to many questions undying friendship of ypur ship­ items, but they tell him he will whole matter, naming the pur­ i 1. 4. raised by members. Each week mates is to take some pride in be unable to receive anything un­ chasing agent as the one respon­ The plimsoll mark of a ship the LOG prints an article mak­ the preparation of this important less he puts his signature on the sible. consists of a disc with a horizontal Whenever these company er­ ing suggestions to each of the item on the menu. A good des­ requisition. line through its center, indicating Then just before the ship sails, rand boys come aboard for the ratings in the Stewards De­ sert can often make a mediocre the summer load line. Also there partment. This week's, the meal a success. The last thing to the company stooges climb aboard Steward's and Department heads' are a series of other horizontal and tell all department heads to fourth of the series, is for the be eaten, the dessert generally is signatures on the requisition, sign the confirmation and requi­ they say it is compulsory, and lines indicating the load lines benefit of Night Cooks and the longest remembered. sition list that the company has in some instances threaten to fire for various waters and seasons. Bakers.) The Night Cook and Baker also drawn up. The abbreviations used to mark the men for not signing the lists. Coordination of the functions has to work closely with the day these lines are as follows: If there are any objections to of all members of the Stewards Cook. Jointly, they put out the KEEP COPIES F or FW means Fresh Water Department is absolutely essen­ breakfast meal. Here too, the this they show the signature of IS is Indian Ocean in Summer. I would like to remind the tial to a good performance. In Night Cook and Baker can di­ the Steward, thus placing all the Stewards that they only have to WNA means North Atlantic in line with this, it should be re­ rect, to a degree, the disposition blame on his shoulders. sign for stores received, requisi­ Winter. SIGNS BLIND membered that the Night Cook of his shipmates. Men who start S stands for Summer in waters tions that they have made out Another way this works is for and Baker must cooperate in off the day with an appetizing and matters pertaining to their other than the Indian Ocean. every way possible with all gal­ meal are apt to tackle their jobs the purchasing agent to make a own departments, such as repair W is for Winter in waters other deal with the chandlers whereby ley men with whom he must in good humor. than the North Atlantic. lists, meal reports, and such. they don't send the full amount work. T means Tropical Waters. Tender meats which require ordered to the ship. In other words, the Stewards Of the more specific duties of pre-cooking preparation, such as TF stands for Tropical Fresh The supplies are brought do not have to sign anything that the Night Cook and Baker the hams that have to be par-boiled Waters. they have not made out them­ following are, perhaps, the most before baking, etc., also come aboard, and before the Steward selves, or for anything they have can check the supplies he is ask­ noteworthy. under the jurisdiction of the ed to sign the confirmation sheet. not received. ALL BAKING Night Cook and Baker. For protection against attacks Thus he signs for supplies he It is his job to do all baking No li.st of galley men's duties never received. on their ability. Stewards are aboard the vessel, such as the is complete without emphatic If your requisition is cut. When a complaint is raised by smart to keep a copy of their re­ bread, cake, pies, etc. He also mention of cleanliness. At all or if the food is not up to par. the crew or the Steward, the com­ quisition for the record, and have puts out all bread-type foods times the galley must be spotless. notify all three Delegates at pany will say the stores were no less than two receipts to cover which arc made on top of the The Night Cook and Baker is once so that the ship will not delivered for they have the Stew­ themselves. stove. This would include in his charged with seeing to it that' ard's signature. sail until the matter has been Whenever the stores arrive duties the preparation and mak­ the galley is clean at night. straightened out. They will blame the Steward aboard ship, and they do not cor­ ing of doughnuts, french toast He must clean all galley uten- for incompetency and wilful mis­ respond to the stores ordered, it It is the responsibility of and similar foodstuffs. •sils used in baking when no ba­ use of the stores. By this maneu­ is the Steward's right to make the Steward to check the , , It goes without saying that the ker's utility is carried aboard ver the company achieves a two­ out another requisition. stores before the ship sails, utmost attention should be paid ship. fold purpose, for they discredit and any complaints made far If the second order is refused cleanliness in preparation of However, the wise Night Cook the* Steward, and save the com­ the proper thing is to call a meet­ at sea won't do the crew any these items, as well as in the and Baker realized that the SIU pany money. Also the purchas­ ing of the crew. They'll back good if they have to eat short performance of his other duties, slogan, "an SIU ship is a clean ing agent makes a nice split with you up and you won't get your­ rations or poor food. To the Night Cook and Baker ship," starts in the galley. the chandler. self in hot water. Steward Is Placed In The Middle By A New Shipowner Maneuver What To Do: Some Departmentai Suggestions For Nt. Cook & Baker Chief Stewards i �[• iiuijjs'npr^'" ~~ m. TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Company Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and 1945, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed "''below. PERSONALS im:. Rauen, Mathais J Reed, Leslie G Reid, Arch Remmie, William J Renn, Grey Rensvik, Alexander Reynolds, Gordon: Risher, William Riuttala, Heims Roberts, B. G Robbins, C. R Robinet, Charles E Robbins, Charles R Romejko, A Romin, Walter Roskie, I.ouis F Rotham, Willie Royal, Floyd Rumberg, Hans Russell, Delmar • Russell, Jo.seph Sand, Eddy M Sansier, George P Sehaffer, Ray Scherdin, Francis L Schliffer, R. G a base pay of $160.00 per month and $1.00 per hour overtime. The new contract provides for •a fortyrhour week with $177;50 per month base pay and $1.25 per hour overtime. These are seven, days a week jobs, so the new contract has been worded giving-' the crews optional over­ time on Saturdays and Sundays. The Seafarers continue to set the pace with the best conditions and wages in the industry. There has been a big howl for DANIEL BOYCE a long time about the crummy old Contact. Mr. P. W. Nelson of Mobile Hall, and there is no the Mississippi. Shipping Co. in doubt that the howl was justified. New Orleans, La. The trouble has been that it :- By LOUIS GOFFIN 1.91 1.23 17.14 38 1.37 4.69 05 11. C. Peeler, $1.00. RUNNING AROUND l'."® I the ship and all hands aboard, 11.60 SS SHERWOOD Each morning he would take a' snd his orders must be obeyed Crew of SS Sherwood, $12.00; S. 1.58 short cross-country hop from' immediately. Shupler, $.2.00. 94 ship to ship, and as the fleet in­ SS BILLINGS VICTORY Up out of the engine room came 49 p. Calderon, $1.00: M. S. Dedlano. creased in size, his cross-country the Chief with a wrench in both 14 $1.00; J. E. Fiaig, $1.00; DeForest' increased in length. hands yelling, "Get the hell back — L41 Fry, $1.00; L. McDonald. $1.00; D. H. ' Well, just about a couple of on the bridge before I conk you 12.26 Leister, $1.00; A. M. Milefski, $1.00; days before the strike broke, and one." Well, the Old Man really S. Marcelino $1.00; R. P. Hanley. $1.00; 81 E. J. Puthe. $1.00; A. Zarkooski. $1.00; the fleet consisted of about 68 took off. 21.02 A. E. Rosado. $5.00; A. Garnzoii, $1.00; ships, this bird took off on his When he got back on the 12 P. Lohse. $1.00-; A. Wasstrom. $1.00; However, he had bridge he started to weep "to the 12 w. Renny, $1.00; o. J. Kase, $1.00; P. 21.19 G. Marhos. $1.00; 11. Put, $1.00; B. L. forgotten to count the ships, and Mate on watch, "Nobody loves $1.00; J. L. McHenry, $1.00; in making a detour, he found no me. Everyone has it in for me. 79 Clayton, A. Martinisen, $1.00; H. C. Michels, gangway, so—in the drink he' so the hell with everybody. I 28.42 $1.00; D. A. Crockett, $1.00; S. Her­ don't care if the damn ship burns 1.28 nandez. $1.00; .A. J. Jensen, $1.00; A. When we heard his howls, we up." _ .11 Stankicwicz, $1.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS rushed over to where he was last From that time on until we " 6.52 F. D.aniais, $1.00; William Mason, j And there he was, thrashgot back in New York, we didn't 45.82 $1.00; c. Lugo. $1.00; J. Alper $1.00, jj^g gpound like 3 whale. see or hear from the Old Man „ , . ., , near, Iiom ine UlU Man, 95 W L. Ezell, $1.00; David M. Nichols, O"® 8"^ l^aneu over liie side and Brothers, he really was an 1.25 $1.00; John-Troast. $1.00. E. Fernandez, $3.00; John E. Well, and hollered down: "How's your; dd man from the results of that 2.09 $1.00; Joe Schoell. $3.00; Alex W. Weir. cross-country run today. Why trip. 11.71 $2.00. don't you go to the bottom and 5.68 J. Maguire, $3.00; W. O'Connor. $2.00. continue your run, you may wind 1.25 BOSTON up in China?" 94 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS "Listen smart guy," said the 2.90 Vern L. Smith, $1.00; R. Hallahuii. Steward, "That's just what I in17.76 $3.00. BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Nfiw Towboat Contract Signed In Mobite, Setting New Lead NOTICF! There isn't Ever A Shortage Of Those Seagoing Characters I have been requested to con- of the crew, and battles they tinue my stories on seagoing were. characters by my good friend, I The Old Man was a sane chara^id former writer Jft- the Log,' acter when we sailed, but he" was Johnny Bunker. In my future a candidate for the bughouse articles I will try to concentrate when we returned, on the Skippers, Mates, EnEach morning at sea this guy gineers. Radio Operators, and ^ would stand on the wing of the Stewards, whom I sailed with or bridge with a rifle and take pot know about through former ship- shots at the seagulls and porNEW YORK mates. poises. This in itself is a major SS FORT WINABAGO I will try to go back as far as' seagoing crime, but when we T. J. F. Edstrom, $2,00; W. C. llogancnmpf $1.00; T. E. Walker, $2.00; w. I can, Starting fi'om my early sea- protested against this type of c. Vandersaii, $1.00; L. Baiiarini. $3.00; j going days up to, and including shooting he said, "If you guys Wm. p. Murphy. $2.00- E V. Hoff, present time. As space is don't like it, I'll start taking $4.00; T. Murphy, $4.00; J. \'. Simmons.' . . i r • . j. ^ $4.00: L. WaU $4.00; R. L. Collins. I Will try not to covcr shots at the crew." $3.00; H. C. Keiter. $2.00; J. Augus- too much territory in any one KING OF THE CREW lino, $4 00; K. P. Apter, $4.00; R. M. article. Homeward-bound, a fire broke Kat7.. $3.00; B. Walker, $3.00; J. M. In the early part of 1921, prior Bergerin, $3.00; Stanley Lesko, $3.00; out in the engine room, and the to the strike, Jamaica Bay, near, G. D. Inkpen, $3.00. Brooklyn, was the location of the, ^^ip stopped cold. The Old Man SS T. MEADOWS lay-up fleet, where I shipped as, tearing into tne engine W. Row Lee, $1.00; R. E. Miller, a cleanup man. The fleet only demanding that the fire $1.00; A. G. Martinez, $1.00; T. Moyer, extinguished and the engines $1.00; H. E. Slowik, $1.00; E. Steiner. consisted of six ships, and the. $2.00; C. Kleeberg, $2.00; W. A. Bur­ cleanup Steward was a guy from started immediately, ton, $2.00; J. C. Beechcr, $4.00; R. J. my home town, a former crossWell, in about one minute, he Stark, $2.00; R. Olson, $2.00; D. E. i running up on deck, howWorster, $2.0;; Charles Hitchens, $2.00; country runner. RAYMOND L. PERRY Contact Miss Dvorchak, credit manager of Hotel New Yorker. 4* FRANCIS MARTENS. AB Toby Martens, 53 Kenyon St., New Bedford, Mass., is anxious for an address whei'e you can be reached by mail. % % % BARNEY SPEEGLE Please communicate with your wife immediately, telling her when you expect to be home. A letter from her indicates that your son requires medical atten­ tion, and your help is greatly needed. S. 4. S. ANYONE DE COSTA Plea.se write to your wife at P. O. Box 3611, Jacksonville, Fla. i 4.' 4. ANTHONY METALLICA Some of your gear is being held Schmidt, Ralph H for you by Roger Farrara. Write Schnicre, Erwin to him care of the SS T. Meadows, Pacific Tankers, c/o Standard Oil Schwarz, Milton G Co., 115 Broadway, New York Scliste, Bruns N City, telling him where you want Shells, Hy Sheppard, Fred V. the gear sent. 4. 4. 4.. PAUL REINBERGER JRi. Your mother, Mrs. Karen Henry, P. O. Box 501, Harbor City, Calif., wishes you to com­ municate with her immediately, and give your whereabouts. By CAL TANNER. 4- 4. 4. MOBILE — This port started was tough to even get a room ART COLEMAN the ball rolling in the harbor here, much less rent a Union Hall. SYLVESTER BARNES last year with a The war-time boom grabbed up James Kish, 2935 E. 121 St., towboat field short effective strike, which all available space for stores, Cleveland, O., wants to know brought good' conditions and housing and gin mills, with the where he carr reach you. wages on harbor craft for the result that the Union just couldn't 4' 4" 4" find a decent spot. first time. JUAN: E. VASQUEZ There is a good prospect that The good' example set last Carmen Iris Torres writes that the Mobile membership will now she has important news for you. year was reflected in two new. be able to move into a decent tow boat agreements signed Feb­ She can be reached at 565 West ruary 9th, this year, with the Hall with ample* space and rec­ 174th St;, . New York City. Mobile Towing and Wrecking reational facilities by the time 4. 4 4 Company and the Gulf Ship­ this goes to press. WILLIAM JAME& STEWART Anyway, the membership can building Corporation. Wire your father, William rest assured that heaven, hell Previous to the signing of this Stewart, your present address so and high water are being moved contract, these crews were work­ that he may communicate with to get the spot as soon as possible. j'ou. Send the message collect, or ing a forty-eight hour week for telephone him and reverse the charges. 44 4 GEORGE F; CURRANi Your brother, John A. Curran, of Ogdensburg, N. YL, wishes to know your whereabouts. 4 4 4 JOHN BYRD Get in touch with your mother. Page Fifteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Febraury. 14, 1947 SlU HALLS Calvert 4539 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHARLESTON 424 King Street Phone 3-3680 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. Corpus Christ! 3..1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 DULUTH 531 W. Michigaa St. Melrose 4110 GALVESTON 305 Vi 22nd St. 2-8448 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 58777 BOSTON tend to do." And darned if he didn't do it, because in about 20 HOUSTON isis 75th street , , I Phone Wentworth 3-3809 minute he was ashore. I JACKSONVILLE 920 Maim st. We didn't see his head, and' Phone 5-5919 how he did it we never did fig., MARCUS HOOK ure' out, but there he was on the MIAMI 135s N. E. 1st Ave. shore running like hell, showing MOMLE 7 St. Michael St. that he was as good a swimmer' NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartfes"st^ as he claimed to be cross-coun-1 Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. try runner. HAnover 2-2784 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street CHARACTER CARGO 4-1083 In early 1942, I joined a tanker PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. called the SS Hera as Messboy I Phone Lombard 3-7651 FRONT: PATROL . , , . i. c on 1. 1 PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Worth Ave. Phone: 2-8632 Every ship in the port is being for the big amount of 30 bucks | iii w. Bumside St. covered, and no beefs too big to a month. This trip was from New PORTLAND xr 1 X T-. v. 1 Beacon 4336 handle have come up. One good' York to Rouen, France, and we RICHMOND, Calif. 257 sth st. • 2599 thing about Mobile is the fact were loaded down with charSAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. that the average man sailing out acters. Donglas 5475-8363 The ship had: no wireless, and SAN JUAN, P. H. ...252 Ponce de Leon of this port is both a good seaman San Juan 2-5996 and a good Union man, with the there was no: way of communi-J result that bum beefs are kept eating with the shore, or other, ships, except by. blinker or sig- SEATTLE se ^nec^ st. at a minimum. Main 0Z90 Shipping remains fair and a nal flags. TAMPA 1809-1811 N. FrankliniSt. When we started out the Skip­ M-.1B23 lot' of: the boys have taken. on a 615 Summit St. little towboating under the good per had dark hair. When we re­ TOLEDO WILMINGTON .440 Airalon Blvd. harbor contracts. It may sound turned his hair was almost snow Terminal 4-3131 602 Houghton St. like bragging, but we have the white, and therein lies the tale., VICTORIA, B. C Garden 8331 For the first- time in my sea-' VANCOUVER opinion that Mobile is just; about 144 W. Hastings St. Pacific 7824 the best port in the country, bar going career the battles aboard were between the officers instead none. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Sixieen Friday, February 14, 1947 ISTHMIAN STAMEN: «=»*' "tS ^yy^ipavMA/ 'TS'"" """" -\0 tes» Po ndf lef- NMUshijiW tricte cie|>we now ^"H^ fc.6rtt>u uJhich IS ^FAE^OEESS Jbra'cxENAXicfieALXfenaN; � 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 14, 1947 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. IX, No. 6 Description An account of the resource Headlines: ANTI COMMUNISTS WIN EASILY IN MFOW ELECTION ISTHMIAN CASE GOES BEFORE NLRB; COMPANY OBJECTIONS OVERRULED SIU TAKES TO STREES TO AID AFL FINANCIAL EMPLOYEES CMU, REPUDIATED BY THREE UNIONS, VOTES TO DISBAND NMU LOSES TO COMPANY UNION IN ATLANTIC REFINING ELECTION THEY ALSO SERVED END OF THE ROAD MEMBERSHIP IS THE ONLY VICTIM IN POWER STRUGGLE WITHIN NMU CIO SHIPBUILDERS KEEP PICKETLINES SOLID; SEAFARERS SENDS WIRE TO MAYOR O'DWYER TEXT OF TELEGRAM TO MAYOR TAMPA AFL UNIONS TAKE LEAD AGAINST ANTI-LABOR CITY HEADS EVENTS OF A BUSY WEEK IN N.O. REPORT OF NLRB REGIONAL DIRECTOR SIU DISTRIBUTES 25,000 LEAFLETS FOR UFE REPORT OF NLRB REGIONAL DIRECTOR SIU DISTRIBUTES 25,000 LEAFLETS FOR UFE WHAT GOOD IS A UNION? CHICAGO AGENT FOLLOWS A HUNCH, SAVES SELF FROM ICY VACATION COMPANY HANDOUTS ARE FAR CRY FROM UNION CONTRACT CONDITIONS STORMY WEATHER DOES NOT SLOW NEED FOR RATED MEN IN NEW YORK ADVICE FROM AGENT: NOTIFY HALL AS SOON AS YOUR SHIP TIES UP FRISCO SHIPPING IS OUT OF FOG AND STARTS HUMMING ONCE AGAIN REPORT OF THE GREAT LAKES SECRETARY-TREASURER NEW AGENT GETS SUN AND SHIPPING DOPE IN SAN JUAN CLEVELAND AWAITS THE SPRING THAW ON GREAT LAKES NMU HOPES FADE ON LAKES; RECORD IS DEATH WARRANT PIONEER LADS RUB IT IN--WITH SNOW SHARSWOOD MEN HIT SKIPPER IN VESSEL'S RATION REPORT BELLYROBBERS DO A BANG-UP JOB, WIN PLAUDITS OF THE JEAN CREW BLACKIE GARDNER COUNTED OUT FINANCIALLY IN LIVELY TUSSLE WITH 'THE WICKED CITY' DEPLORES ATTITUDE TOWARD THOSE ON UNORGANIZED SHIPS DURING 1946 GENERAL STRIKE STEWARD IS PLACED IN THE MIDDLE BY A NEW SHIPOWNER MANEUVER WHAT TO DO: SOME DEPARTMENTAL SUGGESTIONS FOR NT. COOK & BAKER NEW TOWBOAT CONTRACT SIGNED IN MOBILE, SETTING NEW LEAD Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2/14/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/4b7164c6e4f819b744452e5f81edb1ce.PDF cdcb5d8f8c1cf57ca3cff2f6cc409da8 PDF Text Text T-»-rlr1345>"/ Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. FEBRUAY 7. 1947 UNITY AT POINT OF PRODUCTION AFL Offers Unity MIAMI — A developmeat of major importance broke at the meeting of the Ameri­ can Federation of Labor's Executive Council, when President William Green an­ nounced early this week terms of a proposal made to the Congress of Industrial Organizations to achieve "organic unity" between the two labor groups. Green stated that the AFL had already set up a com­ mittee composed of leaders of its affiliates who are pre­ pared to work with CIO rep­ resentatives. The AFL chief called upon the CIO to desig­ nate a similar committee to work jointly with his group in surveying the prospects for possible amalgamation of the two organizations. After the Seafarers International Union joined striking Local 13. CIO Shipbuilders, on the picketline in front of Ira S. Bushey and Sons. Paul Hall. New York Port Agent, addressed the SIU members. Said Brother Hall. "This is a good place to start maritime unity—on the point of production, and against the bosses." By SONNY SIMMONS AFL Membership Hits An Aii-Time Recerd With Over 7 Miiiien Membership in the American Federation of Labor has hit an alf-time high with 7,505,446 dues payers listed on the books. Announcing the collection of a per-capita tax on that number, George Meany, * secretary-treas­ urer, pointed out that the new figure represents a gain of more than 255,000 since September, 1946. The new figure puts the AFL well out in front of the CIO which claims a membership of 6,000,000 but has not given an exact tabulation. AFL officials contend the CIO membership is closer to 3,500,000. SIU Supports Strike Of CIO Shipbuilders; Bushey Yard Tied-Up NEW YORK, February 5—With the strike of the CIO Shipyard Workers, Local 13, holding solidly as picket­ ing against the Ira S. Bushey and Sons Company shipyard in Brooklyn enterted its seventh day, lUMSWA interna­ tional representative William J. McCaffrey today an­ nounced the release of three ships from the strike-bound Taxi Men Continue Strike In Tampa Despite Injunction TAMPA—Nothing that the an­ ti-labor city administration can do down here seems to be able to break the back of the Taxi Driv­ ers' strike. With the knowledge and cooperation of the authori­ ties, the company has imported gons and strike-breakers, and still the strikers, members of Lo­ cal 79, Teamsters and Chauffeurs Union, AFL, are holding out. Even an anti-picketing injunc­ tion, which prevents members of the union from picketing the com­ pany office, or talking about the strike on the streets, has not coerced the men into giving up their battle for improved wages and decent conditions. The injunction is being fought out in the courts right now, and No. 6 it is obvious that the injunction doesn't have much legality be­ hind it. For that reason, the Judge has had the ruling under advisement for quite some time, and this stall is liable to continue indefinitely. One thing that this strike has brought about was not planned by the labor-haters here, or by Attorney General Tom Watson, who is masterminding the union busting moves of the Company and the city officials. Labor here in Tampa has become more solid now than at any time before, and that bodes ill for the people who think that they can bust labor without a fight. SIU TAKES LEAD The Cigar Makers, long a mili­ tant group, and the Boiler Mak­ ers, now being led by a new and progressive local president, were pretty much alone until the Sea­ farers took the lead. Now things are really hum­ ming, and at the State Federa­ tion of Labor convention in March, plans will be made to bring labor out on top in this state. Unless labor accomplishes some­ thing important, and very soon, the labor movement will be forced to close up shop in this state. The terroristic tactics being used by the company and the authorities to break the strike of the Teamsters are indescribable. They have resorted to violence on more than one occasion, and they have tried to incite the pub­ lic to take the law into their (Coniinuei OH Page 4) Something To See This issue of the Log car­ ries two full pages of photos on items which should be of great interest to Seafarers. Page five is devoted to the CIO Shipbuilders' strike at the notoriously anti-union Ira Bushey yards in Brook­ lyn. and shows, pictorially. the picketline support which the SlU gave the shipyard workers when the walkout occurred. The photos on Page nine depict one of the most unique vessels afloat—the MV Gads­ den. operated by an SlU-contracted company. The Gads­ den, which carries locomo­ tives and tenders, is reported to be the only one of its type in operation. Its distinction lies in the fact that it is a self-contained unit, and can load and unload its massive cargo completely unaided by shoreside facilities. yard for the humanitarian pur-*pose of hauling grain supplies to Shipbuilding Workers of Amer­ ica—CIO, the striking union. needy European countries. Before leaving, Tracy express­ Two of the three vessels re­ leased, the Bessemer Victory and ed his pleasure over the strikers' the Francis O'Gara, are SlU-con- attitude in agreeing to release tracted ships. While none of them the three grain ships. He also informed the Bushey was being repaired, as a result of the CIO strike which the SIU (Continued on Page 4) is supporting one hundred per­ cent, the action of the Shipbuild­ ing Workers Union is permitting their departure certainly reveal^ an awareness of the desperate need of the starving Europeans. Yesterday, Mr. Ed. Tracy, Mar­ itime Commission labor I'epresentative, flew in from Washington to confer with both parties in­ The crumbling Committee for volved in the Bushey strike. Maritime Unity suffered its sec­ However, Bushey representatives ond major setback in two weeks indulged in a little buck-passing with the announcement early this by claiming that everything was week that members of the Mar­ up to the company attorney, Mr. ine Firemen, Oilers and WaterDevlin. tenders, an independent union, It later developed that the com­ have voted overwhelmingly pany attorney was absent on an extended motor trip to Floi'ida, against affiliation with the com­ and wasn't expected back for munist-dominated marine group. With more than half the ballots three weeks. This clearly re­ vealed the outright stalling tac­ counted, returns on a national tics of this viciously anti-labor basis indicate that the MFOW men opposed to tying up with shipyard. the CMU are leading by a better REP. STYMIED than five-to-one margin. Seeing that he was getting no­ As the balloting returns were where with the Bushey outfit, being released, Malone stated Mr. Tracy flew back to Washing­ that the vote indicated a trend. ton last night in order to con­ Votes for candidates for the tact President Green of the In­ union offices were going much dustrial Union of Marine and the same way, he added, -with. pro-CMU officers being replaced by those opposing affiliation. Newly elected port agents will meet late this month to formu­ late a new policy based on nonaffiliation with the CMU, Malone added. a contract for this new company. The fact that it took only 60 days to secure the agreement gives proof to another swell job of or­ ganizing done by the rank-andfile Seafarers." A speed up in service from The' SIU conti-act covers the highly technical operation of the Baltimore to Venezuela and the American Eastern ships, which Dutch West Indies has been an­ are doing a yeoman job of re­ nounced by the Alcoa Steamship building the war-torn rolling Company. Beginning February 21, ships stock of the European railroads will sail on a ten-day schedule —rebuilding the European lines with American built locomotives instead of the former 14 day in­ terval. Alcoa vessels on this run and tenders. Each one of the American call at La Guarira, Guanta, Puer­ Eastern ships has specially con- to Cabilla, Maracaibo and Vene­ zuela, as well as Curacao. {Continiied on Page If) Marine Firemen Vote To Reject CMUBy5-1 Vote American Eastern Signs With SIU; Will Carry RR Rolling Stock t NEW YORK — Another addi­ tion to the list of SlU-contracted shipping companies was made this week when SIU Organiza­ tional Director Paul Hall an­ nounced the signing of a closed shop contract with the American Eastern Steamship Corporation. Representing the union in lining up this company were Cal Tan­ ner, Earl Sheppard and Bob Mat­ thews. "In making this announce­ ment," stated Brother Hall, "full credit should be given to the SIU volunteer organizers who sailed aboard American Eastern ships, and made possible the signing of Alcoa SS Speeds Up Caribbean Schedule �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Two Friday, February 7, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG 'Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At SI Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 i X HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK -------- Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Bowling Green Station, New York, N. Y. --SI Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at tlie Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. GEORGE NOVICK, Editor 267 . On The March The Seafarers International Union is even now pre­ paring for a drive on the Great Lakes that will bring Union conditions and high wages to thousands of Lakes seamen. Most of the men up th-ere are unorganized, and as a conse­ quence, poor conditions and starvation wages are the order of the day. But the situation is changing. The men on the Lakes are increasingly eager to be organized, and the SIU is ready and able to take on the job. Our Organizing Staff is now geared for a high speed campaign, the kind of drive that will be needed to do the job in the time between freezes in that area, and with vic­ tories under their belt, they can tackle that big job with co.nfidence that all seamen are aware of what the SIU has accomplished for men of the merchant marine. During the past few months the SIU Organizing Drive has met with success on every front. A contract has already been signed with the American Eastern Steamship Company, and only NMU stalling has prevented the SIU from banging on the door of the Isthm.ian Steamship Company. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. In the weeks and months to come, there will be more contracts won by the SIU, and more seamen protected by the excellent SIU conditions and wages. The best organizers in the world can't induce a man to join a union unless that union has something to offer. Sweet words can't be used to buy groceries, but actions and results show up in the paycheck. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals That is why the SIU has achieved so much success in organizing seamen so far, and that is why the Great Lakes These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, D rive is being looked forward to, both by the SIU organ­ as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging izers and the men on the Great Lakes. Effective Unity The cause of trade-union solidarity is far from being a hopeless one, in spite of the staggering damage inflicted in its name by the so-called advocates of "unity"—the communist-led labor groups. This week, unaccompanied by drum-beating, hysteric•al shouting or publicity-seeking fanfare, the Seafarers In­ ternational Union sharply demonstrated that one union can help another without trying to move and take over under the guise of "unity." The AFL Seafarers were out on the picketlines of the CIO Shipbuilders. Our white-capped men, old hands when it comes to militancy, were out there in response to a simple appeal for aid. And they responded wholeheartedly and enthusiastically. There was no maze of resolutions, no can-shaking, no long drawn-out conferences, no jockeying for position to make political capital of the situation. It was effective unity at the point of production. And trade-union solidarity can be as simple as that. The long-winded, hot air merchants of "unity" might well learn a lesson from the honest, hard-hitting Seafarers when it comes to labor solidarity. heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. BALTIMORE HOSPITAL MATHEW CARSON LLOYD YOUNG PETER LOPEZ JOHN DUDKO FRANCIS O'BRIEN CASIMIR HONOROWSKI THOMAS CARROLL PHILIP BAZAAR JOHN TILL GALVESTON HOSPITAL OLSEN BENNETT GALANE R. V. JONES HUTCHENSON STAEINZ MILKE FLESHER AKIN GRAVES BREASHAR KOW LIM X X X SAN JUAN HOSPITAL JUAN OLIVER WALTER JORGENSON RAYMOND SAUDERS R. ARMSTRONG P. FELICIANO R. SEIFO 4 J* 4* STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL C. BONAFONT R. G. MOSSELLER ^ J. S. WOOD W. G. H. BAUSE H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY E. D. MILLER C. KOLSTE R. POWELL M. MORRIS L. A. CORNWALL JOE LEWIS M. J. QUINN G. LUETH XXX NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL HUGO ECHEVARIA E. R. BUCKLEY ROBERT MULHOLLAND M. R. SUTHERLAND JOHN RETOUR , SIR EDWARD CUSTER You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) DAVID McDUFFIE O. M. STIREWALT ERNEST COOPER ALBERT SHULL J. W. DENNIS STEVE MOGAN W. BROCE, Jr. JACINTO NAVARRO JOHN O'DONOHUE JJ. STEFANIDES CENTRAL MASON KARL PETTERSSEN XXX BRIGHTON MARINE HOSP. E. JOHNSTON H. SWIM G. VICKERY J. GALA R. ALBANESE T. DINEEN V. RUIZ R. FIORE R. LORD J. LAVASSOR �Friday, February 7. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three NMU Can't Service Its Members, Se They Leek Elsewhere Fer Help Dear Friend: Do you have money due from your ship on unclaimed wages? Disputed overtime? Linen or transportation money? Federal Old Age tax over-payment? We'll find out for you and notify you as part of our regu­ lar service to seamen. This ser­ vice comprises: 1. Immediate notice to you that money is due, how much it is, and where you can get it. 2. Use of our facilities as your permanent mailing address. The above is part of the text of a letter being circulated by the Merchant Seaman's Personal Ser­ vice, a new organization which offers to assist seamen to collect money, that is rightfully theirs, from unclaimed wages or dis­ puted overtime. The letter goes on to say that this service is provided for the nominal sum of $2.00 per year— in advance. There is every possibility that this organization is perfectly hon­ est and will provide the services it so glowingly advertises, but it is obvious that these services are not necessary for seamen who be­ long to a union that works un­ ceasingly for the benefit of the membership. NMU NEEDS HELP That's the rub. Reading the list of companies paying retro­ active wages, and using the Mer­ chant Seamen's Personal Service to locate the seamen to whom the nobody becomes angry enough to back pay is due, the first thing raise a fuss. that strikes the eye is that not FALSE PATRIOTISM one of the companies- is under During the war, by raising the contract to the Seafarers. cry of "patriotism," the NMU On the other hand, of the misleaders could get away with twelve companies mentioned, one practically anything. They had or two are unorganized, and the By PAUL HALL others are contracted to the Na­ free hand to dispose of the mem­ bership's legitimate complaints in The Seafarers have been very fortunate not to have had any tional Maritime Union, CIO. any way they saw fit, and they That fact has only one meaning. of the inner factional troubles that are splitting the NMU and did exactly that. For the unorganized companies, other labor organizations. That does not mean that we have not it is easy to see why they have Now with the struggle for pow­ had differences of opinion in the Union, but it does mean that we to advertise to get in touch with er in the NMU going strong, the have been able to settle our differences without weakening our former crew members who have officials are so busy defending back pay coming, but for the themselves, and looking for a structure. NMU contracted companies, only good place to stick a knife in The shipowners have always known that the SIU was a solid, a complete breakdown of the the other man's ribs, there does democratic Union, and that any attempts to club us through foster­ union's services could make such not seem to be any time to settle ing bad feeling among the officials or rank-and-file would be fought action necessary. beefs, collect overtime, or check And that is exactly what has on retroactive pay. by a solid front of SIU members. happened. It is logical to assume that Last week I had the privilege of attending a meeting in Phila­ For a long time it has been since the companies can't depend delphia. It was here that the attitude of the Seafarers was best known that the NMU officials' on the NMU to bring certain in­ exemplified by one of the Brothers who took the deck and re­ spent more time on politicking | formation before the member­ and following the communist; ship, the members of the NMU marked when a man had a beef in the SIU he had the right and party line than they did on pro-' can't depend on being informed the duty to hit the deck with it at a Union meeting, and get it off viding decent service for the' or serviced by the union. his chest. members. They also organized AH of the services advertised One of the members at the meeting, summed the situation more for the CP than they did by the Merchant Seaman's Per­ fur the NMU, and this indirectly ' sonal Service are benefits which up very well when he took the deck to say, "The place to dis­ led to the overwhelming defeat' should be provided by the union. cuss Union beefs is on the deck at a Union meeting. If anyone suffered by the NMU in the Isth-; When the imion fails to do so, the comes to you with a damn BS story, tell him to speak his piece mian election. ! members look elsewhere. That's at a meeting and have it thrashed out there." In such a set-up, it is obvious the story in the NMU today. that the elected or appointed of­ In the course of the discussion, it came out that certain stories SIU HANDLES BEEFS ficials just don't have enough has been circulated by former Philadelphia officials and others that The Seafarers International time to settle the beefs of the smeared some other officials and members of the SIU. This sort of membership. The best they can Union has always prided itself in talk and action can do the organization harm from which it might do is to keep the situation as the way all beefs, large or small, never recover. quiet as possible, and hope that are immediately worked on by Union officials. Differences of opinion are healthy and the open discussion of SIU men know that when they thnse differences stimulates the Union. However, when these dif­ have overtime due them, or linen ferences are used as whispering campaigns to undermine either money, or transportation, they . the Union, individual membei'S, or officials, the instigators of such don't need an outsider to repre­ campaigns then become disrupters and have no place in a true, sent them. They are assured of democratic Union such as the Seafarers. the services of a qualified Union official from the moment they Union-Busters Move Fast join. A new Merchant Seamen's b. Employment Rights The way the Washington hot shots are talking about labor, Wartime Service Act has been If the Merchant Seamen's Per­ The maximum employment op­ you would get the idea that the labor movement is up on the block, introduced into Congress by Rep­ portunity is to be afforded by the sonal Service looks to members like a pig, waiting to be killed. resentative Peterson, Democrat Federal Security Administrator. of the SIU for business, they Reemployment rights are extend­ might as well fold up shop right One group says, "Let's cut labor's throat from left ear to right." of Florida. The new bill, made necessary ed from 40 to 90 days after ter­ now. But if they expect NMUers The other group says, "No, let's cut from right to left." to provide the bulk of their trade, when the old one died in com­ mination of service. But all are agreed on the throat-cutting part of the deal. then they will probably be able c. Hospitalization and Medical mittee with the adjournment of to build up a lucrative enter­ Even the so-called friends of labor are snapping at labor's the 79th Congress, calls for prac­ Care— Hospitalization, domiciliary, in­ prise. heels, and saying that certain of the rights which labor has fought tically the same provisions con­ stitutional and convalescent care for should now be taken away. It is surprising how many Senators tained in the old bill. H. R. 476, as it has been num­ are provided at U. S. Public and Representatives, elected with labor's support, are now jump­ Health Service Hospitals and sta­ bered, after its introduction, was tions. This service includes arti­ ing on the anti-labor bandwagon and trying to outdo the bosses referred to the Committee on in thinking up new ways to tie the ball and chain to the United Merchant Marine and Fisheries ficial limbs, wheel chairs and on January 6. The Union has re­ similar appliances. States labor movement. d. Vocational Rehabilitation— There is one lesson to learn from all this, and in the SIU we ceived assurance for the Chair­ Any disabled wartime service have a recent lesson to bear in mind. Economic action is the only man of the Committee, Fred seamen would be eligible to the power which the worker has, and which the Washington fakers Bradley, that he would do every­ benefits of the Vocational Re­ VANCOUVER, B.C.—The Sea­ can't take away from him. By use of economic action the SIU thing to secure passage of the habilitation Act of 1920. farers International Union in threw out the Wage Stabilization Board which set itself up as a measur-e. Canada, this week, completed e. Disability Benefits— The bill, with its provisions, is high-and-mighty body to overrule legitimate contracts arrived at The benefits provided under negotiations with the Union as follows: between labor and management. the Act of September 7, 1916 are Steamship Company gaining a H. R. 476 (Peterson) Merchant made available to wartime serv­ $20.80 increase in wages. What we did then, all labor may be forced to do in the future. Seamen's Wartime Service Act— The new agreement covering ice seamen who became disabled And if that times comcSj wc will have a definite part to play. To provide aid for the readjust­ or die from injury or disease in­ wages of all unlicensed ratings We must in the future, as we have in the past, assist all unions ment in civilian life of these per­ curred in or aggravated by serv­ on the 11 ships of that company in their legitimate beefs. When one 'honest union is in danger-, sons who rendered wartime serv­ ice. went into effect on February 1. ice in the United States Merchant then there is danger for all other organizations of workers. The $20.80 increase brings one A Division of Maritime Serv­ Marine, and to provide aid for ice Benefits and a Board of War­ more company into line with the Our Program Clear their families. time Seamen's Appeals would be gains made by the Seafarers, for This bill would provide for any created in the Maritime Commis­ the Canadian Pacific Steamship We must continue in our organizing, and to assist other unions to organize if they need our help. We must continue to take the individual who rendered "mari­ sion for administering these bene­ and Canadian National Steam­ lead in winning higher wages and better conditions for all seamen. time wartime service." ship Companies recently signed a fits. a. Education and Training— similar agreement calling for the When the bill comes up for In this whole program education will be a major factor. If a same wage boost. For a period of one year be­ hearing, which is expected short­ man doesn't know what he is fighting for, there is no real reason The gains made by the Seafar­ tween September 2, 1948 and ly, the Union will have represen­ for him to put up his best battle. Education does not mean the ers in Canada are the fruits of September 2, 1952, preference to tatives present to testify for the phony political education that some unions have forced down the long negotiations, and with the be given to their admission at necessity of the measure. Also, throats of their memberships. maritime schools. The cost of tui­ the American Federation of La­ $12.46 boost won last year they It means the education of all working stiffs in the value of tion, and other incidentals, not to bor Legislative Committee will now show a raise in wages of something that Seafarers know well—the use of economic action. exceed $500, will be paid by the put the AFL behind the biU. over $33.00. Negotiations are continuing be­ Federal Security Administrator While the bill is waiting hear­ All workers must realize that economic action at the point of tween the SIU and the Union to the school. A slibsistence al­ ing, President Lundeberg requests production is what makes us more powerful than the richest boss Steamship Company on hours and lowance of $60 per month, if officials of the Union, in every who ever lived. Our labor is our stock in trade, and if we with­ conditions, with Hugh Murphy, without dependents,and $80 per coastal state to write their Con­ hold it, no factory, plant, ship, or money, will be any good to guys who use their property and money to keep a heel on the neck of month with dependents is pro­ gressmen urging their support Port Agent for Vancouver, rep­ resenting the Union. in the passage of the bill. the working stiff. When labor stops—industry stops—profits stop. vided. New Seamen's Bill Of Rights Is Introduced Into Congress Canadian SIU Wins Wage Rise From Union SS J.; • ij . �THE SEAFARERS LOG "Page "Four • Friday, February 7, 1947 Taxi Drivers Are Strong In Tampa Strike WM4r iTWIHC.,. (Continued from Page 1) QUESTION:—From time to time, the Log has asked questions on how conditions could be improved aboard ship, or what could be done to strengthen or streamline the Union. Many of the suggestions have been put into effect, and again our question is the same: What suggestions do you have that would increase the efficiency of the SIU, or would better the lives of seamen? WILLIE EDWARDS, Pantryman: I have no beefs because I think the Union is okay just at it is go­ ing along now. We operate ef­ ficiently. and all members get quick and effective representa­ tion. My only suggestion is that we continue to build for the fu­ ture, stay strong, and be prepared for anything that might happen. If we do that, then we can be as­ sured that the Seafarers Inter­ national Union will be able to weather anything that comes along. The AFL Maritime Trades Department is a big factor in our present strength. JAMES A. MacKENZIE, Bosun: My idea is that promotion of an AH to Bosun, while aboard ship, should not be allowed. All Bosuns should ship through the Hall, and that would put an end to disturbances aboard ship. The system now makes apple-polish­ ers out of some men, and they buck for Bosun by kissing the Male's foot. The Union rule of three years for an AB before be­ ing allowed to ship as Bosun should be adhered to, and Serangs should come from the Un-ion Hall, just as they do in the SUP. aa CARLOS GOMEZ, Wiper: I think that the Union should concentrate on the organization of tankers, and inland waterways workers, so that more jobs will be available to the members of the Union. As long as there are men who are not organized, they are a threat to the security of the Union members. At the same time I believe that the Union should start a full scale Educatonal Program, so that organized and unorganized secimen will know the score on how a union fights for its members, and for all labor. THOMAS DAWES, MM: The Union should go all out for the four-watch system. In , my opinion, that is the most import­ ant objective for us to have in Ihe coming year. Shipping is on Ihe decrease, and there will be plenty of men on the beach, •while men who do get jobs will have to work that much harder. With the four-watch system, there will be a more equal dis­ tribution of the work, and less unemployment among the men of the merchant marine. After all, there were plenty of jobs during the war; why not now too? SEAFARERS SUPPORTS STRIKING SHIPRUILDERS {Continued jroin Page 1) Company that the Maritime Com­ mission wanted the strike-bound docks in steady use, and that the MC would not place any addi­ tional work there until the labor dispute with the Shipyard Work­ ers was finally cleared up. U. S. Conciliation Commission. er Stewart and Judge McGuire • from Mayor O'Dwyer's special labor committee were both re­ buffed by Bushey representatives when they attempted to intervene in the current dispute. Of course, the company didn't refuse out­ right; they just used the usual line of stalling tactics and hooey common to labor haters of the Bushey variety. SIU SUPPORT Last Thursday, January 30, several hundred Seafai~ers pick­ eted jointly with the CIO Ship­ yard Workers in a demonstration of maritime solidarity before the ..gates of the Bushey company. Appearing with traditional white caps and SIU picket pla­ cards, SIU members marched the picketlines before the. Brooklyn shipyard side by side with their CIO brothers in the maritime in­ dustry. (Pictures of the demon­ stration appear on page 5 of this issue.) In line with a pledge of sup­ port which was given the Ship­ yard Workers Union at the N.Y. membership meeting on January 15, all activities at SIU head­ quarters were closed down until 4 P.M. in the afternoon. This was done to facilitate the picketing demonstration, and allow every­ one to get over to the Brooklyn shipyard. Leaving the Nev/ York hall shortly after 11 A.M., the SIU members arrived at the Bushey shipyard before noon and con­ tinued to walk the picketlines until late in the afternoon. "Vari­ ous on-the-spot observers com­ mented on the swell effect creat­ ed by the pickets from both unions marching together in this demonstration of maritime soli­ darity. At the conclusion of the joint demonstration, SIU pickets held an impromptu meeting across the street from the Bushey shipyard. New York Port Agent Paul Hall addressed them on the fine job that they had done in supporting the Shipyard Workers beef. He stated, "Real union solidar­ ity is always achieved at the point of" production by union members backing each other up on the picketlines. It can never be achieved simply by making motions or passing resolutions. Direct action is the only solu­ tion." Two members of the striking Shipbuilders Union, internation­ al representative WiUiam McCaf­ frey and Nick Lamb, secretary of Local 13, also spoke, a few. words to the assembled Seafarers. Brother McCaffey expressed the thanks of the strikers for the SIU support, and pledged the support of the CIO union for any future beefs of the Seafarers. In his remarks. Brother Lamb also thanked the SIU for their as­ sistance, and declared that the display of solidarity between AFL and CIO maritime unions as expressed by the joint SIU and lUMSWA action set a mark for other unions to follow. At the conclusion of the brief meeting, Seafarers made thenway back to the SIU hall confi­ dent that once again the SIU had shown the way to other maritime unions. COMPANY FINAGLING During the seven days of their strike, the Shipyard Workers have maintained solid picketlines, and no one has attempted to cross them—other than the of­ fice workers and supervisory em­ ployees of Bushey. Lines are - maintained on a 24hour basis "With only a few pick­ ets on the scene late at night and early in the morning. According to the pickets, they're prepared for a longer siege than Bushey. U&yr: -r One day this week, a certain Bushey stooge. showed up with a bankroll large enough to choke the proverbial ox. This individ­ ual, who is rather noted for his tight fistedness, started buying drinks right and left, and even went so far as. to loan the boys a sizeable sum of money. His boast was, "Drink it up, fellows. It's all on old man Bushey." The boys took him at his word. They drank up and borrowed all of the dough, and had the pleas­ ure of seeing this guy pass out cold. They didn't mind taking a free handout as long as it was costing Bushey money, and took the whole thing as a huge* joke. Certainly, when you look over the roster of Bushey-owned com­ panies, everyone realizes that he can well afford to shell out some of his cabbage. They want to know why he doesn't invest some of it in paying better wages, and building up better labor relations with the employees. With the support that the CIO Shipbuilders Union is receiving from the SIU and other maritime unions, even a rich, labor-hating individual like' Bushey can't ex­ pect to hold out too long. In any event, they're fully prepared to battle this outfit to the bitter end and the SIU will/support them until the beef is won. hands to run the taxi men out of town. But this has reacted against them, and the public is waking up more and more to the fact that an open shop is a wedge that can be used to grind down all working people. The attitude of the city officials and the Com­ pany is not popular with most of the people here. GOOD NEWS Not all the strike news from Tampa is bad this week. With the cooperation of the Seafarers, Local 153 of the Bartenders and Waitresses Union, AFL, won a strike at a restaurant called the Old Fort. This has been a seaman's hang­ out, and after the waitresses threw a picketline around the place, seamen refused to go in, and pretty soon the owner saw the light and signed a contract. The same thing happened at O'Falk's Tearoom, and a contract has been signed and sealed by the management there. SIU help did not pass unrecognized, and the branch received a letter from the Local, thanking the Seafarers for their assistance. Here is what the letter had to say about the SIU contribution to the winning of their strike: Dear Sirs and Good Brothers: Our poor words written or spoken are inadequate tools to express our deep down heart­ felt appreciation for your boun­ tiful aid in winning the "OLD FORT" and the "O'FALK'S TEA ROOM" strikes. I pray that we shall continue through­ out the years to enjoy the mu­ tual friendship. We beg to re­ main, your humble brothers. Sincerely and Fraternally, Thom Boger, President Peter C. Leto, Fin. Sec. Owners of restaurants and grills here have formed an or­ ganization to combat the Union. But the first two spots that Local 153 tackled were swiftly put un­ der contract, and that means that the owners organization will probably soon fold up. Danish Sailors Talk Merger With Firemen • From Denmark comes word of a po.ssible merging of the Dan­ ish Seamen's and Firemen's un­ ions. A joint "cooperation com­ mittee" has been set up to test the plan's practicability. A management committee -of three representatives from each union will deal with day-to-day problems. A broader permanent committee will meet at least twice a year—or when necessary, as determined by the managing body. Under the rules of the man­ agement committee, the coopera­ tion shall not interfere with the sovereignty or particular inter­ ests of either union. All major questions and negotiations with the shipowners, however, will be dealt with by the joint commit­ tee. (Internalional Transportworkers Federation) �Friday. February 7. 1947-' SNI And CIO In Real-Life Page Five THT. SE AT ARERS LOG On Picketline Of Maritime Unity •J, -. i Z U 'm Before fhe strike of Local 13. CIO Shipbuilders, started, a delegation from the union came to ask the support of the Sea­ farers. This was quickly volunteered, in line with the SIU policy of backing up the legitimate beefs of honest unions. Here Fred Mesita. Chairman of Local 13. and Lou Calomine, head of Local 13's Veterans Committee, tell the story up in the LOG office. When the strike broke, and picketing started on January 30, shipping was suspended in the New York Hall, and Seafarers went down to join Local 13 on the picketline; They gathered at a central spot, near the Ira S. Bushey and Sons Shipyards in Brooklyn, and then took their places in the line that had. and still has. the yard sewed up tight. See how the Seafarers white caps stand out, even on a cold, rainy day. Business not going as usual inside. This line is impregnable—good union men won't go through it. and those who would like to would have quite a bit of trouble trying it. Bushey's long history of bad labor relations brought this strike on. but the CIO Shipbuilders are going to finish it by winning a victory and forcing Bushey to bargain. The SIU signs stand out. This close-up of the picketline shows CIO Shipbuilders and AFL Seamen marching side by side. That's real unity, not the phony CMU kind. After the picketing, a sandwich and a cold bottle' of milk really hits the spot. That s what is 'happening. above.- as Seafarers take time out to refresh themselves, and then back to the line to show Bushey.that the AFL Seamen and the CIO Shipyard Workers are in this fight against anti-labor bosses. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six There's More To Organizing Than Meets The Naked Eye By EARL SHEPPARD Ellis Samia Friday. February 7, 1947 Philly Is Out To Get Bigger And Better Hail There is a lot more to organiz- | who wears his union button, car­ By EDDIE HIGDON ing than merely going aboard an ries his picket cards and paid up PHILADELPHIA—After I as­ unorganized ship, contacting the union book, and lets the world After 11 years in the Navy, El­ sumed the Agent's job last week, crew, passing out literature and know that he is a Seafarers mem- lis Samia, Oiler, really started enthe first thing the membership ,. . t. presenting the Seafarers' pro- ber, and damn proud of it, is ani an . . ' joing his sea life in 1941 when he did was assign me the task of gram. organizer whether he knows it joined the Seafarers Internation­ finding a larger and better hall. All of that is necessary, but be- , or not. al Union. The motion was a good one as hind and ahead of it is a lot of Every official, every organizer this joint we are in now can't "Don't get me wrong," he says hard work—work that isn't spec- [ and every employee in any caeven start to serve the needs of with a smile, "but now that I'm tacular or even generally known pacity possible comes from the the Port. but which, nevertheless, is abso- membership at large, and it is in the SIU, it's hard to believe Finding a new location is an­ those members who are most ac- that I stood Navy discipline for lutely necessary to success. other matter, however, but prac­ such a long time." Before an organizing campaign tive, who constantly work in betically every member in the port Brother Samia went to sea is launched, every detail must be half of the union arid participate is working as a committee of one. worked out carefully. Things i" every activity from picket more than 16 years ago. He was And with so many sea going like the names of every ship's of- , lines to organizing who become a young man, in search of adven­ real-estate brokers on the job we ficer, whether or not he has a known, who learn their jobs and ture, and the Navy offered an op­ should be able to find something union background and in what who ultimately become union of- portunity to see the world. He and get out of this dump. saw the world, and liked sea life, union, must be determined and ^ f icials. Shipping has picked up some so he reenlisted and served a carefully filed for future refer­ and there are indications that it EDUCATION total of 11 years. ence. will continue to improve. Broth­ A study of the back issues of By that time, he decided to try The thousand and one little deer Harry Collins, who held this taiis'thaTmust be "taken care of'the Log constitutes a good Sea- his luck in another direction, so port down in some of the tough, in the union offices, carefuUy fai'ers education. In these back he became an Oiler on tugboats, lean years, is back on the job sifted and filed, are the job of issues will be found the story of and from there he graduated into in the regular Navy, and sailing again presiding over the Dis­ the organizing staff and each or-' how the Union grew from a little deep sea vessels. patcher's office. merchant shipk ganizer has to learn the opera-' outfit of 500 members to its "I've never been sorry that I He took hold of things the "The dangers were the same," II present strength, and the reasons left the Navy," he says. "In the tion of the system. he recalls, "only the Navy had same way he takes over the Stew­ It isn't a very easy job to make why it will continue to grow. SIU I've met plenty of swell more protection and armaments ard's job, with the result that In the Log are the stories of guys, and I have seen how con­ than we had." an office worker out of a seaman, everything is ship-shape and ef­ but it is seamen who have done the strikes, job actions and beefs ditions and wages have improved ficient. Its like old times to have LUCKY CHARM and are doing this work. It is a that paved the way to the con- even in the short time since I Harry back on the job again. thankless job, with the only re­ tracts we have today—the de­ came into the Union." Samia sailed the dangerous Charlie Bush, newly elected ward being the knowledge of a cisions of the conventions, the North Atlantic run to Murmansk, Philly Patrolman, hasn't shown ON THE SPOT job well done, but the hands that | Agents' conferences, the action Russia, at the height of the Na­ up yet to assume office so we are ' of the membership on resolutions splice, oil and cook have done an Ellis Samia joined the SIU in zi U-Boat menace. Although at­ getting along with only one Pa­ equally good job at pecking on a and the general knowledge that 1941, and almost immediately he tacked from the air on many oc­ trolman, Brother Ernest Tilley. typewriter, running a filing sys­ is needed to make an organizer took part in the 1941 Bonus casions, Samia luckily escaped He and I cover payoffs together tem and building an investiga­ thoroughly conversant with the Strike. He and his shipmates without injury. and make the routine daily pa­ subject of maritime trade union­ tied up the SS Evangeline, East­ tion and research apparatus. Not only that, but no ship he trol. The new policy here is to ism. ern Steamship Company, in the was ever on was torpedoed, but see that every ship is adequately CONCENTRATION In the resarch department of port of New York, and then they there were plenty of near misses. covered. The last membership meeting If the organizing staff were to the organizing staff are complete all stood picket duty until the Brother Samia expects to con­ here also took up the question of undertake to organize the whole files of various trade union strike was won. tinue sailing. He feels that since ports calling one another when industry at the same time, they papers clearly proving by their In the 1946 General Strike, his the Union has won so many ad­ would be wasting Union money articles that while others have, luck was not as good, and he vantages for seamen, the life of there is a shortage of men in­ and butting their heads up against like the rocky mountain goat, was at sea until four days before a merchant seamen has improved stead of issuing new permits. This is a good idea and should im­ a stone wall. For that reason "jumped from peak to peak and the strike ended. But as soon as immeasurably. prove shipping all up and down their work has to be so arranged back again," the Seafarers has his ship pulled into New York He recently returned from a the coast. that the main effort is directed maintained a steady, unswerving •Harbor, Samia headed for the trip to South Africa on the Robin In general, things are shaping against a particular company progressive line. Hall and then out to the picket- Locksley, and he is eagerly This is the knowledge that is line for duty. up pretty good in Philadelphia. such as Isthmian. awaiting another trip to another The membership as a whole has While that is going on, how­ needed to make a good organizer; During the war period, it was foreign port. cooperated a 100 percent in the ever, the future tasks mu d al­ this is the knowledge that, when hard for Brother Samia to tell His words of advice are well business of taking over from out­ ways be kept in mind and pre­ imparted to an unorganized sea­ the difference between service worth remembering since he has going Agent Truesdale, and with pared for by a portion of the man, brings him into the Sea­ had the opportunity to compare this kind of good membership work being against other unor­ farers' ranks. military life with the democratic you can't go wrong. The staff of the Log has pre­ ganized companies, probing and SIU way. exploring in order to determine pared a summarized "Organizers He says, "If we let the Coast just where the next main con-! Handbook" which will be off the Send in th© minutes of Guard rule us it will be the same centration shall be. press shortly. This together with your ship's meeting to the as being in the Navy. No mer­ For the past year the main at- the other mat^2rial available New York Hall. Only in that On and after February 1, chant seaman wants that or he tention of the Union has been on • should be studied by every memway can the membership act 1947, Station "P" Post Office, the Isthmian Line, but all. ber so that all will be able to exwould join the Navy in the first on your recommendations, located at the Custom House, place. It is our duty to fight CG through that period forays were' plain, organize and build our and then the minutes can be Bowling Green and Broad­ control. We are civilians and made in other directions. The Union still stronger, printed in the LOG for the result was that, even before the way, New York 4, N. Y.. will should be treated as such." benefit of all other SIU end of the Isthmian voting, it had ROUGH. TOUGH. READY be known as Bowling Green That is the concensus of opin­ crews. Station. ion in the SIU, and with a mili­ become evident that the unorThe Seafarers has come a long Hold those shipboard meet­ The official address of the tant membership, the Union will ganized tankers were the most ways, but there is still a long ings regularly, and send Union is now P. O. Box 25, continue the fight against the logical field, and the Isthmian or- tough voyage ahead. By followthose minutes in as soon as Bowling, Green Station, New Brass Hats, and for civilian su­ ganizing forces were thus able to ing a correct program, using the possible. Thai's the SIU way I York 5, N. Y. pervision of the maritime indus­ swing into action as tanker or- right tactics and being always try. ganizers with no confusion and a ready to go to bat at anytime, prepared plan of action. the Seafarers has proven itself, The success of all union ac- not only to its own membership tivity depends upon efficient op-1 but to the entire trade union eration and the proper coordina­ movement, as the most militant, tion and concentration on a de- aggressive and democratic Union By BEN REES These men were hurt when a to take unnecessary chances just termined objective. heavy sea broke over the bow for big profits, then the Union in the maritime field. NORFOLK — Penny-pinching while they were stowing lines will have to step into the pic­ Hardly a day passes without by the big steamship companies EVERYBODY AN ORGANIZER ether unions, CIO and Indepen­ is really funny, except at times that should have been stowed be­ ture. fore tlje ship left port. By far the most important fac­ dent—as well as AFL- -coming in Last week the men at the Nor­ when men's lives are endangered tor in organization is the mem­ for aid or advice. None goes But the company was too tight folk Marine Hospital got a spe­ by that desire to save an extra bership as a whole. Without the away empty handed, for the Sea­ cent. to pay for an hour overtime, and cial break. The fines that were full support and cooperation of farers lives up to the principle so Brother James P. McNeeley is collected on the SS Stephen The companies made piles of the membership, no organizing that labor's fight on any front, is in the hospital with two broken Beasley were earmarked for the money during the war; and even effort could hope for success. The the fight of labor as a whole. legs. He's resting a little easier 12 hospitalized Brother?, and conversations in hotels, gin mills, To accomplish this has taken in peacetime operation, the prof­ now, but that's not due to any­ they each received $3.00. on the docks and street corners, a hard hitting and alert member­ its of the shipowners and opera­ thing the company did. The recipients were: James P. anywhere and everywhere sea­ ship. For that reason, if for no tors are exorbitant. McNeeley, Brother Manning, NO LONG CHANCES men gather, is of vital impor­ other, there is no reason to fear The case I have in mind at this John Harrison, J. Burchinal, Wil­ the future. In the days to come, time, and there have been plenty tance. It's about time that the com­ liam D. Weiss, William Gibbs, W.' The unorganized man judges whatever the job may be, the more in the past, was the in­ panies started to realize that R. ICnight, William C. Scott, J. C. a union largely by what the rank Seafarers will tackle it and win, jury that occurred to three SIU men's lives are much more im­ Smith, Clinton Lester, Orville and file members of that union then as always before — rough, men on the Coastal Advocate, portant than profits. If the op­ Daniels, and Edward A. Dussenthink and say about it. The man tough and ready. Bull Line. erators won't stop forcing men burg. Send Those Minutes New Address COMPANY EGONOMY COSTS SEAMAN BROKEN LEGS mH'it J • �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 7, 1947 Page Seven Payoff Takes 14 Hours, But Crew Gets Everything It Has Coming By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—The Skipper of the Fort Winnebago, Pacific Tankers, is not too popular with the New York Patrolmen right row. At least, he's not at all popular with Ray Gonzales and Jimmy Drawdy. mess was straightened out, and Ihe SIU crew collected every­ thing they had coming to them. It will be a long time before that HO NEWS?? toPETHey Gar A f Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing portsr • They hit the Winnebago one day last week for a payoff, and since they went on board at about one o'clock in the after­ noon, they figured on being fin­ ished-at a reasonable time. •. But they didn't figure on the Skipper. He had a habit of eras­ ing the overtime claimed by the members of the crew, and sub­ stituting what he believed to be the correct amount. As a consequence, the over­ time sheets were all fouled , up, and the crewmembers were mad enough to throw the Captain over the side. It took until three o'clock the following morning before the Great Lakes Is Realty For Big Organizing Drive By HENRY CHAPPELL TOLEDO — Seafarers officials •in this area are busy trying to improve the contracts for 1947, and in mapping out our organi­ zational campaign for this com­ ing summer. This summer looks to be the biggest year for SIU organizing that the Great Lakes have ever seen. SAN JUAN BOSTON particular Old Man puts eraser to any more use. his ON UPGRADE Shipping is still on the up­ grade in this port, and we are continuing to keep our fingers crossed. There are plenty of jobs cn the board, and that is a good sign for the men who come off ships looking for new vessels to sign on. This sudden flurry in shipping is bringing a lot of the oldtimers through this port once more. But this isn't a gossip column, so you'll have to read "Cut and Run Hank" to find out who's in town. Seems like the organizers are pretty chipper these days, too. More and more men are coming in to volunteer for jobs on unor­ ganized ships, and added to the large group that has already gone on record to ship unorganized so as to help out, tfiat makes a lot of men who are willing to sail under poor conditions and with low wages just to bring more lines under the SIU banner. That's all to the good, and shows*the militant spirit of the Seafarers. When Lakes men see how SIU freight ships are operated, and the conditions under which our men,work, this should turn out to be a banner year for us in this area. The NMU is planning to try some organizing up here, but there is little chance that they will have any success. Their rec­ By ARTHUR THOMPSON ord is so foul that few, if any, SAVANNAH—As we predict­ seamen will be willing to enroll ed, business picked up consider­ under the NMU banner. ably in Savannah. The SS Joshua Last fall the NMU pulled the Slocum came in already signed phoniest strike that I have seen on, but we shipped one man and in years of sailing, and then the every job counts. seamen were sold out by the The SS Bienville also came in NMU with the poorest contract ever signed by any sailors' union. with a full crew aboard, and Lakes seamen will not soon for­ there probably won't be any re­ get this, and the NMU organizers placements for her. The SS F. W. will be coming up here with two Galbraith paid off and called foi­ ls men. strikes against them. The SS Cyrus W. Fields also CLEAN RECORD paid off and will caU for a crew The clean record of the SIU probably next week. She's off will be the biggest single factor the cattle run now and will be in persuading Lakes seamen to stripped of stalls before she goes come into our Union. We are out again.. The SS Joshua Hendy came in known as a sincere, honest Union, and the men up here have and will pay off Monday, and heard, and seen how the SIU we've had a few calls from Watreman for some ships- which gqes to, bat for its members. Our contracts are far superior are being resurrected from the to any ordinarily won by the other boneyard. All of this keeps us unions, and what they have now busy, but also makes us very they owe to the fact that we ne­ happy. No big beefs came up gotiated the best agreements ever so far and the pay offs were .seen, and We stood off the Wage clean. We're not sure how long this Stabilization Board when they attempted to take our gains away will keep up, but we're keeping our fingers crossed. from us. That will: not be lost oa the Lakes when the drive opens. This spring and summer should be excellent for. the SIU on , the Great Lakes. Shipping Takes A Sudden Spurt In Savannah CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE BALTIMORE MARCUS HOOK The deadline for port re­ ports. monies due, etc., is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us lO' do soi Log-Happy Skipper Throws Them in Ail Birections, Poor Feiier By R. W. SWEENEY GALVESTON — Sometimes it looks as though the Skipper of a ship is trjdng to pile a fortune for the operators by logging all qrow members. That's what hap­ pened on the SS Milan R. Stefanik. Pacific Steamship Company, which paid off here this week. Practically three fourths of the crew had logs against them, and it made no difference to the Skip­ per if the man being logged was on the ship or not. The Bedroom Utility was hit for 48 days, but we knocked it down to six days which the man admitted taking off. The others were just about the Action In Chicago is Confined To Bull Sessions in Union Hail By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO—When the SS Rockwood pulled her fires this week she gained the honor of being the last sand boat to finish the sea­ son. We don't expect her to have too long a lay-up, as the sand boats will return to operation as soon as the ice breaks up on Lake Michigan. With the tying-up of the last sand boat there isn't much else moving around this port, so the action for the most part has been confined to bull sessions in the Hall. Hardly a day passes in the Hall without the SIU members, former NMU members, and newcomers, discussing the tactics used by the NMU in organizing seamen. The^e seamen are wise to the tactics of the NMU in using the seamen as pawns for their own political ends, and it is easy to see that the shoe is on the other foot now. RECORD NO CREDIT It took some of the younger men a long time to see the trend, but the phony strike pulled by the NMU last summer showed their true colors to all seamen organized and unorganized alike. Retroactive Pay Seafarers writing to the be­ low-named companies for re­ troactive pay should address their communications as list­ ed: South Atlantic Steamship Company—Savannah Bank and Trust Bldg., Savannah, Ga. Mississippi Shipping Com­ pany — Hibernia Bank Bldg., New Orleans, La. Los Angeles Tankers — 365 West 7th Street, P; O. Box 380, San Pedro, Calif. Deconhil Tankers—311 Cali­ fornia- Street, San Fran­ cisco, Calif. Pacific Tankers — 433 Californda. Street* San • Fran<cisco, Calif. Their record of commie regi­ mentation has been no credit to them, for since their inception as an alleged labor organization their record has proved to be one of misi'epresentation. They have never made any gains in wages and conditions for the seamen. Instead, they have always grab­ bed onto the shirt tail of the SIU after we have won a battle for seamen. Their record of always running to the government bureaucrats and shipowners to gain an adjust­ ment up to SIU standards is well known. It's unfortunate, but their membership has been time and time again victimized by the sel­ fish motives of the commie-mind­ ed officials of the union. The only solution to the muddle the NMU has created is for all sea­ men to repudiate their efforts to pull them into their mire. STRAIGHT UNIONISM You seamen who will sail on the Lakes this season who do not belong to the SIU: When you arc in port look around for an SIU organizer. He'll be around to your ship to talk to you. You don't have to worry about him peddling you a line, for he will talk straight unionism. The SIU organizer who will cover your ship will be a repre­ sentative of the only democratic union on the Lakes, run by the rank and file. He is an exper­ ienced seamen himself, having sailed for many years and knows the score on unorganized ships. Get the score and join the SIU. In the coming days all seamen will have to stand together for protection. The Lakes Carriers Association is united in its drive to break, the wages and condi­ tions of seamen. So, in the same manner, sea­ men on the Lakes must present a. united front to combat them. The SIU is the only union that can present,that united front to defend the hard-won rights of seamen. same, phony all the way through, and we had little trouble making the Captain see the light. The only way to teach these tough Skippers a lesson is to fight them when they try to throw their weight around. The crew of the Stefanik col­ lected $70.00 to be turned over to the men in the Baltimore Ma­ rine Hospital. That was a nice gesture, and the boys there will sure appreciate the money. HUNGRY STEWARD We had the SS William Cox, of the Bernstein Steamship Com­ pany, in here for a clean payoff, but the Port Steward seemed ,to be under the impression that the crew would be willing to sail the ship out of here without enough stores on board. We checked and found that the stores were about 30 days short. What goes in all other ports is the rule here, and so the ship ttoW,LET'S SEE.... ONB HAM.oME 8AS OF TOTAXOBS — riMMM ... \ CAJOOSH R* \ TWfteE i MOATTHS : did not leave until everything was aboard. We held up the sign on, and the stores started arriving soon after. The SS Fairport, Waterman, came in, paid off without beefs, signed on again, and sailed the same day for Coastwise ports and' China. Fast work, eh? Shipping has slowed up a little here, but there arc still enough jobs to go around. Like every­ thing else, it could be better, but we won't kick as long as it doesn't get any worse. This seems to'be about all the news out of this port unless you are interested in knowing that "No Coffee Time" Curran is in port and is reported to be having no success in getting his point across to the party-line piecards here. NOTICE! When requesting informa­ tion regarding your book, dues record status or retire­ ment, address your communi­ cations to: J. P. Shuler, Assistant Secy.-Treas„ Sea­ farers International Union of N. A., 51 Beaver Street, NewYork 4. N. Y. Never send cash by mail if you wish to pay your dues, assessments, etc. Send money order payable to the Seafar­ ers International Union of N. A, �Ir THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Tampa Chandlers Crying in Beer: Nobody Is Buying Their Supplies By SONNY SIMMONS TAMPA — The Shipchandlers are crying so loud down here that I am sure they can be heard as far away as Boston. Most of the beer they drink is half tears, and their tales of woe would fill a number of books. I'll bet that the next time these . guys see a picketline they will respect it. At least, that is what they are promising now. Their story is that they didn't know what a picketline meant, and that they learned the hard way. The Chamber of Commerce and the City tried to rig a meet- everything in port, and the next week turns out to be slow. We manage to have a fairly good turnover, but most of it is for replacements since very few ships payoff here, We have an election here soon for the Central Trades and La­ bor Union. The SIU has been in­ strumental in getting support to weed out the labor fakers. We are now backing a young fellow is on the ball and who will go down the line against the unionbusters in this town. Attorney General Tom Watson, one of labor's prime enemies in the United States, was elected with some labor help, and now labor realizes that they saddled themselves with a Frankenstein monster. That will not happen again. Strike Clearance Seafarers who did not lake active part in the 1946 Gen­ eral Strike, and who have not yet obtained strike clear­ ance, are advised to do so immediately. Edward Ben­ der, of the Clearance Com­ mittee at Union headquar­ ters in New York, has issued a reminder to the member­ ship that Mar. 21, 1947 is the deadline. The committee's functions expire on that date. This advice applies only to Seafarers whose reasons for not participating in the strike require satisfactory explana­ tion. Men with legitimate rea­ sons for non-participation, such as illness, being aboard ship at sea, etc., during the strike period, do not have to be cleared by Mar. 21, but can apply at any time. Ben­ der pointed out. Transportation Rule On Coast Is Clarified For Membership By W. H. SIMMONS C FKLIN'Mf&HrriMv! SAN FRANCISCO- -After be­ ing between the Chandlers and the SIU, but we told them that ing a tough beach for some time, there was nothing to gain by the old Gold Coast is coming to such a meeting. life with shipping picking up i» Then the Chandlers tried to get j good style. All ratings are shipan injunction against us but their ping with few men on the beach lawyer decided that we hadn't in any departm.^nt. done anything that could be inwe had the .Ethiopia Victory, joined against. Waterman, in for a payoff this Again we want to impress this week. At the payoff the crew on all Stewards' coming into was notified, that inasmuch .as Tampa; buy your supplies at they were getting first-class some other port. Don't patronize transportation, wages and sub­ these men who hit us from be­ sistence back to their original hind when we were fighting the port of sign-on, they would be shipowners and the Wage Stabili­ required to leave the ship, go zation Board. register and clear through the Hall before going back on her. Shipping down here has slowed up somewhat, and it continues | This due to the Port ruling here, to fluctuate. One week we ship It seems that a part of the crew of this ship is under the impression that this ruling was devised by some individual out here. But this is not the case. All members should realize that NEW YORK—It is very grati- no one man in this entire organifying to see the response from zation can make or lay down any the membership regarding clean- rule of any sort, liness of ships and the handling of performers. I ' CARRYING OUT RULES The Patrolmen Say Keeping Them Clean Friday, February 7. 1947 recognize it as being in force out here. It is not for me, or any repre­ sentative of the union, to alter this rule in any way. I have racked my brain for a solution to this problem, but there seems to be no solution other than the rescinding of this rule at a gen­ eral conference meeting. I believe that most members realize that the Patrolmen are trying to do a job. That job is to uphold the rules laid down by the membership. Of course, now and then a crew will feel that they were slighted, and not given proper representation. If this is the case don't hesi­ tate to let the Patrolman know your feelings. We are out for the good of the membership, and it is not my policy, nor the policy of any other Patrolman, to give any one the brush-off. By JOE VOLPIAN Due to its importance to alien sioner's Service, and urged ex­ seamen I am continuing this tension of the waiver. week on the problems created by "We received assurance both the end of wartime regulations from Admiral Farley and the governing alien seamen. As I mentioned last week, the Maritime Commission that they peacetime regulations, when they would recommend extension of go into effect on March 31, 1947, the waiver allowing 50 percent will require that 90 percent of aliens in all American ships to the crews on government subsi­ dized vessels be American citi­ the end of December 1947. zens. "There is a good reason for this Inasmuch as this will create to go through, which will give an unbearable hardship for alien us some time to work on a Bill seamen, a serious attempt is be­ to help our Brothers get their ing made by the SIU to gain some measure of protection for citizenship papers. these men. "At the present time, the Im­ migration and Naturalization President Lundeberg, aware of Law allows a seaman to apply for this problem^ has made an an­ alysis of the situation, placing citizenship papers after he has it as one of the SIU's major prob­ five years' discharges in Ameri­ lems. In his report, following his can ships; whether he is legally or illegally in the country; mean­ trip to Washington, he states: ing if he has paid his head tax "At the present time, a waiver or not. is in effect which allows 50 per­ cent of the crew of American "Our organization has been on ships to be alien. This waiver record for years to fight for a was put into effect during the Bill which will give foreign seawar, because of the shortage of; men, who have sailed in Ameriseamen and expires March 31. It can Flag vessels during the war, will then revert back to a law full citizenship papers. This we which is very rigid on alien sea­ feel is nothing but justice, be­ men, because under this law, it cause an alien who joined the only allows 10 percent alien sea­ Army during the war ultimately men in the Stewards Department received his citizenship after in Government subsidized ships; three months in the army, and and 25 percent in non-subsidized to deny the alien seamen the ships. This creates a hardship on same right is nothing but dis­ a large number of our members, crimination. who are good union members and NEW BILL NEEDED also served the American, Mer­ chant Marine well during the "Last j'ear's Congress intro­ war. duced a Bill to give seamen full citizenship rights after three EXTENSION OF WAIVER "We appeared before Admiral years service in American ships. Farley of the U.' S. Coast Guard, This Bill unfortunately was not who is in charge of the U. S. acted upon, in spite of all the Steamboat Inspection Service golden promises given us. So and also the Shipping Commis- now the Bill is dead and a new Bill must be introduced. This is another job we have to do. We will receive' active support on this measure from the Amer­ ican Federation of Labor Legis­ lative Committee on this matter. AFL Council Will Meet In Buluth; 18 Unions Expected To Attend Our Union has come a long. As everyone knows our rules "Meanwhile, ail alien seamen way from a slow beginning, and and by-laws are made by the members of our organization slowly but surely, through the membership. Your Patrolmen are By EINAR NORDAAS should rnake every effort to get medium of organizing the unor- only representatives of the memDULUTH—The big news at the progress for about six months their citizenship papers if they ganized, we are improving our bership, who have been chosen job security. to stay ashore to see that the ^ present in the Port of Duluth is and is still going strong. The have five years' discharges. Also, More and more of our old pre- rules of the Union are properly | the coming meeting of the Mari- strikers, all girls, belong to the the ones who have not, should ap­ Clerks Union Local 3, AFL. ply for a visa into the United war operators are coming back carried out—which is sometimes Council. The Council is goStates from the American Con­ The pickets have walked in into the maritime industry. With a very difficult job. ing to get together February 11 front of the store in sub-zero sul in the foreign country which the addition of new operators and For the information of men at the Labor Temple in this city weather, never missing a day. We he may be in while on an Amer­ contracts, more jobs will be se-' who are in the dark on the transcured for our membership. { portation payment and sign-on, for a series of meetings. We ex­ believe that is a record to be ican vessel. They should not, however, leave their ship, because Under such circumstances we I'd like to quote the report of pect approximately 18 unions'proud of, a record men would then they may not be readmitted from Ashland, Wis.; Superior, find hard to beat. must protect our job security the General Conference of the country. Also, they Wis.; and Duluth, Minnesota, to Some time ago a bomb ex- to , ,this , and honor our agreements, which, SIU-SUP held in Chicago, March send representatives to the meet­ nloded at the entrance between ^^""^'^^""t jeave this country to without a question of doubt, are 19i 1945, ing. the outside and storm doors f f ^o apply the finest in maritime history. Report No. 6, Section D reads: Among the items we expect to causing some damage. To this for a visa, unless they have reIn order to do so we should ex- "When a man receives transporceived permission from the amine these agreements lation, regardless of the ship, discuss is the backing of legisla­ day the damage has gone unre­ United States Immigration and thoroughly. In that way we w.ill company or district, he must get tion to establish Duluth—Su­ paired, because, of course, the Naturalization Bureau." be better informed on what is off that ship, and cannot ship perior Harbor as a free port zone. carpenters will not cross the and what isn't overtime. back on that ship until such time We expect, also, to discuss sev­ picket line. A friend to many SIU seamen These new agreements are as he has cleared through the eral other matters important to printed in a manner that should Union Hall in the particular port seamen and dockworkers in this in Duluth, Erick Soder Tavervicinity. over, died suddenly Tuesday, be easily understood by all. It of paying off." As soon as the meetings are January 28, Many Lakes seamen would be a good policy in my Members of ihe Seafarers' over I'll try to give you Lakes will miss Erick. He was always opinion, if the ship.s delegates; Infernalional Union of Norlh seamen the highlights through ready to give a helping hand made a careful study of the, This rule was rescinded America join with Brother agreements for the benefit of the May, 1946 on the Atlantic and! report to the Log. We ex­ when needed. Jimmy Slevens. Balfimore few who do not thoroughly un-' Gulf Coast, but is still a rule on pect to reach some concrete deci­ I'd like to repeat for the infor­ derstand them. | the West Coast. So, until such sions that will be of interest to mation of members living in the Dispatcher, in mourning the If this was done I'm sure that time as the Seafarers Internation- all SIU men, so keep your eye vicinity of Duluth that the Hall recent death of his father, ships would payoff with a mini- al Union as a whole can go back peeled for the results. is open and meetings are held Robert Stevens. mum of beefs. into another general conference j A strike at the Glassblock, a the first and third Monday of the Louis GofSn and change this ruling, we must' department store, has been in month at 7 p. m. Final Departure • I JLAAAO X WOO X k..O*..XXXVX1^VX ^^1 �Friday, February 7, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine RR Elquipment For Europe - Via An SIU Crew It's a ticklish job lowering railroad engines into the hold of a ship. The above picture was taken as an engine was being lowered into the h }ld of the MV Gadsden, American Eastern Steam­ ship Company. The engines and cars are consigned to Europe, where they will help to break up the transportation bottle-neck that exists in the countries across the sea. 4. i i A group of railroad engines and cars was lined up at the side of the ship, waiting to be loaded. One by one, they were picked up by the big booms, swung onto the ship, and gently deposited in the hold. There they were lashed down so that there was no chance of the cargo shifting while the ship was on the high seas. Special equipment is needed to do this work, and it takes a high degree of skill and efficiency to accomplish the job without injury to the crew or the material being loaded. The AFL Longshoremen did the job in handy fashion. On the right is the big boom which is used to lift the rail­ road cars onto the ship and then lower them into the holds. This is some piece of machin­ ery, and must be handled gent­ ly so that the load can be lift­ ed and swung without sudden starts or slops. Left, the Gadsden as she lay at the dock waiting for the loading operation to begin. Soon this peaceful scene gave way to one of great activity, and railroad cars and eiigines sailed through the air with the greatest of ease. Below the picture of the Gadsden is the sign-off, which took place aboard the ship. An SIU Pa­ trolman was present to make sure that all parts of the con­ tract were being lived up to by the Company. The sign-on was on Thursday, February 6, and the crew was then ready for a trip that will take them to European ports. d t 4. i ^ i • •] S: SsifSssi i Good food is promised to the crew by the above two men. They must be able to live up to their promises because the LOG photographer says they are very popular with the rest of the cre'vlr. It was too cold^and rainy to take many pictures on deck, so the crew gathered in the mess room for this one. A typical SIU crew, they made sure that everything was okay aboard before the sign-off. A Patrolman was also present to protect the interests of the members. �Page Ten Friday. February 7; 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS MEMBERS OF THE SEAFARER CREW ABOARD THE SS BIENVILLE Tulane Crew Hits Topside Favoritism Charges of showing favoritism to "topside" were leveled at the Chief Engineer and Purser at a recent crew meeting aboard the SS Tulane Victory. The playing of favorites left the crew holding the bag on two counts, it was re­ vealed; The charge against the Chief Engineer originated with the Black Gang, who said that the engine officer "deliberately ra­ tioned the water supply, when it was not necessary." The Pur­ ser's affectionate treatment of the topside inhabitants involved pre­ ferential sale of cigarettes. Deck. Gang (from left to right): L. Knowles. G. Talley. W. Ruggie. E. Bauer. F. Litsch. H. Humphrey. P. Lunakis. C. Wenski. J. Jordan. H. Gawoski. J. Nelson. J. Gates and F. Oliver. Black Gang (left to right); front row: H. I. Nelson. J. E. Odomi P. Menkavitch. C. McHugh;. back row: A. Rezende. R. Cullum. A. Giovanni' and- W.' Beyer. Loop Knot Has One-Man Deck Dep't. SLICK TRICK The Black Gang men stated that the engine officer set the water valves "at a certain regu­ lation, then sawed them off, so that they could not be regulated further by the crew. "This procedure on his part worked a hardship on the crew, whereas the water supply to top­ side was not affected by this ac­ tion. The meeting, acting on a recom­ mendation by the Black Gang, voted to refer the matter to the Union Agent. While the Purser's pandering to the topside bunch was not quite so openly detected, there • was sufficient ba.sis for strong suspicion. The minutes state "that the Purser showed a tinge of favoritism in the. issuance of certain brands of cigarettes to topside. CORRECTIONS URGED Both the slopchest and the medical chest were scored as in­ adequate, and the crew urged that the deficiencies of both be corrected immediately. The Black Gang registered another beef with the complaint that there was an insufficiency of cleaning mate­ rials for the heads arid showers. The minutes concluded with "bouquets" for the Deck and Stewards gangs. There were no beefs in either for these two de­ partments. John Boros was chairman . of this Tulane Victory meeting, and Lloyd Stakebrake did the. TCT cording. The shoreside one-man band now has a sea-going rival for. honors in human buzz-saw ac­ tivity. This shipboard phenomenon, who aspires to be a one-man deck department, also doubles in brass. He's the Chief Mate of the MV Loop Knot, of the Alcoa bauxite fleet, which wound up her Souths ern run: in New York Jan. 21. All went well aboard the Loop Knot for the first month of the voyage, following the departure Stewards Department (left to right), front row: J. W. Tingle. I. Brown. L. Coates. V. Brew from New York Nov. 14, accord­ and H. P. Ducoux; back row: S. Hunter. T. Sims. O. Thompson. D. B. McKimsey and C. D.. White. ing: to Seafarer Michael Baal, AB, one of the crew. The. initial part of the trip "appealed to all hands," Baal reported. "In fact, as far as the crew was concerned, it was a pretty good trip. The crew got along well, and had a good time," he added; (Editor's note:—The follow­ Cairo, I would have lost all faith that it was a good experience, TROUBLE STARTS ing article, by Seafarer Larkin in Egypt. We got to see King and wishing we could have stay­ Tut's tomb (made of enough solid ed a few days more. gives an interesting pic­ But there were some e.xcepgold to fill cavities in all the Next port of calls were Port ture of the. way an Isthmian teeth in the world). In the Cairo tions. Brother Baal continued. Said and Suez. We didn't stay crew spent some of their time Museum, we saw thousands of long in either, but I heard some The first of these appeared when ashore, while on a recent trip other interesting things, follow­ of the crew speak of the ice-cold the Chief Mate precipitated trou­ to Indian and Arabian ports. ing which we had a swell feed beer they had. On the way to ble by trying to make more over­ The Log would appreciate simi- for two bucks. Jeddah, Arabia, we saw Mt. Si­ time than the boys, he said. The ° lar accounts from Seafarers on nai where Moses received the deck department head was on PAL ALI deck constantly, bouncing around other vessels.) Ten Commandments. like a beaver. One minute he was Then our guide, Ali Hassan is We dropped the hook at Jed­ By ED LARKIN the name in case you want to dah one fine hot morning and Chief Mate, the next a Bosun, then an AB, and finally and OS, After hearing and reading look him up, took us to several waited for the sailboats to come about Isthmian ships, I shudder­ ancient palaces, the market- cut and start uriloading. Jeddah Much of the time, Beal said, this guy was acting out all roles at ed when I got a job aboard one has a beautiful harbor, but it is one time. of these scows. Well, I had some very shallow. At one of the island ports, he tough times during the voyage, HANDS OFF BETtlHA VoysSEF called in natives to paint the side but there were plenty of bright <30ES «r«AldrtT spots to pick us up when we went We were only a few miles from of the ship. Each was given 10 r(6\N) \ ashore. But here's my story: Mecca,, the Mohammedans' holy pieces of dunnage for his work: The Loop Knot's skipper rack­ city, where it is reported no dis­ The first day aboard several of believer of . the faith is allowed. ed up a spicy litle record, too, it us guys from the SIU investi­ Incidentally, the civilians there was pointed out. Brother Baal gated and found the ship in bad are discouraged from stealing by himself was the victim of the old condition. The ship had been use of some pretty sharp methods. salt's sting. taken over from an NMU crew, For a first offense, the local gen­ with whose reputation we are all In Trinidad, Mike Baal had to darmes will cut . off a hand. An make a trip to the hospital be­ well familiar. arm goes for the second offense. cause of a sciatic condition. As We were able ^finally to clean up the scow and we set our place, the Dead City, Memphis, Three strikes and you're out—- a result, he missed the ship when course for Alexandria^ Egypt. Ar- the Tombs, and finally to the the third steal and the head- it pulled out for Paramaribo. He I iving there a few weeks later, Pyramids and the Sphinx. Ali comes off, the. story, goes. After picked it up a week, Igter when that, of course, the offender lays the Knot returned to Trinidad. we took in the town. was no gyp; he workea for the off .stealing. He learned than that the 70-yearIn Cairo, we arranged to get a American: Express-outfit,: and we old skipper had logged him $80 In Jeddah; we unloaded several few, days, off for some of, the paid a.reasonable fee for hi* seiwautos for one Prince, and somefor missing ship.- Meanwhile, the crew after- using some SIU. per­ ioes. We returned to ship ' "ard suasion. If I didn't get to see truck, with all hands agreeing f(tinvj'/t on Page 11) (Continued on Page 11) Shoreside Excursions Highlight Isthmian Crew's Mid-East Trip �Friday, February 7. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Shoreside Excursions Highlight Voyage Of Isthmian Vessel To The Middle East (Continued from Fage 10) other cargo, then pulled out. All crewmembers had their hands when we left, by the way. Karachi, India was our next call. When we arrived there, the civilians were dying of the heat, a Wiper made some overtime, an AB was rating an entrance to the romance ward at Staten Island, and Joe Louis, we heard, had just beat Conn. We went ashore, got haircuts, and drank cool beer at the limey seamen's club. The usual amount of guys went out with "hostesses," some bought souvenirs, a few got plastered, and some did all three. Now a place that is a place is Bombay—our next port. I got off watch there and went up the street with a few guys to a local gin mill, and later we had wash­ ed down Isthmian's grub we grabbed a few rickshaws and started to see the sights. BOMBAY'S CAGES I've been on Skipper Street in Antwerp, Pig Alley in Paris, Shanker Alley in Oran, Snake Ranch in Port Sudan, but a section in Bombay, called the Cages, is the most amazing of all. In this section, stretching over an area of several blocks, are thousands of girls peering out in­ to the streets from behind wood­ en doors, which resemble cages. hence the name. Yes, this is Bombay's impoverished red light district, with side streets that make New York's Greenwich Village, and Los Angeles' Per­ shing Square look sick. The Cages cater to the coolies and beggars, who cannot afford wives, and prices range from 15 to 50 cents. All these ladies of easy virtue raise their voices at once. I felt like Gen. Eisenhower marching down Times Square. Our crew carefully avoided these cages, which are hot beds of venereal disease. LEARNED A LESSON Columbo, Ceylon, was next. Expensive is the word for this town, but we rented some sail­ boats and went for a cruise. I learned a lesson there, too:, not to buy stones I don't know any­ thing about. I got stuck. Take heed, fellows. A few days later, we hit Mad­ ras, where the movies are made. We got a riqkshaw and headed for the English section of town, where we found a satisfactory night spot. We didn't blow our lops because we didn't get any draw there. But we made up for it in Cal­ cutta. We were the only Ameri­ can ship in that port, and we really took the town over, but now that I look over my money draws, I think it was vice-versa. Knot Has 1-Man Deck Dept. (Continued from Page 10) skipper had telegraphed to the States an order to stop Baal's al­ lotment, causing his family ex­ treme financial hardship. ANOTHER VICTIM .Baal was not alone, however. Brother Blackstadt had his trou­ bles too. He broke his ankle in Paramaribo. Nothing was done in the way of medical treatment. Baal reported the skipper's feel­ ings as being that the injury didn't warrant medical attention. This the Loop's Captain based on his own experiences—30 years in p, • couple of minor exceptions which Baal cited: A permit man in the deck department hurt his finger while demonstrating how to work the davits in the lifeboats. Since the vessel was still in New York, he was' offered a chance to get off. He refused, however, and the offer was repeated in St. Thomas but it was again rejected. All this time, this guy stood no watches. Ball said, adding that the crew intended to prefer charges against the man. It was learned later, however, that this "thumb rider" had attempted to retire his permit card. Editor's note:—As we go to press, word has just been re­ ceived that Brother Baal's S80 log has been halved. Our Spe­ cial Service Department rep­ resentative succeeded in reduc­ ing the amount of the log to equal the time Ball was away from his ship.) - Calcutta has plenty to offer. 'We visited the Temple, a marble palace, the Black Hole, and the burning-ghats, where they burn the dead, they toss the ashes into the Ganges River. It was a grue­ some, but educational, neverthe­ less. LOVELY WOLVES Souvenirs were cheap in Cal­ cutta. Most Seafarers bought leather suit cases for five to fif­ teen dollars. We ate steaks and drank American beer at Firpo's. We met Anglo-Indian gals, who just LOVE Americans. Several of the guys had notes sent to them while sitting in the movies. Calcutta is a town where the dames are wolves, and okay, too. Swimming at the marble pal­ ace or the Calcutta Beach Club is okay. Good floor shows can be seen at the Princess Pat, and Winter Garden, plus several ether good nite spots. Between riots we went out on dates, and it was the beginning of a long friendship for this town. We were in Calcutta two weeks, which gave us plenty of time to cultivate a gal. Several of the guys just came to the ship to work. They must have found a home. We had a good deal in Cal­ cutta, but the Captain evidently didn't see the "adventure" of it, because he didn't let the Bosun decide when we should leave port. Our fun ended when the Skipper very nervily set a sail­ ing date. Some guys are always lousing up the act. TOUGH TIMES. TOO I mention only some of the good times v/e had ashore. We had our tough times aboard ship, too, on that trip, but when you ship unorganized you expect it. ThtR's our job as Seafarers—to correct these conditions for sea­ men, and we're well on the road now with Isthmian. If you want to see the sights, and have fun—ship Isthmian. Re­ member this: Just because we've won the Isthmian election, it doesn't mean that we still don't have plenty of work to do. We have to keep right on sailing them until we win a contract. Don't let the SIU down. Broth­ ers, by not sailing Isthmian. If you don't sail them, you'll be missing a helluva lot of fun, a chance to do some good and have that "Volunteer Organizer" stamped in your book. Ship Isth­ mian, Brothers! MINUTES OF SIU SHIP MEETINGS MICHAEL BAAL the merchant service, five years in the Navy—^which he thought enabled him to decide when a man was in need of care. At St. Thomas, Blackstadt de­ manded to go ashore for examin­ ation. An x-ray revealed a chip­ ped bone. Crew relations aboard the Loop Knot were tops. There were a JANEWAY. Jan. 1—Chair­ man A. Lavoie; Secretary John Jellette. Deck and Engine De­ partments reported no beefs. Steward Department reported more cooperation needed from night cook and baker. Good and Welfare: One of Wipers asked that men refrain from leaving their old razor blades in sink as one man received a severe cut due to this negli­ gence. Agreed that all men on watch be fed first at mess. Steward brought out that pitch­ ers now on board made of glass, are not suitable for use of crew. This is to be corrected upon ar­ rival in U. S. 4. 4. S. WILLIAM CLAGETT. Sept. II—ChairmEui Babkowski; Sec­ retary Tears. Delegates reports. Deck Delegate reported the disputed overtime and the tmcooperative attitude of the Mate. Steward Department okay. Engine Department re­ ported that overtime was being disputed in direct opposition to the agreement. New Business: Motion passed on July 21 per­ taining to fines for neglect or failure to stand regular watches be dropped. 4" 4 4JOHN LA FARGE, Dec. 22— Chairman Frank Gages. Secre­ tary Donald J. Bushard. First order of business concerned two men who joined ship in Brem­ enhaven. They ask for admis­ sion to union. New Business: Delegates reported everything okay. Overtime to be settled at payoff. Motion carried to hold beef concerning stores and shortage of food until Patrol-' man is contacted at first port. Motion carried that all men be sober at time of payoff. HELP THE SEAFARERS BRIHS SFCURIlVAfOD CO^/DITIO^IS Ife-THe UMORGAMI^ED SEAMAN . -TELL-fflEM WHAT •TUB SIU HAS DONE' TtJ RAISE SEAMEN OUT ECOMOMIC SLAVERY-SHOW/ THEM OUR. CCWTRACTS -ASK -rDEM TO YOUR MEETINGS,SO, THEY ON SEE FDRTMEMSELVES.' CUT and RUN By HANK "Mister" Franklin Smith, the oldtimer, just blew in from an Isthmian trip to the Philippines. Here's what he has to say: "You guys who happen to hit Manila, don't patronize the New York Bar. It has changed ownership and become a clip joint. So if you want to straighten out the roll in your sea legs and have a good time, visit the Old Manila Gardens on Delacruze Street near the water­ front. There's a lively, jazzy 15-piece orchestra, the best beer flow­ ing for the cheapest price going and the place is owned and operated by two foi'mer seamen, one of them a skipper. If the island of Cebu happens to be staring you in the face, then head for the OverhiH Inn or the Tropical Hut. Beer flows for a buck. I hope to see n^ shipmate, Jack Giller, who should soon be leaving San Francisco for the East coast" . . . Last week Warren Callahan registered for shipping just to grab a ship till spring-time. He has successfully established himself in business up in upper New York, where he, his wife and daughter are now living. Warren 'nappily states that his two-month daughter, Patricia, is in fine health and is cutting her teeth. Well, Warren, drop us a letter while you're out. 4 4 4 4 There's plenty of electricians in town right now. Carl Wayne is one of them . . . Edwin Edginton, another Chief Juicedoctor just blew in from a trip from Antwerp where his ship was kept idle due to a 30-day longshoremen's strike. Are you getting ready to start patching up those electric bulbs with scotch tape on your next trip. Brother Edginton? . .. Oldtimer and Assistant Electrician Marshall Dodge is waiting for a ship with a big smile on his face , . . 4 4 4 4 Paddy Walsh has been anchored in town for over a month now. Another trip to Antwerp, Paddy? . . . Thomas "Rebel" Melton said that he was going to grow another beard while he's aboard his ship on her four trips between Barcelona, Spain and Buenos Aires . . . Willie "Bill" Thomas and Bosun Luke Collins are probably still making a home cut of the SS American Press on her East Coast run . . . Oldtimer Eddie Parr is visiting New York for a while . . , Here's part of letter to us from Alex "Ski" Janowski over in Hono­ lulu while aboard an Isthmian ship: "Read the only Log in Hawaii, the one that was mailed to the Hall. The editor saj's I have to have a heart, and after tearing it in pieces, why should I tear it and leave it in pieces? Well, my wife's heart won't be torn in pieces because love is grand nowadays if you get the right kind of wom­ an for yourself!" 4 4 4 4 Meet Joe Felton: Cynically anchored in town right now, waiting for a good trip, this little Bosun of an oldtimer, has confessed in one of his idle moments of humorous disgust that because of good living (meaning, of course, this sea life of his) he has plenty of grass on his skull, regardless of the fedora covering it. Of course, whenever he has observed or been ad­ vised that a few gray hairs have suddenly sprouted, he goes right out and gets a short haircut. Remembering the good old bad days of ships, Joe said that as an AB he got iifty-five dol­ lars a month, never did see fresh fruit more than once or twice a week (sometimes) and the good meat always went straight to the deserving hearts and stomachs of Skipper and company. On one seven-month trip the crew kept wishing for something svAeet to eat. The cooks finally made cinnamon buns out of maggotty raisins, molasses, etc. The crew knew the raisins were maggotty but they ate the buns and were glad to get them. If Joe had twenty more years to sail SIU ships he would spend them all with the swell deck crew of oldtimers who paid off the SS Button Gwinnett before she was laid up recently in Baltimore. �PagwTwel'rrr T H E' SEAF A R ERS LOa Friday, Febniary 7, 1947 DiRUNKS IMPOSE HARDSHIPS ON THEIR BROTHERS Dear Editor: I have been receiving the Log since Oct. 1945, and I have been enjoying it very much. It comes to my home and my parents either save them or send them on to my ship. Now, the reason for writing this letter is that it just occurred to me that I've paid only two dol­ lars for all this. I'm short on funds, so I will ship out next week, and will send something for the Log at first chance. I also wish to express my grati­ tude to the SIU for taking me in in Sept. 1945. I came out of the Maritime Service a very mixedup lad, but luckily I visited the SIU Hall and was straightened out. I first visited the NMU hall but one look was enough, and after considerable inquiring I was di­ rected to 51 Beaver Street. I'm a little confused at pres­ ent as to my chances of getting a full'or pro book. Any informa­ tion would be appreciated L. M. Quam Klamath Falls. Ore. Now that jobs are getting scarce and will, I am afraid, con­ tinue to get scarcer, and the num­ ber of sailors waiting for jobs at the hall are becoming mox-e nu­ merous, it appears to me that a thorough housecleaning in our union is in order. The hopeless, useless chronic drunks in our ranks seem to have an uncanny ability to get them­ selves shipped out in the best jobs. I have seen, as most of us have, a steady procession of dipsomaniacal stewards, electricians, machinists, etc. The compassion we usually entertain for drunks makes UB put up with them. While they go on happily raking in their large salaries every month, the rest of the crew does their work for them and suffers from the inability of these indi­ viduals to handle the work they were hired to do. Our Union officers have ex­ pounded this very thought at various meetings, but I believe that a more energetic executive policy is in order. Let us rid ourselves of these undesirables. It is ridiculous and unfair to have these drunken sots make our lives miserable, while capable men are hanging around the hall until their finances force them to ship below their capacities. This cartoon and the one below were the greetings New Orl'eans Dispatcher Stephens received one morning as the enter­ ed the Hall. G. Schlesinger MV Moose Peak Brother Stephens took them from the Bulletin Board and sent them to the Log. (See story elsewhere on this page). (Editor's note:—In regard to your request for information on pro book possibilities, it would be difficult to give you an an­ swer on the basis of informa­ tion -supplied. We suggest that you stop in at the Hall where you can be answered satisfac­ torily.) Seafarers Artist Catches N.O. Dispatcher Off Guard Brother "Stevie" Stephens, Dispatcher in the Port of New Orleans, emerged from a situa­ tion last week with his keen sense of humor still intact. In fact. Brother Stephens' sense of humor passed with flying colors what we think was an acid test. If it hadn't, you very likely wouldn't have had a chance to see the two cartoons reproduced on this page. Here's how it came about: One bright morning last week. Brother Stephens, who for a long time- has been dreaming about having his portrait painted, step­ ped briskly into the hall at 339 Chartres Street ready for his dis­ patching chores. With folded eyes too glad to weep. Yet too sad for dreams or sleep. The blessing cure comes from above. Folds around us like arms of love; Heaven lent us the stars so bright To see us through the awful night. Out on the seas that send such fright. We do not pine for those we love. For we have the stars that shine above. We, who who so loudly praise the • sky. Feel akin to its starry comforts That brighten our way from on high. % % % Me Mudder and Me By Vic Combs While walking down the street one day, I heard a kiddie say: "Hey, Jimmie, lemme tell youse, I'd be happy as a clam If I only wuz da fella Dat me mudder tinks I am. She tinks I'm a wonder As he passed the bulletin board he froze in his tracks. Tacked up on the board were two sketches of "Stevie," by an artist who signed only "Hal." The sketches weren't exactly what "Stevie" had in mind when he dreamed of sitting for a painting, but he let out a roar of laughter, neverthe­ less. This is too good not to be seen by the membership, Stevie figured. Forthwith, he took them down from the board, and sent them pronto to the Seafarers Log for reproduction so that all hands could get a wheeze out of them. Caps off, then, to "Stevie" Stephens for his unselfish sense of humor. She tinks she knows her lad Wouldn't mix wid nottin' Dat was mean or bad. And lots of times I sit and tink. How nice it ould be—gee whiz. If I only was de feller Dat me mudder tinks I is." ANOTHER SPOT WHERE LOG CAN BE FOUND Paralyzed Oldtimer Urges Young Members Hold Gains bilities. They saw I was in the merchant marine, and therefore, I am a wheelchair sailor now, not in the "service." as a result of an accident aboard ship , in Casablanca, North Africa, If the merchant seamen were during the war. not in the "service," what in hell I was injured when an over­ was it that we were doing? We loaded boom broke, crashed down maintained the food and supply and hit me in the back. Nine of lines, we carried the men and my ribs were smashed, and my their stuff across and brought back was broken, leaving me them back. Now that it is over, paralyzed from the waist down. what do they want us to do— I have -been in bed, flat on my starve? Watch your step, and keep her back, for four years now the first of this month. As you know I steady as she goes, or they wiU have no. income, no pension- such have you right where we were as men I in the armed forces rfe- before. I have sailed those rust ceive for service-connected disa­ pots for $30 a month, and it A mass of stars hover over head. Our cares are behind, and our hearts ahead. While the thrill that hurries us along Is the sea and its lonely song; Weary at heart and sick at soul. The star has a story seldom told. Dear Editor: "By 'THE /{ay'Dfii-EM's j)is PATCHFR Fc"? FfliLORe 70 PUT Gooo (7(505 UN THE TioAKO. APPROACH MfTH CAUTION. f^PoMSLV APriEP iH/m iflPGC^cLUA. wasn't so long ago, either. Even though I'm no longer sailing I wouldn't want to see those con­ ditions come back.' You've got a damned good Un­ ion in the SIU, so keep; it going ahead. Fight for, and keep whdt you've won for-the seamen. The oldtimers like myself started the advance. Now you younger men have to pull together to keep the ball rolling. Here in Washington, they are raising hell in Congress, in a des­ perate -effort to 'break -the Unions. So-, if it comes to a fight let them Dear Editor: I have an address to which I would like you to send copies of the Log weekly. It is a weUknown bar in Antwerp, Belgium. It is the only bar for..several miles around the docks, and is visited by a great number of SIU sea­ men. The name and address of this spot is: Charlie's Bar Norderlain, 1000 Antwerp, Belgium I know the boys will appreci­ ate finding copies of the Seafarers Log at this place. Robert L. Kennedy SS John B. Hamilton have both barrels. I will ring off now, wishing you all the best of luck; God bless you all, and steady as she goes! Hart G. Bro-wn r. 1330 Queen SU N. E., Washington 2,~Di C, �Friday," February 7. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS OFF THE SS CAPE JOHN Page Thirteen ILA Men Join Drive To Aid War Orphans Dear Editor: These SIU men were shipmates aboard the Isthmian vessel on a recent trip. Left to right, E. R. Johnson, R. L. Karns, D. K. Tighe and Ed Bolehala. Membership Only Can Break The Commies' Death-Grip On National Maritime Union Dear Editor: Now it happened that about this time Curly bought himself a new pair of shoes. That night he got his feet wet in the recent rains and the dye from the shoes poisoned his feet so that for sev­ eral weeks he was forced to wear slippers. The charge finally brought against Curly was for dressing in a manner unbecoming to a Union representative, due to his wearing slippers. And believe it or not,, that \Vas what Curly Rentz was expelled from the Another example was the way NMU for. in which they put the boot to At the time Curly was up on "William "Curly" Rentz, our pres­ ent Baltimore Agent. Curly charges with the NMU, H. K. Rentz has been a rank and file Duechare, the present Galveston man for a long time. In 1936 he NMU agent, was hanging around was one of the few elected offi­ haranging the membership about cials of the ISU who went along Curly, calling him phony, and with the NMU rank and file. urging them to get rid of him When the NMU was formed he by any moans. As soon as Curly was elected Patrolman in New was framed, Duechare stepped Orleans. Running later for Texas into his place as Texas City Pa­ City Pati-olman, he was elected trolman. by a large majority. When the rank and file men of the NMU wake up and realize CANT STAND CRITICISM that they are being used as tools It wasn't long after his election by the commies to further their to the Texas City job that the twisting policies, and break away commies began to "blast" him. from them, they will find that Curly never made any bones the SIU is right here to give them about where he stood on their a helping hand and to help them disruptive and sell-out policies so organize into a genuine demo­ they naturally did their best to cratic union. get something on him. Being an John D. McLemore honest man they were unable to seen entering or leaving the place was to have his book taken away and the member was to be placed in the "99 year club." An esti­ mated 25 members had their books taken away for that rea­ son. Yours truly was seen and reported for leaving the place, but beat them to the punch by rushing to Galveston and ex­ changing my NMU book for an SIU one. I have never regretted the move. Looking over last week's issue of the Pilot reminds me of the situation in the NMU during 1939. The difference is that one clique, who cooperated with the com­ mies in 1939, is today trying to buck those same master sell-out artists. The communist party has a death grip on the throat of the NMU today, and don't think for a moment that they will relax that grip.' All the cries, struggles, twisting and squirming of Curran, Lawrenson, Keith, Dunlavy, et al, will not shake that grip one iota. The communist party is us­ ing the same tactics that they used against so many rank and file members in 1939. As a rank and file member 'of the NMU in 1939, I want to. give you a couple of examples of how they worked: FINE TACTICS There was a cafe in Texas City called "Boots Place" that allowed the SIU, then a newly formed union, to display its literature in the place. "When the NMU heard of it, H. K. Duechare, the present NMU Galveston Agent (more of him later) got up on the floor of their meeting and accused Boots and his wife, Blanche, of print­ ing the literature. A motion was passed that any member of the NMU who was get the goods on him. We all know the terrific effect the war had on most people who lived in war areas. Seafarers, whose jobs bring them into the war-torn areas, particularly, know the hardships that exist. And the worst sufferers of all are the poor, helpless children who have been orphaned. It is in their behalf that we are attempting to do something to bring them a bit of relief, and to ease their suffering. And it is hoped that individual Seafarers may find it possible to help. As Business Agent of Local 1191-1 of the International Longshore­ men's Association, I have had much contact with SIU as our Brother Union in the AFL Mari­ time Trades Department of New York. An organization, the Torrese Social Club of New York, is now in a drive to collect clothing for the orphaned children of Torre del Greco, Naples, Italy. These children lived in an orphanage which was bombed out in the war, and their clothing needs are great. Those children who were orphaned by the war will also be aided. The Club has set up an effec­ tive way to see that the clothing it collects is legitimately dis­ tributed on the other side. Pietro Palomba, an attorney, of Torre del Greco, Naples, heads an au­ thorized committee of foiu: United States citizens, who were sent to the town by the club to see that the clothing is fairly dis­ tributed. These people will remain on the other side until their job is done meanwhile making reports back to the group here. VINCENT ERATO We would be grateful for any old gear which Seafarers have, and which could be distributed as clothing to these orphans. Paul Hall has said he will have un­ claimed gear made available to us. Should any reader have some­ thing wearable he would like to contribute to the drive, he can leave it on the 4th floor on the baggage room of the SIU Hall on 51 Beaver Street. Arrangements wiU be made for periodic pick­ ups. Or they can be sent direct to the Torrese Social Club, 107 President St., Brooklyn, N. "Y. The first shipment is scheduled for overseas shipment in one month. After that we intend to make shipments monthly. It is sincerely hoped that this drive will bring some measrure of comfort to these orphaned war victims. And we hope members of the SIU will be able to make clothing contributions to help us in that direction. Vincent Erato, Bus. Agent Local 1199-1 Intl. Longshoremen's Assn. DUTCH TREAT Galveston, Texas GI Won't Spare Power Returning To Sea spared. Oh, for the life of a sea­ I have received the Seafarers man! If there is anything you would Log and I certainly did welcome like to know about this place, I it. By the looks of things, - the Will be glad to send you some Union is really going to town pictures, or negatives—any infor­ Believe me it is about time some­ mation that you may want. body did something for the sea­ Well, I hope the paper keeps men, and the SIU is the one that coming, and if there js any charge is doing it. I will be glad to pay it. Also let me know if I am behind in We took a lot of guff during any dues. the war about making a lot of Edwin T. Clark money and all that nonsense. The 32nd Inf. APO 7 people never did seem to under­ San Francisco, Calif. stand the seamen's side of the (Editor's note: — No charge stoi-y—the risks involved;' etc. for the Log—all members and I am in the army, stationed former members are entitled to near Souel, Korea. It's not such receive it. We would like to a bad place, but as soon as I get have some of the negatives you put—well, you know where I am speak of,. along with all per­ heading for, and with no power tinent details. Since you are in Dear Editor: in the Army, it is advisable that you send your book to Headquarters, attention 6th floor, where it will be put in the Armed Forces file until your release. John Clamp (left) and Ray Carroll cool their palates during a recent stopover in Rotterdam. Requests SIU Service In A Package Beef Dear Editor: I'm writing you for a little help which I think you can supply. I was a crewmember aboard the SS Topa Topa on a voyage that payed off Jan. 3, 1947, in Phila­ delphia. After the payoff, I im­ mediately went home becau^^e I received word that my mother was very. ill. On the train home, while read­ ing my mail, I found a package notice from Waterman Steam­ ship Company stating that I had a package waiting for me in their New York office. Upon arriving home I wrote them a letter explaining the situation, and asked them to send the package to the return ad­ dress, my home, collect. It has now been three weeks since I wrote and I have had no answer from them. Would it be possible for you, or someone at the Hall in New York to get some action out of them, so I could get this package back? I cannot leave home because of my mother's condition and I have postponed my sailing because of tliis. Joseph A. Wilksoit (Ediior's note:—We've turned your letter over to Freddie Stewart, who is in charge of the baggage room, figuring he'd be the one to give you some SIU .service. Freddie said he'd turn to right away, so you should hear something shortly.) �Friday, February 7, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen THEY WANT TO ORGANIZE * * By FRENCHY MICHELET tinually boil all the taste out of The following notes are cabbage. Shred it up as for cold resume of much that wo have slaw occasionally, season with learned as Steward and Cook on salt and pepper and fry in ren­ a slew of ships both large and small. We pass them on to you dered sowbelly. When you open a can of string as a sort of valedictory effort for we shall not pass this way again beans, whole kernel corn and so on, try washing it in a collender in similar guise. and braising it with a little green You will find little here to onion and chipped bacon or with nourish the inner man. It is all designed to appease a hunger of whatever comes to hand. Then there's chicken and tur­ the belly kind. But perhaps it's an equal service, for we are all key ... primarily earthly creatures with There's a slew of ways to cook Pictured here are three typical Seafarers who came up to the New York Hall and asked to earthly appetites. them but one of the juiciest and be assigned to an unorganized ship. Left to right, are Olgerda Blues, Oiler; Bill Hutras, AB; and For every hour that we stumble tastiest of shipside methods is Ray Arnold, Oiler. Bill and Ray have been sailing for more than three years, and Brother Blues down the stony road with poor the simplest of the lot. has five years of seatime under his belt. None has sailed on an unorganized ship before, and all look blind Lear, wc spend a hundred forward to obtaining jobs on one so that they can do their parts in the SIU organizing campaign. Clean the birds, wash thorough­ mulling over the Betty Crockers' ly in cool running water, rub fascinating concoctions of ham liberally inside and out with a and eggs. mixture. of equal parts of salt, So pull up a chair, chum, and pepper and ginger. list to the lore of bacon and beans. Now rub each with salad oil, Give 'em all they want! cover with a cloth saturated with Woe unto the Steward who is the same oil and roast til a drum­ The Seafarers' crack speed yet to learn the wisdom of the.se stick hollers uncle when skater. Jack Parker, continued magic words. Give 'em all they squeezed with the fingers. Re­ with his winning ways last Sun­ want, brother, and you will find move the birds and make your day, when he whizzed over the that they will soon want but little gravy with the drippings. of anything at all. ice ahead of all competition in Don't keep jabbing a fork into Pack the refrigerators with a roast to test its doneness or to five speed events at the annual fresh fruits and jam the tables turn it over. If you do this you Rome (N. Y.) Winter Carnival. with ham and jam. It's the psy­ will find that it has bled most A record crowd of 3,000 en­ chology of plenty. If you make of its savory juices and is about By JOHNNY JOHNSTON thusiasts saw Parker crowned the the mistake of locking up every­ as tasty as something cooked by up-state city's senior and open Although for a long time the thing, you will find that you have the WSA's "experts" in their skating champ for the third con­ succeeded in doing nothing but Stewards • Dept. Retraining superiority of steam over sail secutive year. . stimulating appetites, for your School. was an accomplished fact in the looks will last about as long as Brother Parker, who makes eyes of the world, yet as late as AND GARLIC a snowball on the hottest hinge Rome his home when he isn't Bone all your roasts. They 1895 over 1700 sailing vessels of hell. doing Bosun's chores aboard SIU cook through better, slice better entered the port of New York. ships, flashed first across the tape WOMEN KNOW and are more economical. Smack But that was the last dying gasp in the 100, 220, 440, and 880-yard The women know all about this the bones with a cleaver and put events. For his fifth win he cop­ of the sailing portion of the ship­ JACK PARKER psychology of plenty. They trade them right into the pan with the ped the one mile open race, fea­ on it with a psychology of scar­ meat if you want the additional ping industry. ture event in the carnival's at­ city. The lock up everything with flavor. While gallant square riggers tractions. the result that simple souls like continued to be sighted on sea Wot, no garlic? you and me hustle around for li­ MORE MEDALS lanes throughout the world, their Roasting fresh pork without a censes to get at what we in our Last Sunday's victories added liberal sprinkling of garlic just number became fewer as the lamentable ignorance verily be­ years went by, and they present­ five medals and one trophy to lieve to be the choicer fruit ed an ever more lonely appear­ Parker's growing collection. In­ stashed away inside. ance in a world gone into steam cluding the latest additions, About vegetables and things . . power, and soon to go into diesel seven trophies and 55 medals now power. adorn the Parker home in testi­ The books all note that fresh The old adage that "one good mony to Jack's prowess on the turn deserves another" spurred vegetables should be cooked in 4" 4, 4silver blades. rapidly boiling water just long New Orleans Seafarers to return Donald McKay has been term­ enough to render them eatable. a compliment this week to the The accomplishments of the ed the most famous of America's SIU's ice whizz are all the more Rev. Thomas A. McDonough, port That's stuff for the birds to peck builders of clipper ships. He de­ noteworthy in view of the fact chaplain at the Catholic Martiat. Maybe you conserve the vita­ signed 16 of the finest and swift­ that he is unable to train as ef­ time Club on Camp Street. mins that way, but it makes the est of them between 1850 and fectively and religiously as his The youthful priest, who of­ food about as palatable as that 1853, and their romantic names shoreside competitors. fers the facilities of the club "as slumgum that Shuler ladles out have come down out of an equal­ a home and service center for the to crews silly enough to sail with His performances, however, use and welfare of all seamen ly romantic period. him. ain't done in the best culinary Among them were the Flying prove that he has sufficient speed temporarily in the port of New A smart cookie will operate on circles, chum. Cloud, the Mastiff, the Westward to offset this handicap. Orleans—irrespective of their na­ the supposition that a sailor gets Bone the meat, rub liberally Ho, and the last and greatest of all the vitamins he needs in his with a mixture of equal parts of Parker's string of victories be­ tionality or creed," has stated McKay's masterpices, the Great shoreside beer. When he tackles salt, pepper and thyme. Squeeze gan when he was 13-years-old, that "merchant seamen are not Republic. only the finest guys in the world, a messroom vegetable he craves the juice of two lemons over the when he scored his first win in something tasty. She had a tonnage of 4,555> competition. Now 22, Jack looks but also the biggest-hearted." meat, throw in the skins, add a Seafarers down in New OrAll of which brings us to liberal sprinkling of garlic and was 325 feet long and S3 feet forward to many more years of le§ins think pretty highly of O'Brien. Ireland hasn't produced roast di'y for 30 minutes. Now wide, had four decks, three racing. Father McDonough, too. anything to equal things O'Brien pour off the grease, add a ladle square rigged masts, and a SISTER TOO "He has never turned down one since St. Patrick was chasing the of hot water and roast in a slow of our members, and men go spankermast. An indication of Following in Brother Jack's snakes over her green hills with oven until done. over there every day to get a the gigantic size of this ship footsteps is his IJ-year-old sister, a knobby shillelagh. The following di.sh was taught flop and something to eat," says Rosemary, who already cuts a us by good old "Shanghai" Char­ may be gained by the fact that VARIATION ON THEME a note from the Gulf port. And neat chunk of ice herself. She the main yard was 120 feet in For a tasty variation of the lie while we were beachcombing has been under her . brother's the lads feel he is entitled to a in Singapore. The old Far East length, which was twice the O'Brien technique take firm champion tutorage since she was vote of thanks for his hospitality. fresh carrots and slice them in gang will be pleased to learn that size of the main yard on an nine years of age. chips. Cut up two green peppers Charlie survived the war and is average large merchantmen. Among the most recent of Par­ and four raw onions and add to now running a characteristic joint Unfortunately the Republic ker's trophy winnings is the behind the native bazaar in Cal­ the carrots. Slice up plenty of If you don't find linen never sailed the seas in all her award made to him last year at cutta. salt sowbelly and add. Then sea­ when you go aboard your glory, for she was seriously burn­ the Brooklyn Ice Palace, training Here's the way to make curry son with salt and pepper and ed while lying alongside the dock ship, notify the Hall at once. spot for some of the nation's top braise on the top of the range, and rice that will make the guys A telegram from Le Havre or in New York ready for her first speed artists. The Speed Skat­ who never eat the stuff call for stirripg occasionally till done. Singapore won't do you any voyage to San Francisco. Al­ ing Club there presented Jack seconds. Raw Irish potatoes may be though the vessel was repaired with its Silver Trophy for being good.^^ It's your bed and you Cut up a few old hens as for somewhat, the upper deck was treated the same way for an have to lie in it. the "most improved skater of the equally tasty dish. Don't con­ (Continued on Page 15) never replaced. 1945-46 season." Seafarer Parker Skates His Way To Carnival Crown For Third Time N.O. Seafarers Offer Thanks To Rev. McDonough ATTENTION! �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, February 7, 1947 Page Fifteen Geo. Washington Bartender Is A Topnotch Professional American Eastern Signs With SlU; Will Carry RR Rolling Stock ally, they were discovered and Brother Robert L. Brock, who; He sailed as a Night Cook and taken mid-ships. sails on the Alcoa liner George' Baker during the war, and once GALVESTON Later, the two Spanish politic­ SS Wm. Cox—$15.00. Washington as Bartender, is when his ship was docked at a al refugees were released and put SS Milan R. Stefanik—$20.50. worthy of Log mention for sev- Belgian port, buzz bombs caused to work doing odd jobs around INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS eral very newsworthy reasons. it to break loose from its moor­ R. B. Johnson, $5.00. the ship. On their arrival in this Not only does he have the honor ings, At the same time, dive country, they were picked up by NEW YORK of being the first and only Bar­ bombers sank another Alcoa ship the Immigration authorities and SS CITY OF ALMA tender on the George Washington docked along side. J. Piurllinmmi» Sr Crow of .S.S City confined to Ellis Island. Rumor since her return to passenger sail­ During the SIU General Mari­ has it that they will be taken of ALMA—$29.00. W. R. Mcllveen, $1.00; M. Lutzza, ing, but he also has the distinc­ time Strike in 1946, Bob did his back to France on the Gadsden's $1.00; j. E. L. Morin, $1.00; S. W. G. tion of being the first Seafarer to stint at the 125th St. Pier on the next trip across. Hale, $100; F. Havard, $1.00; j. C. sign on as a Bartender since the North River, and also participat­ Most of the crewmembers are Long. $1.00; H. Sharpe, $1.00; J. L. war's end. ed in the work stoppage which staying aboard for the next voy­ Chastain, $1.00; J. H. Prudhomme, occurred earlier in '46. He reaUy $1.00; E. E. Kusgen, $1.00; A. ArvanBob came to the SIU well age, and give full credit for the ites, $1.00; H. Faybik, $1.00; G. W. believes in the SIU, and isn't good food they've been having Vencil, $1.00; B. G. Doda, $1.00; G. qualified to sail as a Bartender, afraid to tell any of his thirsty having been a member of the Crisenio, $1.00; G. Bette, $1.00; J. to Chief Cook Pete Gonzales. clients aboard the George Wash­ According to them, Pete de­ McConeghey, $1.00; F. Sullivan, $1.00; Bartenders' Union for over 4 J. TozzI, $1.00; W. Graley, $1.00; A. years, and also the favorite drink ington that he belongs to the serves a medal for the swell feed Mueller, $1.00; M. Gichenico, $1.00. mixer-upper of John Goodman, Seafarers as well as the Bartend­ job he's been doing on the Gads­ SS WHITE OAK First Vice President of the Bar­ ers Union. den. However, SIU oldtimers 11. Tarranl. $2 00; V. Sunguroff, Attesting to his bartending abil­ have come to expect that kind $2.00; Don Newell, $2.00; W. Hryszko, tenders. Among his many as.sets, he has ity is the fact that Brother Brock $2.00; J. Griffin, $2.00; D. McFadden, of food on the average SIU ship. $1.00; F. Landry, $1.00. an international Bartenders cer­ has had numerous offers from For more details concerning SS COASTAL MARINER tificate which entitles him to passengers to tend bar in various American Eastern and the Gads­ W. Newberg, $1.00; C. Munden, $2.00. parts of the country. Not only den turn to Page 9 of the Log, SS GRAYS HARBOR does Bob know the numerous where you can see a full page C. A. Anderson, $1.00; J. B. Sher­ strange concoctions which many spread on this latest addition to man. $3.00; T. E. Freeland, $2.00; J. 1. passengers dream up, but his NEWSREEL BUILD-UP the Seafarers family of contract­ Booker, $1.00; C. Zipoff, $1.00; j. A. Gallagher, $1.00; J. A. Lormand, $1.00. knowledge of wines — dry or Recently, the RKO News car­ ed shipping companies. SS MADAKET sweet, chilled or room tempera­ ried a feature on the MV Gads­ A. T. Arnold, $1.00; E. T. Peterson, ture, and with what course —• $1.00; R. Strom, $1.00; C. L. Dasha, den, one of the American Eastern delights the gourmets' hearts. $1.00; J. Sanlonzans, $2.00; F. Bura, ships. The newsreel covered the $1.00; L. W. Borreson, $1.00; J. Aba, technical operation of the ship $1.00; William Jenkins, $1.00; M. Sooin great detail, showing how the bramoney, $1.00; Henry Rowe, . $1.00; H. S. Bonitto, $1.00; L. Reynolds, $1.00; locomotive and tenders were B. Holmes, $1.00; A. Douglas, $1.00; O. lifted by the Gadsden's huge {Continued prom Page 14) Lewis, $1.00; S. P. Gondzar, $1.00. crane and properly stowed in the fricasseeing. Put in a pot of hot SS PURDUE VICTORY holds. W. Montalvo, $1.00; J. J. Lawlor, water, feet and all. Add salt, A commentator described the whole black pepper, a heaping $1.00; Lee Klapp, $1.00; John Clamp, rather involved technical opera­ teaspoon of ginger, three whole $1.00; A. Kubcrski, $1.00; E. A. Fancher, $1.00; T. S. Moller, $1.00; A. W. tion of the ship's equipment, onions, a few bay leaves, and a King, $1.00; A. P. Maznrick. $1.00; while the SIU'crew provided the few peppercorns. By GAL TANNER David Nunnn, $1.00; M. Dodge, $1.00; background. Let simmer until the meat is J. M. Rogers, $3.00. MOBILE — It's good to be in SS SIMMONS Bartender Robert Brock shak­ American Eastern expects to tender. Remove the meat, re­ J. Brady, $1.00; J. LaaFrance, $1.00; have a fleet of 21 ships eventual­ serving the stock. Remove meat M. Roth. $1.00; J. L. Crowley, $1.00; ing up one of his thirst-quench­ Mobile again and meet so many ly, all of thern engaged in haul­ from bones, dice and fry in but­ D. A. Meacham, $4.00; J. D. Garvin, ing specials aboard the George old shipmates. The affairs of the Washington. port were in excellent shape, so ing railroad equipment, and all ler. Add strained stock. Fry four Jr., $1.00. •SS S. CLARA the business of assuming office equipped .with self-contained large onions in butter until gold­ L. T. Everett, $1.00; W. J. Tarrant, serve not only in the U.S., but in was narrowed down to hanging loading and unloading gear. en brown and add to stock. $2.00; C. M. Owens, $2.00. Mexico, Cuba and Puerto Rico as up my hat, rolling up my sleeves Other runs besides the one to Cook a mixture of two heap­ well. and going to work. Lc Havre will be made, and prac ing galley spoons of curry pow­ As a result of winning the top Shipping has been good here .tically all European countries der and equal part of flour in award given by the Bartenders since before Christmas with Wa­ will benefit from the American butter til raw taste of flour is Union in open competition with terman taking out a bunch of railroad equipment transported gone. Add to the stock. Simmer BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. 87 other Bartenders from all parts ships from the boneyard for the Calvert 4539 by the American Eastern ships. for about an hour. Meanwhile, of the United States, Bob's bank grain run to Europe. BOSTON 276 State St. wash about a gallon of rice in a Boudoin 4455 account was fattened to the ex­ STOWAWAYS ABOARD In fact, it has kept Charlie china cup til the starch is gone, BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. tent of $775. His prize winning Cleveland 7391 Kimball and the other officials then fry the raw rice in cooking On the last trip of the MV CHARLESTON 68 Society St, effort was monickered the "Times busy hunting up crews. Things oil til it starts to get tender. Then Phone 3-3680 Gadsden, when she left Le Havre Square Cocktail. 24 W. Superior Ave. have slowed down some, but it on January 17, two stowaways add just a little well-salted water CHICAGO Superior 5175 WINNING RECIPE isn't much trouble to ship on the managed to hide themselves and cook til done. CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 Recipe for this tempting taste kind of run you want. aboard the vessel. They con­ Just before serving stir in two ..1824 Mesquite St. titilator is one-half jigger of lem­ trived to stay hidden for five slightly-beaten eggs into the'cur- CORPUS CHRIST! Corpus Whitey Lewis is already on the Christi 3-1509 1038 Third St. on juice, one-half jigger of slo job as Engine Patrolman and the days, subsisting on canned milk ry. It makes as tasty a dish as DETROIT Cadillac 6857 gin, and one full jigger of rum old officials are cooperating 100 and stale bread, and coming out any you will serve during the DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St, Melrose 4110 bacardi. Ingredients are shaken I percent, giving the port a good for air early each morning. Fin- entire trip. GALVESTON 305Vi 22nd St. well with cracked ice until the working force, We didn't get around to tell­ 2-8448 ^ith the regular Alcoa and 16 Merchant St, mixer becomes frosted, and then ing you about veal marengo and HONOLULU 58777 poured into the cocktail glass in Waterman payoffs and most MisSpanish rice and a host of equal­ HOUSTON 1515 7Sth Street Phone Wehtworth 3-3809 Brock s inimitable style, develop- giggippj freighters making this a ly, tasty dishes.' But we gotta 920 Main St. ed through years and years of ex­ port of call there is plenty of All those who witnessed the stop now or Ye Editor will give JACKSONVILLE Phone 5-5919 perience as a thirst quench ex­ work to keep the waterfront paaccident sustained by E. E. Casey us a beef about monopolizing MARCUS HOOK 1 Vz W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 pert. ti-ol busy. space. on July 25, 1946, aboard the SS MIAMI 1355 N. E. 1st Ave. He has also developed an or­ The Seafarers has 16 towboats So we'll leave you with this MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. iginal technique in shaking the Algic, will please get in touch 2-1754 operating in this port, and the recommendation: If there's any­ NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. cocktail and pouring it without with Joseph Volpian, SIU Special thing that you don't know about Magnolia 6112-6113 once banging or cracking the crews are getting pretty tired of "Services Department, 51 Beaver cooking, ask Shuler; he doesn't NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. the run-around the operators are HAnover 2-2784 mixer against the bar. Yes, we giving them. Street, New York City. know it either, and you will NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street saw him with our own very eyes, 4-1083 feel so much better for having Several times during the past and can vouch for his ability. 4' 4" t PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. met a kindred soul. year they have had to hang the Phone LOmbard 3-7651 Seems as how the technique con­ Viktor Makko, Bosun; Charles PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. sists of screwing or twisting the hook to enforce clauses of the " Phone: 2-8532 Sonwald, AB; Moussa Talamas, agreement, and right now they PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. cap around the measurette firmly AB; are requested to get in touch Beacon 4336 are out after an iron clad con­ in such a way as not to crack the RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. •with Richard Cantor, 51 Cham­ tract with all the vague "Phila­ 2599 glass when losening same. Sounds bers Street, New York. It is in delphia lawyer" clauses elimin­ SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. quite complicated, but it's really Send in the minutes of Douglas 5475-8363 refei-ence to the injury of John ated. simple, says Bob! your ship's meeting to the SAN JUAN, P. R. , , .252 Ponce de Leon Novak aboard the Joseph S. All in all. Mobile is the same Among other nite spots. Bro­ San Juan 2-5996 New York Hall. Only in that Emery on October 1, 1945. SAVANNAH .220 East Bay St. busy Union port it has always ther Brock worked in Cole Port­ way can the membership act 8-1728 been, and the headaches are er's old place, the 1-2-3 Club. on your recommendations, SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Main 0290 nothing new. One thing every­ He's also worked along the mainand then the minutes can be TAMPA .1809-1811 N. Franklin St. stem in other niteries. one can be sure of is that the printed in the LOG for the M-1323 Hailing from Birmingham, Al­ membership down here will con­ TOLEDO 615 Summit St. benefit of all other SIU WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. abama, Brook is an eligible bach­ tinue to do the same good job ij. C. GUTHMAN crews. Terminal 4-3131 as it has done in the past, and VICTORIA, B. C. ...i«02 Boughton St. elor in his late twenties. He's Hold those shipboard meet­ Please write to your • son • Billy Garden 8331 been a member of the SIU since that as a good Union port Mobile, ings regularly, and send IJack Gtithman, 25 South Street, VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. will continue to rank second to Pacific 7824 1944, and now resides in New those minutes in as soon as 'New York City. He wants to none. York when he's in town. ihear from you. (Continued frotn Page 1) structed holds and special gear for the loading and unloading of the railroad equipment. On the present run from Weehauken, N.J. to Le Havre, France, these new type ships carry 18 locomotives and 18 tenders on each trip of approximately five weeks duration. With competent crews of Sea­ farers aboard those self-loading and unloading ships, a real ship­ shape job of handling them is being turned in. No other union could be expected to do the dif­ ficult job of manning them in the same competent and responsible manner as the Seafarers. Only in a union like the SIU, where pride in seamanship an'd job know-how is highly devel­ oped, can the responsible sea­ men necessary to the competent operation of these new type ships be found. Straight From The Galley New Agent Finds Port Mobile Is In Good Shape SIU HALLS NOTICE! Send Those Minutes PERSONALS �Page Sixieen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. February 7, 1947 ... is more "ttiaix a toord; it is liviK9 # militont unionism. DuHnq the past severol montHs the Seofarers Inter­ national Unloin has acttvelc| aided the :fellou>ing umons, looaliuand nation­ ally , 1p u)m tliedr beefs or the point of production : The MMeP, ILA.CIO Shipbuilders, MSBA, Teamsters,and the MFOWVfV. IK- HEAFARERS Ivitsrnortional Union of /Ibirth.America U-'. ifofC � 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 7, 1947 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. IX, No. 6 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU SUPPORTS STRIKE OF CIO SHIPBUILDERS; BUSHEY YARD TIED-UP TAXI MEN CONTINUE STRIKE IN TAMPA DESPITE INJUNCTION MARINE FIREMEN VOTE TO REJECT CMU BY 5-1 VOTE AMERICAN EASTERN SIGNS WITH SIU; WILL CARRY RR ROLLING STOCK AFL MEMBERSHIP HITS AN ALL-TIME RECORD WITH OVER 7 MILLION ALCOA SS SPEEDS UP CARIBBEAN SCHEDULE ON THE MARCH EFFECTIVE UNITY NMU CAN'T SERVICE ITS MEMBERS SO THEY LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR HELP NEW SEAMEN'S BILL OF RIGHTS IS INTRODUCED INTO CONGRESS CANADIAN SIU WINS WAGE RISE FROM UNION SS DANISH SAILORS TALK MERGER WITH FIREMEN SIU AND CIO SHIPBUILDERS ON PICKETLINE IN REAL-LIFE EXHBITION OF MARITIME UNITY THJERE'S MORE TO ORGANIZING THAN MEETS THE NAKED EYE PHILLY IS OUT TO GET BIGGER AND BETTER HALL COMPANY ECONOMY COSTS SEAMAN BROKEN LEGS PAYOFF TAKES 14 HOURS BUT CREW GETS EVERYTHING IT HAS COMING LG-HAPPY SKIPPER THROWS THEM IN ALL DIRECTIONS, POOR FELLER GREAT LAKES IS READY FOR BIG ORGANIZING DRIVE SHIPPING TAKES A SUDDEN SPURT IN SAVANNAH TAMPA CHANDLERS CRYING IN BEER; NOBODY IS BUYING THEIR SUPPLIES TRANSPORTATION RULE ON COAST IS CLARIFIED FOR MEMBERSHIP THE PATROLMEN SAY AFL COUNCIL WILL MEET IN DULUTH; 18 UNIONS EXPECTED TO ATTEND RR EQUIPMENT FOR EUROPE - VIA AN SIU CREW TULANE CREW HITS TOPSIDE FAVORITISM LOOP KNOT HAS ONE-MAN DECK DEP'T. SHORESIDE EXCURSIONS HIGHLIGHT ISTHMIAN CREW'S MIDEAST TRIP SEAFARER PARKER SKAES HIS WAY TO CARNIVAL CROWN FOR THIRD TIME GEO. WASHINGTON BARTENDER IS A TOPNOTCH PROFESSIONAL NEW AGENT FINDS PORT MOBILE IS IN GOOD SHAPE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2/7/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f4952fc15e0244b178fe84b2bba62eac.PDF c60acbc9c443865f8271aa27c52531f5 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. JANUARY 31. 1947 No. 5 Curran Calls His Shots, Seafarers Says Stack Is Disrupter NEW YORK—The Special Na­ tional Council Meeting of the Na­ tional Maritime. Union, CIO, which ended on January 10, broke up in a flurry of fire­ works. As a 'fitting climax to a series of sessions which saw charges and c.ounter-charges fly around the room, Joe Curran, president of the NMU, made a few closing remarks which show that he has really awakened to the danger that the communists represent in the NMU. His words not only were di­ rected at the disruptive activities of the communist party generally, but also at the officials like Stack, MacKenzie, and Smith, who have always been CP spokes­ men in the NMU. At one point he made direct reference to Stack's poor labor record, a record that is well known wherever working sea­ men meet. Curran stated; STACK'S RECORD "Now I am going to say one thing to you, so it won't be said that I said it after the Council Meeting. This concerns itself with Joe Stack. I want to tell you he has a stinking record, and you know it. From the first day he came ashore off the SS Cali­ fornia." Further in the talk, Curran be­ came a bit more specific when he went on to say: "Well, he (Stack) also sent out a conununication to hisi brother, during an election campaign, that is part of the record; it was carried in the old papers in the old days, 'If you meet a communist, tell him Maritime Commission Buys 70 Loran Sets As Safety Measure As a step toward greater navi­ gational efficiency and safety at sea, the Maritime Commission has approved purchase of 70 Model-DBS Loran receivers from the Navy Department. Fifty of the receivers will be installed on merchant vessels and the re­ mainder will be placed aboard training ships. It was announced that the re­ ceivers will be placed upon ships that are likely to be continued in operation under either Gov­ ernment or private auspices. The Maritime Commission made the purchases after receiv­ ing favorable reports of the re­ ceivers when used aboard mer­ chant ships during unfavorable weather conditions. I am a communist; If you meet a wobbly, tell him I am a wob­ bly; if you meet a rank and filer, say I am a rank and filer.' "He was $110.00 short in his accounts when he was a Patrol­ man in Jacksonville. He paid it back finally." Referring to Stack's communist party background, and to the disruptionist activties of the com­ munist party, Curran stated: "As far as his record is con­ cerned, that is the consistent recOld of one of the leaders today .speaking, or purportedly speak­ ing as a communist in this union. Well, I say the communist party as such should disassociate itself i from these individuals. I still think so. I think the communist party, if it is a Marxist party, today has allowed itself to de­ grade down to the point where it is nothing but a job security j amalgamation on the waterfront, j and a rule or ruin group on the waterfront." Curran indicated his dissatis­ faction with the way the last elections in the NMU were car­ ried on when he said: "I said some time ago that I Throws Full Support To Striking CIO Shipbuildors; Joins Strikers On Pickotiino NEW YORK, Jan. 30—The Seafarers International Union threw its powerful .support to the CIO shipbuilders' Local 13, which today struck the notoriously anti­ union Ira S. Bushey and Sons' Brooklyn shipyards. The union, certified as collective bargaining agent, demands that the compiny negotiate with it. Scores of Seafarers carrying strike placards, joined the lines which began picketing the Bushey yards at the foot of Court Street at 7 a.m. this morning. The Seafarers' picket signs bore this announcement: * NOTICE! When requesling informa­ tion regarding your book, dues record status or retire­ ment. address your communi­ cations to; J. P. Shulef, Assistant Secy.-Treas., Sea­ farers International Union of N. A., 51 Beaver Street, New York 4. N. Y. Never send cash by mail if you wish to pay your dues, assessments, etc. Send money order payable to the Seafar­ ers International Union of N, A. {Continued on Page 14) MM&P Council VotesTo Join With International Group One of the far-reaching de­ cisions arrived at by the National Executive Committee of the MM&P. which met in Washing­ ton January 14 to 18 inclusive, was to consummate plans to af­ filiate with the world-wide Inter­ national Transportworkers Fed­ eration. The SlU-and the SUP are both already members of this far-reaching body. For over a year the MM&P has debated making this move, and the fact that the ITF is carrying on an unceasing fight for higher wages and conditions, plus a never ending battle with the communists, caused the licensed deck officers to take the final step. Officers organizations in Nor­ way, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Great Britain,etc., are all af­ filiated with this organization, and the ITF has been instru­ mental in preventing the break­ down of standards of officers and seamen in those countries. At the same time, the ITF has had representatives working to formulate proper maritime codes for countries such as Guatamala and Panama, where such codes are non-existent or only in the early stages. During the recent strikes un­ dertaken by the SIU and the MM&P, the ITF was quick to of­ fer its facilities in foreign coun­ tries to make the action more wide spread. Many of the European trans­ portworkers unions are affiliated to the ITF; the ones that are not can be usually be found in the camp of the communist-domin­ ated World Federation of Trade Unions. N.Y.Tugboatinen Okay New Pact; Win Wage Hike "The Seafarers International Union. AFL. Supports CIO Shipbuilders' Strike Against Bushey," With this action began the ac­ tive support promised to Local 13, an affiliate of the Industrial Union of Marine and Shipbuild­ ing Workers, of America, CIO, in NEW YORK, Jan. 29 — New response to an appeal made by several of its representatives to York's tugboatmen voted ap­ an SIU membership meeting at proval of the wages and hours Webster Hall Jan. 15. agreed upon between their repre­ BAD RECORD sentatives and the tugboat opera­ The shipbuilders' officials ap­ tors. The approval ended the pearing at. the meeting were W.!-1 possibility of a strike in New liam McCaffrey, international York Harbor. representative: Fred Mesita, In a mail vote of 1,242 to 714, chairman of Local 13, and Nich­ members of Local 333, United olas Lamb, the local's executive Marine Division of the Interna­ secretary. tional Longshoremen's Associa­ In making their plea for the tion, gave their okay to the new Seafarers' aid, the union heads agreement. described in detail the company's As approved by the member­ sordid record in labor relations. ship, the Union gained a reduc­ Paul Hall, SIU New York Port tion in the work week from 48 Agent, recalled to the meeting to 40 hours, an 11 cents-an-hour the fact that the CIO shipbuild- increase, and time-and-a-half for ing union had supported last Saturdays and Sundays. September's SIU-SUP General The conditions won by the Un­ Strike, resulting from an unfav­ ion were the fruits of negotia­ orable ruling by the Wage Stabil­ tions th'at started early in Novem­ ization Board. Support was also ber. The stumbling block for an given in several other SIU beefs. early settlement was the • opera­ A resolution urging that this tors' refusal to grant the 40-hour support be reciprocated in the week. shipbuilders strike,, which started With only a few hours to go be­ this morning, was passed unan­ fore the strike deadline of midimously at the SIU meeting. ; night December 31, the operators Today's walkout at the Bushey bowed to the demand of the tugyards was the inevitable out­ boatmen. The gaining of the 40growth of the company's persishour week is hailed as a great {Continuei on Page 14) victory by the Union. PAN-ATLANTIC PLANS NEW RUN TO MIAMI The City of Miami, Fla., may emerge as one of the important Southern ports if plans of the Pan-Atlantic Steamship Corpora­ tion materialize. Application has been filed by the company to op­ erate cargo vessels between the famed resort and Boston, Phila­ delphia, New York snd George­ town, S. C. The proposed linking of Miami with other East Coast ports has received approval of city officials and civic leaders, who ai*e sub­ mitting briefs supporting the ap­ plication of the line with the In­ terstate Commerce Commission. A hearing on the proposal is scheduled to be held in Jackson­ ville Feb. 19. A spokesman for Pan-Atlantic, which is a subsidiary of the Wa­ terman Steamship Corporation, said his comparfy could have ships operating into Miami "within 30 to 45 days after a fa­ vorable decision." Liberty ships would be used on the line, and should the op­ eration justify it, the company might add combination cargo and passenger vessels to the run, the company official said. He added that his line con­ sidered Miami "one of the most important Southern ports on our route, and its large consuming area should make the operation successful." A branch office was recently established in Miami by the Sea­ farers International Union to fa­ cilitate handling of the increased flow of Union business into that port. The office is at 1355 N. E. 1st Avenue. �s^-' THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Two Friday. January 31. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 X % t % HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Caiif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. Death In The Depths When the Greek passenger vessel, Chimarra, struck a mine January 19, off the coast of Greece and sank with the loss of 437 persons, the fact that a mine menace still lurks beneath the oceans became apparent, to those who think everything is back to normal. When 437 lives arc snuffed out with the explosion of one mine, the dangers present from the thousands of mines still lying under the waters cannot be ignored, but shout the fact that the lives of seamen who ply the water­ ways of the oceans are still in danger, even though the shooting war ended over a year ago. The mines, which still are present in great numbers, will take quite some time to be eliminated. It has been estimated that it will take another year to sweep up the majority of the remaining mines, but even that will still leave uncharted and floating mines. Hospital Patients To most people this postwar threat to navigation and the lives of seamen has been forgotten, but to seamen it is always in their minds. Two examples of the little known danger, that did not hit the newspapers, are the mine dam­ ages suffered by the SIU ships Signal Hills, hit off Genoa, Italy, last October, and the Fitzhugh Lee, struck near Venice in July. When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals The only immediate means of removing this menace to navigation is "through minesweeping, which is taking These are the Uniofi Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, place in all waters known to contain mines. This work in as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging Europe is being handled by the International Mine Clear­ heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ance Authority, with headquarters in London, which esti­ ing to them. JOHN O'DONOHUE BALTIMORE HOSPITAL mates that since V-E day at least 72 merchant, fishing and JJ. STEFANIDES CASIMIR HONOROWSKI other small civilian vessels have been sunk or damaged CENTRAL MASON CHARLES HAHN in Eufopean waters alone. KARL PETTERSSEN JOHN SETTLE JOHN DUDKO XXX In operations in the Pacific, the United States cleared JOHN TILL BRIGHTON MARINE HOSP. 22,000 square miles and destroyed 12,000 mines. In spite LAWRENCE HOLMES E. JOHNSTON THOMAS WADSWORTH of the gigantic job done, many ground mines still remain H. SWIM SALVATORE PIZZILO in these waters, and will continue to be a menace to ship­ G. VICKERY RAYMOND S. HODGES J. GALA FRANCIS O'BRIEN ping off the Japanese coast until the deterioration of time R. ALBANESE PETER LOPEZ renders them all inactive, which may be about 1951. T. DINEEN ROBY LUFLIN V. RUIZ LLOYD YOUNG Danger is also present for the next five years from R. FIORE GEORGE SCHENERMAN the "floaters," moored mines which have broken loose and R. LORD have been carried by the Japanese current across the North XXX J. LAVASSOR Pacific toward the United States. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL A, X HUGO ECHEVARIA SAN JUAN HOSPITAL The war with its dangers and hazards to American E. R. BUCKLEY R. SAUNDERS soldiers is over. They did their job and peace has been won. ROBERT MULHOLLAND R. SIEJO Hovzever, the signing of an armistice does not neutralize M. R. SUTHERLAND F. APUNTES a mine. So, like the Italian and French peasants who are JOHN RETOUR W. ARMSTRONG being killed every day when their plows strike a land mine, SIR EDWARD CUSTER P. FELICIANO DAVID McDUFFIE the seamen who man the ships are encountering mines B. HOFFSTIEN O. M. STIREWA.LT ignorant of the cease-firing order. T. ROSENCRANS ERNEST COOPER W. JORGENSON ALBERT SHULL To the seamen who have to sail these waters, it is XXX J. W. DENNIS ,small consolation to know that the war is over, when every STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL STEVE MOGAN trip still presents the possibility of ending in collision with W. BROCE, Jr. C. BONAFONT one of these submerged agents of destruction. JACINTO NAVARRO R. G. MOSSELLER You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday —1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) J. S. WOOD W. G. H. BAUSE H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY E. D. MILLER C. KOLSTE R. POV/ELL M. MORRIS L. A. CORNWALL JOE LEWIS M. J. QUINN G. LUETH XXX GALVESTON • HOSPITAL MILLER WOLF BENNETT SEYLOR JONES, R. V. JOHNSON WILKI CRIGLET BARNEY, J. L. DAUGHERTY, W. ' . FORD SWENSON STREIZ SEGLER .. . ^ �Friday, January 31, 1947 THE SEAFARER SLOG A SOURCE OF DANGER SlU Corrects Deck Hazard On Span Splice Safe gear and good working conditions have always been among the chief demands of the SIU. Since the day of its organi­ zation, the Union has written into each agreement with the various steamship companies a clause calling for safe working gear. A condition was reported to the New York Port Agent where the Alcoa Steamship Company was ignoring this clause on the Span Splice. Alcoa refused to remedy it after the Bosun had called it to the attention of the Mate, and explained that it was un-safe and was a menace to the safety and lives of the crew. Upon learning of this flagrant violation of the safe working gear clause, the Union dispatched a Patrolman and photographer to inspect and photograph this par­ ticular condition that was con­ sidered to place the lives of our shipmates in peopardy. Appearing on this page is the photograph of a "pad-eye and a chain-stopper" used to stop-off the down-haul of the topping lift when raising booms. All patients, except Coast Guardsmen, who were afraid of the consequences, signed the complaint which was then for­ warded to Dr. Herman Hillsboe, Director of the Tuberculosis Di­ vision, United States Public Health Service. The petition specifically is di­ rected against the food condi­ tions. Patients claim that the food is prepared in a very poor manner, and although the qual­ ity is fair, it is improperly cook­ ed and is usually drab-appearing and tasteless. Certain hospital officials, who prefer to remain anonymous, have offered the usual excuses. They admit that poor pay for the cooking staff has forced them to hire inefficient and unqualified help. No solution is offered, however, and the patients con­ tinue to be forced to eat extreme­ ly unappetizing meals. POOR CONDITION TELLING 'EM HOW It was pointed out to the Mate and company officials that the safe arrangement for pad-eyes and chain-stoppers of ships of this type, was for .the pad-eyes to l)e welded to the top of the masttable as close as possible to the ;ead of the down-haul of the ;opping-lift, and the chain-stopr.crs to be shackled into them. This would work better than • jiigthening the chain and Icad•iig it up from deck, where it was not only a bad lead and makes it unhandy to the man putting the bitter end of the topping lift on or off of the cleat; but was also a hazardous way of arrang­ ing it. After demonstrating this un­ safe condition to the Mate and company officials, and suggesting the proper way of arranging the pad-e'yes and chain-stoppers, they agreed to remedy this con­ dition as quickly as possible. No Changes At Neponsit; Conditions, Excuses Remain A petition, drawn up and sign­ ed by 200 out of the 240 patients at the Neponsit Marine Hospital, again throws the spotlight on conditions existing at the institu­ tion. By JACK GREENHAW It can be readily seen by those of the Deck Department who are familiar with the procedure of stopping off a topping lift, that the Brother who posed for this picture is not only forced to stand and work in a strained position, but that the chain stopper itself is entirely too short. In fact, it is so short that he was only able to make two half hitches with the tag-line which is not a stopper, but is made of 21 thread and spliced onto the stopper. By close observation, anyone with the least bit of common, mechanical sense is able to see that even if the chain-stopper was sufficiently long enough to reach to the top of the mast table, it would still be a source of danger due to the fact that the pad-eye is welded onto the cover­ ing of the fire-line in such a manner that the lead of the chain-stopper will be a hindrance to a seaman putting the required number of round turns and fi­ gure eights on the cleat. In ad­ dition, the stopper itself might catch his hand or arm and cause him to knock it out of the hands of the man standing on the masttable. Page Three John Steeber, Deck Delegate of the MV Span Splice, is not standing in that strained position because he wants to. It hap­ pens to be the only way in which he can work, considering the arrangement and position of the pad eye and chain stopper. The protests of the militant SIU crew will change that very soon, and another danger spot will be eliminated on this ship. See story on this page for full details. Addition of the extra kitchen facilities which was widely pub­ licized by the Hospital has not helped out one single bit. The general food conditions have not improved, since the new facilities are only being used in the special diet kitchen. WAR INJURIES Anti-Closed Shop Amendment Introduced In New York State The anti-elosed shop hysteria has reached New York State, where this week a proposed amendment to the State Consti­ tution was introduced to outlaw the closed shop. Sponsor of the amendment was Frederic H. Bonteeou. Republican from Poughkeepsie. With a straight face. Senator Bontecou related, "This proposal represents an entirely voluntary effort on my part to protect in­ dividual union members in the State of New York from arbitrary action on the part of certain la­ bor leaders who have the power, under the closed shop, to deprive men and women of the right to earn a living." The amendment, it is reported, is being eyed somewhat coolly by other members of the Senate, and a spokesman for Governor Dewey stated that the measure has been introduced without the Governor's knowledge or con­ sent, and it was the Senator's bill and his alone. PAWN OF LABOR FOES Labor leaders in New York State are riot sure it is Senator Bontecou's bill alone, for Harold C. Hanover, secretary-treasurer of the State Federation of La­ bor, stated, "We are of the opin­ ion that the Senator is not cap­ able of introducing this type of legislation without aid of the enemies of labor who have evi­ dently made a pawn of him." Although the measure is sure to receive rough sledding in New York State, the number of states already having laws against the closed shop increased by one when Virginia last week adopted such a measure. Other states al­ Most of the inmates at Nepon­ sit are tubercular, and they need the • best of food and freedom from worry in order to be com­ pletely cured. With the food as ready having the anti-closed shop it is at present, they have not law are Arizona, Nebraska, been able to enjoy either require­ South Dakota, Florida and Ar­ ment. kansas. The Seafarers International Union has long been aware of the situation at Neponsit, and on a number of occasions, articles have appeared in the Log which tended to point out the intoler­ able situatiofi of the men who are forced to report to that insti­ tution for treatment. MEBA Rejects Bid To Affiliate With The CMU The Marine Engineers Bene­ ficial Association, CIO, doesn't want so-called "unity" at any price—certainly not at the terms offered by the disruptive Com­ mittee for Maritime Unity. The licensed Engineer's union has flatly rejected a move to formally affiliate with the communist - sponsored maritime group. The rejection came at the na­ tional convention of officials of the MEBA, meeting in Los An­ geles. A resolution proposing that a national referendum be held among the union's 19,000 members on the affiliation ques­ tion was turned down by con­ vention delegates. Even the fervent, personal ap­ peal in behalf of the affiliation made to the convention by Harry Bridges, failed to move the dele­ gates. MEBA officials said tliat under autonomy provisions of the con­ stitution, individual locals would be free to collaborate with the CMU, but would have to do so without any national backing. It is believed that few locals would avail themselves of this provision, with the possible ex­ ception of Bridges' few strong­ holds. • .-itl-J a:!-- Many men contracted tuber­ culosis as a result of exposure brought on by war service. Dur­ ing the course of the war, the merchant seamen were aggrand­ ized to the skies, and they were hailed as "heroes in dungarees." Now that the war is over, these same men are being relegated to inferior places of treatment for the Illness which they contracted in the course of keeping the sea lanes of the world open. gram will be followed out with­ out delay. The subject of seamen's hospi­ talization and of security for a seaman's old age are too import­ ant to be allowed in the hands of men who haven't the best inter­ ests of seamen at heart. The Log plans to bring the white heat of publicity to bear on poor condi­ tions until they have all been squared away. The Patrolmen Say— Crummy Ships NEW ORLEANS — We crewed up three former west coast ships which had been laid up for months, and for being crummy they took the prize. They were the F. Marion Crawford, now Waterman; the Stephen Douglas, now Mississippi; and the Louis McLean, also Mississippi. What they needed in the way of repairs would fill a SearsRoebuck Catalog. The two Mis­ sissippi ships needed mattresses, screens, wind scopes, cleaning up, and general repairs. The crews we sent down to the ships refused to sign on until all unsatisfactory conditions were rectified. After we got every­ thing squared away to the crew's satisfaction, both ships sailed to South America. TOUGH JOB Getting things squared away aboard the F. Marion Crawford, wasn't so easy. She needed re­ pairs aplenty. She had to install 12 new fans and repair 10 others. The stove wouldn't heat, so it had to be replaced, and she need­ ed all sorts of stores. We had to make three trips to the ship before we would allow the crew to sign on, and then we had to get a letter from the com­ pany stating that the crew could payoff if they tried to sail before the fans, toasters, percolaters, and hot plates were put on board, in addition to getting the stove re­ paired. Red Gibbs Buck Stephens Dick Birmingham i- 4- S- Smooth Sailing' NEW YORK—I'his week we were assigned to pay off the Pur­ due Victory and Madaket, both ships being tied up at the Brook­ lyn Army Base. These two ships were symbolic of what SIU ships NMU-COME-LATELY should be like. They were clean After having carried on the inside and out with the quarters fight against poor conditions in and messrooms as they should be. The crews were sober on both the Neponsit and other Mai-ine ships, the delegates were all on Hospitals single-handed for prac­ the ball. There were only a few tically a full year, the SIU has minor beefs, and no disputed recently been receiving the be­ overtime. Ye Gods! Tt appears lated support of the National like the bucko Mates and En­ Maritime Union. gineers have deserted to the un­ This is not the first time that, organized ships. the NMU has attempted to jump The only dres,sing down neceson an akeady rapidly rolling SIU sary was aboard the Purdue Vic­ bandwagon, and it -probably tory where the Chief Mate on won't be the last time. ^ this tub was a little confused. The members of the Seafarers! but was squared away by the International Union have given' Deck Patrolman. A lot of credit their officials a mandate to do all' is due the crews of these ships in their power to improve condi- for their cooperation in holding tions in the various Marine Hos­ bcefs to a minimum. pitals, and to take steps to bring James Purcell to light what is going on at the Hay Gonzales Sailors Snug Harbor. That proLouis Goffin �I • f-^ —- '••-:^i4. >-• THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Pour Frielay, January-31; 1947 Rumors^ Busier Than Shipping in (C)oid Chi wif4r ttHIMK QUESTION:—What changes in conditions have you seen since you first started sailing? GEORGE CONDOS, AB: I started sailing when I was 12-years-old, on sailing ships. It's 100 percent better than it used to be, and that's an underestima­ tion. Conditions today are such that a man at sea lives a decent life, and is no longer the slave of the Master and the company. Wages are much better today also and all the changes that have been made in wages and condi­ tions for seamen come right from union pressure. If there were no seamen's unions, there would not be any advances for seamen, either. GEORGE KOSMOS, AB: The greatest advances I have seen in seamen's conditions since I started sailing are in the treat­ ment of seamen. It used to be that seamen were practically slaves while at sea, and then were treated like bums when they came ashore. Now it's different. We have the same dignity that other workers have. Our wages are better than they used to be, and our conditions have also im­ proved. We don't have to go, hat in hand, to the bosses for jobs, either. We fought like hell for what we have, and we won't give it up without a fight. ARTHUR CAMARA, OS: I can't look back on too many years of sailing, but I do know that it is better now than it was before the war. Our wages are superior to what they were, and our food and conditions war betler. The war period showed us that a strong union can continue to gain advantages for its mem­ bers no matter what happened. All the gains we have made so far have been due to our strong union, and as long as we stay this way, we will continue to see vast improvements made in the lives and conditions of all seamen. THOMAS S. SMITH, Messman: ; The change in working condi­ tions is what impresses me most. We now have better quarters, larger beds, full size lockers, and better food. In other words, sea­ men are finally being treated like men and not like animals. When I first started to sea a man had to eat meat that was moldy, bread that had worms in it, and all the other food was marked "not fit for humans." Now we have a union to back up^ up, and if the food is no good, we know how to get it replaced with decent food, and quickly. • ' ' = : By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO—While the winter still has plenty of strength left in her, the boys around the Chicago Hall already arc waiting for the word to go out and "steam her up." Most of the men around here ' are expecting an early fit-out this year on the sand 'boats, for their docks are empty and the need for sand is heavy in the city at the present time. Maybe it will prove to be true. A rumor has been going around that the SS Michigan and SS Nas­ sau will go into operation this year, but it is the same thing every, year. These ships have not operated since before the war when, for 20 years they worked' fill-in jobs, helping Chicago expand out into the lake. This filled-in space also is the source of a rumor that the city fathers are planning to build an airfield on the'waterfront. May­ be one of these rumors will turn out to be fact. Recently I received a letter from Andrew Reid, Secretary of MEBA from C & B Lines. He made known to me that the En­ gineers' contract has been ter­ minated because the SIU is ask­ ing for an increase in wages and a 40-hour week on these ships. He thinks we are asking too much and intimated that we should take it easy. I answered his letter by stating that the benefits gained by the MEBA have always come be­ cause of the SIU, and we have al­ ways backed the MEBA in any dispute they have encountered. However, the SIU cannot stop for an.vone in their struggle for better conditions and wages. Great Lakes Are Next On Seafarers Organizing Program By EARL SHEPPARD As 'a result of the successful organizing drives on the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts, more cofnpanies are now under con­ tract to the Seafarers than ever before in the history of the Un­ ion. More companies mean more ships, and more ships means more gobs available for the mem­ bership. It is the duty of the Union to protect the membership at all times and in every possible man­ ner. With the present slowing down of American shipping the organization of old unorganized and newly formed companies is the first task of the Union. The long hard months of or­ ganizing work on the Isthmian line is behind us, and the same apparatus is working in the tank­ er field. When an agreement is finally signed with Isthmian, it will mean that the biggest dry cargo steamship company in America will have been brought under the banner of the Sea­ farers. GREAT LAKES NEXT The Great Lakes has always been the strongest fortress of the American shipowner. Situated in the heart of the great industrial area, continued operation of lakeborne traffic is indispensable. The steel mills," in order to operate, depend absolutely on building up their iron ore stock piles with ore'brought do-wh on ships dur­ ing the- sumhier'Season, If they had to depend on the railways, statistics brove that they could not get sufficient ore for six months operation. Such curtailed operation of the steel mills would cause the shutting down of hundreds of other in­ dustries manufacturing every­ thing from automobiles and lo­ comotives to screen doors and fly swatters. A large percentage of the wheat consumed on, and exported from, the Atlantic seaboard is shipped on Great Lakes grain ships to the grain elevators in Buffalo. A majority of the newsprint used by the great newspapers of Chicago and other midwestern cities, and general cargo of every possible type, is hauled via the lakes. Other lakes maritime in­ dustry consists of car ferries, sand suckers, excursion boats, regular passenger boats, barges and tugs. In other words, there is a large variety of maritime operation on the Lakes as on §alt water. LAKES CARRIERS ASSO. The owners and operators of Lakes shipping,- as well as the industrialists dependent on Lakes traffic, know damn well that any tie-up on the Lakes would paralyze the industry of the en­ tire nation. For that reason, they have worked many years and spent plenty of dough trying to keep unionism from getting a foot hold on the Lakes. Their principal stronghold is the Lakes Carriers Association, which serves the dual role of an owners association and a com­ pany union. This is the outfit that fathered the continuous dis­ charge "fink book" long before Senator Copeland or the old Pa­ cific Coast Owners Association ever thought of it. A great many of the other restrictions the Mari­ time Commission has tried to put over were fathered by the LCA.The first job the Seafarers faces on the Lakes is breaking the stranglehold of the LCA, and' de­ finite progress has already been made in that direction. MIDLAND STEEL The most significant and im­ portant victory won by the Sea­ farers on the Lakes was that of winning the bargaining election and signing an agreement with Midland Steel. The big steel companies are the backbone of all lakes' ship­ ping, and any break in their ranks shows that their entire structure is weakening. The Seafarers has been on the Lakes a long time, and although the progress has been slow we have steadily forged ahead. This victory proves that the SIU is on the job, and out to organize everything on thfe Lakes. THIS YEAR'S JOB With the Midland victory as a starter, the Seafarers is out to do a bang-up job this season. The AFL Maritime Trades De­ partment and the Seafarers Intenational are going to push the Great Lakes campaign this year in the same hard-hitting aggres­ sive manner that the Isthmian Drive was carried out. Hundreds of Seafarers mem­ bers have sailed the Lakes. Many, of these were men who came up to the coast and sailed off-shore during the war. A lot of those men have gone back to the Lakes, and will be sailing on unorgan­ ized ships. These will be .the backbone of the oi'ganizing drive. All men who intend going back to the Lakes this season should contact the organizers before leaving, and iti any case report imrriediate to one of the Lakes halls upon arrival. MILITANTS ALL Above are the men who spearheaded the drive to turn the SS Span SpUce^-from a rustbucket into a typically clean SIUship; (See story and pictures on page 5). Backed up by a milit­ ant, crew, this-group forced the company to institute changes, and you-should-see the ship now. Left to right, Ray Gonzales. New York Stewards Department Patrolman; Stanley Jandora. Bosun; John Sleeber, AB and Deck-Delegate; and Jack- Greenhaw. rank-and-file SIU member who was present because he knew what the Span Splice was like from a previous voyage. �I--'- Friday, Jwuary 3;i.f)l!947 -'r ^ •* •' THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Five New Crew And New Deal On Span Splice The growing awareness of'the Seafarers membership as to the responsibilities which such mem­ bership entails was shown very clearly recently in a situation which arose on the MV Span Splice, Alcoa Steamship Com­ pany. There's good food on board the Span Splice, ..and here are the men responsible for that fine state of affairs. Left to right, back row, Grover Barnes, MM; George Kaufman, Night Cook and Baker; John Waith, Third Cook, and Lambert Martindale, Chief Cook. Front row, in the same order, Frank Adkins, Saloon MM; Santos. Pizarro, Bedroom Steward, and George Thornhill, Chief Steward. Incidentally, Brother Kaufman is Stewards Department Delegate. At this time, the company pleaded that it would put the ship in condition if the crew would first dischage the cargo of bauxite in Claremont, Delaware. To protect the good name and reputation of the SIU, the crew agreed to do so. But on arrival back in New York, the company welshed. Here the crew, abeted by com­ The ship was put into Todd pany negligence, allowed the Shipyard to have certain plates ship to become so filthy, that the welded. Nothing else was done, "new crew coming aboard imme­ nor was anything planned. So, in diately took steps to remedy the traditional Seafarers fashion, the conditions, and also brought crew used job action. charges against the outgoing JOB ACTION WINS crew members. Action by the company follow­ The company was at fault on ed soon after, and the ship was another count in that normal painted from stem to stern. All of safety precautions were not ta­ the foc'sles were put in A-1 con­ ken on the Deck. (See story on dition, and a little more job ac­ page 3 for a full account of the tion resulted in a thorough fumi­ unsafe conditions and what steps gation of the Span Splice. were taken to insure the safety New mattresses were brought of the men.) aboard, cooking and eating uten­ The Span Splice had just re­ sils were supplied, the stoi-eroom turned from a three and a half month trip, and paid off in New York. A new crew was assigned from the Hall, but when they went aboard they found the ship as filthy as any oldtime rustbucket. The foc'sles were dirty; cock­ roaches had the run of the ship; the storeroom was full of food that dated to many trips back; there were few cooking or eating utensils, and the mattresses were torn and foul and infected with scabies germs. Most, of the replaced crew was characterized by the new crew as "performers and not good Union members." Chai'ges were filed against all, and the company was notified that the ship would not be sailed until the needed repairs and sanitary changes had been made. Time out to pose for the Log photographer. You can tell that this is the Black Gang. In the usual left to right, front row; N. Katrausky, Wiper; J. Gulseth, Oiler, and Mario Franciose, Wiper. Back row: J. Santiago, First Assistant; S. Storm, Second Assistant, and J. Brooks, Chief Elec­ trician. The Engine Gang say that the Ffrst and Second arc good Joes and they wanted them in the picture. Okay, Span Splice crew, here they are. They put their John Han­ cocks on the Articles, at the left, and they are all ready for ,a trip on the Span Splice. This ship hits the bauxite run, and that means good weather under sunny skies while the northern part of the United States lies buried under many feet of snow. Happy sailing fellows, and keep her steady as she goes. 4. 4. 4 Picture at the ..ight shows what the foc'sles of the Span Splice looks like now that crew' action won needed repairs. From what the crew says, the quarters were the filthiest in the memory of the oldest oldtimer before the company started to clean up the ship. Frank Szczepanski, OS, relaxes on his bunk while waiting to take his place in line to signon. With an excellent Stew­ ards Department, and a recon­ ditioned ship, this voyage ought to be a good one. was cleaned out, and the lockers were .also repaired. Now the Span Splice started to look like a clean SIU ship. As far as the safety measures are concerned on the deck, the Mate promised to do what he JUSTICE DONE could to rectify the situation, and A rank-and-file committee was that as soon as possible. selected to hear the charges, and Much credit is due the militant it was the decision of the trial crew who took over a bad situa­ committee, backed up by the tion on the Span Splice. They membership, to expel certain of cleaned up a mess, and had the the gas hound tripcarders and courage to bring to the floor an permit men, and to place on pro­ incident that reflected on the bation several of the full book membership, and on the Union's men among the offenders. bitterly won prestige. �Page Six Bucko Skipper And Mate Ruin Poor Did Belie THE SEAFARERS LOG NO MORE MONKEY BUSINESS Though the men aboard the Isthmian ships are patiently awaiting the end of the phony protests of the NMU, they still are forced to put up with the poor conditions and bucko offi­ cers that seem to come with all the ships of that company. An example of what is still go­ ing on is the report from the Belle Of The Seas, at present in far-off Singapore. The crew reports that they are having the dubious privilege of shipping with Chief Mate, "Bell to Bell" Fish, who is well known to Log readers from previous write-ups. He is still living up to his name, for he claims that there is no such thing as overtime, and it is only to be' paid to the watch on Sunday at sea. It takes more than an Isthmian ship, a bucko Skipper, and a barrel of monkeys to damp­ One of the crewmembers en the spirits of these merry Seafarers. They got a combination of al three on their recent trip aboard, George Swinton, states, aboard the Aram J. Pothier. only instead of a barrel of monkeys, they had a full cargo of the "Bell to Bell 'has a letter from animals. Left to right, Louis Bourdonnay, Lars Hillartz, Hugh R. Norwood, and Percy Boyer. the company which says we have to work Saturdays a^sea without overtime. So far we haven't. An­ other thing that he has been pulling is having the man at the wheel work on deck. He also sets sea watches when six hours at sea." KING SIZE LOG When a crew of militant Sea­ The crew couldn't get across to The monkeys, it was pointed out, The Mate isn't the only one who has been making life miser­ farers characterize an Isthmian them that all Skippers weren't were travelling third-class. The eleven passengers, likewise able for the Belle Of The Seas | Skipper as an "anti-Union stiff" alike, and that they should take were reported to have gotten a crew. While the ship was in Ma- because he believes sailors should it easy. "Nobody is gonna make mon­ bellyfull of the Skipper's chicken. uiia the Skipper logged a Wiper work for peanuts, we can under­ $250, claiming he had taken stand it. After all. Seafarers are keys out of us," they protested. They debarked when the ship whiskey out of one of the holds. used to the best wages and work­ There were other highlights in hit Boston, figuring they had got­ The Wiper has not signed the ing conditions in the maritime the trip. The ship carried 11 Hin- ten their money's worth at that point. New York looked too far log, nor made any admittance of industry. But when a cargo of monkeys off. the theft. What sounds phony to the crew is the fact that the screech their objections to the STOP WATCH KID whiskey in question was return­ Skipper, we've got to admit the ed, and that later they saw the guy must have hit a new low. Boyer and the other boys swear And that actually happened guards around the ship drinking that the Skipper uses binoculars aboard the Isthmian ship, Aram it. and a stop watch to make sure Of course, "Bell to Bell" tried J. Pothier, according to four of the crew doesn't get any over­ to get the Third Mate to sign a the vessel's indignant crew. Sea­ time. They say they put in a 48statement to the effect that he farers Louis Bourdonnay, AB; hour week, and that they saw the Wiper in the hold, but Lars Hillartz, Wiper; Hugh Nor­ wouldn't recommend the Skip to the Third Mate refused to sign it. wood, Oiler; and Percy Boyer, an NMU man, with the monkeys Since then the matter has quiet­ Bosun, pieced together a tale of reportedly backing them up. ed down. The crewmembers are shipboard monkey-shines in the But there were a few bright still hot and bothered about it, Log office this week. spots in the trip. The crew was The Pothier crewed up and left dus, who came aboard In Cal­ a good bunch, and were strong but are letting it hang fire until the ship gets back to New York, New Orleans for Calcutta and cutta. They shelled out $508 for lor the Seafarers. Overlooking where they intend to raise some other Indian ports skippered by the shunt to New York, and for "Oversight," the officers were all Captain Elmer Mathes, better fourth class accommodations, too. okay, the four crewmembers said. smoke over the matter. known to all hands—and monkeys THROW HIM OUT —as "Oversight Elmer." At the same time the ci ew is, The ship is now in New York unanimous in their dislike of' on the last lap of her voyage, "Bell to Bell" Fish, for, they | with stops scheduled for Norfolk write, "If the contract is signed j and Baltimore, where she will by the time we get in port, let's payoff. get rid of this Mate. He's a real BUCK AND A HALF phony." NEW YORK, Jan. 30—Forty- radio officer dismissed at a port Capt. "Oversight' hails from As far as the officers are con­ five shipping lines, including 11 other than that at which he join­ cerned, the crew has turned that Isthmian school which tanker companies, yesterday ed the ship. thumbs down on them all, but all doesn't believe in overtime, the crewmembers reported. signed an agreement with tlje This transportation rider was is not gloom for the crew is well i four Here is a sample of what he fought for and won originally by Radio Officers Union, AFL, for pleased with the Stewards De­ learned at that school: the SIU, and is now becoming partment. For service, cleanliness salary increases ranging to $21.00 "A dollar-and-a-half a day, standard in the contracts of other and good meals they sas* the | per month. The contracts date without overtime, is enough for seamen's unions. Stewards Department aboard is any sailor." (Just shows you how from last October 1, and will run hard to beat. The agreement also specified badly "Oversight" needs a re­ until September 30, 1947. eleven categories of work for fresher course.) Besides a general salary in­ which overtime pay may be Bosun Boyer was official keep­ crease, the overtime rate has also charged. er of the monkeys which were been raised to $l.i60 per hour on Previous to the signing of this hauled aboard in Calcutta. Percy Send in the minutes of dry cargo ships, and to $1.70 per new contract, each company had said he had to stay right on the your ship's meeting to the hour on tankers. a separate agreement, expiring ball, too. Ho had to shave every New York Hall. Only in that Members of the AFL Radio Of­ on different dates. Now the pro­ day so that he wouldn't be mis­ way can the membership act taken for one 'of his charges. But ficers Union will therefore re­ visions of all dry cargo agree­ on your recommendations, he wasn't the only one who had ceive ten cents per hour more ments are the same, and the ex­ and then the minutes can be than the overtime rate being paid piration date is also the same. to keep steady. printed in the LOG for the Boyer said that the Skipper to operators who are members of benefit of all other SIU The ROU is only ten years old, had to keep his hat on all the the American Communications and has already made long strides crewsr time, so Percy would know Association, CIO. Hold those shipboard meet­ forward in bettering conditions where his jurisdiction ended. ings regularly, and send Another feature of the contract and wages of radio operators CAN'T DO THAT those minutes in as soon as was a clause guaranteeing trans­ aboard ships. The ROU is an af­ Anyway, the monkeys were portation back to the port where filiate of the AFL Maritime possible. That's the SIU wayl raising hell all the way over. the articles were signed for any Trades Department. Even The Monkeys (Passengers Not Crew) Couldn'tSee'Oversight Elmer'As Skipper AFL Radio Officers Union Signs New Contracts With 45 Companies Send Those Minutes Friday, January 31, 1947 By JOHNNY JOHNSTON In the days gone by, the Master and the officers of clipper ships were for the most part Ameri­ cans, but the crews were com­ posed largely of foreigners. The American seaman, long noted for the neatness of his appearance and his skill in seamanship, had almost vanished in 1850. There were several reasons for these men giving up the life they loved. The pay was exceedingly low, and conditions had been growing worse for the man in the foc'sle. The food was worse than that of prisoners ashore, and Masters were driving their ships in all kinds of weather, trying to set new records from New York to San Francisco. It was very seldom that the watch below could spend their time off without being called on deck to help the w.atch reef and furl sail. ABs could earn only $8.00 to $12.00 per month, while men ashore were making three times as much and had none of the dis­ comforts of the man going to sea. As American seamen would not sign on with such wages and conditions, foreigners began to take their places. This was in the face of a law of 1817, which prescribed that not less than two thirds of the crew of an American vessel must be citizens of the United States. But this proved to be an easy law for the Masters to get around, and in some cases foreigners were signed on as Americans. The in­ creasing scarcity of seamen brought about the vicious and brutal practice of .shanghaiing. From a time, especially on the Barbary Coast, the gangs were so powerful, that the ships' of­ ficers were helpless to either pre­ vent their men from being en­ ticed from the ship while in port, or to refuse to patronize the or­ ganized shanghai gang if there were not enough sailors to man the ship at sailing time. During the height of the Gold Rush, Skippers had to pay from $25.00 to $200.00 for shanghaied seamen if they were short-hand­ ed on the Coast of California. Many of the Captains found dead men on their hands when they got out to sea, and more than a few of the men were in such bad condition from the blows and drugs they received from the gang that it took a num­ ber of days before they could be turned to. 4. 4 Three weeks ago this column had something to the effect that to make 12 knots, the ship's en­ gines had to generate 45000 HP. It is .swell to know that so many Seafarers read the Log, because it seems that everybody has been writing in to put us straight. Here is the correction, and honestly fellows, we knew it all the time, it was just a typogra­ phical error. It takes only 4500 HP to do the 12 knots. Hope the printer gets it right this time. �Friday, January 31. 1947 Modernization Of Boston Is Off As Governor Cuts Appropriation By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON — Business and ship­ ping, which has been pretty good for two or three weeks finally slowed up and last week was only fair. The good stretch of shipping, however, just about cleaned out our reserve of rated men in the Deck and Engine Departments. In fact, a ship in transit called for an Oiler and an Electrician on Saturday morning, but we were unable to fill the order. The Stewards are fairly well represented, with five Stewards and a half-dozen Cooks and Bakers waiting for berths. The outlook for the coming week is fair with two, or possibly three, payoffs scheduled. These, I however, are subject to cancella­ tion or diversion. Then, too, the tankers are still hitting this port regularly. NEW WATERFRONT OUT The prospects for the future, which had been soaring with the ci-eation of a new Port Authority and some ambitious planning, have been deflated again. The incoming Governor promptly lopped off a sizable por­ tion of the appropriation for the Port Authority, which will neces­ sarily retard the carrying out of the plans for building piers, sheds ,etc. Apparently it will take an earthquake or destructive tidal wave to effect any change in Bos­ ton's antiquated waterfront. By next week Eastern Steam­ ship Line should have the new Passenger Contract all ironed • THE SEAFARERS LOG out. As the Yarmouth is about leady to go, the first passenger sailings since the war should be before the 15th of February. With the Yarmouth and Evan­ geline on their steady runs, this port will be plenty busy, as one of the ships will be in nearly every night. OUTPORTS SLOW The outports haven't been do­ ing much of anything lately. This time of the year usually finds a little activity going on in Port- Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: PHILADELPHIA CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE MOBILE BALTIMORE MARCUS HOOK The deadline for port re­ ports. monies due. etc.. is the Monday proceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. land, but so far we haven't had any SIU vessels up there, al­ though an occasional tanker crew pays off in that area. In Providence, also, there has been nothing doing except an oc­ casional tanker payoff, but there may be a resumption of Colonial I,ine service between Providence and New York pretty soon. Enough about the situation in Beantown for this week. We will be back again next week with more news. Page Seven Shipping Up Again In New York; Shortage Of Rated Men Reported By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—Shipping in this port is like "off again, on again, Finnegan." One week it's bad, and the next week it's so good that we just can't get enough men to crewup all the ships. That's the way it is this week, and we are crying for rated men. Now that doesn't mean to hop on the first rattler and come arunning to New York, but if you are on the beach in some port where the shipping has slowed down, wire this port and we will notify you if there are still some jobs left in your rating. Not only has shipping picked up for the present, but there is Fight Within The NMU Explodes Advertised Myth Of GMU Unity By FRED FARNEN every indication that it will stay good for some period of time. Plenty of tankers are duo in here within the next ten days or so, and dry cargo ships arc also .slated for this port to payoff, and then crew up. For the first time since the end of the MM&P strike, we can say that shipping is definitely on the upgrade, and we hope it stays that way. ALL WORK. NO PLAY A few weeks ago we noted the lost weekend of our Brother of­ ficials down in New Orleans. They lost their weekend paying off ships on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. Just so the membership will not think that a novelty, I want to say that we have made it a practice to payoff a ship on Sun-/ day, if necessary. And lately it has been very necessary, especia ly for tankers. The American Press, Newtex, paid off last week and it proved to be one of the cleanest ships we have had here in a long time. It looked the way a SIU ship should look. From the wa\ the crew talked, a rousing tribute is due the Stew- DETROIT--Still fresh in the pai'ty, and not the seamen they minds of Lakes seamen is the are supposed to be leading. phony strike pulled by the NMU In direct contrast to the NMU on the Great Lakes last summer leadership, the SIU can point to when they abused Labor's only unity all down the line, and that weapon, the picketline, in order unity is in the determination to lu gain control over the Lakes. better the welfare of seamen ashore and at sea. At the time the strike was call­ ed, its purpose was quickly seen to be an organizational drive. SlMPLE.lSfJ'T IT? WEfiOTA The SIU makes it clear when ap­ DATE AND COVER proached, that we would not vio­ TWB PA'iDFF,' late our contracts by walking off By HENRY W. CHAPPELL our ships, but we would respect TOLEDO — All sailors have volved, when it has been proven lines around NMU ships. . been watching with interest the that the majority of the crews At the same time we made it struggle within the NMU to rid want union conditions on their known that we would not respect itself of the shackles of the com­ ships. When a governmental any picketlines they placed By ARTHUR THOMPSON munists and the CMU. It is sur­ agency is called in to settle any around unorganized ships. prising to see how slow they have dispute the saijor goes to bat SAVANNAH—Shipping during Well, it's history on the Lakes responded to the pleas of Joe with two strikes on him as in­ now how the NMU crossed their the past week has been very slow Curran after his resignation from variably these boards side in own membership by signing an this committee and exposed their with the shipowner and the ma­ agreement with Bethlehem here in Savannah, but next week true purpose, which is to use the jority rules the seamen down. Transportation Company, allow­ promises to look good. The Gal- aids Department for the manner The Great Lakes District of the ing the %hips to sail while their braithe is expected to come in in which they carried out their NMU membership and treasury to further the aims and policies SIU is busy now trying to im­ members were still.on the picket- for a payoff, and the Hendy and jobs. Now that the results of the of the communist party with the prove our 1947 contracts which lines. Slocum will be in to have their election have been announced, welfare of sailors ashore and at already are the best on the Lakes. At the same time they labeled stalls .stripped and that means we have had to say goodbye to As soon as they are ratified by sea secondary in interest. everyone who saw through the three crews we will be able to two of our New York Patrolmen - These high NMU party mem­ the members and signed by the sell-out, finks and scabs. supply. The Cyrus W. Field may who are leaving to take new bers are not a group of starry- officials, the LSU, NMU, and come in also and from there on posts. NAME CALLING eyed dreamers who envision a Lake carriers will attempt to get it's anybody's guess. Now in the NMU itself, we see Salvador Colls, newly elected government controlled entirely the same wages and conditions the same name-calling taking San Juan Agent, left with his for the members that the SIU by workers, but are a group of The Hattiesburg Victory has place. Joe Curran has fallen out family last week; and Johrmy has already won. psuedo-militant representatives been tied up here and all her Also the Lake Carrier sailors with the buys on the Executive beefs were squared away with­ Johnston, New Orleans Deck Pa­ of a foreign government, whose purpose it is to have the govern­ will wonder how in the hell the Board- over participation in the out any trouble. The main beef trolman, took off a few days was about the quarters. It seems later. ment control the workers, and Mates and Enginers can make CMU. Johnny, who has blossomed Back and forth across the table the Bosun and Carpenter had when the time is ripe to cause a them do all the extra work, when revolution and seize control of in the SIU contracts it constitutes at their recent meetings Stack been sleeping in the Deck Main­ out as a Log columnist, has prom­ overtime. and cohorts have been yelling- tenance's room and the deck ised to keep sending his enter­ the government. "sell-out," while Curran and his maintenance men had been put taining facts to the paper in ad­ That's why the NMU has con­ GET WHAT'S YOURS dition to his other duties. tinually sided in with the various So fellows, join the SIU and confederates have been shouting, in other foc'sles with men on , "Stack and his boys speak only agencies created by the govern­ be able to ^rove what your duties watch. for the communist party and hot ment and designed to keep Amer­ are aboard ship by reading your STRAIGHTENED OUT ican seamen in a virtual state SIU contract to the Mates and the membership." of slavery with no representa­ Engineers, and be able to get Such a set-up works a hard­ As anyone can see, that is the Send in the minutes of tion when their welfare is con­ overtime when it is coming to type of unity the NMU has been ship on men trying to sleep, and your ship's meeting to the sidered. preaching. What the -SIU has there have been many complaints you instead of time-off at sea. New York Hall. Only in that RESENT COMMIES Bear in mind that shipowners been saying for years, is now about it before, but nothing was way can the membership act While the SIU members do are not Santa Glaus and the only proven — the NMU membership done. Now the matter is settled on your recommendations, not contend that America is a reason unorganized seamen get has been played for suckers all and all crewmembers are in their and then the minutes can be Utopia, and there is lots of room the same conditions as the SIU along by a few self-professed rightful quarters. The other printed in the LOG for the for improvement, we de resent is because the company doesn't militants who have bent over beefs were minor repairs and benefit of all other SIU Joe Stalin and his slimy agents want unions, for then tlfese con­ backwards to abide by the poli­ painting. Now everything ap­ crews. pears to be okay. attempting to tell us how to go ditions will have to be granted cies of the Kremlin. Hold those shipboard meet­ about acquiring it. These "leaders" have proven as a matter of course. Also the Everything else in running ings regularly, and send The SIU wants for its mem­ shipowners will no longer be able again by their own accusations along smoothly except that we those minutes in as soon as bers the right to negotiate con­ to tell the crews how big-hearted during this falling-out that their seem to have more than our possible. That's the SIU wayl tracts with the companies in­ they are. only interest is the communist quota of governors in this state. Govt And NMU Officials Always Have Sided Against The Seamen Savannah Has More Governors Than Ships Send Those Minutes �-J THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Friday. January 31, 1947 BERMUDA BOUND—ALCOA'S GEORGE WASHINGTON .... By JOE VOLPIAN On December 31, 1946, The this chapter shall, upon convic­ ' President of the United States tion thereof, be fined $50 for proclaimed the "end of hostili­ each person so employed. (f) This section shall be en­ ties." His action in so doing forced by the Secretary of brought to an end approximately Commerce, for the purpose of 26 wai'time measures, among carrying out this section, and them, regulations governing alien shall take effect ninety days seamen in wartime. after June 29, 1936. On March 31, 1947, peacetime regulations will again go into ef­ fect. These are the regulations contained in the Merchant Ma­ rine' Act of 1936. The sections dealing with alien seamen are as follows: (They refer only to sub­ sidized vessels): (g) All the Deck and Engin­ eer ofiicers employed on ves­ sels on which an operating dif­ ferential subsidy is paid under authority of chapter 6 or em­ ployed on the Commission's vessels, after one year after June 29, 1936 shall, if eligible, be members of the United States Naval Reserve. (a) All licensed officers of vessels documented under the Snapped by fhe Log photographer just prior to pulling out of New York for Hamilton, Ber­ laws of the United States, as (h) During a national emer­ muda, these boys are part of the George Washi igton's deck gang. Front (reading from left to now required by law, shall be gency as proclaimed by the right): John Mehalov, OS; S. Hunt, AB; C. Lorn ax, CFW; H. Acunto, OS, and D. Wilkie, OS. citizens of the United States, President, he may, in his disRear: S. Brown, AB; (Deck Delegate); G. Pierre, AB; W. J. Crosby, Bosun; E. Smolen, OS; G. native-born or completely nat­ crelion, suspend any or all of Tazzani, AB and B. Ben, AB. uralized; and upon each de­ the provisions of this section. parture from the United States On non-subsidized vessels, the of a cargo vessel in respect of percentage of aliens who may which a construction or oper­ sign on foreign articles remains ating subsidy has ben granted, '15% as contained in the Jones cdl of the crew (crew including Act. Send in the minutes of all employees of the ship) shall your ship's meeting to the Inasmuch as the number of be citizens of the United Slates The zig-zagging hopes of the Meanwhile, the Skipper had New York Hall. Only in that alien seamen holding American native-born or completely nat­ fortune-bent men of the SS H. B. two perfumers look into the mass way can the membership act seamen's papers surpasses by far uralized. Latiobe zoomed skyward again for the possibility of it being on your recommendations, the number of jobs available for (b) For a period of one year them, many of them having prov­ this week with the encouraging used in the manufacture of "eau and then the minutes can be after the effective date of this ed themselves to be excellent word from one of their ship­ de something or other." printed in the LOG for the chapter, upon each departure sailors, shipmates and union men mates, Blanco Williams, that the Their findings dashed what­ benefit of all other SIU from the United States of a during the war, to the best of our mass of stuff they hauled aboard ever hopes the Lati'obe men had crews. passenger vessel in respect of knowledge, all waterfront unions in the South Atlantic late last of taking it easy for awhile. That Hold those shipboard meet­ which a construction or oper­ are making a serious attempt in summer might yet prove to be a is, all except Williams. ings regularly, and send ating subsidy has ben granted, their own ways to afford some mess of "gold," or ambergris, as He headed home, taking two those minutes in as soon as all licensed officers shall be cit­ measure of protection for these it it technically known. pieces of the potential cologne possible. That's the SIU wayl izens of the United States as de- men. More on this subject later. with him. He's convinced the Brother Williams' sbot-in-thetined above, and no less than arrn came in the form of a letter stuff is the real thing, and in his 80 percent of the crew (crew from his Norfolk home, where he letter, said he's turned the mat­ including all employees of the has been standing a ceaseless vi­ ter over to a lawyer. ship other than officers) shall Cautioning his partners not to gil over tv/o "nuggets"—samples be citizens of the United States, give up hope, he told them not of the Latrobe men's catch. native-born or completely nat­ The letter was intended as a uralized, and thereafter the rallying call to his depressed percentage of citizens as de­ shipmates to get up off the deck By CHARLES SCOFIELD fined above shail be increased and stop holding a wake over five percent per annum until Sometimes we spend so much their dead hopes. Up to this 90 percent of the entire time beefing about low wages point, the lads' spirits were 10 crew, including all officers of and poor conditions that we for­ degrees flatter than an unor­ any such vessel, shall be citi­ get the other part of the picture. ganized ship's night lunch. zens of the United States, na­ Sure, our gripes are legitimate, "Don't worry," heartened Wil­ tive-born or completely nat­ but what happens when the Un­ liams. "We will come out on top." uralized. ion is able to gain decent pay DOESN'T GIVE UP (c) Any member of the crew, and conditions for us? Brother Williams, who was the not required by this section to Most of the men take it in their Latrobc's Bosun, is a bitter-ender be a citizen of the United States stride, and continue to put out whose determination to carry may be an alien only if he is in the type of work that all SIU the ambergris case to a happy to listen to any contrary advice. possession of a valid declara­ members can be proud of. But keep everyone posted conclusion may finally spell cash He'll tion of intention to become a there is always a small minority through the medium of the Sea­ with a capital for all concerned— citizen of the United States, or that spoils it for the rest. farers Log. and all are plenty concerned, es­ other evidence of legal admis­ "If anyone wishes to get in What brought this subject up pecially where cash is concerned. sion to the United States for touch with me, my home address in my mind is the sudden epi­ Here's a summary of what has permanent residence. Such is 2926 Somme Ave., Norfolk, demic of men taking money from happened up to the latest turn alien as above defined may be Va.," Williams added. the company to get to a ship, and in the foundering fortunes of the employed only in the Stewards WHALE! WHALE! Latrobe crew men: department on passenger ves­ then not showing up where they were supposed to. Some of the Ambergris, by the way, is high­ On a recent tropical run, a sels. men drink up the money, and large mass of what appeared to ly valued in the manufacture of CHARLES SCOFIELD (d) If any such vessel (as de­ some accept the money without be ambergris was sighted lone- perfume, and, consequently, this fined above) while on a foreign any real intention of trying to we have to live up to all the pro­ somely floating in the South At­ product .of the whale figures voyage is for any reason de­ catch the ship. visions of a contract if we expect lantic. It was picked up, and no­ quite importantly in romance. prived of the services of an em­ Next time that sweet little fe­ the company to do likewise. It body, including the Skipper, slept ployee below the grade of mas­ DO YOUR DUTY would sound awfully funny for a wink until the ship pulled into male has you with your head in ter, his place or a vacancy Besides the fact that this prac­ us to blame the company for vio­ Mobile, where the crew paid off. the clouds and your feet doing caused by the promotion of an­ tice is dishonest, it also puts the The crew chipped in to have the Viriginia reel, remember the lating the agreement if we do the other to his place may be sup­ Union in a mighty tough spot. the stuff analyzed in Mobile. It whale's share in 'making; her se­ same things ourselves. plied by a person other than The SIU fought a long battle be­ Fellow members, if you have was then that the matter started ductive. And all the time you defined in paragraphs (a) and fore the companies would agree any regard for the SIU and the to smell sweetly. The analysis didn't- even consider the great (b), until the first return of to give a man transportation to a big whale in the scheme of agreements for which the Union showed it to be ambergris. such vessel to a port in the ship if he was broke. And with The men were unable to re­ things. Ashamed of yov iplf fought, don't take transportation United States. that victory won, a couple of money in advance unless you main hi Mobile to dispose of now, aren't you? (e) The owner, agent or of­ guys came alon^ and upset the really mean to fulfil your end of their treasure, and appointed Anyway, it's the whales, and ficer of any vessel who know­ apple-cart because of their irre­ the bargain. Williams to stay aboard pending guys like the Latrobe crew who ingly employs any person in sponsible actions. Back up the Union that backs results. Came the strike and he help in making the World go violation of the provisions of It's about time we realized that you up. around and around. had to get off. Send Those Minutes Union's Responsibility Is Part Of Every Contract SIU Signs Short Note To Crew Of Latrobe: All Is Whale That Ends Whale ^^PSNIFFZ-PHOOEY/. '• �Friday, January 31. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Sylvester C. Costa Page Nine Union Mate Points The Only Way To Attain Real Maritime Unity By DAVID BASS (Local 88, MM&P) been taken in by the communi.st party to do the strong arm vvoik. During our strike the commun­ ists fulfilled their role of all-time scabs, which was not surprisin.g to those of us who have gone through waterfront strikes before. • The newcomers learned in short order how the commies operate, and it was a lesson they will probably never forget. We have effectively cleaned out the destructers from our un­ ion. Many of the red fasci.sts are on the outside looking in, where they are continuing their efforts to sabotage and discredit oc^r union. Because the summers in Boston I am a member in good standing are mighty hot, and the winters of Local 88, National Organiza­ are plenty cold, Sylvester C. tion Masters, Mates, and Pilots, Costa gave up his job as a waiter and a former member of the Sea­ in a Beantown hotel, and since farers International Union. 1928 has been going to sea. He It was my good fortune to be has done very well for himself, ashore and participate in our rising from the position of Waiter strike from beginning to end, and to where he is qualified as Stew­ that taught me much more than ard on even the largest passenger I could have learned in ten times liners. as long, ashore or at sea. His first job was on the Piince It gave me gi-eat pleasure to George, Eastern Steamship, and be able to use the knowledge of the run was between Boston and unionism I had learned as a mem­ Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. After DAVID BASS ber of the SIU in helping my that he took other jobs on ships brother members in the MM&P finitely that real unity is possible, going to all parts of the world, PROBLEMS TO FACE in the conduct of our strike. and there are few ports in which but it can only be achieved by But winning our strike and I think by this time that every­ honest dealings and not by poli­ he has not set foot. keeping our union free from com­ one knows that the militant ex­ tical horse trading. Conditions have changed a mie domination does not mean ample and the material aid re­ great deal since Brother Costa 100 PERCENT SUPPORT that the MM&P has no more ceived from the Seafarers was sailed out of Boston Harbor on At all times, the entire re­ problems. We have a lot to do largely responsible for our being his first trip. In those days he time he is going to continue in able to get into full swing with­ sources of the Maritime Trades before we can feel free to sit earned $45.00 per month, most of Department was ours for the back and take a short breather. the fight for better wages and out delay. which he had to spend on canned asking, and that meant financial, First of all, our organizational conditions for all seamen. food since the meals served to Now that the strike has gone moral, and physical help. With structure is obsolete, and to meet "The SIU has led the fight," down in history, it is high time the commies doing their damn­ the future we must reorganize seamen were not fit for human he stales emphatically, "and we fo us to study what, took place, dest to wreck our strike, it was on a national basis. This will consumption. are going to kep it that way. Sea­ and find out just what was re­ sure good to know that such a streamline our operation, and we "It's sure diffei'ent now," he says. "There has been real im­ men everywhere know that the sponsible for winning om* beef. large organization was behind us wil^then be able to work together provement over those days of the SIU is always in there pitching with a clearly defined national At the same time, we can look 100 percent. '30s. I only hope that conditions for them, and that is thanks into who and what were respon­ On the other hand, we saw the policy. will continue to improve, and if enough for all the hard fights we sible for pi'olonging the strike mealy-mouthed communists at­ The days of having to know we keep our Union strong they have had to take part in." and causing confusion and dis­ tempting to sabotage our strike some Port Captain or company will." Brother Costa ended the in­ ruption. These tactics on the part by every means at their com-: official in order to get a job are terview with good words of ad­ of a small handful of wilful peo­ mand. over. From now on, the Union LIFETIME JOB They held so-called rank-and- Hiring Hall, and our own ship­ vise to new men sailing in the ple at times threatened our en­ Costa has good reason for Stewards Department; Keep up tire action with failure. file meetings, created distur­ ping rule.s, should be the inflex­ wanting to see seamen receive the fine work that the SIU is The militant activities of the bances in and near the Union ible rule. an even break. He has made sail­ known for, respect the contract, SIU, and the other AFL mari­ Hall, and then mobilized a crew Another point that we licensed ing his life's work, and he intends and cooperate with the other De­ time unions affiliated to the AFL of the most vicious scabs along men must realize is that our des­ to keep on as long as there are partments. Maritime Trades Department, the waterfront to attack a legiti­ tiny is closely tied up with un­ ships to sail. That kind of advise will main­ were the deciding factor in bring­ mate strike meeting. licensed seamen. We must realize The goon squad which they that, regardless of the grade of Up until the war started, Costa tain the Seafarers International ing success to our side. Together with some anti-com­ used on that and other occasions our license, whether we sail as sailed only on passenger ships. Union in its present strong posi­ hoodlums, Ma.ster or Mate or AB, all sea­ He then switched over to freight­ tion, and will help it to grow in munist CIO unions like the Ship­ was composed of yard Workers, we proved de- mainly non-seamen, who have men have- common problems. ers and troop ships, and was on the future. the SS George Washington, com­ For the sake of our own suiing back from the Islands, when vival we must unite on these Nazi torpedoes sank the ships on common problems, and show the either side of her. same unity aboard ship as we That was the closest he came The w.age scales and overtime rate and the ad- personnel whose basic work week is 56 hours or showed in the strikes of the. pa.sl to real danger, although he con­ dendums theieto now presently in the contract more; for the. purpose of this paragraph Sunday few months. at sea shall be considered the overtime day and tinued to accept jobs which took between the Seafarers International Union of A ship on a cold weather rtm, him right into the danger areas. North America—Atlantic and Gulf District and all work performed on Sunday shall be paid for \vithout foul weather gear in the In his Union work, Sylvester Moran Towing and Transportation Company, Inc. at the overtime rate. slopchest, has a problem vitally Costa has accepted all his respon­ covering MV-4 ocean towing vessels are hereby Under no circumstances shall there be any affecting licensed and unlicensed sibilities. He hates a "free-load­ cancelled and the wage scales and overtime rates duplication of pyramiding of overtime. men alike. All bellies react the er," so he has played an active set forth herein shall be substituted. All other All basic wage scales increased by $17.50 per J same way to rotten food, and low and leading part in the affairs of terms and conditions of the existing agreement the Seafarers International Un­ concept as herein amended shall continue in full month shall be retroactive to April 1, 1946, and: P^J'' and poor conditions can ion. force and effect pending completion of negotia­ all increases in excess of $17.50 per month and the ' make life hell for a Skipper as overtime rate .shall be retroactive to June 15, 1946, ' well as an OS. In both the 1938 and the 1946 tions to amend the general rules. There u-are The provision of the agreement dealing with u no shipboard probstrikes. Brother Costa could be DECK DEPARTMENT WAGE SCALE hours of work at sea and in port, and with respect' affect both found hard at work either on the Bosun $237.50 to the overtime rates of pay, shall be retroactive ^ and picketline or in the kitchen. Be­ Able Seaman 177.50 to June 1,5, 1946. I solution is to work tocause of that sort of whole-heart­ T-> 1 • 1 .L I gather for our common ends. Ordinary Seaman 152.50 ed participation by Costa and all Room allowance shall be $3.00 per night and There is an immense amount other SIU members, the Union meal allowance shall be $1.00 for breakfast, $1.00 ENGINE DEPARTMENT WAGE SCALE of anti-labor legislation brewing. was able to win major victories for dinner and $1.00 for supper. Electrician ."...$294.50 Seamen, and all labor, are under both times. Standby rate of pay shall be $1.45 per hour con.stant attack from the press, Oilers-Diesel 200.25 During the recent contract ne­ straight time and $2.17';> overtime. Wiper 162.50 government agencies, and busi­ gotiations, which wound up with Negotiating Committee for the operators and ness. We feel very sharply the the SIU gaining the best con­ STEWARDS DEPARTMENT WAGE SCALE (he negotiating committee for the Union shall growing antagonism of the ship­ tracts ever seen in the maritime Combination Steward-Cook $227.50 • continue negotiations so that a complete agree­ owners. industry, Costa was a member Second Cook 212.50 . ment can be reached covering general rules and Now is the time for us to pre­ of the Stewards Department Messman 152.50 working rules as soon as possible. pare for the coming storm. All Rank-and-File Negotiating Com­ the unions of the AFL Maritime Overtime to be paid to all members of the Stew­ This agreement is being signed subject to the mittee. Trades Department must immed­ ards Department on Sundays and Holidays at sea. approval of the War Shipping Administration and Brother Costa's plans for the iately turn to and plan a common No members of the Stewards Department be laid the Wage Stabilization Board with a joint re­ future are set in his mind. P'irst program. This must be accom­ off in port or at sea on Saturday, Sunday or Holi­ quest by both parties to this agreement that the of all, he is returning to pas­ panied by an educational pro­ agreement be approved. days. senger ships, arid at the same gram which will reach all sea­ The overtime rate for unlicensed personnel re­ MORAN TOWING AND TRANSPORTATION men. ceiving less than $200 per month shall be $1.10 COMPANY, INC. The only hope for seamen of per hour. All ratings receiving $200.00 or more Signed by:— the United States is in the AFL per month the overtime shall be $1.35 per hour. R. M. FOX If you don't find linen Maritime Group. The rats have To reduce the straight time work week in port when you go aboard your SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION already scuttled the leaky com­ from 44 to 40 hours per week and pay overtime ship, notify the Hall at once. OF NORTH AMERICA munist-conceived Committee for for work performed in excess of 40 hours per Signed by:— A telegram from Le Havre or Maritime Unity and, unless the week; for the purpose of this paragraph Satur­ Singapore won't do you any JOHN HAWK AFL waterfront unions can re­ day and Sunday in port shall be overtime days. good. It's your bed and you J. P. SHULER main strong, the future looks have to lie in it. Pay overtime at sea for all hours worked in ROBT. A. MATTHEWS black for American merchant, excess of 48 hours each week to all unlicensed PAUL HALL seamen. New Wage And Overtime Rates On Moran ATTENTION! �wmm Page Ten Fkiday, January 31, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG SmPS' MINUTES AND NEWS I" Crew Man Chronicles Joseph Hewes' Trip By A CREWMEMBER Isthmian Men Convene In SIU Style A number of Isthmian ships have been following SIU policies for some time now relative to holding shipboard meetings and running their affairs in a typical­ ly SIU manner. Latest of these ships to send in reports of ship­ board meetings are the Steel In­ The three Black Gang standby men aboard the SS Peters­ ventor and the Citadel Victory. burg Victory, recently turned over by Calmar to another outfit. Both or these ships have bene­ Left to right, Eldon Arnot, Oiler; Luis A. Ramirez. FWT, and fited considerably as a result of David Bishop, FWT. holding regular meetings, because the crewmembers are learning that it's possible to bring their beefs out into the open, and do something about them. On the average Isthmian ship, where no meeting is held, beefs accumulate, conditions deterio­ Brother Ramirez, speaking for There was a note of sadness in rate and as a result all crew­ the other men, said the parting the air as the SIU standby crew men are dissatisfied. wound up its final watch aboard was "sad." He added that "our CITADEL VICTORY the SS Petersburg Victory Jan. standby job on this ship was a On the Citadel Victory, D. D. 14, when the vessel was turned pleasant one. In addition, we Story and W. W. LeBaron were over to another operator by the spent Christmas and New Year's elected chairman and secretary Calmar Steamship Corporation. day in port with one of the best respectively. The transfer was made under Stewards and ^hief Cooks I ever Under new business, several terms of a reallocation order. knew. motions were carried as follows: "Believe me," he continued, Luis A. Ramirez, FWT, one of that all members wear shirts at the Seafarers who stood the last "the Christmas meal on the Pe­ mealtime; that Messmen wear watch, said the Calmar vessel tersburg Victory was something white jackets while serving was turned over in excellent con­ to lemember." meals; tliat Delegates contact the dition. The ship is now operated The Christmas repast to which Steward to see that Steward Util­ by the United States Lines. Ramirez referred was prepared ity clean the Stewards Depart­ '"The new engine watch ex­ under the direction of "our first ment instead of having the Pan­ pressed considerable pleasure at class" Chief Steward Hoss Mctryman do the job; and that any­ the fine, clean condition in which Kinnie. He was assisted by Chief one caught leaving the messroom the SIU men left the ship," Broth­ Cook A. Kaden, and Second Cook in a dirty or untidy condition be er Ramirez said. A. Garshie. fined 25 cents, proceeds going Brother McKinnie, according Along with Ramirez at the to sick brothers or some charity. windup were Eldon Arnot, Oiler, to Ramirez, "is hanging around Other motions passed were: and David Bishop, FWT. The the hall trying to take a job that the Steward leave out suffi- three Seafarers, all full book aboard a passenger ship, so that members, managed to conceal he can renew his relationship their pride over the compliment with "good society," such as he paid them by the cerw which enjoyed before the war. succeeded them, but they said their efforts were in keeping with Union's policy of making "an SIU ship a clean ship." If you are about to write— Seafarer Bishop served as or have written—stories of the Black Gang Delegate on the sea, but are stumped as to how I'etersburg Victory on the final to go about having them pub­ run for Calmar from Portland to lished, you can toss your wor­ New York. It was learned that ries over the side. he did a capable job in that ca­ The Log is happy to an­ pacity. nounce that seagoing writers now can have their stories, dent night lunch; that delegate where they are needed; that bunk articles and books read contact Steward in reference to lights be placed where they are and appraised by people who face soap shortage; that the Jun­ needed; and that four men be know the score. An arrange­ ior Engineer share shower with elected as delegates. ment has been niade with a Berkenkemper was elected reputable agency of authors' rest of Engine Dept.; that dele: gate see First Engineer about Ships delegate; James Humphries representatives, who will read lack of cold water in showers; as Deck delegate; Alex Janowski the material at no cost. If the and that Stewards Dept. heads on as Engine delegate; and Thomas stuff has possibilities, it will be the starboard side be left open to Farr Sr. as Stewards delegate. brought to the attention of Under Good and Welfare, crew­ publishers. the complete Stewards Dept. men were informed that a clock If you've written something STEEL INVENTOR was being donated by the Stew­ you think is of public interest, Steel Inventor crewmembers ard for the purpose of the dif­ or if you plan some literary ef­ elected John G. Berkenkemper as ferent watches being able to fort while at sea, why not avail chairman and Alex J. Janowski know lyhen to relieve. yourself of this service? Send as secretary. Note was also made of num­ your manuscript •— typewritten,), Motions passed were: that coat erous repairs necessary to the of course—to Carl Cowl, c/o hooks be placed in the mess- ship, and a complete list was com­ Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver St.. room; that the Steward place piled for the record. New York 4, N. Y. Enclose i;lasses in the messroom; that the Crewmen added a footnote to stamped envelope addressed to messrpom be kept clean, and that the minutes in the form of a re­ your permanent residence to in­ • any violators be fined 25 cents quest that full details and infor­ sure safe return in case script for leaving things'behind; that mation on the results of the Isth­ is not up to snuff. new seats be placed in the heads mian drive be sent to them. We signed on aboard the SS Joseph Hewes of the Bull line last August 17. Shortly after, we pulled the hook and headed for the Port of New Orleans. In New Orleans, we found the general strike going full blast. In addition to the part played by the crew during the strike, five crew men threw themselves into the effort wholeheartedly. They were Stanton Marshal, William Peppet, Fred Wilkins, William Stewart and John Usakiewicz. These men volunteered as true Union members should. They went out and stood on the picketline for seven consecutive nights, in addition to their regu­ lar work. After receiving word that the strike was over, and that the SIU had chalked up another victory, we pulled the hook again and headed for the grain elevators in Texas City. In Texas City, the ship was im­ properly stored. We were to suf­ fer the consequences of this later. It was stated by the Port Stew­ ard there that a five-months sup­ ply of stores was on the way by truck. We waited. Soon the stores began to arrive. All the supplies that were promised came by truck—except for one truckload. The Skipper's action was re­ sponsible for the fact that we didn't get that final load. With Cleanliness Of SIU Vessel Wins Praise From New Crew Hot Issue Settled With Iron Hand Wanted: One Seafarer with legal talent to draw up brief. So might read a notice on the bulletin board aboard the Marine Runner, Robin Line. The crew at a recent shipboard meeting decided to dr-aw up a paper for signing by those borrowing the ship's iron. The agreed that the person signing for the iron shall make good any damage sustained while it is in his possession. The decision, not yci. placed in legal language, states, "Those who borrow iron wil be required TWO SONNVSlOe COMING UP!t Aid For Writers I- to sign for same, and their sig­ nature is their liability for the safe return in good condition. Should anything happen .to said iron while out under their signa­ ture it shall be put in good work­ ing condition or replaced by a new one at the expense of thp person responsible under signa­ ture." TSK! TSK! Although it wasn't mentioned at the meeting, the legal mind will no doubt be asked to include in the brief such taboos as using it to fry eggs gnd griddle cakes, as a foot warmer, door-stop, soldering iron, shoe stretcher, hammer, anvil, in heated argu­ ments when trying to impress someone (kinda corny.) In other words, the crew wants the iron to be used solely as a wrinkle-remover for freshly luxed dainties. Well, we'll leave the problem to be ironed out by some sea-go­ ing lawyer. the truck on the way to the ves­ sel, he gave orders to pull away from the dock and head for In­ dia. That was on Sept. 25. It took us 43 days to sail to Madras, India. When we got there, the coolies went out on strike for three days. In all, we were in that port for 13 days. On Nov. 18, we shoved off—this time headed for the States. We made a brief stop in Aden, Arabia, for bunkers. Then we resumed our course, with our destination Bal­ timore. Not until we left Port Said, Egypt, did our stores start to run low. Overlooking this fact, the Skipper accepted 12 passengers who were going to the States. Then our troubles began. With Port Said behind us, we ran out of baking powder, potatoes and canned vegetables. The sugar, canned fruits, juices, meats and many other necessities that \ve should have been stocked with in ample quantities. Too late, we discovered that, instead of a five-months stock of stores, the entire lot amounted only to two-and-a-half months of provisions in all. SPECIAL MEETING The crew called a special mem­ bership meeting, at which the afore-mentioned facts were ex­ plained to us by the Steward. A motion was passed saying that until the Patrolman sees to it that this ship is properly stored in the States, no one should sign on for the ship's next trip across —if she goes. At our final shipboard meet­ ings, motions were passed calling for a new refrigerator in the crew's mess, the one now aboard hasn't any motor: that new toast­ ers, percolators and a new coffee urn be installed; that a collection he taken for Brothers in the Ma­ rine hospitals. Chairman of the meetings was Frederick J. Wilkins, Brothers Fred Bloom and William Stew­ art served as secretary and mas­ ter-at-arms, respectively. �Friday. Jwuary 31. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings HOBEHT R. McBURNEY. Nov. 18—Chairman Jeff Mor­ rison; Secretary Philip Adrian. New Business: 'Motion carried to draw up a fine list for throw­ ing cigarette butts on deck, leaving cups, etc., on table, feet on chairs in messrom. and to be properly clothed on entering messroom at mealtime. All fines to be donated to Broth­ ers in marine hopsitals. Good and Welfare: Crew discussed general shipboard routines, and all union books checked, and found to be in good standing. 4. i. 4. ROBIN LOCKSLEY. Nov. 13 —•Chairman Dauber; Secretary Rosenbaum. New Business: Mo­ tion carried that all hands are< to attend shipboard meetings except those on watch, with $1 fine for non-attendance. Fines to go to Seafarers Log. Motion carried that Patrolman should be contacted and in turn he should contact Steward about linen issue. Good and Welfare: Discussion on linen issue, such as handing out towels piece by piece. Agreed that temporary delegates remain as are until out at sea. 4* 4* 4* Just A Few Words But They're Well Put For terseness, we don't think we've seen a set of minutes that can beat those of a special meet­ ing Jan. 19 aboard the SB Ethiopa Victory. "Restriction to ship on Satur­ day night, Jan. 18, 1947" was the prime beef for which the meet­ ing was held. The lads didn't want to be restricted again. The minutes .say: "The meeting was temporarily suspended while Gallo went up to see the Mate about a draw and shore leave. "Coffee time was then enjoyed. Gallo came down, and reported as follows: 'No money aboard ship. But shore leave for all.'" Short and sweet, we'd say. 4. 4. 4. ANDREW JACKSON, Oct. 27 —Chairman James Ackerman; Secretary John Harris. Good and Welfare: Motion carried to exclude Deck Maintenance from meeting due to his being a member in another union. All members instructed to turn over tripcards and books to de­ partment delegates two days before arrival in port so they can be given to Patrolman upon arrival. Crews agreed to keep newly painted messroom as clean as possible for new crew. It has been brought to crew's attention that at last pay off money was put in envelope, so it was moved and seconded to get in touch with Captain with request that vouchers, itemized, be issued at payoff, and also medical slips be made out for crewmembers who receive the required innoculations. 4. 4 4WALTHAM VICTORY. Nov. 20—(Special Meeting) Chair­ man Pasquale Taurasi; Secre­ tary Fred Kenfield. Report on repair list from last trip was read and discussed. Decided to leave the question of signingcn and the repair list up to the Patrolman. Delegates were in­ structed to see that the slopchest and medical stores are sufficient. ROBIN LOCKSLEY. (Date not given) Chairman Faircloth; Secretary Rosenbaum. Depart­ mental delegates reported. Deck Delegate reported that mat­ tresses should be changed. Dis­ cussion followed and crew agreed that mattresses of all departments should be changed. Good and Welfare: No beefs. 4 4 4 WALTHAM VICTORY, Dec. 1—Chairman Pasquale Taurasi; Secretary F. W. Kenfield. Dele­ gates reported no beefs. Sug­ gestion made that purser be approached regarding definite date and hour for opening of slopchest. Discussion as to cleaning of laundry and leaving clothes to soak in set tubs. Dis­ cussed asking Captain to sit at a meeting for the good of all hands. Decided not to hold meetings at regular intervals, but to call special meetings as occasions arise. Delegates were instructed to see that all mem­ ber's books are in order. One minute of silence for brothers lost at sea. 4 4 4 JEAN LAFITTE. Dec. 22— Chairman Annal; Secretary Foucek. Delegates reported everything okay. New Busi­ ness: Motion carried that work­ ing rules and constitution be posted in crew's mess on day of signing articles. Motion car­ ried that crew go on record to post the minutes of meeting with the repair list in the Bal-. timore Hall so new crew will not have to sail the ship until repairs are made. Motion car­ ried that legitimate overtime that is disputed must be paid before the crew signs off. Good and Welfare: It was suggested and agreed upon to keep the messhalls clean and to clean up foc'sles so that the new crew won't have any mess left to clean up. 4 4 4 WEBB MILLER. Aug. 9— Chairman Galindez; Secretary Pyc. Delegates reported all well in their departments. Chairman read the repair list, which called for new locker and fan in 4-8 foc'sle. new fan in 8-12 foc'sle, repair toaster in messhall, fans in crew's mess, install drain in Stew­ ards Department showers, and put locker and table in chef's quarters. Ybu CAWWoUOlN tJFifoatmon! OUACHITA VICTORY, Dec. 8—Chairman Harry Cohen; Secretary Ray Noe. Delegates reported everything running smooth. New Business: Motion made that there will be no sign­ ing of articles until the Stew­ ard okays supplies for the trip. Crew has been out of potatoes for a week, motion included that a patrolman be present at the next signing of articles. Motion carried. Motion carried that garbage disposal be watch­ ed and if not taken care of properly the Coast Guard or Public Health Service be noti­ fied. Good and Welfare: sug­ gestion that Steward order a variety of meats for night lunch besides sausage. Page Eleven SEAFARER SAM SAYS m LIKE AROUND \\ . VOTHB CLUBS, SABS, ANQ HOTELS YOU VISIT IN fOREION PORTS 6ET THE ^ SEAFARERS LOG? IF NOT.SENU US THE NAMES AHP COMPLETE ADDRESSES. AMP ^5® / 4 4 4 ROBIN LOCKSLEY. Dec. 1 —Chairman Dauber; Secretary Smith. New Business: Motion carried that all future meetings be held on deck, weather per­ mitting. Discussion on clean­ ing of laundry; cleaning of deck by No. 4 hatch; on passengers using laundry; on using of laundry late at night for Bosun and Carpenter sleep next to it. Good and Welfare: Motions carried: that laundry should not be used between 10 p. m. and 7:30 a. m.; to stop slamming doors while men are sleeping;' that all departments should use their own toilets and showers; that washboard in laundry be repaired. 4 4 4 Yo! Get The Late Sandy Scratch Sheet The Log salutes a Brother pub­ lication. Minutes of the SB Cape Sandy's Jan. 7 meeting say that the crew decided to publish a ship's paper. J. Loll was elected to edit the sheet, which will appear weekly. Another newsworthy item out of the meeting has to do with the ship's icebox. The alleged icebox has been out of order since the vessel was two days out of the States. It can't be repaired until a motor is removed from the en­ gine room, the minutes state. The Steward has agreed to put ice into the icebox to keep the night lunch cold until the new­ fangled contraption can. be made to work. Good thing the iceman still comes around. 4 4 4 WILLIAM H. CLAGETT, June 30—Chairman Baron; Sec­ retary Garrigues. Delegates reported. Only minor beefs in Engine Department. New Bus­ iness: Motion carried that Cap­ tain be approached to have all broken fans sent ashore for re­ pairs or replacement. Motioni carried that ship's delegate in­ quire of the Captain as to amount of cigarettes on board. If there is not sufficient amount for crew, then ask that addi­ tional American cigarettes be taken aboard in Buenos Aires. Motion carried that each mem­ ber of unlicensed personnel do-;< nate $1.00 each towards the ship's treasury, and part of this money to be used to take a picture of a 100 per cent SIU crew for the Log. Good and Welfare: Discussion regarding general conditions aboard. One minute of silence in memory of departed brothers. CUT and RUN By HANK This is good news indeed, especially to those Brothers who are unfortunately unable to ship out so easily. Within, the next few weeks New York and Mobile will be plenty busy shipping men out. New York will have nine Alcoa .ships, which have been laidup in the reserve fleet, and Mobile will have six ships crewing up . . . Steward Harry Schroer, the oldtimer and citizen of the country of Brooklyn, is still in town, waiting to ship out . . . Here's rather hopeful but vaguely mysterious news we read last week in a news­ paper column: "Uncle Sam may shortly take over control and op­ eration of our merchant fleet via the U. S. Maritime Comm.ission and under the authority of the Postmaster General . . ." Well, Brothers, this presumably means that the Coast Guard will unhqjp)ily go back to the traditional business they've always per­ formed. Once the new system takes over, if it ever does, there won't be any more spying, scaring and sentencing of merchant sea­ men by the experts of the Coast Guard and their fast-action justicedealing courts. Oldtimer Edward Hansen and his pipe will be sailing soon, it seems. Brother Hansen says that he's been waiting too long for a Robin ship—so he's getting ready to grab the first car­ penter's job open on any ship, if he doesn't get beat out of it, again . . . Brother "Red" Reese Simmons, who hails from Ala­ bama, but not from Bowling County, says he'll be grabbing an oiler's job down to Alabama for a short visit there . . . We've heard that Brother Ray Fitts will be anchored in the Marine Hospital in Norfolk, so if any brothers know him. please write or drop over to see him. And if Brother James Hada reads this we hope he writes to his hospitalized shipmate . . . Last week Benny Gonzalez was proud and happy to shake the hand of a swell Seafarer, Brother J. Munden, Book 171. who was his shipmate on their round-the-world trip from Sep­ tember 1942 to May 1943, How time flies and eyes remember . .". Alfred Mullen, citizen of New Jersey who now is a night en­ gineer, tried to hold a sensible conversation with his shipmate. Mike Dendak, AB and Ohio resident. There were so many ac­ cidental interruptions, however, that Brother Mullen didn't know what he was trying to tell Mike and Mike didn't know what Alfred was saying, either. Well, they better try letterwriting or something. One brother blew his top about the hospital he's in, ia regards to the terrible food situation existing for the seamen help­ lessly anchored in the Marine Hospital on Neponsit Beach, Rockaway, Long Island. The men are all disgusted, worried and angered by this uncalled for situation and are hoping for some SIU action. Well, for an American hospital to be this low in regards to such an important thing as food for helpless American citizens is somo» thing new under the sun. We really believe that this ridiculous and disgraceful situation should be swiftly and decently improved —at least for the seamen patients involved, if not for the hospital's sake and record, which doesn't seem to be important, anyway , . . Our shipmate, Chaidie Robinson, from East Texas, is still wonder­ ing who took his dog off the SB Tulsa in the winter payoff in 1945? . . . Another shipmate, Joe Pendleton, just grabbed a wiper's jc^ this week . . . AB George Walker is waiting to ship out. Where to, George? . . . Vic Combs, the poetic electrician, now recovering from, his illness, keeps wanting to know this: If you were in a life­ boat, what would you do if the oars leaked? �-r-- THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve ; Fzidff, January 3.1<.1947 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Half Knot Crew Is Thanked For Aid To Injured Member Ropeyarn Examines Politics In Unions Dear Editor: I have read with interest the two articles appearing in the Log by Brothers W. J. Brady and Louis Goffin concerning "Politi­ cal Parties and Political Respon­ sibility," and I am pleased to state that both articles contained some facts that are worth con­ sidering. Brother Goffin takes the posi­ tion that politics is a detriment to the organized workers, and that if the worker is organized properly in industry and displays the proper kind of labor soli­ darity, his economic power on the job is all-sufficient. In surveying what is best for the workingman, Brother Bennie Goodman contends that the workers need a political party of their own, of coiu-se, rejecting the two major political parties — Democrats and Republicans— claiming both of these are capi­ talistic parties. Brother W. J. Brady claims that "Labor has political responsi­ bility" and that politics has made itself a part of the labor move­ ment. He further contends that the negative position taken by la­ bor allow.s the capitalists to use all of their political weapons against the worker in time of strikes and lock-outs. Both of these Brothers have no doubt given some thought to the question of whether labor should engage in politics. I do not wish it to be taken that I am disagreeing with either of them. However, I do ask the privilege of analyzing a few facts that might be helpful to the membership of our Union, who after all make all decisions con­ cerning their welfare and policies. I have read somewhere that quite a famous economist once said that "The political is the re­ flation of the economic," and that the political party was the executive committee of the ruling class. This seems to me to be a rather blunt statement, yet it is a true one. HERE'S THE QUESTION Now to the meat of the ques­ tion. If labor proposes to organ­ ize a political party, then, those who propose such an idea as­ sume that eventually the labor party would become the new rul­ ing class; this would be the only logical conclusion, as no one would want a weak political party. Labor would want a strong party that would not countenance any opposition or tolerate any mon­ key business from the bosses. If this would not be so, no good would come of any party, and the working man would only be wast- SEAFARERS WISH PETE DiPIETRO SPEEDY RECOVERY Dear Editor: Writing for many of the Sea­ farers who have heard of his illnes, I'd like to send regards to one-eyed Pete DiPietro. All hands wish him a speedy return to health. . Here's hoping he will be out of Roosevelt Hospital soon. Robert Hillman ing his time in bothering with one. , It has been the history of labor unions that engaged in politics to any great extent that different political factions were soon cre­ ated. These factions then began to battle among themselves, and disrupted the union. A good example of a union that allows itself to engage in politis is the NMU, which is at the present time is engaged in a life and death struggle between two factions of the communist party —the Browderites and Fosterites. Anyone with common sense can see that these two factions, which are using the NMU to fight out policies between themselves, are going to weaken the NMU and stand a good chance of possibly wrecking it completely. However, I do not say ihat it would be impossible for labor to form a political party of its own, and I do not say that such a party would become another disrupter of the labor movement. I do say, though, that the membership of our Union should think a long time before deciding what kind of a political party they are go­ ing to honk up with, before tying themselves to the tail of a po­ litical kite. Ropeyarn Dear Editor: I wish to address myself to the crew of the Bull Line ship. Half Knot, that made its first trip from Baltimore to Freeport, Texas. As I was injured aboard and taken off at Charleston, S. C., and hospitalized there, I was able, due to the short distance, to go home for Christmas, and I can say with thanks that my injuries were not serious. Right now I have a case against Bull Line and am waiting action from my lawyer. I am still hav­ Dear Editor: ing trouble with my legs, but the After having docked yester­ doctor says it will take time. day (Jan. 14), I read your ar­ I want to call to the attention ticle on the Chief Engineer of the of the boys who promised to mail SS Frank E. Emerson, Smith and my sea bag to me that I have not Johnson S. S. Co., in the Jan. received it as yet. Please notify 10 is,sue of the Log." me if you did or did not mail it, I want to thank you for print­ and where it may be now so I ing that article. can claim it. I wish to thank you However, I wish that you all for the swell way you treated would mention in the Log that me when I got injured. It was the Deck Delegate was Carlos swell sailing with you boys and Gomez^ and that the Engine I hope to sail v/ith you again. Delegate was R. C. Ingraham. I wish also to give my thanks The Chief Engineer's name was to our Agent and Patrolman here Berquist. This is also to note that the in Tampa for their cooperation and swift action on my case, even crew considered Captain Krandsthough they are quite busy with feldt a fair man as skipper's go. Robert C. Ingraham shipping and supporting striking Log-A-Rhythms JOHNNY DOWD By THOMAS COYNE. AB Johnny Dowd walked up the plank. His sea bag on his back. In his navy coat and mushroom cap. And a tie so shiny and black; With bell-bottom pants and jumper to match. He was as salty as the sea. He thanked the Lord as he crossed the deck For a Sheepshead boy was he. They told him when he left the Bay, As they gave him his AB ticket. To pay no heed to Union talk. From either Delegate or picket; For unions are the bunk said they, A trap to get your money; If they ask you for your dues. Just answer: "Don't be funny!" "JOHNNY DOWD The sailors smiled at their shipmate's cap. At this store-made seabag and pants. But he hitched his jeans with a "Yo heave ho," And gave them glance for glance; The eight-to-twelve was short a man. So. that's the watch he drew. They showed him where his foc'sle was. So roomy, bright and new. The booms were all secured. The lines were stowed away. The hypo flew from the jumper. And the ship got under way; When the vessel hauled up at Ambrose, And the pilot got off on the lee. The Sheepshead boy went out on lookout. At last!—Now he was out at sea. He climbed up on the flying bridge. He saluted in Navy style. The Third Mate's mouth—^it opene.d wide. He was too amazed to smile; •' Tampa cab drivers. We are all for them. Sailor and Sunny are in there with them, representing the brotherhood, and believe me, Fool's Dream the cab drivers realize we are in­ By Vic Combs terested in their fight. So, until I hit the deck with you boy.s, I'll say again, thanks. Would it be wise for me just , to Edward Vallina impress Tampa, Fla. The thoughts I think, or dreanis I'm bound to stress? For fools, are not bom, but made, LIKED ARTICLE to find * ON SS EMERSON'S Paradise, that wise men leave behind. CHIEF ENGINEER "May I have permission. Sir, To relieve the Quartermaster? "For when you put me on the wheel. You'll never have any disaster." At 12 o'clock, the watch was relieved. And Johnny crawled into his sack. The sheets were clean, the inattress soft. It seemed to fit the curves of his back; His bunk light worked, and his port fan, too. He sighed in comfort grand. For his first night's sleep on the briny deep. Away from the dirt of land. When Johnny awoke for his morning watch. He went straight into the shower. He scrubbed himself with Camay soap That smelled just like a flower; The Steward gave him matches. And laundry and toilet soap The Captain gave him cigarettes. At a price he never could hope. The Delegate gave him a long white sheet To mark up all his overtime; The messman gave him ham, and eggs. The Bosiin gave him a liAe; They showed him how to make a spUce, And how to rig a stage; He worked all day on overtime. In addition to his wage. At coffee time, he got time off. For the Bosun was no bugko. And every other day was free. When they got to Pernambuco; Homeward bound, they painted ship. He learned to swing in a chair, . And he praised the day he went to sea. As he breathed the tropic air. On payoff day, he took out a book. His snazzy uniform he personnaly dumped. He. took a ride to Sheepshead Bay To the instructors, hiS: nose b& thumbed; And now he's in:the .SJU, .^Wifh the rest, of the men of the sea. He thumbs his nose at the maritime finks, FOR A UNION BROTHER IS HE! Log - A - Rhythms Do you think I expect all men to agree? For many dreams pass as never meant to be. And yet they make hope, and light the way Over rougher roads from which wise men stray. Too, they inspire better things to come. And all is but a fool's dream to some. But even fools like I can under­ stand That life will be forever in de­ mand. Would it be wise for me to life give. When life never gave for man to live? With all that is beauty in this day. There's more in life that takes away. So, I'd rather be a fool than share A wise man's knowledge and his care. Can I expect wise men to agree When they are wiser still than me? And they will build on that life They struggle through in strife; As for me I prefer to build on dreams Until I ceui make them, what they seem. Why should one fight the world to gain. For in the end, only dreams re­ main. Even then only part of what has been— If 1 never have anything, I neither lose nor win. HURLBERT CREW'S GOOD TURN DESERVES ANOTHER Dear Editor: Please put my name on your mailing list. I would like to re­ ceive the Log at my home, as I am quite a distance . from our hall. I enjoy reading every inch of the paper. Keep up the good work! I recently paid off the Alcoa, SS Arthur M. Hurlbert in Charles­ ton, where the crew made a nice donation to the Log. The boys deserve a big hand for this be­ cause the trip was only of two months duration, and there were many tripcarders aboard. Yet everyone donated something . to the Log. Joseph Guillot Jr. Stockton, Ala. (Editor's nole:—You're on fhe mailing list, Brolher. And to the entire crew of the,. Hurl­ bert, a deserved big hand.) �Fnday, January 31, ld4t" Page Thirieen' T HE SEA FARERS LOG SEAFARERS FIGHTING FIRE ON SS ABRAHAM CLARK Plan Offered To Snuff Out Back-Door Shipping Threat Dear Editor: Crewmembers haul out more hose line to quench flames up forward in the Waterman vessel's oil-filled storm tank.' The blaze broke out when the Clark poked her nose into the side of the Alcoa Planter in fog-shrouded Mobile Bay recently. The SIU crew checked the fire after a three-hour battle, without any loss to the general cargo aboard. Latest Turn Of NMU Merry-Go-Round Stirs Quincy Into Spouting Some Pearly Words Dear Editor: sail their ships, improve their wages and conditions and have an efficient, clean American un­ ion, so foolishly and blindly regu­ lated. They are caught in this insane and worthless web of communists dreams, which is ridiculously burning away the life and progress of themselves, as peaceful, protected union seamen, and their unions. "Then why," I continued," did all this happen and why so pub­ licly?" "Ah," Quincy mellowed, "that is the mystery. It remains to be seen whether Coffee Curran, who When I read the explosive news in • the newspapers about the violent verbal revolution boil­ ing within the NMU, I rushed over to hear what Brother Quincy Everight Nofinkk, the still ac­ tive whale of an old-time sailor, would spout about it. Now, Quincy is a prognostic, a double-barrel minded, militant. Seafarer, and there are certainly many more like him who are above the seas and still going strong—bless their salty, honest hearts. Indeed, many of us ob­ servant and remembering broth­ ers have met and admired men like Quincy because he is the es­ sential backbone of good union­ ism and the type of Seafarer who has never stopped fighting for what is right and necessary. It's good to see that his spii'it re­ mains afloat and ashore in these changing, violent years, especial­ ly in maritime labor. To explain Quincy further, he is a brother of many experiences as an economic slave of ruthless shipowners and a constant victim of desperate company and union has traveled the pro-commie way finks. Quincy has hated and bat­ of thought and action for some tled everything wrong—whether time, then cut himself off from it has been some dreamy brother this snaky Moscowed religion violating the shipping rules. and will now continue to ask and then trying to get away with it fight for freedom and peace and when he's caught; whether it was honest American unionism, with­ some never-changing trouble­ out acting obediently in the maker or work-shirker aboard childish comedy of these commie ship—or whether it is the savage­ scientists with their faithfully ly desperate dreams of the com­ treachei'ous wooden hearts? True munists who are openly and sec- colors and true action yet rOmain retely poisoning the minds and to be seen from Curran instead jobs of honest Anierican seamen, of brave, stormy words that lead both unionized and non-union. nowhere." I found Quincy, sitting com­ "Then Quincy, what can hap­ fortably in the reading-writing- pen next, that is, with the lead­ i-esting room on the hall's third ership of Curran, if he continues deck, calmly involved in smok­ his anti-commie program?" ing a cigar and pursuing the Quincy smiled. "Oh, the next latest Log. step, which is the only step and "Well, Quincy" I said, "what the most vital, would be the do you think of the revolution young membership, which is the in the NMU?" majority, and the die-hard fac­ Quincy slowly answered, "I tion (which is the smartest and naturally think that if the verbal slowest) combining their strength revolution stays hot and open, it and kicking the commies out of should mean the • beginning of office. Then they wOuld care­ slow but sure doom for the com­ fully vote in their own choices mies happily roosting in office of gobd rank-and-filers who have and wisely hidden in the rank been known for their pro-Amer­ and file. It's really, a shame to ican, pfo-uhion, anti-commie see the NMU's honest American policies. members, who have the majority "This big and necessary change strength and who "just want to can happen if Curran keeps swinging his new banner and wakes up the membership into full realization of what their un­ ion is made of and used for and what sort of dodos are running it. "Yes, indeed, it should be the full membership who should rule the union policies and the offi­ cials according to constitution and common sense. This would prevent union money, derived from the members, from being so quickly donated for anxious commies wishing to get elected into Congress, etc., when this money should reaUy go for im­ proved union halls, hospitaliza­ tion for members, etc. On Jan. 7 and 8, twenty fullbook Stewards of the SIU met in the New York Hall to discuss the shipping rules of the Stew­ ards Department on all contract­ ed ships. There were a number of things to discuss and sugges­ tions to make for the member­ ship meeting, but I believe that this thing was not thoroughly thrashed out and should be gone into further. Ever since, and sometimes be­ fore the General Strike of 1946, different companies have been flirting with all men of the Stew­ ards Department in our Union to entice them to ship back-door, and at times in the last few years some of these men have not known that it was against the shipping rules to obtain employ­ ment from the company instead of from the board as prescribed and passed long ago. PREVENTION I suggested that special atten­ tion be taken to prevent this from happening again by check­ ing back through the Dispatcher in the Hall that they were sup­ posed to have shipped from. Pertaining to the new pas­ senger vessels expected to join the SIU fleet in the near future, some men in this Union have suggested that we issue permits to men from waiters' locals to handle the passenger trade. If I were a passenger I wouldn't want a sea-sick waiter handling my food, or a money hungry exwaiter working for tips alone. Besides, if we allowed permits to be issued we would be admit- -ANDWHAT'LL YbU MAVe*D3 Well, if the good NMU mem­ LUMCH, bership wake up themselves, then tliey might also wake these commies from their happy dreams and actions while in office or in the rank and file. But, I really don't know what will happen so I'll just finish reading my Log, that's all." Cut and Run Hank MEMBER BLOWS SOME GAGS OUR WAY—OOPS! Dear Editor: I'm passing these items along along for what they're worth; A seven-year-old boy was smoking to his heart's content on the street when an elderly woman walked up to him and ex­ claimed: "Didn't your mother ever tell you not to smoke?" The little boy loked up and nonchalantly inquired: "Didn't your mother ever tell you not to speak to strange men on the street?" X % % An undertaker found^ a donkey lying dead in front of his prem­ ises and went to inform the po­ lice. "What am I to do with it?" he asked the officer in charge. The officer had a sense of hu­ mor. "Do with it?" he asked, with a grin. "Bury it, of course. You're an undertaker aren't you?" "That's true," replied the un­ dertaker. "But I thought it only right to come around and inform the relatives first. " —J. G. SiRT sions when the companies sent men to the Hall to be passed for passenger ships that had only • sailed as Assistant Steward on troopers. The Dispatcher has sim­ ilar evidence in his possession in New York from Alcoa Steamship Company. ALL ON TROOPERS What Steward or what cook has not sailed on ships that carried trops during and after the war? I can answer that ques­ tion by saying—very few, and we all know it. If the companies send men on the passenger liners that have only trooper discharges then they are admitting that it is sufficient qualifications. This be­ ing the case the Port Stewards are only interested in shipping their pets and buddies and not in serving the pasengers properly, while we have taken into con­ sideration the special service and care that the customers demand, and should have if they spend good money for it. In the event that these com­ panies lose customers to other nations and operators, it is no one's fault but their own for hav­ ing hired bootkissers. If the com­ panies want competent help and key men, why do they hire men as port stewards who have never sailed as cooks or stewards aboardpassenger vessels? There are men as Port Stewards in cer­ tain companies that have not half as many qualifications as many in our midst. It is pitiful to behold some of the profession­ al men that the companies have passed in the Stewards depart­ ment simply because these men have licked boots, slipped some cash to the right guy, or married into the fold. SIU SHOULD LEAD The SIU should start the ball rolling with the least possible de­ lay to insure the jobs to the cer­ tified men of our union on these ships without having our Union raided by company pets, finks, and shoreside greediness. It is an evident fact that the companies cannot, or will not, supply the right service aboard the passenger scows so that the customers will sail on Ameri­ can ships instead of foreign liners. P. H. Parsons ting incompetency on our part and be opening the door for every company fink on the waterfront. It would at the same time cheat full book men out of these jobs that have sailed as passenger Thanks Brothers stewards for years. For Flowers Sent We suggested at the hieeting to have all passenger liner qual­ At Mother's Death ifications thoroughly checked be­ Dear Editor: fore passage and institute a grad­ I wish to give my deep thanks uated form of promotion from to the Brothers who sent the cargo ships to passenger vessels. beautiful flowers at my mother's For example: death. SUGGESTED WAY I want them to know that thenkind thoughts and sentiments If a man had six months dis­ were deeply appreciated. charges as Chief Cook or Saloon T. McRaney Waiter, he was eligible for sec­ ond cook and bus-boy, respec­ tively, on passenger ships. Pas­ Boys Have Blues, senger ships so qualified are not to carry less than 150 and if they Pine For The Log do, cargo discharges are suffi­ Dear Editor: cient. The graduated system I am a former member of the would supply our men with more jobs and at the same time insure Seafarers International Union, in the Pacific Division-SUP. good service aboard the ships. I would appreciate it if you I also suggested that if in a limited time the Union does not would mail the Seafarers Log to furnish the so-qualified men, me here in camp. There are a then it should allow shore-side number of Seafarers here with men to sail on permit, but on pas­ me to whom I can pass it along. They would be happy to see the senger only. Some of the companies may Log, Walter Brown, Jr. put up a squawk at this, but USNtS. Bainbrige, Md. there have been numerous occa­ m �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen Just Like The Moving Pictures, Jimmy Has Adventures Ali Over Were you over on the beach in Manila and forced to drive trucks for the Army so you could keep body and soul together? ifc. Friday. January 31. 1947 STILL GOING STRONG on an NMU ship. That was the best he could do at the time, so don't hold it against him, fellows. About 60 miles out, Jimmy an­ swered one of the calls of na­ ture, and that was that. The Skipper discovered him, and blew his top. Not only that, but he put about, and put Jimmy Well, it might not have hap­ ashore again. pened to you, but it sure enough So, six more weeks on the happened to Brother Jimmy beach. Crescitelli, Chief Cook. ANOTHER RUN-AROUND Jimmy is a Seafarer of some Finally the WSA got tired of years standing who is known for seeing him around, and he was his unfailing good humor and placed aboard another NMU ship, generosity. His reputation is so the Drew Victory, supposed to be fabulous that scarcely a week proceeding directly to the States. goes by that "Cut and Run Hank" Seated between two lovely New Orleans women, and they But, as we stated before, Jim­ doesn't have something about say that the gals down there are sure pretty, is seated Chris my is a victim of circumstances, Jimmy in his column. And that I Hansen, janitor of the N.O. Hall. The occasion for the festivities and instead of going straight to goes on even when Brother C. is was Chris' 80th birthday, and he celebrated by downing a few JIMMY CRESCITELLI the Land of the Free, the Drew far at sea. with his good friends. off to the Manila Hospital went Victory made stops at Shanghai, Jimmy's adventures read like Manila, Manus Island, Sydney, Brother C. something out of a book. Some Manus Island again, Saipap, TinA few days of treatment in that men look for adventure, and i some men have things happen to Place, and Jimmy was ready for ian, Tienstin, and then finally to San Francisco. them, but Jimmy always seems more excitement. The ship had The payoff in S, F. was very to be in the vicini+y of adven­ already left Manila far behind, so good for Jimmy. He collected Jimmy went to work driving ture no matter where he is. more than $3500.00, but since he trucks for the Army. blows, and Curran stated that (Continued from Page I) Take his last trip for instance. owed practically that much to BEATS THE RACES was not satisfied with the last there was never any chance of the people he had borrowed from, When the SS Bienville left He garnered a few odd shekels, elections. I have been gathering healing the rift between himself New York over a year ago Jim­ and then went out to the race he had nothing much left. facts and material since then, and Stack. my was aboard, prepared for a track, where he pitted his wits He blew into New York about and when I am in full possession In refutation of the statements long trip. But the call of excite­ against the bookies. Needless to two weeks ago, after having been made by Curran, Stack could of­ of the facts, they will be released ment proved too much for him, say. Brother Jimmy won and gone for more than a year. fer only a weak defense. Instead, to the union, and everybody con­ and so he paid off in Mobile in more than doubled his dough. Considering the adventures he cerned in them will be in those he devoted a column in the Jan­ time to go to the Mardi Gras in So, back to Manila to live a has had, it is amazing that his facts for what they are worth." uary 24 issue of the Pilot to an New Orleans. It was wonderful; life of Riley at the finest hotel humor is undimmed, and he is That the split in the NMU has attempt to discredit, in advance, you ought to hear him tell about ready for whatever might take in town. And to make matters gone deeper than just the rift the evidence that Curran has it! place in some foreign port. even better, the Alcoa Pointer between the top officials in high­ promised to reveal about the com­ HEADED FOR TROUBLE According to Jimmy, that is arrived, and all his old shipmates lighted by what Curran had to munists in the NMU National Council. what makes a seaman's life so helped him out with cigarettes, We next pick up Brother Cres­ say about the Pilot, the national There is no doubt that Curran citelli on the Warrior Point, etc. Ah, life was sure good then. interesting. organ of the NMU. In discussing can, if he wants to, reveal plenty bound for a long trip to Medi- j But like all good things, life He ought to know, he's had ex­ the past records of the members terranean ports. First it was! on the beach had started to pall periences in every corner of the of the National Council, Curran about each and every member of the National Council. He has for Trieste, then \/enice, etc. Next on Jimmy, and he stowed away globe. put out this fact: a long time played ball with the Bahrein to take on a load of oil, "I didn't say anything about communist party, and there is and all was going well up to the fact that you have full con­ every reason to believe that he that time. But it couldn't last, trol of the offices here. Of the has had access to records which and it didn't. Pilot, where I find myself lucky will enable him to expose the to get into the Pilot. Sometimes Six days out of Bahrein, head­ inner workings of the commie I get in only by sheer force, ed for Singapore, Jimmy was clicque which now controls the sheer threat, in order to be able scalded by hot water while the vened unsuccessfully in an at­ NMU. (Continued from Page 1) to get an impartial hearing in ship was rolling in a heavy sea. tempt to get Bushey to sit down the paper." As far as the CMU is concern­ tent refusal to negotiate with the The ship put into Singapore, and discuss matters with the ed, Curran stuck by his guns but Brother C. was not available Union, which was certified on From the reports that have during the course of all the ses­ Dec. 27, 1946 as the collective union. « leaked out of the special NMU sions, and from the letters which bargaining agent for the 500 men Following this rejection, the sessions, it is obvious that the liave been printed in the Pilot, employed at the yard. The work­ aid of the U. S. Conciliation Ser­ split between Curran and his fol­ ^^LAROUNO//1 ers designated Local 13 to rep­ vice was invoked, but the federal lowers, and the commie spokes­ it seems that the rank-and-file of resent them by an overwhelming conciliators likewise met with men, is a deep and ever-widening the NMU is overwhelmingly on majority. flat refusals from the company. one. On more than one occasion his side. The National Council rejected Curran's motion for an BUSHEY AGAINST ALL Bushey has a long history of the speakers almost came to immediate referendum on further Blatantly ignoring the workers' fink activity, Mesita said. He CMU affiliation, and voted to mandate, and the subsequent stated that on Dec. 27, 1945 the send 50 delegates to the Mai'ch NLRB certification, the company NLRB ordered the reinstatement 15 CMU conference. has greeted each overture to of two active union men who had' Seafarers who did not take meet with the union with a "to ben discharged for union activity. active part in the 1946 Gen­ liell-with-you" attitude. The board awarded the men full eral Strike, and who have Moreover, Bushey has defiantly seniority rights and full back not yet obtained strike clear­ disregarded an NLRB "cease and pay. ance, are advised to do so In addition to its demands for for the usual fun to be found in desist" order, issued after evi­ immediately. Edward Ben­ that port. He was in bed, taking dence was offered of the com­ contract negotiations, the ship­ der, of the Clearance Com­ yard workers union is insisting pany's unfair laboy practices. care of a bad burn. mittee at Union headquar­ Seatrain Lines will soon put on complete payment of all back With every possible means of ters in New York, has issued into operation four of her re­ After leaving Singapore, the pay awards granted by the NLRB. a reminder to the member­ converted vessels on runs be­ Warrior Point headed for Manila, achieving an amicable working Local 13 is going all-out to ship that Mar. 21, 1947 is the tween New York and New Or­ and after 16 days in bed, the Skip­ relation with company having make Bushey understand that his failed, a strike was the only door deadline. The committee's per wanted Jimmy to turn to. leans and between New York and workers are aggressive and mili­ functions expire on that date. Texas City. Jimmy refused, on the legitimate left open to the union. tant in their demands, and that This advice applies only to grounds that he needed further The company expects to put "We have exhausted every legal they have supporters in the mari­ Seafarers whose reasons for medical treatment. Who and peaceful means of negotiat­ the ships, the Seatrain Texas, time industry. not participating in the strike wouldn't? Seatrain Havana, Seatrain New ing with the company," Fred Besides the Seafarers support, require satisfactory explana­ York, and Seatrain New Jersey, The Purser on the ship had Mesita, Local 13 chairman, told other AFL maritime unions are tion. into operation on about March only aspirin, iodine, and sulpha the Log. coming to the shipbuilders' aid. 12 with weekly sailings from Men with legitimate rea­ pills, and he used all of them in With Lou Calomine, head of each end of the run. sons for . non-participation, attending to Jimmy. No wonder the union's veterans' committee, The freight car ships will soon such as illness, being aboard he needed more treatment. Mesita sketched his organization's work out of a new terminal, as ship at sea, etc., during the When the ship arrived at Man­ efforts to negotiate peacefully, the one being constructed at strike period, do not have to ila, ^Crescitelli paid off by mu­ following the certification. Edgewater, New Jersey, is nearbe cleared by Mar. 21, but tual consent. Both the Captain He pointed out that Judge ing completion. Sailing schedules can aipply at any time. Ben­ and Jimmy heaved a sigh of re­ McGuire of the New York City of these ships will be announced der pointed out. lief when that happened. And Labor Relations Board had inter­ in the near future. Did you ever stowaway on an MMU ship, and get the Skipper so mad that he turned the ship around to take your back to land? Curran Calls Stack 'Disrupter' Before NMU Council Meeting Seafarers Throws Full Support To Striking CIO Shipbuilders Strike Clearance Seatraln Announces Resumption Of Gulf, New York Scheduie �Page Hfteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Ttidaf, January 31, 1947 T BULLETIPr^ Retroactive Pay Waiting TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Company Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and 1945, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit" overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed below. ' Hunger, George E Hutchins, H. R Hutto, Alvin G Jakeway, Avery J Jaiiauskas, Edward Jan.sen, Carl F Janson, H Jareek, Eugene P Jefferic.s, Clarence Jefferies, John J. efferson, W Jensen, Jens 0 Johnson, Ed. C Johnson, Edward E Johnson, George Johnson, Hjjrold B Johnson, Peter L Johnson, Sylvester Jones, Cecil M Jones, Jessie M Jones, Raymond D Jones, Walter P Karlsen, Harold M Karlsen,- Sigrand Karrman, P. H Kaskell, Edward KehhM-, James M. Jr Kelly, Charles Kelly, Hugh V Kessick, Herbert S Korhs, Ralph B Knof, Frank Kraszeski, Leo Kullgren, Alexander Kuselj, Ivo La Grange, H. R Lamieuf, Leland Lampress, Peter Langredge, W. N Lanton, Alfred Laris, Joseph Laurick, Tony Lax, Herbert Lenty, James M Leonard, Roger R L'Heureux, G. A Lithe, Frank D. Loenhorst, William Logie, Kenneth G Lund, Frank O Lynch, Albert P Malecki, V Makko, Victor Maliegros, Joseph Marchant, Douglas Marks, Alfred A Martin, Donald Martin, Herbert W Martin, Joseph J. ' Mathews. Fred J May, Charles M McBride, Clarence J. McBride, Fi-ed McCarthy, Carroll MCcoy, Patrick McCulloch, Thomas L NEWTEK SS CORP. PHILADELPHIA SS Robin Locksley—$7.00. R. Smith, $1.00. Robert C. Thomas," $1.00. * HOUSTON INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS L. English. $1.00; J. W. Marrs, C. Q. Cooper. $1.00; T. Shadden. J. M. Taylor. $2.00; G, Knietz, J. B. Celling, $2.00; J. T. Watt, $1.00 $5.00 $1.00 $3.00 C. $2.00 Tullia, $3.00; H. B. Vann. D. T. Huffman, $2.00; C. D. Salter $2.00; H. S. Knowlcs, $2.00; J. R.an kin, $1.00; W. J. Marjenoff, $1,00 G. S. Williams, $1.00; H. W. Burk hardt, $3.00; T. MacCaskie, $2.00. Russel R. Jones—Voyage No. 5—from 4/1/46 to 4 1 46. Russel R. Jones—Voyage No. 6—from 4/2 46 to 7/22/46. Rufus Choate—Voyage No. 8—from 4/1/46 to 6 14/46. Rufus Choate—Voyage No. 9—6/15/46 to 8 7/46. Rufus Choate—Voyage No. 10—from 8,^9/46 to 9 19/46. Cape San Bias—Voyage No. 12—from 5/7/46 to 7/29/46. Coastal Liberator—Voyage No. l^from 4/1 46 to 7/7/46. Coastal Liberator—Voyage No. 2—from 7/8,^46 to 8/4/46. Coastal Liberator—Voyage No. 3—from 8/5 46 to 9/1/46. Coastal Skipper—Voyage No. 7—from 7/12/46 to 7. 28 46. Coastal Archer—Voyage No. 6—from 6/24/46 to 7/14 46. Coastal Archer—Voyage No. 7—from 7/15/46 to 8/11 46. Coastal Archer—Voyage No. 8—from 8/12/46 to 9/8 46. Edward S. Hough—Voyage No. 5—from 7/24/46 to 9/14 46. Grover C. Hutcherson—Voyage No. 5—from 5/9/46 to 7/22 46. Bernard L. Rodman—Voyage No. 5—All Vouchers Mailed Out. Bernard L. Rodman—Voyage No. 6—from 7/2 46 to 9/6/46. John Gibbons—Voyage No. 7—from 4 1/46 to 4/4 46. _ ' McGoldrick, William 1.31 1.25 1 McGueeny, D. J. 7.00 1.29 I Meaders, J. P. ... 3.29 21.16 1.01 2.32 Medina, Francisco , GALVESTON 2.03 11.33 Medley, Clark Jr SS Council Crest $8.00. 67 1.29 Melindcrs, Tony SS Half Knot—$11.15. 1.77 Vouchers for the above Vessels are at Pier No. 42 North River SS Hastings- $ I 7.75. 6.47 Merritt, David L 1.95 and must be signed by each crewmember entitled to retroactive INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS 2.65 Milan, Russel S 14.59 H. T. Miller. $2.00; E. M. Flesher. pay in order to collect money due. 2.94 .85 $2.00; I. A. Tulford, $10.00; J. Beller, 59 Milanovich, Alexander S. .57 $2.00; D. Fuschillo, $1.00; H. V. Vil6.65 Miller, Elwood L 20.73 larreal, $1.00; T. D. McLemore, $1.00; Lim Koa. $1.00; H. Bagley. $5.00; 43 4.57 L). Newberry. $1.00; M. V. Morton 63 8.86 $3.00; C. R. Johnson, $1.00; A. T. Do 05 Miller, Ernest F Tliose crewmen of the SS Abel 1.13 man. $1.00; I. B. Aderhold, $2.00; DEANE H. SUNDERMAN 1.25 Miller, George C Stearns, Bull Line, which was 36 H. Cooper, $2.00. Your mother requests that you R. D. Hanks, $2.00; C. P. Ode, $2.00 04 Miller, Joseph R 36 turned over to Japan the first contact her as she is an.xious to N. Goresh, $1.00; D. M. Baum, $2.00 23.10 Milne, John 6.53 R. Brett, $2.00; E. Braswell, $5.00 part of 1946, who never collected hear from you. 58.74 1.38 J. Miranda, $5.00; R. Swegart, $5.00 their repatriation money, can get 4. 4. 1 13.68 Mizell, C. W 56 I. H. French. $5.00; L. Santa Aana HERBERT G. WHITE. FWT 9.07 $2.00; J. E. Hanley, $1.00; A. A. Tur it by writing to the A. H. Bull .75 lington, $3.00; Bombin. P. $1.00 Get in touch with Matthew J. 19.61 Moda, Edmard .12 C. A. Ebanks. $1.00; R. C. Harvasz Steamship Company, New York Peters, 746 East 4th Street, South 1.35 Monaco, Elmer Armand .... .12 $1.00. City. It amounts to $90.00. Boston, Mass. 9.40 Montgomery, G. W S. C. Flanks, $2.00; J. W. Caston 6.29 22.41 Montiero, John t i S. 1.99 $1.00; T. J. Hoffman, $1.00; S. A Johnson, $2.00; G. Laura, $2.00; J. L 73 JUAN E. VASQUEZ 1.37 Veal, i2.00; W. R. Bates, $1.00; W. G, 01 Moody, Robei-t Jr 18.83 Ivy, $1.00; J. A. Johaneamann, $2.00 A communication from Carmen 71 14.99 B. R. Gibson, $1.00; F. W. Walker, Iris Torez says that she has im­ 12 Moore, Arthur H 1.62 $1.00; L. B. Lott, $1.00. portant news for you. The note 14 North Gay St. J. McClurg, $1.00; L. W. Clanahan BALTIMORE 1.52 1.25 $5.00; Calvert 4539 urges thai you get in touch with C. A. Hancock, $5.00; J. 86 Morris, R. D 276 State St. her at 565 West 174th St., New 91 Findley, $2.00; F. Schutz, $1.00; 5. H BOSTON Boudoin 4455 67 Morse, Howard 51 Word, $1.00; M. J. Daila, Jr., $1.00 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. York City as soon as posbiLle. 29 Masongsong, J Cleveland 739] 67 J. B. Lawson, $1.00; J. W. Cain, $1.00 4 t 4 1.71 Moss, George D 68 Society St. 5.08 H. J. Bishop, $2.00; J. L. Exun. $1.00 CHARLESTON Phone 3-3680 GEORGE F. CURRAN H. E. Faletti, $2.00. 2.57 2.18 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Your brother, John Curran, 01 Superior 5175 BOSTON •15.22 CLEVELAND . . . 1014 E. St. Clair Ave. wishes to know your where­ 11.40 Munyer, Hariy J 23 Crew of J. Slocum-^$4.00. Main 0147 abouts. 4.94 Naish, Donald R Crew of SS Cardinal Gibbons—$15.00 CORPUS CHRISTI . . 1824 Mesquite St. 67 Corpus Christi 3-1509 03 Neil, G. Nerith Crew of Muncie Victory—$4.00. 4 4 4 5.00 DETROIT 1038 Third St. SS New Echota—$11.00. 6.51 Nelson, Carl J. Jr GEORGE G. SMITHERS Cadillac 6857 95 SS STONES RIVER 04 Neman, H. P. E DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Your mother, Mary Smithers, 2,53 V. C. Guy—$2.00. 1 Melrose 4110 2.59 Nesse, Alexander P has recently changed her address 9.32 GALVESTON 305'/, 22nd St. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS 29 Nicies, Paul 2-8448 from Brisbane to Townsville. She 60 Ernest Belkner, $1.00; F. Lisk Jr., HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 7.32 Norton, George 0 1.88 $3.00. 58777 is very anxious to hear from you. 17.78 Oftenbeck, Rudolph HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Write to her at Carr St., Hermit 1.52 NORFOLK Phone Wentworth 3-3809 1.12 Olson, Curtis S Park, Townsville, North Queens­ 3.75 920 Main St. B. C. Wlggs, $10.00; W. Hicks, $10.00; JACKSONVILLE 15.86 Oneha, Joseph L Phone 5-5919 land, Australia. 11.67 W. Browning, $10.00. 79 O'Rourke, J. G MARCUS HOOK 114 W. 8th St. 35 4 4 4 J. Porter, $2.00. Chester 5-3110 5.78 Ostarch, Thomas 22.63 MIAMI 1355 N. E. 1st Ave. ANTHONY METALICA 2.79 Overland, T NEW YORK MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 2.20 Your seamen's papers, etc. 2-1754 25 Owens, James K SS AMERICAN PRESS 04 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. were found in the New York 1.27 Paige, IValdo SS American Press — Deck Dept., Magnolia 6112-6113 2.42 Hall. They may be picked up at $5.50. 88 Patch, Artuh NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. 2.79 HAnover 2-2784 the mail room on the 4th floor. SS LOOP KNOT .S3 .84 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street H. Woods and Crew—$14.00. 4 4 4 4.43 Patterson, Ernest 0 4-1083 1.58 SS R. TUXPORD PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. H. F. LONRENBERG 1.30 Peckham, Dale 0 S. Calleja, $1.00; J. L. Thompson, 54 Phone LOmbard 3-7651 Please contact E. Harold Tea22.39 Pederson, Leon V 2.98 $3.00; D. E. Jessup, $2.00; A. Soto PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Worth Ave. Phone: 2-8532 gue. West Coast Patrolman, imand Crew, $2 7.00. 5.79 Perpente, Edward J 13.48 PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. mediatelv. SS GRANDE RONDE 62 Perritt, Charles J Beacon 4336 45 R. Pedroza, $2.00; James L. Hart, 4.98 Picou, John 257 5th St. 19.91 $2.00; H. L. Herron, $1.00; R. L. Fow­ RICHMOND, Calif 2599 23 20.07 ler, $4.00; C. F. McDowell, $2.00; Isa­ SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. 1.27 Pihl, Royal P Douglas 5475-8363 11.28 dora Flaherty, $2.00; Jfmmie Roberts. $2.00; Charlie Kent, $2.00; James A. SAN JUAN, P. R. . . .252 Ponce de Leon 2.02 1.44 Roberds, $2.00; A. E. Steffek. $2.00; Brothers J. W. Bagett, OS; San Juan 2-5996 .75 Pizzeck, Guido 2.45 L. M. Steffer, $2.00. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. Harry Berg, Oiler; Robert C. 35 8-1728 77.92 SS MALDEN VICTORY Blair, Electrician, are requested SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. 4.36 Polansky, Mannie 1.34 Ernest L. Magers, $1.00; Wm. Mur­ Main 0290 to contact the Paymaster at Mo2.75 Pold, Valdeman TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. 5.43 phy, $1.00. M-1323 ran Towing, 17 Battery Place. 26 Pollock, Abraham INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS 7.23 TOLEDO 615 Summit St. 4 4 4 1.88 W. Roberts, $1.00; Ed P. Peterson, 1.32 WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Will George F. Cooper, 1604 1.00; Clyde Maytum, 50c; L. Kristan, 24 Pound, Earl F Terminal 4-3131 2.19 $2.00; Luis Ramirez. $2,00; Virgil Al­ Fleet Street, Baltimore, get in VICTORIA, B. C 602 Houghton St. 10 Garden 8331 touch with the Office of the In­ len, $2.00. Powell, Harry B. 1.63 19.41 C. A. Camacho, $1.00; Charles Chand­ VANCOUVER ....144 W. Hastings St. 21.16 ler, $2.00; Wilbert E. Moll, $1.00; T. Pacific 7824 spector, American Express, 65 5.88 Price, Gordon K Broadway, New York City. 23 Prichard, Ralph D 1.25 Hedlund, $3.00. MONEY DUE PERSONALS SlU HALLS NOTICE! �Page Sixieen rJT- THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 31, 1947 UNmmANS... 6^ SIO ••'•'•' '•!i •• • f-..; •->.' CMONin M€AN$... tye -A^L MA1imM5- TRAtS^VSPARTTAgATr HA^ /v^j^ COSTA � 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 January 31, 1947 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. IX, No. 5 Description An account of the resource Headlines: CURRAN CALLS HIS SHOTS, SAYS STACK IS DISRUPTER SEAFARERS THROWS FULL SUPPORT TO STRIKING CIO SHIPBUILDERS; JOINS STRIKERS ON PICKETLINE N.Y. TUGBOATMEN OKAY NEW PACK; WIN WAGE HIKE MM&P COUNCIL VOTES TO JOIN WITH INTERNATIONAL GROUP MARITIME COMMISSION BUYS 70 LORAN SETS AS SAFETY MEASURE PAN-ATLANTIC PLANS NEW RUN TO MIAMI DEATH IN THE DEPTHS SIU CORECTS DECK HAZARD ON SPAN SPLICE NO CHANGES AT NEPONSIT; CONDITIONS, EXCUSES REMAIN ANTI-CLOSED SHOP AMENDMENT INTRODUCED IN NEW YORK STATE MEBA REJECTS BID TO AFFILIATE WITH THE CMU RUMORS BUSIER THAN SHIPPING IN (C)OLD cHI GREAT LAKES ARE NEXT ON SEAFARERS ORGANIZING PROGRAM NEW CREW AND NEW DEAL ON SPAN SPLICE BUCKO SKIPPER AND MATE RUIN POOR OLD BELLE EVEN THE MONKEYS (PASSENGERS NOT CREW) COULDN'T SEE 'OVERSIGHT ELMER' AS SKIPPER AFL RADIO OFFICERS UNION SIGNS NEW CONTRACTS WITH 45 COMPANIES MODERNIZATION OF BOSTON IS OFF AS GOVERNOR CUTS APPROPRIATION FIGHT WITHIN THE NMU EXPLODES ADVERTISED MYTH OF CMU UNITY GOVT AND NMU OFFICIALS ALWAYS HAVE SIDED AGAINST THE SEAMEN UNION'S RESPONSIBILITY IS PART OF EVERY CONTRACT SIU SIGNS SHORT NOTE TO CREW OF LATROBE: ALL IS WHALE THAT ENDS WHALE UNION MATE POINTS THEONLY WAY TO ATTAIN REAL MARITIME UNITY NEW WAGE AND OVERTIME RATES ON MORAN ISTHMIAN MEN CONVENE IN SIU STYLE CREW MAN CHRONICLES JOSEPH HEWES' TRIP HOT ISSUE SETTLED WITH IRON HAND JUST LIKE THE MOVING PICTURES, JIMMY HAS ADVENTURES ALL OVER SEATRAIN ANNOUNCES RESUMPTION OF GULF, NEW YORK SCHEDULE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1/31/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/43947c600138b983b19be50f0b287b89.PDF fc2224f244c58ba5f1582f50c257f8b2 PDF Text Text wr^ • Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y., FRIDAY. JANUARY 24. 1947 CIO SHIPBUILDERS ATTEND NEW YORK MEETING No. 4 New Officials For 1947 Announced; Hospital Payments increased NEW YORK—After two montlis of balloting, the elections for Atlantic and Gulf officials for 1947, wliich came to an end on Jan. 1, have been tallied. The elected officers will be certified at the next regular coastwise mem­ bership meetings on Jan. 29. However, the elections SIU Pledges Full Support To CIO Shipmen Allending a recenl New York membership meeting of the Seafarers, these representatives of the CIO Shipbuilders (lUMSWA-CIO) Union called on the SIU for assistance in their beef. Read­ ing from left: William McCaffrey. International representative; Fred Mesita. Chairman of Local 13 and Nicholas Lamb, Executive Secretary of Loral 13. P,S. They got the support! Seatrain Halts Island Run; Appeals To Cuban Gov't Seatrain Lines has announced that they will continue their sus­ pension of shipping to Havana as long as the Cuban Presidential Decree No. 5 remains in force. The company stated that the decree is so burdensome to com­ merce and destructive to effi­ cient transportation that the serv­ ices . to the Cuban Republic can­ not be continued. The decree, which precipitated the suspension, was published January 11, and required the un­ loading and reloading in the Ha­ vana terminal of a very large per­ centage of the freight the com­ pany handles. The company has shipped car­ go in railroad cars direct to Cu­ ban consignees for the last-18 years. The decree also prohibits the importation of freight-load­ ed trailers, motor trucks or other vehicles or containers. ADDITIONAL BURDEN Under the decree, the rates of pay and number of men to be employed by Seatrain Lines to unload and load its vessels is fixed, placing, the company says, additional burdens on their op­ erating expenses. They state that the additional costs would amount to over $100 per man per day, and calls for si.x e.xtra men for whom there is no useful work. Listing the unfavorable bur­ dens placed upon them the com­ pany has announced that it has filed a formal request with the Cuban Government to restore the customs practices that had been in effect on the island for many years. New Feature The recently concluded election for Atlantic and Gulf Officials has placed into of­ fice many faces that are new or unfamiliar to the member­ ship. In order to acquaint all hands with the new Agents and Patrolmen, the Seafar­ ers Log will run the picture and a brief biographical sketch of each 1947 A&G of­ ficial. Watch for this feature which will start soon. NEW YORK — Representatives of the CIO Shipbuilders Union, the Industrial Union of Marine and Shipbuilding Workers of America, attended the Seafarers membership meeting at Webster Hall in New York last Wednes­ day (January 15) to request as•sistance from the STU in pro­ secution of their strike against the viciously anti-union Ira Bushey & Sons shipyards. Shipbuilders Union officials — William McCaffrey, International Representative: Fred Mesita, Chairman of Loeal 13; and Nieholas Lamb, Executive Secretary of Loeal 13 — addressed the SIU meeting and explained the com­ plete circumstances surrounding, their beef with this shipyard. They were introduced to the SIU membership by New Yoi'k Agent Paul Hall, who explained to the meeting that the CIO Union had supported the SIUSUP General Maritime Strike against the Wage Stabilization {Contimied on Page 14) Eastern Signs Passenger Ship Contract With SIU Sailings Will Begin Latter Part Of February NEW YORK — The onrushing is also the best in the industry, drive of the Seafarers InternaEastern Steamship Company tional Union, to consummate con- has already started to prepare the tracts with freight lines also op- • Yarmouth for operation to begin erating passenger ships, rolled in the latter part of February, over another obstacle last week' and the Evangeline will follow with the signing of the Eastern soon after. Steamship Company. A third ship, the Arcadia, was Eastern signed an agreement used as a hospital ship all during very similar to the one signed by the war, but is expected to be P&O, and the only changes are turned back to the company in the Stewards Department within the near future. When manning scale. This is caused by that happens, the Arcadia will the fact that Eastern will have its become part of Eastern's pas­ ships operating on cruises dur­ senger fleet. ing the winter months, and on ^ CRUISE SHIPS overnight service from Boston to These ships'will sail from New Yarmouth during the summer York to the Islands during the months. As in the case of the other pas­ winter months, as cruise ships, senger ship agreements, this one and will make the overnight voy­ age from Boston to Yarmouth during the summer. All three of the ships have a capacity of 380 passengers each, and as a consequence, the Stew­ ards Department is the largest unlicensed section of each vessel. The working and general rules which are in force in the freight ship agreements are also to hold true for these ships. The entire text of the supplementary agree­ ment appears on pages 8 and 9. Representing the SIU in the negotiations were John Hawk, Secretary-Treasurer; J. P. Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer; Assistant and Robert Matthews, Engine Department Special Represent­ ative. results have already been certified by the New York, member­ ship at its Jan. 15 meeting, as the report of the committee, al­ though ready, were not yet mimeographed for maifing to other ports. In addition to electing officers on this ballot, the membership also gave the green light to amending the Constitution t« al­ low an increase in payinent of hospital benefits. From now on, hospitalized Brothers will receive $3.00 per week from the Hospital, Burial and Shipwreck Fund. Short biographies and pictures of the winners in the election will be run in the Log in the near fu­ ture. New Agents for the coming year were elected in the ports of Philadelphia, Charleston, Savan­ nah, Jacksonville, Mobile, San Juan and San Francisco. In the {Continued on Page J) New Congress Is On The Ball — But It's Foul We take back everything we ever said about the new Congress going to be nothing more than a rubber stamp for the Natl. As­ sociation of Manufacturers. Not even the NAM could dream up some of the screwball proposals that deluged Congress duririg its first three days. Republicans were dropping bills in the hopper like a bunch of slap-happy acro­ bats with St. Vitus dance. One freshman Republican, after drop­ ping in 32 consecutive bills, had to be told that no matter how long he tried three cherries just wouldn't show up. We'll discount the anti-labor bills—they were expected. The only wonder is that there weren't a dozen or more Republicans killed in the rush to enter no less than 20 anti-portal-to-portal bills, something like 15 "big," "little," and "medium" Case bills, 11 an­ ti-closed shop bills, eight antihealth-and-welfare-fund bills, seven anti-political-activities-byunions bills, 21 anti-strike bills, (Continued on Page 14) m' �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. January 24, 1947 SEAFARERS LOG |;f; Published ^Weekly by the In' SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District 1'^ Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnovcr 2-2784 X X X HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter Jime 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 Labor's Pains Union solidarity is a valuable thing. It is a two-edged sword which can be used against the bosses and for the workers at all times. And it is the biggest single weapon that workers have. Just this past week the Seafarers International Union pledged support to the Industrial Union Marine and Ship­ building Workers of America, CIO, and this same support has been extended to other unions when they felt in need of moral or financial bolstering. Only recently, when the United Auto Workers were involved in a strike with General Motors Corporation, the SIU donated money to assist the strikers so that starvation would not be a deciding factor in their beef. And many CIO seamen's unions have had the helping hand of the SIU when they needed it. That is the wa)' a strong labor movement must be built. The common enemy of all workers is the power of the bosses. When labor is split, the bosses use this divi­ sion to further their own ends, and those ends are opposed to the reasonable demands of labor. The bosses are united against labor. No matter what thv-Ir competitive aims might be, capital still has enough sense to realize that their weakness is labor's strength. No matter how much one boss might hate another boss, they usually contrive to get together so that labor is always battling a solid front. That is a lesson that all labor might profitably learn. Jurisdictional squabbles serve the bosses, and they there­ These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, fore foster them and then sit quietly by while labor slugs as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ it out. ing to them. We have all had many lessons on union solidarity. NORFOLK HOSPITAL BALTIMORE HOSPITAL Seamen, especially, know -that 'the lack of a united front T. R. GOING against the operators can lead to disaster on the waterfront. JOHN SETTLE R. P. McBRIDE JOHN DUDKO Too many strikes have been broken by finks and scabs for J. E. HARRISON JOHN TILL VIS to have any illusions about union strength unless it is NELSN«COLLSTIUP CARSON McCOY backed up by union solidarity. W. MANNING Men Now In The Marine Hospitals The communist-dominated unions of the Committee for Maritime Unity have many times attempted to raid the 'AFL seamen's unions. On all occasions they have suffered terrific defeats, but their raids were not called for in the first place. CARL GRINDBERG FRANCIS O'BRIEN RAYMOND HODGES CHARLES HAHN SALVATORE PIZZILO PETER LOPEZ THOMAS WADSWORTH MANUEL ROMERO Who profits when the CIO and the APT meet in t, % % bloody fights? Only the bosses. When the workers realize STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL this, then it will be impossible for the bosses and the com­ J. L. EAKIN munists to start inter-union conflicts. The communists like such combat because it gives them a chance to capitalize on the division of forces, and the employers desire a situation in which they can watch both sections of Labor destroy each other. sr 1 i-.v The Seafarers International Union has never played the game of either the communists or the bosses. Our rec­ ord is clean, and we have always been among the first to help a brother union against the red howlers or the em­ ployers. It is easy to see which side a worker should be on— iand that side is solidarity with other honest toilers, and (against the commies and the exploiters. E. F. SPEAR P. J. WILKINSON R. G. MOSSELLER D. IIUTCIIINS M. J. QUINN W. B. MUIR J. S. WOOD W. G. H.-BAUSE MOSES MORRIS J. GRIFFIN L. A. CORNWALL P. STEWART "CHIPS" NEILSEN H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY JR. C. KOLSTE J. MCNEELLY T. BOIGOS R. FITTS H. S. HARRISON G. AHTIAINEN F. BONNER & ^ ^ NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL H. G. DARNELL LIONEL ROTHERHAM THOMAS J. BAIER JOHN SERCU CENTRAL MASON W. BROCE, Jr. ERNEST J. COOPER JACINTO NAVARRO JOHN P. BROOKS RALPH EWING • J. STEFANIDES ED WARD CUSTER KARL PETTERSSEN F. BERGLAND E. R. BUCKLEY E. J. RIVIERE J. W. DENNIS R. M. NOLAN JOHN RETOUR Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and Gth 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.) GALVESTON HOSPITAL MILLER WOLF BENNETT • SEYLOR JONES, R. V. JOHNSON WILKI CRIGLET BARNEY, J. L. DAUGHERTY, W. FORD SWENSON STREIZ SEGLER 4- S. 4NEPONSIT HOSPITAL LINDER CLARK J. FIGUEROA L. L. LEWIS H. SELBY H. BURKE J. S. CAMPBELL J. T. EDWARDS B. LUFLIN G. F. McCOMB E. FERRER R. BLAKE J. R. HENCHEY ! i 1 "T I ; r-: �Friday, January 24, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Phony Pact Between Tidewater, Company Union Hoids Up Election spoken louder than our words, This drive against the closed and this Tidewater business is no shop can threaten the very ex­ Action on the Tidewater Tank­ exception. We're getting sick istence of the labor movement. er election petition of the Sea­ and tired over getting the runThink of what it will mean to farers has been held up by the around from both Tidewater and our Union hiring halls and the National Labor Relations Board the NLRB, Either we get action, rotary shipping .system if our pending their decision on this and that quickly, or we'll pro­ contracts containing these pro­ matter. vide all the action necessai-y. This visions are outlawed! By PAUL HALL Both the company and a phony is no idle threat, as the Seafar­ Closed shop bans have already company union—the Tidewater ers always backs up its words The Seafarers membership is daily exhibiting a growing aware­ been made into law as constitu­ Tankermen's Association—claim with action. tional amendments in five states ness of its strong position in the maritime field, and as an integral the existence of a supposed col­ During the past few weeks, —Nebraska, Arizona, South Da­ part of the labor movement as a whole. With the emergence of lective bargaining agreement be­ numerous Tidewater men have kota, Arkansas and Florida. Four the Seafarers as the dominant waterfront factor, the membership tween them, and this has helped come into the SIU Halls with other states are also drafting leg­ is becoming more and more conscious of its prestige. There are to confuse the overall picture in their complaints. These men need concrete indications that it intends to guard that prestige jealously islation against the closed shop the Tidewater Fleet. the protection and advantages of Georgia, Colorado, Penn.sylvania and vigilantly. In the final analysis, this vigilance on the part Sometime ^ago, the SIU peti­ an SIU contract, and the condi­ and Texas—and other states with of an intelligent membership will bear fruits for all hands. tioned for an election to deter­ tions which such a contract viciously anti-labor administra­ The reputation and prestige of the Seafarers as a sound, demo­ mine the union bargaining agent brings aboard the ships. tions are not far behind these cratically-functioning organization of seafaring men, who show for Tidewater tankermen, as we they understand the obligations and responsibilities of a major role And, Brother, that's our job— bell-wethers. had signed pledge cards from the to see that these unorganized In addition, "labor's friends" in maritime, will reach new heights, both in industry and labor. vast majority of the Tidewater tankermen get what they want, in Washington are very busy Want To Improve Position tankermen. However, due to the a contract with the SIU covering beating the drums for national Specifically, let me state one e.xample, among the many, that intervention of the phony com­ all Tidewater unlicensed person­ legislation outlawing the union proves the point that Seafarers are out to improve their position. pany union, the election date has nel. shop. Although these laws have Recently, a new crew dispatched from the New York Hall been held up by the NLRB. These fellows all laugh when not yet passed the Supreme boarded a ship and found that the old crew, a bunch of drunken This stooge company outfit Ihey mention the Tidewater Court test, plans are afoot to claims to have a signed contract Tankermen's Association. If a beat down all of the gains made performers, had left the vessel in very bad shape—entirely out of with Tidewater, originally signed wasn't for the fact that the com­ by organized labor in the past line with the ideas of good Unionism as laid down by the Sea­ by the company in 1940 and since pany is using this so-called un­ few years by means of these, and farers' membership. This new crew was plenty sore at this violation of our Unions' then renewed on a yearly basis. ion as a means of preventing their similar, laws either on the state ideas, and refused to let the incident pass. They felt the matter But, due to the fact that the SIU employees from being represent­ or national level. reflected on the membership, and on the SIU's hard-won prestige. has pledge cards from practically ed by a bona fide union, it would Look at the battles which the The new crew then appeared at the Union hall and preferred all of the unlicensed Tidewater be a huge joke. SIU had in the states of Florida charges against the offenders. personnel, we refuse to recognize and Texas during our General However, anything which pre­ A rank and file committee was elected to hear the case. The the validity of this so-called Maritime Strike last year. By decision of the trial committee was both interesting and enlight­ vents seamen from securing the agreement between a company means of legislation and court ening. It recommended that several of the book men among the union and their own parent, the wages and conditions to which injunctions, as well as anti-union offenders be fined as well as placed on probation. It also ruled they are rightfully entitled is no Tidewater Company. local administrations, the victory that several gas hound tripcarders and permit men who shared the laughing matter. The SIU refuses to recognize Organizers, both shoreside and of the SIU was made much more responsibility for the inconsiderate shipboard conduct be expelled this phony contract with a com­ shipside, all agree that Tidewater difficult in these particular as unworthy of SIU membership. pany stooge outfit, and has de­ tankermen are pretty well fed up states. And, today in Florida manded sole bargaining rights Performers In Minority from the NLRB and Tidewater. with conditions as they now exist. (Tampa), our affiliates in the Such deniunstiations of Union-consciousness are on the in­ The fact that no one except Teamsters Union are having the No claim of any agreement by crease. The average Seafarer does not go for the kind of horse-play the died-in-the-wool company either Tidewater or their illegal and irresponsible attitude displayed by the crew mentioned above. battle of their lives. offspring is accepted by the Sea­ stiffs (very few of these rotten It is high time the gashounds and the performers were set straight. Don't think that our "friends," farers. We have the men, and eggs in the Tidewater Fleet, too) These birds, fortunately, are but a tiny minority. Nevertheless, we maintain that we're entitled wants any part of the phony the shipowners, are not rubbing their actions are prejudicing and weakening the position of the Tidewater Tankermen's Associa­ their hands and laughing to them­ to a contract. rest of the membership. tion, proves beyond any doubt The vast majority of Seafarers are straight-thinking, guys selves as they pour money and PLENTY OF PROOF I hat they are really ripe for SIU who are responsible for the considerably improved status of the legal brains into the battle As proof of the Seafarers membership, and the many ben­ merchant seamen of today. There is no room among them for .those willingness to prove beyond any efits which go with that mem­ against organized labor. who seek to obstruct and hamper their progress on the road to a shadow of a doubt that the over­ bership and an SIU contract. However, we've taken these better life. whelming majority of Tidewater Seafarers have fought for years to improve shipboard condi­ guys and the Washington bureau­ ANTI-LABOR LAWS tankermen want the SIU for their tions. The battle at times seemed impossible of success, but alert­ Probably the greatest threat to crats on before, and we can do ness and intelligence, coupled with hard-hitting tactics, brought union, we've submitted signed pledge cards for the SIU and organized labor today, and to the it again. victory. We will do it again, and we'll we're willing to abide by the de­ conditions for which we fight, is After these long, drawn-out struggles, the membership will not the drive by big business and whip them in the same decisive allow a few bums, whose ideas of sea-going life must have been cision of an NLRB election. But, if the Tidewater outfit their servants in Congress, as fashion as before. That's our job gotten out of some phony motion pictures or sea story, or a few thinks that the SIU is fooling, well as the various State Legis­ —the one that's cut out for all "oldtime" gashounds, wreck the gains that have been fought for so hard. we're fully prepared to job ac­ latures, against the closed or un­ of us. tion every one of their ships until ion shop. By EARL SHEPPARD I : ' • such time as an election is held. Look at our record on the wa­ terfront. The militant SIU com­ pletely defeated the WSA com- j petency card and medical exam-, iination set-up. We job-actioned ships all up and down the At­ By FRED FARNEN lantic and Gulf Coasts until the DETROIT — Brother Edward Cleveland. Later he worked for operators and the WSA were Wares, better known to his many the Detroit and Cleveland Navi­ forced into agreeing to the best friends and all Lakes members gation Company as a Fireman, Foreign Rider articles ever placed as Stew Pot," died on January Oiler and Watertender, spending in the ships articles. 18, at the Detroit Marine Hos­ the majority of his sailing time Our own SIU whipped the pital. His passing away is re­ aboard the SS City of Cleveland Wage Stabilization Board into ceived by all who knew him with HI, operating between Detroit line with the most successful and Cleveland. deep regret and sorrow. maritime strike ever pulled in In 1942 he was elected as His many friends, members this country when these guys Agent for the SIU in Cleveland, and officials of the Seafarers, tried to interfere with free col­ and the following year he was will miss his jolly personality, lective bargaining between the appointed as Agent in Detroit, and wish to extend to his family SIU and the operators. their most heartfelt sympathy. the post he held until the fall of We 'e taken direct action in Brother Wares had been con­ 1945 when he resigned. the past on all of these beefs, He then went back to the City fined at the Detroit Marine Hos­ and we'll take direct action in of Cleveland as an Oiler, but pital for about a year. Before the Tidewater Fleet if that out­ left after a few months due to his illness he was an Agent in the fit doesn't agree to an NLRB his failing health. Port of Cleveland and later in election for all Tidewater tank­ Detroit. He is survived by his mother, ermen. As a boy, Ed Wares started out sister and brother, Stanley Wares, ACTION TALKS as a coalpasser on the old See- who is Agent in Cleveland. Bur­ andbee, owned by the Cleveland ial took place in Cleveland on The Seafarers stands on its record. Our actions have always and Buffalo Transit Company of Tuesday, January 21. Ed Wares, Former Lakes Agent, Dies At Detroit Marine Hospital Phony Militancy Some of these guys, in an attempt to defend their failings, pass it off as "militancy" when they wreck some of the crews gears. Obviously, that is sheer bunk. What is wrong with demanding that these guys assume some of the responsibilities of good union men? Isn't it their job to solidify the Union structure, as well as enjoy the fruit of its victories? We are protecting ourselves. Those who refuse to add to our protective armor actually are nothing more or less then shipowners' stooges. They are the few weak links in the chain of forwardlooking Seafarers. The Seafarers is practically the only maritime union that relys on economic action at the point of production in order to win and maintain conditions. We will continue to do so. But, at the same time, we cannot tolerate a few drunks and performers actions to jeopardize the Union position. Pride Is Mark Of Good Union Man A good Union man is proud, not only of Union's ability to take successful job action, by tying up the shipowners' scows, he is proud also of his seamanship. If he has a job to dp, he does it well— whether it be tying up a ship, or doing a day's work. All hands should be on the lookout for these performers. They are mighty few in number, and, therefore, should not be allowed to put the Union majority on the spot. This does not mean that the Union intends to legislate against drinking and fighting that's part of an individual's private life, and we have no intention of invading it. But pick your spots. If you want to get drunk, go to the neaurest gin mill—don't do it on the job. If you want to fight, go on the hatch, or ashore. In other words, use your head. Remember, if you can point to a job well done, your beefs will hold more water. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Four Jobless Payment Is Clarified By N.Y. State Reps WHAT ^tWNK... QUESTION: Which of the SIU Ports do you ALFONSO LOGIUDIS. Deck Engineer; Miami should-be built up be­ cause it is a new HaU. and will need plenty of work to bring it into shape. With the SIU grow­ ing as it is, it becomes plain to see that we will need more Halls in places where we never dream­ ed of having them before. Miami is one instance, but there are others. Now that Isthmian is SIU, we should have a Hall some place in the Far East, say Shanghai, to service Isthmian and Waterman crews. In Trini­ dad we need a Hall for men on the bauxite run who are stuck down there for months at a time. MORIS MANDEL, AB: To my mind, I think that Mar­ cus Hook is the one that needs- a larger Hall and more facilities. "We're getting more tankers un­ der the SIU banner, and so more znen are going down to that port. If we get a larger Hall it will add lo our prestige down there, and it will give the SIU men more room to move around. From the lime the Marcus Hook Hall open­ ed up, it has been a success, and it can be counted on for even belter things if the SIU builds it up so that more work can be done from there. NEW YORK, January 21 — Representatives of the New York State Department of Labor — Mr. Memelsdorff, Mr. Donnelly, Mr. Purcell and Mr. Keirnan — call­ ed on SIU Special Services Rep­ think needs added facilities? resentative Joseph H. Volpian today to discuss problems con­ JOHN WARD, Deck Engineer: fronting them in the handling of In every port that has a conseamen's claims for unemploy­ centrcition of tanker men coming ment compensation, and also dis­ in, the SIU should take steps to cover ways and means of expedbuild up the Halls there. Mainly, "nting those claims. right -now. that means Marcus In talking over the problems of Hook and Port Arthur. As memunemployment insurance with . bers and would-be-m embers Volpian, the men from the Divi­ come into those ports for recrea­ sion of Placement and Unem­ tion, the Seafarers should have ployment Insurance pointed out an outstanding Hall that would that no matter when a voyage make a man feel at home. We was completed and the payoff should have well staffed baggage made, the money so earned would rooms, a reading lounge, and be pro-rated over the period of other comforts. Those things all the entire trip rather than ap­ help to carry on organizing work plied to the specific quarter in and.it is in the tanker field that which the money was received. the SIU will be doing quite a bit of its organizing in the next few Another point which was stres­ years. sed was the fact that seamen who apply for unemployment insur­ ance under the terms of the act must be available for employ­ ment during the period in which MANUEL SANCHEZ, AB: they register for compensation. The men who are spearheading This means that if you expect our organizing drive in Marcus to collect unemployment insur­ Hook are doing a good job, and ance when you are out of a job, they need all the help they can that you must be registered on get. As far as I can see. the SIU the shipping list as well as at the is doing a bang-up job down Unemployment Insurance Office. there, and if that Hall is built up. Further, you must be available men will be flocking to the SIU for employment when a job is in droves. Room for recreation open. This does not mean that is needed so that-men will con­ you can register for insurance in gregate around the Hall instead of hanging out in the local bars. New York, go to your home in A little more cooperation from Wisconsin, and expect to draw the SIU men down there in crew- payments while you are there. ing up unorganized tankers You must be available in the port in which you register for would be welcome. I know. a job and for compensation. PHS Agent Will Visit Galveston Hospital To Investigate Feeding And Facilities The recent blast of the SIU against conditions and food at the Galveston Marine Hospital has bom some fruit in the form of a letter from Dr. Otis L. An­ derson, Medical Director and Chief of the Hospital Division of the U. S. Public Health Service, who asserts that conditions have improved considerably since the SIU complaint. Dr. Anderson's letter, in reply to a recent letter &om SIU Spe­ cial Services representative Jo­ seph H. Volpian, stated, "This office is in receipt of a report from Galveston to the effect that the food situation seems to be very well under control since no complaints relative to quantity or quality of food have been re­ ceived for some time.'In the Seafarers Log of No­ vember 29, complete details of the SIU complaints and the text of Volpian's letter to the U. S. Public Health Service were car­ ried. At that time, it was re­ ported that the original SIU ac­ tion resulted from the complaints of 63 seamen and veteran pa­ tients of the Galveston Marine Hospital. INSPECTION ORDERED In his letter. Dr. Anderson also asserted that the Chief Dietitian from Headquarters had been asked to visit the Galveston Hos­ pital in order to inspect the lay­ out and make any necessary recommendations or suggestions in line with the Public Health Service policy of "serving a suf­ ficient quantity of good food to all patients in our Marine Hos­ pitals." Dated December 30, the com­ plete text of Dr. Anderson's let­ ter reads as follows: Dear Mr. Volpian: Reference is made to our let­ ter of November 26 in reply to yours of November 20 concern­ ing complaints relative to food and medical treatment at the Galveston Marine Hospital. This office is in receipt of a report from Galveston to the ef­ fect that the food situation seems to be very well under control since no complaints relative to quantity or quality of food have been received for some time. WILL MAKE SUGGESTIONS We have asked the Chief Dieti­ tian from Headquarters to visit Galveston in the near future to inspect the facilities and make suggestion and/or recommenda­ tion to the management which seems advisable at the time. We are interested in serving a suf­ ficient quantity of good food to all patients in our Marine Hos­ pitals. Friday. January 24. 1S47 With reference to your state­ ment relative to "indiffrent treatment and lax medical stand­ ards," the Public Health Service is interested in the highest qual­ ity of medical service and every effort is being made to keep these objectives constantly be­ fore us. We wodld appreciate it if patients who fee! that they are not receiving proper medical care would call that fact to the attention of the Medical Officer in Charge at the time. Such a procedure would enable the Medical Officer to investigate the complaint immediately and take any indicated action at the time. We trust that this information will satisfactorily answer your letter of November 20, 1946. Sincerely yours, Otis L. Anderson. Medical Director Chief. Hospital Division Certainly, the Seafarers hope that the type of cooperation in­ dicated in Dr. Anderson's letter means that the SIU complaints will be fully investigated, and that in the future conditions will much nearly aproximate the ideal state of affairs which the SIU desires. Seamen patients in the Marine Hospitals will attest to the sincerity of the U. S. Pub­ lic Health Service in carrying out their promises. Send Those Minutes Send in the minutes of your ship's meeting to the New York HalL Only in that way can the membership act on your recommendations. £ind then the minutes can be printed in the LOG for the benefit of all other SIU crews. Hold those shipboard meet­ ings regularly, and send those minutes in as soon as possible. That's the SIU way I Seamen who worked during 1945 for employers who paid taxes on their wages to the State are eligible for benefits provided they earned sufficient wages to qualify under the law. This means that if a seamen earned $100 or more in the highest quarter in from $300 to $630 or more during 1945, and if he earned a total of the whole year, that he is eligible to receive benefits of $10 to $21 weekly. Any further information on the subject of eligibility or other questions may be secui-ed at your nearest Unemployment Insurance office or the SIU Special Services Department. Port Savannah Is Just Waiting For South Atlantic To Begin By ARTHUR SAVANNAH—We had another payoff this week. The Hattiesburg Victory came in with quite a few beefs which, at thfis writ­ ing,, are in the process of being squared away. This makes the fourth SUP ship since Christmas and that's all the shipping we've had in this port. Most of the oldtimers have left for Mobile and the Gulf Area in hopes of shipping out quicker. Savannah has been exception­ ally slow for the past two months and, with the cattle business coming to a close next month, the prospects are for the worse. When the South Atlantic starts running this way again, business THOMPSON should pick up, but for some , time now all .their ships have been paying off in other ports. HAPPY DAYS COMING The Coast Guard is still sen­ tencing seamen to enforced imemployment for minor infractions of rules. The American merchant flaot is still growing smaller. The Government is stiU "training" | seamen for the merchant marine. Numerous congressmen, with malice aforethought, are concoct­ ing laws to hamstring labor. No other business of impor­ tance is on hand except the ne­ gotiations with the Atlantic Tow- ing Co» which should start next week. �Page Five THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday« January 24. .1847 Results Of Atlantie And Gulf Elections (Continued from Pege I) other ports, Agents who served during 1946 were returned to of" fke. It should be noted that the to­ tal number of votes cast is for the A&G District only, and does not include any balloting from the Great Lakes or the Pacific District, SUP. These two sections of the SIU elect their own officers in sep­ arate elections. A much larger vote would have been recorded had it not been that shipping spurted after the 1946 General Strike, and many Brothers were away at sea during the entire course of the elections. The Tallying Committee, elect­ ed at the regular meeting on Jan. 2, 1947, consisted of William Higgs, Sam Luttrell, Robert Hillman, L. Salvatore, Robert Jones, Isaac Miller and Matthew Sams. The results of the elections, and the committee's report, fol­ low: mm HOUSTON Agent C. Haymond, 98 2636» Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1413 "' ? : BOSTON Total This is the Ballot Tallying Committee, whose report on the balloting for 1947 Atlantic and Gulf District officials is announced in this issue of the Log. From left to right, the members are Sam Luttrell. Isaac MiUer, standing; Bill Higgs, Committee Chairman; Robert Jones, Louis Sal­ vatore, standing: and Robert Hillman. J. Tucker, 2209 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes PHILADELPHIA 2284* 1365 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 400 4049 Patrolman 4049 NEW YORK Agent Paul Hall, 190 3541* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 508 Total 4049 Deck Patrolmen J. Algina, 1320 E. Guszczynsky, 3100 J. Sheehan, 306 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes Total 2854* 622 2918* 1704 8098 Engine Patrolmen J. Purcell, 27124 2718* J. Volpian, 56 2988* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 2392 Total 8098 Steward Patrolmen R. Gonzales, 174 2490* H. Guinier, 478 2244* W. Hamilton, 3400 830 C. Stevens, 7036 r 886 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1648 Total Joint Patrolmen R. Bunce, 7165 .J. Drawdy, 28523 L. Goffin, 4526 J. Udiljak, 7163 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes Total 8098 1240 2146* 2460* 637 1615 8098 8098 Agent J. Banners, 256 3319* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 730 4049 NEW ORLEANS Agent Steely White, 56 3114* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 935 Total Steward Patrolman Total 4049 PORT ARTHUR Agent L. Johnson, 108 2724* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1325 Total 4049 . SAN JUAN Agent 4049 MOBILE 4049 4049 4049 Patrolman J. DeVito, 185 1434 L. MacDonnell, 343 446 R. Sweeney, 20 1606* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 563 D. Butts, 190 957 Agent S. Colls, 21085 1691* Engine Patrolman C. Simmons, 368 3158* J. Wagner, 153 860' L. Neira, 26393 791 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 541 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 891 C. J. Stephens, 76 2657^ Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 601 Total 4049 Total 4049 Joint Patrolmen Engine Patrolman J. Carroll, 14 E. DiPietro, 35 997 R. Jordan, 71 G. Masterson, 20297 2419* L. F. Lewis, 2029 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 633 Total 4C49 4049 SAN FRANCISCO Agent Declc Patrolman C. Gibbs, 2341 333 W. Simmons, 215 J. Johnston, 53 1721* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes C. Kimball, 52 519 Total F. Sullivan, 2 868 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 608 RESOLUTION 4049 4049 Yes No Steward Patrolman Voids, No Votes 977 727 660 R. Birmingham, 390 Total 2550* 1645* C. Turner, 15 Agent L. Collins, 5 845 J. Prescott, 114 449 Deck Patrolman C. Tanner, 44 2278* R. Dickey, 652 2773* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 477 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1276 Total 4049 J. Morrison, 34213 1815* W. Thomas, 12 622 P. Warren, 114 562 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1817 JACKSONVILLE TAMPA BALTIMORE Rocky Benson, 7297 960 Agent 3; Mogan, 216 2492* 1214 Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 597 W. McKay, 8 W. Rentz, 26445 2464* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 371 Total 4049 Total 634 550 4049 C. Bush, 127 2628* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1421 Agent S. Carr, 22217 230 S. Greenridge, 1863 183 T. Griffiths, 115 353 E. A. Parr, 96 577 J. Sweeney, 1530 2181* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 535 4049 Agent D. Parker, 160 3I57» Write Ins, Voids, No Votes S92 Total Jt. Patrolman Patrolman W. Brightwell, 390 934 G. .Suit, 6951 2508* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 607 GALVESTON Total 4049 4049 Total J. P. Shuler, 101 3539* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 510 Total iHL. " ;L •J. Truesdale, 3517 Assistant Sec.-Treas. ' ' ' " Agent John Hawk, 2212 3512* Write Ins. Voids, No Votes 537 E. Higdon, 182 4049 772 4049 Secretary-Treasurer Total Write Ins, Voids, No Votes TAKING AN ACCURATE COUNT ' 2939* lUO 4049 2917* 251 881 4049 REPORT OF SIU TALLYING COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Tally J. Hatgimisios, 23434 2901* Committee, duly elected at the Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1148 regular business meeting at Headquarters January 2, 1947, Total 4049 submit the following report and recommendations; NORFOLK All .used ballots were counted Agent and the corrected tally is sub­ P. Gavillo, 21001 334 mitted herein. An asterik is R. White, 57 3339* placed besides the names of the Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 376 candidates that were elected to office. The ballots used and un­ Total 4049 used in each port were checked and the correct check is submit­ Joint Patrolman ted herein. Nineteen (19) votes from the B. Rees, 95 2751* Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 1298 Port of Galveston were voided in their entirety due to the fact Total 4049 that one envelope containing eight (8) ballots did not have the CHARLESTON signatures of the Tally Commit­ tee in the Port of Galveston and Agent one envelope containing eleven E. Smith, 20057 2434* (11) ballots was unsealed. It is E. Tilley, 75 1077 to be noted that the voiding of Write Ins, Voids, No Votes 538 these ballots in no way affected the election of any candidate in­ Total 4049 asmuch as each man elected was elected by more than a majority SAVANNAH of nineteen (19) votes. Agent It is to be pointed out further that this Committee on checking W. Brantley, 111 769 various outport ballots and tally C. Starling, 6920 2126* sheets found that all reports submitted by all outports' commit­ tees were correct and in every case checked evenly with the New York Headquarters Com­ mittee's tallies. The Resolution calling for the raising of hospital benefits from $2.00 to $3.00 per week carried by over a two-thirds majority as required by the Constitution. This committee recommends that the total results of this elec­ tion, giving number of votes re­ ceived by each candidate, be car­ ried in as early an issue as pos­ sible of the Seafarers Log. This to be done for the benefit of our members who are now at sea. This committee found one bal­ lot missing from the returns of the Port of Philadelphia. This finding checked with the tally of the committee elected in the Port of Philadelphia to count the ballots in that port. This ballot was not included in the tabulation sheets. Thus, the actual vote returns show the fi­ gure of 378 votes cast in Phila­ delphia instead of 379. This committee points out in this case that this in no way af­ fects the outcome of the election for any candidate oleeled fur of­ fice. Due to the fact that it is im­ possible to determine the number bci- of the ballot missing, this report includes the missing bal­ lot listed as a used ballot. This committee recommends that these used ballots be held 03i hand in the Headquarters Offices as per constitution. It is to be noted that two com­ mittee members' signatures do not appear in the mimeograph­ ed sheets. This is due to the fact that R. Jones shipped beCoro this report was mimeographed in its entirety and L. Salvatcro wasn't present. Their signatures do appear however in reports now held ;..n Headquarters Office. i Fraternally submitted, _ , W. Higgs, 223 Sam Luttrell, 46568 L. Salvatore, 733G ^ R. Hillman, 3188 R. Jones, 22238 I. Miller, 8522 M. Sams, 21386: AWw �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six m Midland Victory Ciears The Way For An Ail-Out Drive On Lakes CS Friday, January 24, 1947 iJ illiVI J VJm i ; I 13 J \J1 By HENRY W. CHAPPELL mm TOLEDO—Now that the lights group of employees start a union have changed from red to green' after first finding out how wages for seamens' unions, and it has and conditions are on union ships, been proven to the rank and file and then adjusting their wages of the NMU that their union and to a slightly higher scale, and in treasury has been used as a front some instances granting minor for the communist political party,' concessions to the crews, the real sailors union can goj The SIU doesn't expect much ahead and concentrate on our: opposition from this phony LSU, Silence fhis week from,the common enemies the shipowners but is prepared to expect more Branch Agents of thb follow­ and their government agencies, resistance from the men who ing ports: The NLRB has at last certified ^ cannot see through the ruses, and PHILADELPHIA the SIU as the bargaining agent believe the companies give these BOSTON for the Midland Line on the Great ^ conditions out of the goodness of CHARLESTON Lakes. Now Midland seamen can their hearts. HOUSTON enjoy the same working condi­ These men, who are known as NORFOLK tions as other SIU ships have had back riders, are always ready to JACKSONVILLE for years. accept union wages and condi­ MOBILE Contracts ai'e now in negotia­ tions after they have been fought BALTIMORE tion with his line and will be the for, but they are never ready to same as other SIU freight ships give a hand. The deadline for port re­ which are the best of any con­ ports, monies due. etc., is the The SIU Great Lakes district tracts on the Great Lakes. has at last cast off our mooring Monday preceeding publica­ These contracts will be amend­ lines, and while we are going tion. While every effort will ed each year to include any im­ ahead on a slow bell now, this be made to use in the current provements the membership de- spring, when the ships start to issue material received after sires, and any suggestions from gj^ organizers are that date, space commitments the crews will be acted on by the contacting them, we will put her generally do not permit us to negotiating committees. over to full speed ahead and do so. If a crew member has any sug­ steady as she goes. gestions for improvements it is his duty to notify union officials so it can be acted on. NMU EXPOSED Recent developments within the NMU should prove conclu­ sively to the members that they have been governed for years by Union won this election by a By FRED EARNEN a group of politicians who place wide majority, but the NMU re­ their political ambitions above DETROIT — Last September a fused to take this decision, and the memberships desires and in­ bargaining election was held on thereupon filed objections with terests. the seven ships comprising the the National Labor Relations Results of this discovery are entire fleet of the Midland Board. beginning to show already on Steamship Company. The fact that the NMU filed the Lakes as more men are com­ The Seafarers International objections after a fair and square ing into SIU halls each day, in­ election is bad enough, but the quiring about how our Union is vicious lies they used to back up run, and wondering why it took their charges is something that Joe Curran so long to find out will not soon be forgotten by what was happening to his union, Great Lakes seamen. when it was common knowledge Now, after months of delay, to all other interested parties. the NLRB has finally certified It's too early to predict what the SIU as the baigaining agent the company-sponsored Lakes for unlicensed Midland seamen. Seamens Union will attempt to No doubt, the NMU officials will tiy to excuse themselves to Mid­ By J. S. WILLIAMS land seamen for depriving them CORPUS CHRISTI — After a of Union representation by tell­ spurt of business last week, things ing them it was all a mistake and have slowed down pretty much that they are sorry it happened. in this port. That's what they did last Aug­ The only ship tied up here at ust when their attempt to picket present is the Cape Corwin, Bull ships under contract to the SIU line, and she will be leaving soon was broken up at the Bob-Lo for New Orleans where she will dock in Detroit. be delivered to another company. The crew isn't happy about SIU CONTRACTS BEST losing their home, but there isn't With this line under our ban­ much that can be done about it. ner, the Midland seamen will be When we went aboard her to able to see how democratically the pull on the Lakes this spring. settle a few beefs, we found that SIU is run. These freighters will The majority of Lakemen know they were all due to the stupidity enjoy the same privileges, decent that this outfit is no union, and that its leal purpose is to keep of the phony Chief Mate. any union out that wants to put This bird couldn't get it through its oars in when wages, working his head that we have a contract conditions, etc., are to be dis­ with the Bull Line which covers cussed. our men, and the interpretation of that agreement is not for every SEAMEN WISED-UP The company that sponsors bucko mate to decide. this phony set-up still regard TAUGHT CONTRACT sailors as a group of morons who We went l ound and round with, are incapable of thinking for him for awhile convincing him themselves, and will accept any that the rules aboard ship have wages and conditions that they already been laid down and agreed deem sufficient. But those days to by the company and the Un­ are gone forever, and the type of ion; and that no one, even if he man who goes to sea these days does wear a high pressure hat, is demands to be recognized as an going to make up his own rules wages, and Union conditions that important factor ih this great in­ aboard ship. have been enjoyed by SIU con­ dustry. He was finally convinced that This demand can be achieved there were a few things out of tract ships for years. not by individuals, but by the his jurisdiction and we left the Any unbelievers are urged to merging of all seamen in one ship in shipshape condition. look at our contracts and see for body. We expect business to be some­ themselves that we had the 40The shipowners knew this what better next week, and with hour week in 1942 for work years ago. That's why companies it more to report from this Texas during fit-out and lay-up. like Cleveland Cliffs have a port. The Negotiating Committee on NO NEWS?? NMU Develops Sudden Interest In Sun Oil, But Little Too Late By BLACKIE CARDULLO MARCUS HOOK — News has been kind of scarce in the port of Marcus Hook for the past week; however, we will make up for it in this issue. shipping our organizing drive has likewise increased its tempo. Evidently since the NMU lost the Isthmian election, they have changed their tactics of organiz­ ing, or i§ it possible that Joe Now that we have all of the Stack-it has been taught a new tankers in this area to payoff, line by the Communist Party. and due to the fact that there has LINE CHANGE been an increase in the number The NMU's practice used to be of tankers coming out of the to shun the Sun Oil seamen by boneyard, we have been kept calling them scabs, finks, com­ quite busy. pany stooges, and everything foul they could lay their tongue We don't feel sorry about this to. But since the SIU has come increase in business, and our or­ ganizers are busy contacting the into this port, and shown the Sun ships as soon as they come in. Oil seamen what* a real Seamen'.t With the increase in activity of union is like, the NMU has sud­ denly grown awfully concerned with the welfare of the Sun Oil men. Now they are leaning over backwards to be friendly to them, but they are doomed to the same failure in Sun Oil as they were in Isthmian. the Midland contracts is already They are also doomed in City well under way towards getting Service, Tidewater, and all other SIU benefits for Lakes sailors, companies that the SIU is or­ and in the spring those advan­ ganizing, because they have noth­ tages will be a major factor in or­ ing to sell a seamen but over­ ganizing other Lakes sailors and crowded union halls, and overships into the Seafarers. stacked membership, with 20 men for every job. HANDS FULL A few years back the NMU My guess is that Joe Curran tried to organize the Sun Oil and will have his hands full in getting their name stunk. Today it still the NMU out of the communist stinks, only with a much stronger fleabag, the CMU. He will even odor. have trouble in keeping his un­ It runs the same way in Rus­ ion together. sia. Everytime Russia fails in Lakes seamen are wise to the any undertaking off go a lot of phony .setup in the NMU, but heads and a new change takes keep in mind that the Lakes Sea­ place in their line. men's Union, the revised Lakes SOME CHANGES MADE Carriers Association, is still try­ We have been paying off quite ing to knife Lakes seamen. a few Pacific Tankers and have They will probably be contact­ run across a character who is a ing you by mail, but remember company agent for them, by the that this is a company union name of Captain Cole. which employs stooges to act for He is not a bad guy, and yet them in forming an organization, he is not a good guy either. We and that its only purpose is to are going to go to work on him keep a real Union from fighting soon, and he'll be a different man for the men. when we get through. He'll be tipping his hat to the Agent and Patrolman in this port. That is, if he continues to come down here for the payoffs. We wonder where Captain It is the proud boast of the Dyer, his running mate, spends Seafarers International Un­ his evenings when he is away ion that an SIU ship is a clean from home? Question, Captain ship Let's keep it that way. Dyer. Although most of the crews A bit of gossip: Is it romance leave a ship in excellent con­ or trouble betwen our dispatcher dition, it has come to the at­ Bob Pohle and a certain ex-Wac? tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ NO SALUTE. PLEASE lated this rule. So they have Gur two Wilmington fla.shes gone on record to have all just passed through the port. quarters inspected by the Brothors Chandler and Gordon, Patrolman before the payoff, we mean, and they are still and if the conditions are un­ aboard the SS Carlsbad. Wc satisfactory. he has the right wonder whether Gordon has his to hold up the payoff until alimony paid up s^et? As for you everything is spic and span. Bosun Chandler, the ordinary j Remember that the Patrol­ seamen don't have to salute you man can only have repairs coming on and going off watch made if he knows what has . . . don't do it Mike. to be done. Cooperate by Will the joker whom I saved making up a repair list be­ from going on the rock pile for fore the ship docks. Give one 30 days be kind enough to send copy to the Skipper, and one me the money it cost me, so that to the Patrolman. Then you'll I can get the next guy out. see' some action. P. S. to Pat from New Orleans: Guess who is doing my typing? SIU Certified As Bargaining Agent In Midland; NLRB Throws Out Usual Vicious Protest Of NMU Mate Discovers He Must Follow SIU Contract Keep it Clean! �Friday, January 24, 1947 THE SEAFARERS L aC TALKING OVER SIU ORGANIZING PROBLEMS Page Seven Plenty Of Ships Hit New York But They Are All In Transit By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—This port is like wise tankers for organizational the old maid in the song who was purposes. always a bridesmaid, but never a When we start getting calls bride. for men to crev/ ships, then we Every day we see plenty of will all be happy in this Branch; ships come into the port of New that is if Congress doesn't figure York, and after we service them out a new way to put a straighthere, the ships take off for Phil­ jacket on merchant seamen. adelphia or Baltimore for final discharge. The crew of the SS American Now don't get the idea that we mind that. That's not it at all; we would just like to have some pay­ offs and sign-ons in this port for a change. Seated around a conference table in the Organizers' Headquarters at the New York Hall are (left to right): Johnny Ward, Blackie Cardullo. Lindsey Williams. Bob Pohla and A1 Kerr. They all hold various positions on the Seafarers organizational staff, and are discussing mutual problems encountered in their day-to-day activities. MidiandContract Will Be The Best Organizing Aid By EINAR NORDAAS Bill Higgs Shipping has taken an awful slump since our last bragging column, and last week was the poorest week in many a month. We are keeping our spirits up, and hoping that better days and weeks are in store. STRICTLY ON BALL One thing about" ships in tran­ sit— they keep the Patrolmen hopping. New York Patrolmen have been hitting the ships that come in here just to visit, and they are also bu.sy contacting the coast- Press contributed $27.00 to the hospital fund. Most SIU crews are generous to their Brothers who are laid up in the various marine h'ospitals—some of them for long periods of time. But true unionism is more than wages and conditions—and that is the SIU way. Heavy Fog Halts All Shipping in Port Arthur PORT ARTHUR—Four days of DULUTH — Though things are Bill Higgs, Chief Steward very bad weather have brought at a standstill up here in the comes from a long family of sea­ the movement of vessels in this frozen north, the seamen around faring men, and he is carrying area almost to a standstill. At here still manage to come down on the traditions of his family least 17 ships last night were atto the Hall to inquire how things Bill started .sailing in 1935, and anchor off Sabine Bar, awaiting has been following the sea ever are shaping up on the Lakes. the lifting of one of the most Well, this week wc have good since. severe fogs in years before vcnnews to pass on to them, as we In the days when he first start­ turing into the ports in the Sa­ By R. W. SWEENEY were notified that the SIU has ed, conditions were pretty bad bine district. GALVESTON—Well, the holi­ •been recognized by the NLRB as Some of the men used to bring As a result, sailings of ships days are over and the boys have the bargaining agent for the Mid­ their own canned food aboard to from ports within the district are all started coming back to Gal­ land Company. supplement the meager feeding. being handicapped becairse of the veston to ship out. During the Now that we have these ships, "Those days were plenty bad," fog. The oldtimers around here holidays we were short of all we will soon have them in SIU- Bill recalls. "We couldn't do any­ say it is the worst fog since 19.38, ratings, but now shipping has shape, and they will be floating thing with the owners, and so it when a heavy fog kept all ship­ slowed down and this port is examples of real unionism to all became obvious that the union ping at a .standstill for five days. somewhat normal again. unorganized seamen on the Lakes. was the only solution to seamen's SOUP IS THICK The ,STU won this company problems." WATERMANS IN through the efforts of the men The fog is so bad that ships are We are having several Water­ That's why, when the SIU was who work the Midland ships, and afraid to move through the canal man ships hitting here while in organized. Bill Higgs was one of they will be our best salesmen i to docks, and ships tied up at for unionism to the other unor­ the first men to join. That's why Beef, he was on the beach in New transit from Mobile to load grain, [ municipal docks are not receivbut there are very few replace­ ganized seamen when we install Bill has been in the forefront of York, where he took part in the I ing cargo. When that happens, ments needed. We still have the SIU procedure aboard the practically all the action that the move that drove the communists ' some of the tankers in, but not you can guess how thick the soup SIU has participated in during ships. is here. off the New York docks. as many as before. These seamen recognized the if s experience. Right now we have riding at Later he was assigned to the I would like to remind any NMU for the bungling outfit it is ACTION STARTS anchor 17 ships and 6 more are Bisso Tug Beef in New Orleans, ' member who signs on a ship in and chose the only Union on the He wasn't in the Union very expected in the next few days. lakes with a solid trade union long before he was taking part, and tlie Fen-y Strike in Norfolk. j one port on foreign articles and When the Seafarers General I goes to another, that unless the I foundation. They will have no in the P&O Strike in Tampa, Strike came off. Brother Higgs ! man and the Master can come regrets. Florida. He was in charge of the A great deal of credit should stewpot, and also collected money was an Area Commander and to a mutual agreement to pay him off, there is very little any also be given to Joe Shima, who, from incoming ships to buy food. then stood special picket duty. Patrolman or Agent can do about for awhile, gave me a hand in LAKES NEXT After that he was in the Seait. this port last fall. He was tire­ Bill has sailed on many unor­ less in his efforts to convince train Strike in New Orleans, in An another thing—I think all Midland men that the SIU was 1938. This was a hot time for all ganized ships during the course members should be informed that the only union that is interested concerned, and Bill was right in of the many organizing drives ' when one man pays off under undertaken by the SIU. In the the thick of everything. in seamen's welfare. mustual consent, that does not Spring he expects to go up to the I hear that Joe went to the When there was no trouble Great Lakes to aid in the SIU break the articles for the bal­ coast after shipping ended here brewing. Bill sailed on ships to all ance of the crew. drive in that area. last fall. Wherever he is I'm corners of the earth. And during If there is any doubt in your "I've seen the whole water­ mind sure he will be in there plugging the war he sailed on ships that regarding this, please front change in the ten years that check with the Agent of your for the SIU. carried supplies to Europe. We're really going to have oui' Now that the NMU is falling j He was in the first convoy that I have been sailing," Bill says. port. hands full when they all scramble apart and trying to rid itself of Antwerp after the Bat- "In the past, the sea was the last for berths at once, and all start OLDTIMERS AROUND the communist-dominated CMU, ^he Bulge, and he still re- refuge for bums, and guys who Lately we have had several calling for Patrolmen. the rank and file of that outfit j^e^b^rs the buzz bombs that couldn't get jobs ashore. Now oldtimers in here. Brother H. J. Many of these ships are un­ can see for themselves that they hurtling out of the air with- that has all changed. Through Unions, .seamen now enjoy the Collins paid off the Council Crest organized and we're waiting have been played for suckers all warning dignity that other workers are in Texas City recently, and the eagerly for them to tie-up so we along by a few ranking officials, ' MOCT CTTMW ship left here in A-1 shape with can get aboard. This port is real­ who have proven that they are ALMObi bUKK. receiving." plenty of stores and everything ly booming and with this flood only interested in promoting. the i That, however, was not his What Brother Higgs says is properly stored. of ships we can keep our or­ CP line. By their tactic these experience with the enemy. absolutely true. And it is through ganizers busy contacting them officials have demonstrated that Sub attacks marked practically the Vork of men like him that Just a word about the slopthe seamen were secondary to every crossing, and when he was the SIU has been able to make chests: Brothers, remember to and squaring things away. their interests and efforts. aboai'd the Walter M. Christian- the strides forward that have check your slopchest before you In my last report to the Log When Union conditions are no- sen, American Range Liberty benefitted all seamen. sign on, because aftei- your name I mentioned that there were ru­ ticsd by the men who sail unor- Lines, the ship hit a mine, and is on those Articles it is a hell of mors that J. M. "Windy" Walsh ganized ships, they will want the almost went down. No lives were a lot harder to get what you want was about to get spliced. Having same. So, through the united lost, but three other ships in the than it would be had you not just received a letter from him, efforts of the SIU men on the convoy were sent to the bottom. signed on. I find that he has shipped to GerLakes we will give them the With the end of the war. Bill Whenever you are in a port manj'. He'll be back in nine or Union representation they want did not forget the militancy that where there is a Hall, drop ten weeks, so he might take up and make the Great Lakes solid had marked all his years in the around—you may see and hear where he left off and get spliced for the SIU. Union. During the Longshore something new. after all. Galveston Goes Back To Normal After Holiday I# �Friday, January 24, 1947 TBE SEAFARERS LOG Page Bghl AGREEMENT •Bettveen Seafarers International Union Of North America —And Eastern Steamship Lines, Inc. Supplement Agreement to Agreement dated October 23 1946, between Eastern Steamship Lines, Inc., ana the Seafarers' International Union of North-America. GENERAL RULES Employment. The Company agrees that only mem­ bers of the Union shall be employed in all unlicensed personnel ratings on their Passenger vessels or Anierican Flag Passenger vessels taken over on bareboat charter, with the exception of the following: Cadets, Super-Cargo, Pursers, Doctors, Concessionaires, and female employees other than Stewardesses and Wait­ resses. Except as provided herein, all other provisions of the General Rules of the agreement shall apply. DECK DEPARTMENT Special Working Rules and Wages for certain ratings in the Deck Department of the SS YARMOUTH AND EVANGELINE type passenger vessels. Monthly Wages Boatswain (Yarmouth and Evangeline type passenger vessel) $225.00 Carpenter (Yarmouth and Evangeline type passenger vessel) 225.00 Boatswain's Mate (Yarmouth and Evangeline type passenger vessel) 205.00 Section 1. Boatswain's Mate and Night AB Main­ tenance Men: (a) Off-Shore Service: (1) While at sea, and in port when watches are not broken, their regular working hours shall be from 3 A.M. to 11 A.M., Monday through Friday with an unbroken hour for breakfast from 7 A.M. to 8 A.M. and from 3 A.M. to 7 A.M. on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. Overtime to be paid for all hours worked at sea on Sundays and Holidays, and on Saturday, Sunday and Holidays in port. (2) Between 3 A.M. and 7 A.M., their work shall be confined to general cleaning, such as cleaning paint work, barberizing, sweeping and washing down decks, washing windows, polishing brass and wiping rails. They shall not be required to scrub or barberize boat covers, awnings or canvas weather screens, or do gen- eral sougeeing or painting between 3 A.M. and 7 A.M. without the payment of overtime. (3) In all ports where stay of vessel will exceed twen­ ty-four (24) hours, the above ratings shall work the same hours as provided for other unlicensed deck per­ sonnel on day work. (b) Overnight Service: (1) The hours of work for the above mentioned ratings shall be as set forth in Article 3, Section 6 of the Deck Department Working Rules. Section 2. Watchmen's Duties: (a) Watdimen shall stand watches of eight (8) hours on and sixteen (16) hours off and shall be required to make regular rounds of watchmen's key stations and puxich clocks; they may also be required to stand gang­ way watches in port and while on gangway watch they shall only be required to raise or lower gangway, tend gangway lights, and man ropes. (b) Watchmen shall be paid overtime for all watches stood on Sundays at sea. Watchmen shall receive over­ time for all watches stood on Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays in port. (c) Watchmen shall not be required to perform duties normally under the jurisdiction of a Master-At-Arms. Where no Master-at-Arms is carried, his duties shall not be delegated to other members of the Deck Department. (d) Any work performed by Watchmen other than their regular and accepted duties shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. Section 3. Quartermaster's Duties: (a) \^ile on watch the Quartermaster shall not be required to leave the wheelhouse or navigation bridge for any purpose unless relieved by another Quarter­ master or by an Able Seaman. The sending of the Quartei-master on watch for tools or supplies or for the purpose of carrying messages shall not be deemed an adequate reason for his leaving the bridge or wheelhouse without proper relief. (b) Quartermaster shall be relieved thirty (30) min­ utes during each watch for coffee by one of the AB's on his watch. However, the AB shall not receive any extra compensation for such relief. In port Quarter­ masters may be required to stand gangway watches without payment of overtime except on Saturdays, Sun­ day, and Holidays. (c) The Quartermaster shall be responsible for the rigging of the flags upon arrival or departure of the vessel from any port. Other members of the Deck De­ partment shall not be utilized for this purpose except when ship is being dressed. Section 4. Sanitary Work: In overnight seiwices the watch on deck shall perform sanitary work week days between 6 A.M. and 8 A.M. without overtime. Sanitary work shall mean sweeping down bridge deck, boat deck, and passenger decks only. However, the watch on deck between 5 P.M. and 8 A.M. shall be required to wipe off rails on passenger decks, and fold and lash chairs in event the vessel runs aground or encounters heavy weather or rain without the payment of overtime. This shall not include folding and lashing of chairs in order to clear decks before arrival in port. The customary cleaning and washing of the wheelhouse, chart room, and bridge deck shall be performed between 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. Except as provided herein, all other provisions of the Deck Department, Working Rules of the Agreement shall apply." ENGINE DEPARTMENT Special working rules to cover certain ratings in the Engine Department on Twin Screw, Yarmouth, and Evangeline type passenger vessels. Except as provided herein, all other rules of the Engine Department Work­ ing Rules of the Agreement shall apply. Section 1. Donkey Watches. (Off-Shore Trade and Overnight Runs): (a) When the vessel is in port, as defined in port time clause. Article II, Section 20, and sea watches are broken, watertenders shall be put on Donkey Watches in the fireroom for the purpose of keeping steam for the auxiliaries. Three oilers shall be assigned to stand Donkey Watches in the Engine Room for the purpose of taking care of auxiliaries. The other three oilers shall be put on day work. These Donkey Watches shall be stood without the payment of overtime Monday through Friday. For such watches stood on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, both the watertender and the oiler shall be paid at the regular overtime rate of pay. (b) When sea watches are broken at any time and two or more boilers are cut in, a Fireman shall be as­ signed to the Donkey Watch with the watertender in the fireroom. Section 2. Duties of Firemen at Sea. (a) Firemen shall perform routine duties, clean burners, clean strain­ ers, clean didp pans, punch carbon, keep steam, watch fuel oil pressure and temperature. (b) On all watches he shall clean up excess oil oc­ casioned by cleaning burners and strainers without the payment of overtime, and shall leave the fireroom at the end of the watch in a safe condition. (c) Firemen on watch shall be required to keep their respective stations cleaned between the lowest grating and the floor plates. On vessels with irregular gratings, ten (10) feet from the floor plates shall be considered the fireman's station limit. Cleaning work for fire­ men on watch shall be confined to the hours between 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. week days and between 8 A.M. and 12 Noon on Saturdays. Firemen on sea watch shall not be required to do any painting, wirebrushing, chipping, or scaling without the payment of overtime. Section 3. Firemen—In Port—Sea Watches. When a vessel is in port as defined in port time clause, Ar­ ticle 2, Section,20, and sea watches are maintained, the firemen shall work as follows: (a) When only one boiler is being used to maintain steam, both firemen on the watch may be required to do repair work on boiler auxiliaries and boiler mounts in the fireroom between the hours of 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. Monday through Friday. (b) When either two or three boilers are cut in and being used, one fireman shall assist the Watertender in maintaining steam and one Fireman may be required to do repair work on boiler auxiliaries and boiler mounts in the Fireroom between the hours of 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. Monday thi'ough Friday. (C) When all four boilers are cut in and are being used, both Firemen on the watch shall assist the Watertender in maintaining steam and they shall not be re­ quired to do repair work. (d) Any repair work other than that provided for under this Section, or outside the hours provided for under this section, shall be paid for at the overtime rate of pay. Section 4. Firemen—In Port—Day Work, (a) In Poi't, when seawatches are broken and Firemen have been put on day work, their working hours shall be the same as those for day workers. (b) In port. Firemen on day work may be required to do general cleaning, polishing, and painting work in the fireroom, sponging and blowing tubes, and assist the engineer in making repairs to boiler mounts and boiler auxiliaiies in the fireroom. (c) When firemen are required to enter boilers or fire boxes for the purpose of cleaning or making re­ pairs therein, they shall be paid for this work at the oj regular overtime rate. STEWARDS DEPARTMENT Working Rules Section 1. Routine Duties, (a) Routine duties for the members of the Stewards Department shall be to ; prepare and serve regular meals, cleaning and mainten­ ance of licensed officers, staff officers, chief stewards, and passengei's' quarters, dining rooms and messrooms, ij all enclosed passageways, smoking and lounge rooms,! dance hall, bath rooms, toilets, galleys, pantries, and all ; departmental equipment. (b) When dock porters are not employed to handle passengers' hand baggage, members of the Stewards Department shall carry such baggage from dock en­ trance to staterooms when embarking passengers. \ When disembarking passengers, they shall carry hand j baggage from rooms to Customs Inspection section on dock. i �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. Janixary 24, 1947 Section 2. Selection of Personnel, (a) Recognizing the fact that the following are essential to the welfare of the passengers the Union agrees that the Company may select men for the following ratings ele and• employ ' from those members of the Union who are available, provided such men are suitable to the Company. The Company shall be the sole judge of the man's compe­ tence. The Company agrees to make every reasonable effort to obtain suitable men from within the member­ ship of the Union, and if such men are not available from among the Union membership, the Union a^ees that the Company may secure men for those ratings from any source. Men so selected may remain in the employ of the Company provided that they are ac­ ceptable to and become members of the Union. The penalty provided in Article 1, Section 3 of the General Rules shall not be applicable to this section. Chief Steward Head Waiter Chief Baker Ass't Chief Steward Head Cafe Man Cashier 2nd Steward Storekeeper * Checker 3rd Steward Chief Cook (b) The Company agrees to select all other unli­ censed personnel in the Stewards Department through the offices of the Union. Section 3. Overtime Work, (a) All work performed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in port, and Sun­ days and holidays at sea shall be paid at the overtime rate. (b) (Overnight Services.) On days when vessels ar­ rive and sail the same day, the hours of work shall be eight hours within a spread of sixteen hours. All work in excess of eight hours within a spread of six­ teen hours shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. All worjt outside of a spread of sixteen hours shall be paid for at the rate of overtime and one-half. (c) On days when ship does not arrive and sail the same day, the hours of work shall be eight hours with­ in a spread of twelve hours. Any work in excess of eight hours or in excess of the spread of twelve hours shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. (d) (Off-Shore Services.) The hours of work shall be eight hours in a spread of fourteen hours. Any work in excess of eight hours or outside the spread of four*teen hours shall be paid for at the regular overtime rate. (e) At all times, members of the Stewards Depart­ ment assigned for the exclusive service of the crew shall perform their regular duties between the hours of b;dO A.M. and 6:30 P.M. Section 4. Saloon Service and Bell Service, (a) The Master, Licensed Officers, Staff Officers, Cruise Direc­ tor, Chief Steward, Beauticians, and Musicians shall be served in the dining saloon. One messman shall be assigned to serve the officers' table when .in the dining saloon but shall not be required to serve passengers. (b) Bell service shall be rendered to the Master, Chief Engineer, Doctor, Purser, Cruise Director, Chief Steward, Second Steward, and Purser's office. (c) No member of the Stewards Department shall be required to serve meals to officers or crew lexcept those entitled to dining saloon service as provided in Section 4 Paragraph (a) J outside their respective messrooms, without the payment of overtime. This section shall not be construed to apply to passengers -or unlicensed personnel served during regular working hours on .ac­ count of illness. Section 5. Late Meals, (a) When members of the Stewards Department are required to serve late meals due to officers failure to cat within the prescribed time, the members of the Stewards Department actually re­ quired to stand by to prepare and serve the late meal shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (b) The above shall not be construed to apply when meal hours are shifted in accordance with Section 37, Paragraph (c), Ai'ticle 2, of this agreement. Section 6. Extra Meals, (a) When meals are served to other than officers or crew in the messrooms, fifty cents ((50c) per meal shall be paid. This is to be di­ vided among the members of the Stewards Department actually engaged in preparing and serving the meals. No extra meals shall be served without the authority of the Master of the Chief Steward of the vessel. (b) In off-shore service, all meals served in vessel's dining saloon other than to passengers, vessel personnel listed in Section 4 (a), Company executives, or Gov­ ernment officials, shall be paid for at the rate of fifty cents (50c) per meal served, to be paid to the waiter actually serving the meals. However, guests may be served'during the regular eight (8) hours without extra compensation when the combined total of passengers on board and guests does not exceed 380 persons on the "YARMOUTH" and "EVANGELINE" type vessels. and waiters and bedroom stewards on day work when full passenger complement is not carried, shall be paid overtime when required to sougee; however, spotting up shall be performed within the regular 8 hours with­ out the payment of overtime. Section 11. Shifting Ship. When a ship is making a shift as prescribed in this agreement. Article 11, Sec­ tion 21, it shall be considered in port and overtime shall be paid to members of the Stewards Department on duty on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Section 12. Required Complement, (a) When mem­ bers of the Stewards Department are required to do extra work because a vessel sailed without the full complement required by this agreement or because of illness or injury, the wages of the missing or disabled men shall be divided among the men who do their work, but no overtime shall be included in such wages. This shall not apply when extra work is not necessary due to the fact that the number of passengers carried does not require the services of the full Stewards De­ partment complement. (b) In port, members of the Stewards Department shall be paid overtime for work in excess of eight hours caused by the shortage in the department, but there shall be no division of wages because of such shortage. Section 13. Galley Gear and Uniforms, (a) The Com­ pany shall furnish all tools for the galley including knives for the cook. White caps, aprons, and coats worn by the Stewards Department shall be furnished and laundered by the Company. (b) The uniforms worn by the Stewardesses shall be furnished and laundered by the Company. Section 14. Fireroom, etc. Members of the Stewards Department shall not be required to enter the Engine Room or Fiieroom for any purpose. Section 15. Minimum Complement, (a) No member of the Stewards Department shall be laid off Sundays or holidays while at sea. (b) On ships arriving or sailing on Saturdays, over­ time shall be paid to members of the Stewards Depart­ ment for hours actually worked in port. (c) When the ship is in port and no passengers are aboard but officers and crew are eating aboar-d, the minimum Stewards Department required aboard on Saturaays, Sundays, and holidays for the purpose of preparing and serving meals shall be one cook, one crew, cook, one galley utility, five messmen, and one dining room man. The above members of the Stew­ ards Department shall be required to do all cooking and serving the officers and crew in port. Other members of the Stewards Department whose service is not required by the Company shall not be turned to on Satur­ days, bundays or holidays in any continental U. S. port. Section 16. Cleaning Toilets. No member of the Stewards Department who is required to handle food fur the unlicensed personnel siiall be required to clean toilets or baths. Sectibn 17. Day Work, (a) When the full comple­ ment of the Stewards Department is carried and the passenger complement aboard ship does not requue full Stewards Department service, members of the Stew­ ards Department not required for the service of the passengers may be placed on day work and shall be subject to the following working rules: (b) When members of the Stewards Department ai'e on day work, they may be required to work in store­ rooms, linen lockers, toilets, passenger and officer quar­ ters, messrooms, galleys, bake shops, and butcher shops, steward department passageways, and do general clean­ ing, including sougeeing, within their regular hours without the payment of overtime. (c) When members of the Stewards Department are on day work their hours shall be from 8 A.M. to 12 Noon and from 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Mondays through Fri­ days. (d) When members of the Stewards Department are on day woi'k they shall receive one full hour from 12 Noon to 1 P.M. for lunch. (e) When any members of the Stewards Department on day work are required to change their hours so as to serve visitors, parties other than passengers, in the dining saloon, they shall be knocked off their day work at least four hours prior to the time of beginning such service or shall be paid at the regular overtime rate for all work performed outside of their regular day work schedule. Section 18. Penally work. Any work performed by the Stewards Department that is not recognized as routine duties in this agreement shall be paid at the regular overtime rate. (c) When in overnight service dining room men shall serve a total of 12 extra meals to Company officials or employees, guests, or Government officials within their 8 hours without extra compensation. Meals in excess of 12 shall be compensated for to the man serving same by payment of fifty cents (50c) per "extra" meal served. Section 19. Authority of Chief Steward. Nothing in these working rules shall be deemed to detract from the authority of the Chief Steward who shall be final au­ thority aboard the vessel in all disputes in the Stewards Department, subject to the provisions of Article 11, Section 9 of this agreement. Section 7. Stores and Linen. Members of the Stew­ ards Department shall not be required to carry stores or linen to or from the dock, but when stores or linen are delivered aboard the ship, members of the Stew­ ards Department may place them in their respective store rooms within their regular prescribed eight hours without the payment of overtime. Section 20. The working rules for the Stewai-d De­ partment, as outlined herein, are applicable to Pas­ senger vessels of the SS YARMOUTH and EVANGE­ LINE type only. Section 8. Cleaning Chill Boxes. Members of the Stewards Department shall be assigned by the Steward to clean domestic refrigerated walk-in boxes and shall be paid at the regular overtime rate for the time that the work is perfoimcd. This shall not apply to re­ frigerators in pantries, messrooms, bake shops, etc. Section 9. Chipping and Painting. Members of the Stewards Department shall not be required to chip, scale, .or paint. Section 10. Sougeeing. At sea, members of the Stewards Department, other than Porters, Utility men. Page Nine Manning and Wage Scale Overnight Service Number 1 1 1 1 1 1 Rating Chief Steward Ass't Chief Steward Second Steward Third Steward Cashier Checker Monthly Wage Rate $325.00 225.00 220.00 185.00 175.00 170.00 3 22 Telephone Operators Linen Keeper Head Cafe Man Service Bar Man Cafe Waiter Chief Cook Second Cook Third. Cook Fourth Cook Assistant Cook Crev/ Cook : Galley Utilitymen Butcher Baker .-. Head Pantryman Second Pantryman Pantry Utilitymen Messmen Gloryhole Steward Porters Stewardess Deck Steward (when carried) Office Man Bath Steward Night Bellman Bellmen Head Waiter Captain's Waiter Dining Room men Waiters—Bedroom Stewards 150.00 165.00 182.50 172.50 150.00 260.00 220.00 195.00 180.00 175.00 205.00 150.00 222.75 250.00 195.00 180.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 152.50 175.00 155.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 205.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 Manning and Wage Scale Off-Sbore Service Number Rating Monthly Wage Rate j 1 Chief Steward $325.00 1 Ass't Chief Steward 225.00 1 Second Steward 220.00 1 Third Steward 185.00 1 Storekeeper 195.00 1 • "Printer-Porter 152.50 1 Deck Steward 155.00 1 Ass't Deck Steward (when carried) .... 150.00 2 Bath Stewards 150.00 1 Stewardess 175.00 1 A.ss't Stewardess 150.00 1 Gloryhole Steward 150.00 2 Officers' Bedroom Stewards 150.00 3 Porters (Two to work nights) 152.50 1 Linen Keeper 165.00 3 Telephone Operators 150.00 1 Night Bellman .' 150.00 3 Bellmen 150.00 1 Head Cafe Man 182.50 1 Service Bar Man 172.50 2 Cafe Waiters 150.00 1 Chief Cook 260.00 1 Second Cook 220.00 1 Third Cook 195.00 1 Fourth Cook 180.00 3 Ass't Cooks (one to work nights) 175.00 1 Chief Butcher 222.75 1 Second Butcher 190.00 1 Chief Baker 250.001 Second Baker 211.25 1 Crew Cook 205.00 4 Galley Utilities 150.00 5 Messmen 150.00 1 Chief Pantryman 195.00 1 Second Pantryman 180.00 1 Third Pantryman 170.00 6 Pantry Utilities 150.00 1 Head Waiter 205.00 1 Captain's Waiter 150.00 18 Dining Room Waiters 150.00 17 Bedroom Stewards 150.00 'This rating is only to be carried on the cruise run. The number of bedroom stewards in this Manning Scale is based on the occupancy of 170-186 bedrooms.] Wlien the number of rooms in use is less than 170, the number of bedroom stewards may be reduced by the ratio of one (1) bedroom steward for each ten (10) rooms. If the number of bedrooms exceeds 186. one (1) bedroom steward shall be added for each ten (10)| rooms or fractional part thereof. This manning scale is based on a maximum, of SBC passengers. When less than 300 passengers are carriedJ the number of waiters may be reduced by the ratio one (1) waiter for each twenty (20) passengers. This supplement agreement is being signed subject] to the ratification of the membership of the Unioi.i and in case no notice is given the Company withiiJ thirty (30) days from January 17, 1947, it shall bJ deemed ratified by the Union and binding on botl,| parties hereto. This supplement agreement shall automatically gc| into effect on January 17. 1947. Dated:—January 17. 1947 EASTERN STEAIMSHIP LINES. INC. Signed by: T. W. NORTON L. A. PARKS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Signed by: JOHN HAWK J. P. SHULER ROBT. A MATTHEWS PAUL HALL �Page Ten • THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Januivy 24; 1947 SBVS' MINUTES AND NEWS SIU Makes Short Shrift Of Chief Eng. A problem that might have proved a difficult affair aboard a non-Union ship was swept aside in clean SIU fashion by the En­ gine Delegate aboard the SS L. J. Duster. More accurately the problem was the Chief Engineer. The Delegate who set him straight was Seafarer Donald Short, Deck Engineer. The point at issue was overtime. Here's the story, as culled from a recent set of the ship's minutes: It sems the Chief had some pecular notion concerning over­ time. He made some shelves in the steering-engine room — did it all by himself, too. When the Wipers put in for overtime, the Chief, very firmly, said no. . The Wipers, who know the advantages of Union protection against such incursions, went to their department Delegate, Bro­ ther Short. The Black Gang Del­ egate, in turn, saw the Chief Engineer. A discussion followed. When it v/as over, the Chief understood that his tactic was ; wrong and didn't hold water. ) But the engineering officer wasn't one to give up after the first try. He next tried to get one of the Wipers, Brother King, to work on Saturday evening be­ cause he had missed three days work on account of a leg injury. Delegate Short set him straight on that one, too. The Union men held the line all along the way. Sounds like a good Short Story. Cooperation Sparks The Newhall Hills Photo at left shows crowd gathered at dock in Hamilton. Bermuda, awaiting debarka­ tion of the Alcoa vessel's pas­ sengers. At right is a view from the ship's bridge, as the vessel was tied up. Fort Townsend lies in the background. Due to continued heavy de­ mand for passenger accommo­ dations, Alcoa has extended the George Washington's weekly rim to Bermuda until April. The run, which began last July, was to have been suspended on Jan. I. Passenger capacity was reduced recently from 270 berths to provide more tworoom berths. The Washington leaves New York on Saturdays and returns on Thursdays. Posing on deck are three Seafarers: (lefl lo right) George Tazzini, Joe Hilton and Deck DelegaJe Stanley Brown. Cooperation is the keynote aboard' the Newhall Hills, Pa­ cific Tankers' according to the minutes submitted by Brother D. Burback, who recorded the pro­ ceedings at the shipboard meet­ ings. Brother Burback, in giving the dope as to what took place at two shipboard meetings, stressed the cooperation received from Captain Lenahan, who attended the Good and Welfare part of the meetings. At the meeting of Nov. 2, the crew invited the Master to sit • in on the last part of the session, at whioh time he agreed to the painting of the quarters as per Brother Brown models the latest in sea-going headgear. All photos were taken by Stanley Hunt. Four Seafarers Injured On Coastal Mariner Mississippi Four Seafarers were injured, three of them seriously, [in an accident aboard the MV Coastal Mariner, at sea, on Jan. 1. The three with serious injuries are in a Norfolk hospital, where they were rushed after being transferred £ from the Mariner to ^ Coast*' Guard cutter off the Virginia pital, and replacements for them taken on. 1 sbore. Meanwhile, the Mariner's Cap­ The accident occurred at night tain, radioed the Coast Guard to las the Deck Gang was stowing have a vessel ready in the stream [lines in the forward part of the to lend aid. I ship, according to R. L. McKenHeavy fog impeded the Mar­ [zie, a Coastal Mariner crewmem- iner's progress and she arrived fber. The •victims of the accident, [who were hospitalized, and the [injuries they sustained, are as 1follows: The violent storms that have FITTS, ROY, an AB of Tyn- plagued trans-Atlantic shipping jingville, Miss.; broken arm and for 10 days appeared to be sub­ [back injuries. BURGOS, JUAN, an OS, of siding last week end. Heavy fog iTajapo, P. R.; broken leg and that further hampered ship I back injuries. movements had lifted and opera­ McNEEI.Y, JAMES, Deck tions began to approach normal. )ept., address unavailable; both For the entire ten-day period, piegs broken. ships plying the North Atlantic Pedro Erazo, the Coastal Mar- lanes were buffeted about on the liner's Bosun, suffered minor in­ storm-swept seas. Crews of bat­ juries in the mishap but did not tered vessels arriving in East require hospitalization. coast ports from one to four days Irnmediately after the accident, late, reported that they encoun­ le vessel, which was on a south­ tered waves 50 to 60 feet high ern run, headed for Norfolk, the at the peak of the storm. Winds learest port, so that the injured of hurricane proportions added to en could be transferred to a hos- | the hazards. off Norfolk five hours late. The cutter likewise had difficulty making the rendezvous, due to the poor visibility, McKenzie re­ ports. The Mariner dropped an­ chor and waited for the cutter to arrive. Tv/o hours later, McKenzie said, the cutter came alongside the Mariner and removed the in­ jured Seafarers. She headed for port, while the Mariner resumed her course. Gets Subsidy For New Run The Mississippi Shipping Com­ pany has been granted a subsidy by the Maritime Commission for service between Gulf ports and ports on the West African coast from the southern border of French Morrocco to Cape Frio. Severe Storm Abates In North Atlantic In addition to the delays in ship arrivals, postponements in the sailing time of numerous ves­ sels were announced as a result of the heavy fog in New York harbor. TRAWLER MISSING Late reports said that the search continues for the Boston fishing trawler, Belle, unheard from since Jan. 9, when she radioed that her engines were disabled 100 rniles off Boston. Eight planes have joined the Coast Guard cutter combing the Cape Cod area for the missing ves­ sel, vyhich has a 17-man crew. Another storm, casualty, the [Hi British tanker Fousularca, has not been heard from since her report on Jan. 15 that she was un­ able to steer because of rudder damage. The Empire McCallUm, a British freighter, was believed to be in somewhere near the stricken tanker, approximately 300 miles east of St. John's, Nfld. A Canadian freighter, original­ ly reported to be breaking up in a storm off Argentia, Nfld., is now heading south for Bermuda. Aided by following seas, the freighter was proceeding at seven knots. Veterans of North Atlantic crossings said that the storm was the worst within memory. crew vote. For his cooperation the crew gave him a vote of thanks. At the next meeting, held Dec. 8, the Captain was again invited, and gave his okay to have a washing machine installed in the gun crew quarters head. This time it was the Captain who did the praising. He rose and gave the crew a vote of thanks for their cooperation. The amiable relations between Captain Lenahan and the SIU crew aboard has its assets for the ship's delegates at both meetings reported no beefs in their respec­ tive departments. The meetings were chaired by Brother Shea. According to the terms of the subsidy, a minimum of 12 sail­ ings a year must be made to the ports specified. The commission's approval of the Mississippi outfit's request for an operating differential sub­ sidy was granted under the Mer­ chant Marine Act of 1936. The Government financial aid is given to enable American ship­ ping companies to meet lower-' cost foreign competition. A subsidy was granted also to the American South African Line for a service out of Atlantic ports to the West Coast of Africa. An application from Seas Shipping, Inc. for a subsidy to operate over the same route was denied. The commission, in explaining the rejection of the Seas Ship­ ping application, said a survey of traffic potentialities indicated that movements from Atlantic ports are not yet in sufficient volume to warrant subsidies to two operators. �Friday, January 24, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings X' »rl ARGONAUT, Dec. 8—Chair­ man L. Mesuiey; Secretary J. Evga. Motion carried to dele­ gate one man to secure new books for library. Motion car­ ried to fine anyone abusing pantry toaster. Motion carried to fine anyone leaving dirty cups on messhall tables; wear­ ing dirty clothes into messhall; defacing messroom in any way. Fine agreed upon to be 50c min­ imum, with money to go to the hospital fund. Good and Wel­ fare: There was a question on the floor as to whether there is adequate linen aboard. Stew­ ard said there is enough linen and soap. » » » Morsels Make Meeting Mellow —'ir'i- A proposal made at the Jan. 8 shipboard meeting of the Cape Hatteras had the men on the night watch patting their stom­ achs and nodding their heads af­ firmatively. Brothcfr Rodriguez suggested that the meats and other choice morsels left over from day meals be added to the night lunches. All hands and all stomachs in­ dicated that Rodriguez' sugges­ tion was well put. Several other proposals were introduced to improve conditions on the Hatteras were made at the meeting. Among these were; That no one help themself to food as there is a Pantryman for that purpose. That cups be put in the sink after use. Brother Santiago was chair­ man of the meeting, and Obbregt served as Secretary. X. X i. NEWHALL HILLS, Nov. 2 —Chairman Burbach; Chair­ man Young. Delegates reported everything running smoothly. New Business: Captain's orders read regarding linen, cleanliness of heads and occupedion of pro­ per quarters. Motion carried that messhall decks be swabbed and cleaned daily. Agreed that Steward Department keep clean) passageway from Messmen's foc'sle to wipers* foc'sle. Good and Welfare: Captain invited to remainder of meeting. Hd agreed to paint rooms as per crew vote. Captain given vote of thanks. Saec i X X MALDAN VICTORY, Dec. 29 •—Chair. R. L. Arnall; Secre­ tary L. B. Clyde. New Business: to have port officials investi­ gate through company why seamen can't get U. S. money in foreign ports of call; to in­ vestigate slop chest on insuf~ ficient clothing for cold weather and items required by Federal law; all crew members and pro-book members be obligated at earliest convenient meet­ ing; that all crew members stay in contact with Union Hall un­ til all disputed overtime is set­ tled; that any crewmember be­ ing disorderly or drunk at pay­ off will be fined $5, money go­ ing to Seafarers Log; that all crewmembers turn in all dirty linen to Steward and leave quarters clean for new crew. Good and Welfare: to have all radiators repaired or replaced; repair locks on all doors that require such work; run steam line into crew's laundry; re­ pair all porthole gaskets that require such work; check and repair all toilet bowls; repair all bed springs; repair or renew all lockers in crew quarters; have ship fumigated. it WILLIAM H. CLAGETT, June 13—Chairman J. Flanigan; Secretary R. Littleton. Delegates reported everything okay. Motions carried: to draw up a list of fines owing to the condition of toilets, messroom and passageways; that money collected be donated to hos­ pital fund; that the ship's dele­ gate present the Captain with a copy of the rules pertaining to keeping the messroom in good condition. Good and Welfare: Brother Flanagan read a letter which he wrote to Brother Rentz, Baltimore Agent, in re­ gards to the Coast Cuard's at­ titude toward a sick man on this vessel. A suggestion was made for the men to give the names and addresses of some good gin mills down South America way to be sent to the Log. One minute of silence for departed brothers. XXX LEBORE, Dec. 22—Chairman (not given); Secretary John E. Harris. Due to having so many non-union men aboard, all books, strike clearance and dues were checked before meeting) was called to order. 18 mem­ bers were present which com­ prised the union crew on board the ship. We are hoping the next trip will have a 100 per cent union crew. Steward De­ partment delgate reported Bed­ room Steward to see Patrol­ man about Steward counting) dirty linen. Cooks to see Pa­ trolman about the cleaning of iceboxes if the three weekly hours for cleaning applies to this company. Good and Wel­ fare: Recommended that one non-union wiper, who ctdls himself "Chief Wiper" be removed from P. O. mess. Keep It Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship Is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this* rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give ohe copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. EVELYN, Dec. 22—Chairman Matthew Brune; Secretary Everett W. Swanson. Motions carried: to serve Christmas dinner on Tuesday; to place perculators in officers lounge, crew's mess, and engine room accepted; that request be made to Captain that crew be paid off in full on December 31, and articles be broken so the crew's income tax would not be fouled up. Also that some sort of re­ ceipt be made out with a total of overtime due when a draw is made within the six month's articles. Good and Welfare: plea made by Tilley thai all ex­ cess linen be brought back to the Steward. This was mainly for face towels, due to the short­ age. Request to have First En­ gineer remove or fix plug in laundry room for the use of iron. Request to put braces) around the crew's mess hot plate. Request to install writing desks in all crew's foc'sles. Re­ quest to install sufficient lock­ er space in order to hang dress clothes. One minute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. i 4. S. Wanna Electrocute A Cheese-Burger, Bud? Grillrd rheese sandwiches are to be grilled—not toasted. But some guys aboard the SS Wild Ranger have a theory that it works the other way around, according to a recent set of the ship's minutes. These cheesy experimenters have been bucking the elements by placing the cheese in the bread toasters, and the elements are beginning to show the ef­ fects. -Consequently, the toasters are breaking down. The perpetrators have been ad­ vised to lay off, the minutes say. For their own good, too. If they fail to heed this sound, earthy advice, they may find themselves eating their grilled cheese snacks riding skyward on an overdose of current. The toasters, it was brought out at the meeting, are of high voltage. That should be enough to make anyone think twice. XXX NEWHALL HILLS, Dec. 8— Chairman W. Shea; Secxelary Burbach. Departmental delegales reported everything okay. New Business: Motion carried to have committee elected to approach Captain regarding the use of the gun crew quarters head as a laundry. Good and Welfare: Suggested Chief Steward try to procure equip­ ment such as toasters, elec­ tric perculators, and juice squeezers. It was decided that each foc'sle for repairs such as locks, lockers, screens, fans, bunk lights, etc., and to turn list into the Ship's Delegate. Also decided to have slopchest checked by patrolman before ship sails regarding cigarettes, etc. Raingear for fellows work­ ing in tanks should be furnish­ ed by company and should be purchased before next trip. Cap­ tain called to meeting and gave his thanks to crew for their spirit of cooperation and gave his okay to install a washing machine in the gun crew quar­ ters head. Said he had already taken steps to have glass ports installed. Crew gave Captain vote of thanks. WRITING fOR INFORMATION ON WAGES, MONEY PUE, LUGGAGE, E"TC., PLBASe lAJCLUDg NAMS SHIP, COMPANY, DAT^S AND FIACES OF SIGN-ONI AND PAYO?=F. •• CUT and RUN By HANK Shipping sure picked up. January-registered cards are going out fast because the wet ships are finally coming in, wagging their fan-tails and shaking off that recent big Atlantic storm . . . Well, since his shipping mate, "Lil Abner" Barthes, the newly-welded electrician, shipped out—Brother J. Schupstik, nicknamed "Chop­ sticks," is anchoring down this town by himself, after his other shipmate, Deck Engineer Guy White-hurst, also shipped . . . Bruther "Red" Summers, who's waiting for an Oiler's job, smilingly said that he was accidentally involved with a South Street NMU stiff and a copy of the Pilot . . . Steward Joe Ryan is still aboard the tug, Pigeon Point, probably waiting for the company to give him a va­ cation or a pension. Little Joe really dishes out with real tasty humor, indeed . . . Fireman-Watertender W. W. "Boaty" Boatwright just grabbed a scow this week, we've noticed . . . Last week. Bosun "Lucky Lee" Luciano and his wife, celebrated the happy birth of his third mate's ticket. Congratulations, good luck and mucho clear sailing when you get your first ship, Lee. Brother John W. Prescotl, Electrician was in town about two weeks ago . . . Henry Robinson just blew in after an Isthmian trip . . . Oldlimer Steward Frank Inman is still in, town. Frank, we had no special Steward in mind when we recently wrote that cirticle about belly-robbers . . . We wonder if Bosun Robert Hillman and Sam Lutrell are sharpening their winter tools and mothballing their horse sense for some ship soon . . . Even oldtimer Isaac Miller is waiting for a ship—any ship going anywhere . . . Before Leslie Leslie Brilhart sailed, he celebrated Christmas by telling us of his son, Robert John, who was four and a half months at Christmastime. Sorry, Leslie, but your photo of your son was not printed since it was too small and faded. X X X X Relaxing from repairing electric bulbs and winding up those electric winches, Electrician Frank Bose sends us this short-circuited letter: "I see by the papers (Log) that you are getting to be quite an editoricil writer. Can't see how you analyze the Steward situation the way you do. Now take me (if you have a strong stomach), I figure it this way. When I go aboard a scow, I look up the Steward. If he's of the big fat type, a la Collins or Seeburger, then I figure he likes to eat well and so I take a chance and sign on. If he's the tall skinny type a la J. P., I decide to stay ashore a little longer. The big, rolly-poly type feed much better. Of course, this is only one man's opinion. Mine. Hope this don't start a controversy abou.-) Stewards, but I just thought I'd let you know how I pick them. I'm taking a short vacation and won't be ready to ship until some tim© in March. Just sitting around, spending all that retroactive and blood money I earned last trip. Good luck and I'll be seeing you.'" . . . Well, Frank, your shipmate of an electrician, Charlie Scofield, says that when you were with him on a ship you never did eat any­ thing, anyway. Just gin and Virginia Dare! X ^X X X Here's a list of oldtime Brothers in two departments, who either shipped, or are still in town: Stewards Dept.—M. Gordils: V. Bonet, F. Guinjaya, J. McGrath, H. Martin, C. Choice, G. Mirabueno. J. Hernandez, A. Gurskie, M. Serrano, A. Frizarry. A. Vance, P. O'Connor, E. Seeley, Colon Juan, R. Martinez, V, Silva, A. Morales, A. Sanchez, A. J. Lomas, V. Hammarcrea . • Deck Dept.—L. Figueroa, R. Garrett, P. Soto, A. Garofalo, J. Corsa, J J. Livingston, C. De French. S. Lesley, J. Landron, F. Fromm, E. Larson, N. Lundquist, F. Martens. J. Norgaard, P. Barbosa, L. Zwerling, W. Morse, M. Murphy. A. Gonzalez and J. Rockhill. �Pas* Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday# January 24. 1947r THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Labor Must Gird For Fight To Preserve Hard-Won Gains Dear Editor: The excellent editorial in this week's Log (Jan. 10) gives a true picture of hnw Congress operates as one of the arms of Big Busi­ ness. It ends up sa.ying that the only way that labor can lick this monster is to organize against this mis-representation of the American working people. Okay, Brothers, that's the straight goods. But what kind of organization is it that labor needs in order to beat these Wash­ ington servants of the monopo­ lists at their own game? If eco­ nomic organization alone could do the trick we would have had them on the run a long time ago. The 15 million members of Amer­ ican trade unions are not only the strongest labor movement in American history, but also the strongest labor movement the world has ever seen. And yet the Washington bureaucrats are able to threaten us with vicious anti-labor legislation which will deprive us of all we've earned, the hard way, over the years. MINER'S STRIKE Let's look at it this way. Re­ cently, our brother union, the United Mine Workers, were Ait-J'T f ROfA COAL X)OST,ICA^ TELLYO'JI I forced to hit the bricks for higher wages and better conditions. Economically their strike was a great success. It could hardly have been more successful. You could take all the scab coal that was mined and pile it into a fly's eye and it wouldn't make him blink. And the miners received support from all sections of the labor movement, our own Union included. Nevertheless they had to go back to work without their con­ tract. Why? Were they beaten economically? No! They were beaten by the political combina­ tion of the courts of Big Busi­ ness and its ally, the corpora­ tion-dominated Congress. POLITICAL SET-UP Well, Brothers, it looks like this; Economic action, by itself, is just not enough to bring home the pork chops nowadays. Whatever we wring out of the shipowners and industrialists by our hard fought strikes they steal from us by their control of the political EOt-up of this country. And the only way for us to beat their poli­ tics is for us to organize our­ selves politically. Only by an in­ dependent organization of all la­ bor can we put an end to the switch game that the two corpo­ ration-dominated parties have been running in the Capitol for years. It will only be when we have our own union representatives in the houses of Congress and we back them up all up and down the economic front that we will be able to call the shots on whether or not this country is to be run for the shipowners and their allies, or for the seamen and our allies. Joseph Dames Log -A' Rhythms Tale Of A Trip By Derniis Saunders She's a Laker, a Bull Line ship. And she sailed out on a soulhern trip. She had dead heads and gas-' hounds in her crew. And some who didn't lush, but? they were few. All full book men. says the information accompanying this pictur* of the SS John P. Mitchell. It adds that Jack Zievies is Bosun aboard the Robin line vessel. The Threat Of Idleness Sharpens Need For The Four-Watch System Dear Editor: privation of its recurrent wars and depressions. LABOR'S CHILD The general- strike is the child of the labor movement. It is La­ bor's natural reaction to a system of society based up on the pri­ vate ownership of the machinery of production. It is Labor's ulti­ mate attitude in the class strugfle. It is Labor's answer to the problem of economic disorgani­ zation. Logically enough, the general strike has become the rallyingcry of millions of persons the world over who favor it simply because they do not wish to see the highly industrialized modern world sink into chaos, and hu­ man society sink to the level of Today, and every day, we read of workers crying out in pro­ test against increased prices and idleness being forced upon the wage slave by his masters of the capitalist system. To meet such a problem, we as workers, es­ pecially in the Marine Industry, must advocate the four-watch system to stem the tide of un­ employment that will eventually roll upon us, as it has done after all of these so-called reconver­ sion war periods. There is something structur­ ally wrong, and vitally wrong, in any human society wherein men are held inferior to ma­ chines and money. The earliest, and the simplest^ of instruments are the plow and the ax. The primitive man who used them was also the owner of them. He was their master; they were his tools. j There came a time when the user of the tools found that some­ Dear Editor: body else owned them, and that Having heard so much about the person v/ho owned the tooLs the lovely conditions enjoyed by -a person whom he may have Standard Oil seamen and as how never seen—could deprive him of there was no sentiment for or­ their use, and expel him from the ganization I decided to make a land and send him into outer trip on one of thir scows. darkness without means to sup­ I signed on in Houston, Texas, port himself. as AB aboard the SS bound for New York and during my PATTERN DEVELOPS savage survival. The idea of the general strike is here to stay. It same into be­ ing with the perfection of the machine process and the centrali­ zation of control which made it possible. And it will remain as a constant challenge to capitalism as long as the machinery of pro­ duction is operated for profit in­ stead of for use. "The working class and the employing class have nothing, in common. There can be no peace so long as hunger and want are found among millions of the working people, and the few, who make up the employing class, have aU the good things in life." Joseph Buckley Baltimore, Md. Seafarer Sails On Standard Tanker, Finds Union Needed From this beginning the pat­ i.oov<SLi<eAeAS6 tern of capitalist society develop­ OPA^JEMIA...oe NlOW MiMBCRSHlP ed. But it became so thoroughly OR SOW6TMIK/:. entrenched in the course of cen­ turies that the social order itself degenerated into a function of capitalism. We have seen the spectacle of millions of people out of work and living on public charity, while in the silent mills and ships' graveyards, machinery stood in shining insolence, care­ fully housed and protected. Thousands of thoughtful and class-conscious workers in years trip up the East Coast I learned past have looked to the general a lot about open shop conditions. strike for deliverance from wage On my watch below I used slavery. Today their hopes are to listen to my watch partner, stronger than ever. Their num­ who was an old time S. O. tankber has been increased with ad­ erman, relate how the company ditional thousands who are confi­ used discrimination against old dent that the general strike, and timers who refused to honey the general strike alone, can save around the officers and not carry humanity from the torture and tales against their shipmates, by degradation of the continuation pulling them off the ships and of capitalism and the misery and i assigning them to shore relief jobs where S. O. could keep an eye on them. Also if the com­ pany suspected that they had union ideas, the S. O. would have their company, doctors disqualify them physically and on many other pretenses to get rid of them. SIU FRATERNITY On this ship a seaman who has been used to union conditions and enjoyed the fraternal commadeship that exists among SIU members could see that these un­ organized yokels had no use for one another and were afraid and suspicious of each other's inten­ tions. They seemed to always be looking for a chance to get something on each other so they could run to the Mate and snitch on one another. Regardless of the big money that S. O. pays their seamen, the desire to organize and enjoy un­ ion hiring and conditions is strong among the better element of old time tankermen working for S. O. and they will eventually organ­ ize in the SIU to achieve these conditions. My impression is that the bonafide Standard Oil seaman resent the compauy-miion plan of and it is only the ranting kind of "Johnnie-come-lately" that sticks up for it. Ropeyarn Characters from all parts of the U. S. A. Were on the Jean when she went out the bay. From Baltimore to Santos all went welL But in Santos they let out like wild men in hell. The Chief Cook stayed drunk for two weeks straight And cursed everyone from messboy to Mate, The old man-spent his time pay-ing bail For fun-loving characters who had got in jail. The purser was a phony, the Third Mate was too. Such were the men who comt prised the Jean's crew: Chips was a bull-thrower, and to him Thowing the bull was a natural whim. Frank, the messboy, was a ladies' man. Until, one night, he was lodged in the can: Sporty (chief character) was a natural viper. But the Worst Assistant-changed him to wiper. There was Red, with the great big feet^ Who never seemed to get enough to eat. Then Teddy, who stayed true to a loved one at home. And swore that nevermore would he roam. And don't forget Rispoldi, the Brooklyn Blimp, Who fell for Celia until he was a simp. Also C - - - from Virginia Hills, Who always boarded but never paid bills. And every day on a drinking bend Stayed Jimm B - - - on a Lost 'Weekend, So did Jimmy the Bosun, a Simon Legree, Who drank all he could when it was free. {Continued on Page 13) �Friday, January 24, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen Seamen's War Record Earned Maine Seafarer Proposes Them A Rill Of Rights*—Bause Branch For Portland Port Dear Editor: If you will permit me, I would like to reply to the unnamed SUP Brother regarding my "exagger­ ated statement" on food and con­ ditions in this institution. I would like to assure the Brother that as far as food in con­ cerned, it has improved consid­ erably since a year ago today. A year ago the food was not only insufficient, but also was served cold and of poor quality. There is still much room for improve­ ment. I merely took advantage of my rights as an American citizen, at the time, to criticize a deplorable situation. I saw no reason not to sign my name. I have enough confidence in the truth of my statement or I would not send them to be published. AGREES ON LAXITY Your statement that attention is lax has its point. Let me call Log - A - Rhythms {Continued From Page 12) Diego, Tony. Carlos and Cinlron were San Juan men Who swore never to sail deep sea again. Three dogs were also in the crew. Along with a cat and a monkey too. your attention to a few facts that you may not know. I am in Ward B-5, so we shall take it as an example. This ward is designed to house 14 beds. It has, today, 28 beds, including the solarium. Reason I mention this is that it may ex­ plain why you cannot get the nurse or orderly when you need them. I am reasonably sure that, while the patients have almost doubled, the staff has not been increased accordingly. I don't know where the pres­ sure should be put to remedy those conditions, but Washing­ ton, D. C. is a good place to start. I regret. Brother SUP, that you criticized my statement rather than state your own complaint, for if you stated where the wrongs exist, something could be done about it. I repeat, food and conditions have improved since I entered the hospital^ and I am just as quick to show my appreciation as I was to criticize. That fact that this institution is overcrowded shows that hardships must be worked on the patients. As a Union man I am aware that the condition also works hardship on those that take care of us. I have seen the same doc­ tor coming in here at 7 a. m., leaving between 6-7 p. m. (Uncle Sam does not pay overtime here. Although this place is known as a Marine Hospital, it is not for seamen only. Seamen are in the minority, in fact. I honestly believe that in the 12 months I have been here I have received the same attention the other pa­ tients. Facilities of all marine hospitals are overworked. The answer lies in more hospitals. in order that the Ameriican seamen can get adequate care. Even though the Ameri­ can merchant marine has ex­ panded to top position in world shipping, the government still works with the same facilities as when we were near the bottom of the list. I would like to call to the at­ tention of all Seafarers the fact that an effort is being made in Washington by Representative Fred Bradley of Michigan, the new chaii-man of the House Mer­ chant Marine Committee, to- pass a seamen's "Bill of Rights." This would give all seamen with war­ time service, similar rights as contained in the GI bill, such as hospitalization, education, etc. This bill was approved by the committee in the last session of Congress but was not acted upon in either House. This matter is of extreme importance and should be discussed at every meeting aboard ship and in the Union Halls. Send your sentiments to Rep. Fred Bradley, Chairman, House Merchant Marine Commit­ tee, Washington, D. C. Do it now! More than 6^000 seamen gave their lives during the war, thous­ ands more were disabled for the rest of their lives. Let's see to it this bill is not pigeon-holed. It may not seem so now, but it is a life-line that all of us will need sometime. All wartime seamen have earn­ ed the right to these benefits, as contained in the bill. We should not, and must not, be deprived of it. It is our right and we will win it. Let's go! William Bause Marine Hospital Slalen Island, N. Y. I am a Portland, Maine, man and I believe I have a beef that I would like to bring to the at­ tention of the membership. Boston handles the shipping for the Port of Portland, although part of the time Portland has MAINE TRAVELERS more shipping than Boston. But the Brother members who Everyday a tanker or two comes live in Maine and have 200 miles in here. We're trying to organize ' or more to travel are not ex­ tankers—right? Well, we have cused. Why? plenty of both Union and non­ A few days ago the steamship union tankers coming in; also a considerable number of freight­ agents told me they were going ers. This is also a port for Isth­ to call Boston for ABs the next mian intercoastals, and I believe, day. I called Boston and asked therefore, we should have a hall them to throw In my shipping card by telephone because I was here. broke and didn't have the money SHUTTLE RUN to go to Boston and then back to When a ship signs on or pays Portland again to catch the ship. off here, we have a Boston Pa­ After that I raised enough money trolman who has to make a shut- to go to the meeting and out of curiosity asked the dates of the RoorA men that got the jobs. One man SERVICE,, had registered two days before. PLEASE/ I therefore lost a job. If headquarters can do any­ thing to remedy this situation, the Maine brothers will be very much obliged. Bob Bums CHOW SETUP POOR AT NEPONSIT, The distance is SAYS PATIENT tie run up here. 103 miles each way. In the last month I have been on that shuttle run. I can't af­ ford to live in Boston. (It's too cold to live in Boston Commons even if the cops would let me). I have attended the last two meetings in Boston which I have to do in order to keep my ship- SEAFARER LIKES THINGS 'DEEP IN THE HEART OF' Dear Editor: Then there was Hugh who slept on the floor In his condition he couldn't get out the door. L - - - spent his first night ashore In company of a lady whcr proved an awful bore. Goldie, Jerry and Callis wouldn't drink But they were right guys, so I think. Lame-brain Sammy stayed off I have sailed as a member of the SIU. but since have found the beam^ myself in army uniform. Therefore, I have a question to which He once tried to catch a bucket I would appreciate an answer from you. of steam. My papers were stolen from me while I was in basic training, and I would like to know what procedure I can follow in order to Saiitos and Rio were two ports have them duplicated. they made, I was a tripcard man before I came into the army. I had enough B. A. and Rosario were the long­ time to get my probationary book, but I put it off until the next est we stayed. Montevideo for fuel and some let­ trip, as my payoff was very small. Before I could make another trip I was in the army. ters mailed. Is there any way I could continue sailing after I am discharged And on to the Canary Islands without continuing as a tripcard man? In short, could I possibly they sailed. get my probationary book while I'm in the army? If not, is there In the twenty days they spent anyway I can be sure of getting my tripcard back when I get out? at sea. Pvt. Billy E. Clantz Every one was as sober as could APO 547. c/o PM be. San Francisco, Calif. But ashore in Las Palmas they ANSWER:—Insofar as your papers are concerned, it is ad­ ran into some visable that you communicate with the U. S. Shipping CommisBrandy, wine. Cognac and rum. r'-iner now in the port where you originally got your papers. However, you can procure duplicates from a shipping commis­ At present the Jean is bound for sioner anywhere, we have been told. Sweden shore. As for your status in the Union, the procedure is for Sea­ Where the characters hope to in­ farers now in the armed forces to forward their cards or books dulge in more to headquarters, where they are inserted in a file, pending dis­ Of anything that contains a bit charge from the service. Dues must be pcud up to the time of of alcohol. entry in the forces. Upon release from service, you can re­ As long as it's not hair tonic or ceive your card or book by coming to Union headquarters with petrol. your discharge papers. So, the Chief Bellyrobber, your In your case, however, we were unable to find any records, usual scribe. so we have turned the matter over to the bookkeeping depart­ Bids you goodbye, from this ment. They will check back and wil communicate with you character tribe. directly. GISEAFARER WANTS INFO ' ON STATUS AFTER RELEASE ping card. At the meeting, 15 or 20 men get excused even though they live in Boston. Some are legitimate excuses, but most are probably not. I beefed against this but was over-ruled by the members, which is their right. Dear Editor: Dear Editor: Sometime ago tliere was an ar­ ticle in the Log stating that there has been a new $100,000 unit for cooking installed here and that we would get better meals. Well, all I can say is that some­ one gave out the wrong dope be­ cause things have not changed. In fact, they are worse. The ar­ ticles also said that we woxild get more hot rolls and biscuits. To tell you the truth I don't think they have anyone here that knows how to make them for we never see any. According to all medical books and doctors, TB patients are sup­ posed to have good, wholesome and nutritious food four, five and even six times a day. Well, the setup here is breakfast at 7:30 a. m., dinner at 11:30 a. m. and supper at 4:30 p. m. From 4:30 p. m. until 7:30 a. m. the next morning they give you a glass of milk at about 7 p. m. That is sup­ posed to do you until the next morning. Just to break the monotony of post-voyage articles in the paper, I'm writing a little pre-voyage note. This should be a good Voyage No. 1 aboard the good ship SS Charles Goodyear, of the Waterman company. This is one of several ships that Waterman has pulled out of the Mobile river in the last cou­ ple of weeks. Shipping was the btfst I have ever seen two weeks ago in New Orleans and Mobile. This is especially true now when it is considered that Night Cook and Baker's jobs wil be scarce HAVE GOOD APPETITES as hell. There were several avail­ Most of the patients here have able down there in the Gulf. good appetites and they are up YOUNG CREW and around. It is not enough As far as the crew goes aboard even for the sick bed patients. this ship, most of the men are in What I want to get at is why their early twenties, except for the Steward, Chief Cook and a they can't make two shifts in the kitchen, say from four to twelve couple of engineers. and from twelve to eight. Then We've been here in Galveston for 11 days now, and today is the someone would always be in the_| first warm, sunny day we've ex­ kitchen and we could have a de­ perienced. Texans really got a cent breakfast and a night Ixmch. nice 25 degree touch of our yanAs things are the kitchen is kee weather. Oh yes, we've had not open before 6 a. m. and you quite a little "California dew," know you can't prepare a good too. meal in one and a half hours for All in all, Texas is really a 300 patients and about 100 em­ friendly and carefree place to be.' ployees. If you can, you're noi These Texas gals are really nice a cook—you're a magician. to dance with. They don't think James S. Campbell evil like one is accustomed to find in most East coast ports. Here's wishing all the Broth­ ers well. I hope you've all re­ cuperated from New Year's Eve. As for myself, I sailed out of Mobile at 10:30 that glorious night. Robert A. Lowry Houston, Texas �Page Fourteen SlU Pledges Full Support To CIO Shipmen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 24, 1947 Isthmian Men Even More Pro-Sill Than Bargaining Election Showed Charles H. Cummings, who Isthmicui Fisherman sails Deck Engineer, has made a couple of trips on the Isthmian well-qualified to give out with (Continued from Page 1) scow, Monroe Victory, and is Board, last September. Brother little Isthmian chatter. It's Char­ Hall also explained that this same lie's studied opinion that Isth­ union had gone down the line By JOE VOLPIAN mian is practically all SIU today with the SIU on several other Accidents aboard ships caused during rough weather. When with very few NMUers left in beefs, and that they were entitled by heavy seas are frequent, and seamen are ordered out to per­ the fleet. to the full support and backing of pose many interesting 'questions form work on deck during in­ the Seafarers. This is not only due to the fact which the Courts are called upon clement weather, the Master of that Isthmian men voted SIU PASS RESOLUTIONS to decide. Invariably, the de­ the vessel should cause the ves­ and that the NMU is delaying an Following the discussion, sev­ fense set up by the shipowners sel to be heaved to in order to SIU contract, but also because of eral Seafarers hit the deck and is that the heavy swell which afford the men some shelter from the many advantages which Isth­ all agreed that SIU support for swept over the deck was an "Act the seas. mian seamen can see in Seafarers the Shipbuilding Workers should, of God" for which they are not lie should also reduce the speed membership, according to Cum­ and would, be forthcoming. In responsible, and which they could of the vessel. Failure of the mings. line with this, a resolution was not foi-esee and therefore could Master to take these precautions On the Monroe Victory, only a introduced to the meeting and not provide against. This de­ may determine the liability for couple of NMUers are left, and fense rarely holds water. was passed unanimously. any injuries or loss to the sea­ this includes their ships organiz­ The first point to be consider­ men. The resolution pledged all-out er in the Stewards Department. support from the SIU for the ed from the injured seamen's Still another point to be con­ Brother Cummings declared, t Isthmian volunteer organizer lUMSWA strikers, with the fur­ angle is: Why was he sent out sidered is: What precautions were "A number of Isthmian men who on open deck or other unpro­ ther stipulataion that all ship­ taken by the officers to prevent were cariying NMU books have Charles H. Cummings claims to tected place to perform work owners who had contracts with| the men from being washed over­ become disgusted with the in­ be the only Seafarer who ever the Seafarers would be notified which could have been done in board or injured? caught an AB with his fishing ternal dissension going on in that ability. that SIU crews would not handle calm weather or in a safe port? For example, were life lines outfit. In addition, the statements Many cases arise where a ship ships going into the struck ship­ provided on which the men could of Curran and others, which re­ his ship was moving slowly at sails from port after being load­ yard. hold to prevent being washed veal the commie control of the around ten knots. He was using ed with cargo, but before the Further, the resolution promis­ overboard? Could the storm have NMU, have made these men real­ gum wrappers (cellophane) for ed any necp.ssavy support to the crew has had a chance to com­ pletely batten down hatches, or been anticipated in advance by ize that they want no part of bait and had already caught two strikers. This will not probably king mackerel. radio communication, weather such a set-up. take the line of financial support, to properly secure cargo, or to reports and ordinary sea exper­ secure gear, etc; the Master of "Isthmian seamen today real­ .Suddenly, there was a terrific inasmuch as the Shipbuilding ience? ize," went on Cummings, "that pull on his hook; Charlie thought Workers had asserted that they the vessel, it is found, is trying to save the payment of overtime If the storm could have been only by joining the SIU can they it must be at least a young shark. needed no financial assistance. to the crew, or perhaps he is in anticipated, then the Master secure real, honest-to-goodness So, he pulled, and pulled. Finally This action on the part of the a hurry to set a speed record, and union representation. They also when he had reeled his line in, Seafarers carried through on the so he sets sail thinking of having should have seen to it that all are aware of the fact that the an arm with an attached body necessary deck work was taken SIU policy of cooperating with the crew do this work while on .Seafarers is the only maritime broke the water's surface. Yes, care of before the full fury of and supporting any legitimate the high seas. union which is not only demo­ sirree! He had hooked a man! the storm struck. If necessary, I strikes, whether the striking union On the high seas, rough weath­ he should alter his course to es­ cratically run by the members, Seems as though one of the be an AFL affiliate or a CIO er is encountered and all hands but is also completely free of any cape the brunt of the elements. AB's had been draining out one union. phony political entanglements are ordered out on deck to do The loss of life and serious in­ of the lifeboats, when the boat Certainly, a union like the the work which could have been jury suffered by the seamen is with the commies and their broke loose and carried him Shipyard Workers, which has done, and should have been done, deplorable enough, but when the stooge outfit, the CMU." overboard. The boat turned over fully cooperated with the SIU in a safe port. REAL FISHERMAN claim agents employed by the on the helpless seaman, and he on several occasions, deserves, Men are ordered out on deck shipowners then try to induce Among his many other accom­ was partially stunned. and will get all-out support from to do dangerous work under ex­ the victims or their next-of-kin plishments, Charlie claims to be Chances are that, if Charlie the Seafarers. tremely hazardous conditions un­ to accept small amounts in set­ the only SIU fisherman in exist­ hadn't accidentally hooked the der the guise of "safety of the tlement of their claims, because, ence who ever caught an AB on lucky AB, that he would have ship" for which they may not as they assert, there is no liability his hook. It happened in this been carried away by the ship's make claim for overtime. for an "Act of God" — that is manner: Charlie was trolling for wake and drowned. However, he whatever he could catch while downright dishonesty. STORMY WEATHER was lucky and only sustained a Send in the minutes of The merchant seaman is not so badly torn arm where the fish­ your ship's meeting to the much concerned with the paltry hook ripped into the flesh. New York Hall. Only in that overtime which he loses by this way can the membership act ISTHMIAN STATUS trick, but what he so rightly de­ on your recommendations, cries is the fact that it is he who Incidentally, while on the .sub­ and then the minutes can be has to go out on the open deck in ject of Isthmian, hei-e's the latest printed in the LOG for the a raging storm, with heavy seas on the status of that company. - benefit of all other SIU i (This article is not an inter­ means of protecting the health smashing , across the slippery Nothing new has developed since crews. decks, to do something which pretation of the agreement as of all hands. the Log article of last week. Hold those shipboard meet­ The Second Cook has the duty could have been safely done be­ it covers the Stewards Depart­ The National Labor Relations ment. It merely makes sug­ ings regularly, and send of preparing the grilled food fore and under more favorable Board is still considering the gestions to that Department in served aboard his vessel. In ad­ those minutes in as soon as working conditions. charges contained in an NMU answer to many questions dition, the dishing out of food in possible. That's the SIU way! Another point to be consider­ raised by members. Each week brief that there was collusion be­ the galley should be his respon­ ed concerns proper navigation the Log prints an article mak­ tween the SIU and the Isthmian sibility. Portions, of course, Steamship Company in the re­ ing suggestions to each of the should be uniform—all hands are cently-concluded election. ratings in the Stewards De­ entitled to an equal ration. partment. This week's, the Certification of the SIU as the The Second Cook should also third of the series, is for the feel that it is his duty to take sole collective bargaining agent benefit of the Second Cooks). care of the dairy box and vege­ for all Isthmian unlicensed per­ table box, or the "chill box," as it sonnel will be.held up until the It is es.sential for the .smooth (Continued from Page 1) Rep. Bui winkle (N. Car.): A it commonly called. The boxes NLRB hands down its final de­ functioning of the Stewards De­ and about 105 bills. calling var- bill to investigate thunderstorms. partment that the Second Cook should be kept clean at all times, cision in this matter. However, Rep. Dondero (Mich.): A bill to work in the closest possible co­ and items stored in it in a neat there is no doubt of the final out­ I iously for compulsorj' arbitration, mediation, conciliation, and liti­ incorporate the "Moms of Amer­ operation with the Chief Cook. manner. come as the Seafarers has clearly gation by boards, panels, courts, ica." won the election with a 58.7 per­ It is well, in matters that raise NEAT AND DRY I voodoo and tea-leaf reading. centage, and the NMU's phony Rep. Canfield (N. J.): A bill to doubts and questions, for the He should also take an interest charges are merely so much Those didn't show the real cali- create the office of "Senator At Second Cook to discuss them in the cleanliness of the dry whistling in the dark. I ber of the new Congress. For Large" for ex-presidents of the with the Chief Cook. storerooms. They should be kept that, you have to understand the U. S. More specifically, the Second nfeat, clean and dry. Dry stores The only'loser in the NMU's Rep. Bradley again: A bill to Cook is charged with the prepara­ subtle and complete political wis­ stalling devices is the Isthmian . should be stowed neatly, and in dom behind the following legis- prohibit the interstate transpor­ tion of all vegetables for cook­ seaman, and the NMU misleaders . a way that makes them as ac­ tation of "certain stolen dogs." ing and serving. I lative brainstorms: certainly don't give a damn about cessible as conditions will per­ him. They've proven that fact Rep. Sikes (Fla.): ,A bill re­ Rep. Bradley (Mich.) introCLEANLINESS mit. beyond doubt numerous times. I duced 3 consecutive bills num­ quiring railroads to install re­ Generally, the fresher stores It is also necessai-y that he help bered HR 211, 212 and 213. The flectors on railroad cars. Isthmian seamen know this, maintain the cleanliness of the should be placed' behind the first would make it a felony to That gives you an idea. About galley. It is the galley, which, items that have been on hand and are governing their actions bet on any sporting event in the only thing forgotten was a above everything else, should be longer, which, obviously should accordingly. " They are telling Washington, D. C.; the second bill requiring General Eisen­ one and all that they are holding kept .spotlessly clean and sani­ be used first. would prohibit "mixed boxing" hower to salute all Boy Scouts, tary. Not only the Second Cook's, (Next week the duties of the NMU solely responsible for in Washington, D. C.; and the and one to force James C. Pebut the health of every man Night Cook and Baker will be their being denied the SIU rep­ third would prohibit boxing al­ trillo to hire stand-bys for his aboard ship, must be guarded, discussed and suggestions resentation which they voted so together in Washington, D. C. 11 vice-presidents, ' strongly for. and a clean galley is a positive made.) Send Those Minutes What To Bo: Some Departmental Suggestions For Second Cooks New Congress Really On The Ball, Number Eight And Slightly Foul d:,. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Januaf/ 24,1947 Page Fifteen BijLmiN -J- il Retroactive Pay Waiting American-Liberty SS Corp. /-- I SlU HALLS BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 4455 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 CHARLESTON 68 Society St. Phone 3-3680 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. Main 0147 CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi 3-1509 DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. Melrose 4110 GALVESTON 305 22nd St. 2-8448 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St, 58777 HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Phone Wentworth 3-3809 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Phone 5-5919 MARCUS HOOK 114 W. 8th St. Chester 5-3110 MIAMI 1355 N. E. 1st Ave. MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Company Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and 1945, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed Kirkland, H. F. Kirk, F. Flaig, A. Broadwin, L. Armantano, E. Buzalewski, T. Bette, J. DcBase, P. Curtis, W. Fisher, M. Getchell, H. Hanscom, H. Mace, H. Milliron, N. Pearson, R. Rozpedowski, W. Nunn. 4. 4. 4JOHN LA FARGE SS THOMAS W. GREGORY L. Baileau, A. Manhood, C. Antonio Colina, Clarence Cahp- Brown, E. Getty, T. Malone, A. below. • • Haukins, John 1.05 man, James Law, Sison Moises, Shaw, R. Williams, L. McCarthy, Gentry, Elmer L 50 Haylock, Caludc .02 R. Verderflor, L. Hamas, J. Hig-* J. Dulle, J. Manfredi, G. Shuler, Gillespie, John C .• 3.60 Hemund, Rudolph L 4.00 gins. C. Hunsicker, C. Duyer, F. Brew­ Girunis, M 1.44 Herhansen, Ctto T .97 ^ ^ er, C. Dudley. Gjedstad, Harry 1.11 3.52 SS STEPHEN W. GAMBRILL Glas.s, J. A 9.85 Hill, Charles E 4. 4. 4. .01 4.09 Hill, Edward C Deibert Steele, Howard Savini, SS JOSEPH I. KEMP 7.58 Gobroski, Lawrence V 12; Hill, Edwin W Samuel Harris, Joseph Fryoux, C. Gibbs, T. Diffee, J. Cotter, 5.09 Magnolia 6112-6113 Goddard, Robert P 11.41 Hopkins. Charles John Burgau, John Burgau, R. G. Bogdcn, A. Valdcz, R. Moe4.09 51 Beaver St. Godwin, Welroso G. .26 Howard, J. W Plunket, N. Williams, C. Jack­ sant, H. Collins, B. Coilings, A. NEW YORK .39 HAnover 2-2784 son, J. B. Norris. Bunn. NORFOLK 127-129 Dank Street Howard, Lloyd W 1.25 4-1083 L. Hartley, E. Strahan, H. Monir it iHuffman, Turley S. .21 PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. 1.49 Hull, Arthur L teiro, G. Adams, A. Abates, L. .87 Phone LOmbard 3-7651 SS WALTER KIDDIE 20.12 Hulme, Kenneth A V/orth Ave. Gonzalez, O. R 8.67 Jesse Milton, M. Higginbotham, Hilmuth, K. Romm, R. Frye, D. PORT ARTHUR ..909 Fort Phone: 2-8532 Gordon, William F 1.74 1.28 Ill W. Burnside St S. Frankiewitz, N. Serrano, F. Hamilton, E. Crocker, J. Taylor. PORTLAND 16.29 Beacon 4336 4- 4. 4. Rylance, R. Jones, J. Hanna, A. 2.73 RICHMOND, Calif 257 Sth St Goriup, Erminio SS ALBERT S. BURLESON 2599 Haag, R. Cissna, R. Padilla, H. 1.59 105 Market St J. Downic, C. Corbin, H. John­ SAN FRANCISCO Hopkins, C. D'Andrade. Douglas 5475-8363 Graham, Walter 68 son, F. Goldsborough, H. Man­ it it it SAN JUAN, P. R 252 Ponce de Leon Gray, Jackson D 14.26 The following named members San Juan 2-5996 tel, E. Mantel, R. Matthews, R. SS WEBB MILLER Green, Cass E 63 have papers, social security cards, SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St Matthews. 8-1728 Grenade, Louis 21 dues receipts, birth certificates, J. Doyle, P. Workingcr, • A. P. Pager, J. Reynolds, S. Panel- SEATTLE 86 Seneca St 2.81 and other miscellaneous papers, Tamm, W. Cole, E. Belpre, T. la, C. Thomlcy, E. Smith, E. Main 0290 Grepp, Paul .75 and what-not at the Baltimore TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St, Grcsham, Thomas F Winey, R. Boyette, K. Perry. Spooner, R. White, J. Yai'M-1323 .55 Hall. Come and get them. it it iCIS Summit St hornugh, G. Neilsen, J. Self, D. TOLEDO Griffin. James H 1.66 Edgar Wilson Travis, Aloysius WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd SS GEORGE G. CRAWFORD Greenberg. Terminal 4-3131 Grizzall, Frank J 9.21"' Kessen, George A. Victor, Wm. T. Wooden, D. Convertino, C. VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St 4* 4- 4* 12.00 Joseph Pickley, Robert Lee Lit­ Garden 8331 Galhandsen, Thorleif Convertino, M. Fahkry, S. Eayes, SS LLOYD S. CARLSON 74 tleton, Harry CIsen, Cscar W. VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St Guresbj', J S. Eaves, M. Eison, J. Davis, T. Pacific 7824 S. Haney, M. Kanter, E. Na­ Haggerty, W. F 7.00 Jones, Willis Eugene Bancroft, Conner, L. Cason, J. Blizzard, A. pier, R. Morris, Z. Foster, J. AckHaiffer, Paul 12 Richard D. Baker, Nicholas T. Boncel, R. Browdei-, W. Axgon. erson, D. Nicholson, G. Prevost, Halbe, Ed 68 Tala, Harold T. Doerfler, Crville C. Barrineau, T. Ashe, H. D. Allen, J. Wing, G. Blackstock, Hall, Claude W 1.44 Thompson, Gerald D. Martin, Weathers, R. Woods, J. Whitley, B. Lucas. Halle, John F 22.70 Donald Leroy Vangsness, WilR. MacColloch, C. Akers, L. Yar4. 4. 4. Hammer, Francis 2.80 mont Lee Draper, Daniel Galla­ JOSEPH CIMINI brough, W. Youmans, J. Williams, SS OTIS E. HALL 1.44 gher, and James A. Linberger. Please write to your mother as F. Rauser, R. Williams, H. Wes­ J. Lord, W. Taylor, A. Anag- soon as possible. Hanlon, Edmond F 9.83 it it it ton, H. Thompson, C. Story. nostoy, J. Pizeicki, E. O'Mara, W. Hansen. Berge 12.28 JOHN LAMBERT No. 842 St i R. Strickland, A. Tannachi, E. Gardner, W. Dworanczy, R. Di Hare, Frederick P 1.89 Vancouver Branch. SIU JOHN LAMAR FOLLIS Sims, M. Skinner, W. Smith, J. Pala, E. Dworanczyk. 8.24 AUGUST A. SMITH. No. 828 You are urgently requested to Roza, J. Pruitt, J. Martin, E. L. Gillis, A. Goven, J. Motro, communicate immediately with Harinen, Terry S 11 Vancouver Branch. SIU Mitchum, C. Mizel, W. Mochen- E; Johnson, J. Martin, H. DelHarpell, F. M 32.26 L. REID. No. 2135 fuss, O. Martin, F. Judah Jr., R. hunty, H. Corbctt, V. Mansalto, Mrs. John L. Follis, Box 394, Ilarrell, Frederick M 4.74 Vancouver Branch, SIU Hempstead, Texas. Kline. C. Conte, R. Padilla, J. Judge, Harrington, Ire W. Jr 02 Please have your books check­ J. i- it J. Lassiter, M.' Gordon, D. F. Connel. Harten, James N 1.64 ed at 6th Floor, 51 Beaver St., ANDREW FORD Greenhill, G. Finklea, T. FreeHarton, Don C 96 New York City. There are dis­ 4- 4- 4Your sister, Mrs. Jessie Naveland, T. Doyle, J. Farrow, R. Hatte, Louis M 12 crepancies in your dues records. SS W. CHRISTIANSEN jar, 1806 Edwards St., Houson, Phillips, C. Jaynor, J. Gavin. R. Harris, A. Morales, S. Hei- Texas, writes that she has not it it it ducki, W. Gorman, C. Figuroa, heard from you in some time. SS JAMES MANNING W. Clift, B. Christensan, C. Three of her letters to you have T. Sondstern, C, Suppa, E. Moseley. been returned. She asks that you Sweeney, R. McCoy. M. Walsh, L. Cannon, W. write her immediately. SS COASTAL COMPETITOR Tatham, A. Southers, M. McCulE.. E. Weaver, M. Hagerty, C. lagh, C. Shartzer, W. Smith, J. JAMES O. NLARTIN Cummins. Stuntebeck, L. Hummell, T. ELVIN MOORE Baier, J. Madden. 4" 4" 4" Retroactive pay due the fol- Erikson, Angelo Fort, Wilfred P. Mrs. J. L. Twitty, 809 >2 E. Os­ SS ROBERT S. LOVETT lowing named men, who sailed Garcia. borne Ave., Tampa, Fla., is anx­ Edward F. Gibbs, Murray Gor­ H. Duggan, M. Delvalle, E., Ruious to get in touch with you. aboard the SS Colabee, during don, William Hauck, Fred L. bio, J. Bernai'do, T. Moriarty, L. She says that it is very impor­ the period from April 1, 1946 to Hopfer, Edward F. Howell, DunTaylor, D.. Matin, J. Wood, J. tant that you write to her as June 14, 1946, can be collected by SS A. H. STEPHENS aid P. Huff, Robert E. Jessel, Al­ McMains. soon as possible. calling at the Paymaster's office, bert Junes, Alvin J. Lawton, Deck department men who ^ % ^ 4* American - Hawaiian Steamship Francis Le Jan, Christopher were aboard this vessel for Voy­ SS HALTON R. CAREY ROBERT GIDSGN VORNON Co., 2nd Floor, 90 Broad Street, Long, Martin V. McLoughlin, Ra­ John Popovich wishes to hear J. Lanctot, F. Lambert, W. age No. 10 may obtain unclaimed mon Morales, Theodore Murphy, wages (overtime) by writing to from you. Write him c/o United New York 4, N. Y. Joseph V. Crnowski. the, Mississippi Shipping Com­ Seamen's Service, Manila, P.I. SS COLABEE George C'Rourke, Nathan N. pany, New Orleans 9, La. Voyage No. 14 Pearcc, Charles N. Pendergraft, \ it it RALPH LARSON Men who paid off the SS Sii-ocJoe C. Rainwater, Atnhony V^ Pedro Almoceras, Albin H. An­ SS R. SEMMES Miss Mary Kathryn Green co on December 31, 1946, in San Rimkus, Merrill H. Robb, Jaipes derson, Knut L. Anderson, BurL. A. Cheesemar, John Shee- wishes to .hear from you. Write Fi-ancisco, can now collect their C. Rocco, Alfred A. Rogers, Her- '' mur C. Blair, Jr., Finer Blakstad, transportation pay which was han and H. L. Lewis can collect her at 728 South Erie Street, man Schwartz, Herbert Stillman, William S. Brackett, William R. okayed on January 3. Contact 125 hours of overtime due at the Toledo 4, Ohio, or call her at Eugene Sullivan, Thomas Eugene Dauber, the company office for your Waterman Offices, 19 Rector St., MA 9921, extention 233, or Cheuvront, Thomas. Henry M. De La Haba, Helge A. EM 3093. New York City. money. American - Liberty Steamship Corporation is holding retroac­ tive pay checks for the following men at their offices, 75 West Street, New York 6, N. Y., room 902. The money can be claimed in person or by writing the com­ pany. NOTICE! PERSONALS Retroactive Pay Waiting American-Hawaiian SS Company MONEY DUE NOTICE! �fl i fh' Page Sixteen TBE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, Januajry 24, 1M7 SUN OIL tL .u. .1 ^OY tjcars fhe NMUcould •PiMd no-f-irMe-foFciou/fheu called qou ^cobs and'finid; Hrheq ne^modeaii(| OfH'enifst'ib help uou irianci (uatf. i^^oui-fhorfffie Secdbrers has ^rfepped in and IS receii^mb ({OUK Support,+he NMUenleis •Hie pidnre-foir no other KeasonHhanio coniHise the sitttorhon. The Isthmidn seamen necobnizedthe NMU-(br (uhartheqaKe. IdntermeriThao.Knou}u)ho •Hieir friends one. opYorm'HOffe^ea. vm •(\ � 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 January 24, 1947 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. IX, No. 4 Description An account of the resource Headlines: NEW OFFICIALS FOR 1947 ANNOUNCED; HOSPITAL PAYMENTS INCREASED SIU PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT TO CIO SHIPMEN SEATRAIN HALTS ISLAND RUN; APPEALS TO CUBAN GOV'T EASTERN SIGNS PASSENGER SHIP CONTRACT WITH SIU SAILINGS WILL BEGIN LATTER PART OF FEBRUARY NEW CONGRESS IS ON THE BALL--BUT IT'S FOUL LABOR PAINS PHONY PACKT BETWEEN TIDEWATER, COMPANY UNION HOLDS UP ED WARES, FORMER LAKES AGENT, DIES AT DETROIT MARINE HOSPITAL JOBLESS PAYMENT IS CLARIFIED BY N.Y. STATE REPS PHS AGENT WILL VISIT GALVESTON HOSPITAL TO INVESTIGATE FEEDING AND FACILITIES PORT SAVANNAH IS JUST WAITING FOR SOUTH ATLANTIC TO BEGIN REPORT OF SIU TALLYING COMMITTEE MIDLAND VICTORY CLEARS THE WAY FOR AN ALL-OUT DRIVE ON LAKES NMU DEVELOPS SUDDEN INTEREST IN SUN OIL, BUT LITTLE TOO LATE SIU CERTIFIED AS BARGAINING AGENT IN MIDLAND; NLRB THROWS OUT USUAL VICIOUS PROTEST OF NMU MATE DISCOVERS HE MUST FOLLOW SIU CONTRACT PLENTY OF SHIPS HIT NEW YORK BUT THEY ARE ALL IN TRANSIT MIDLAND CONTRACT WILL BE THE BEST ORGANIZING AID HEAVY FOG HALTS ALL SHIPPING IN PORT ARTHUR GALVESTON GOES BACK TO NORMAL AFTER HOLIDAY SIU MAKES SHORT SHRIFT OF CHIEF ENG. COOPERATION SPARKS THE NEWHALL HILLS FOUR SEAFARERS INJURED ON COASTAL MARINER MISSISSIPPI GETS SUBSIDY FOR NEW RUN SEVERE STORM ABATES IN NORTH ATLANTIC ISTHMIAN MEN EVEN MORE PRO-SIU THAN BARGAINING ELECTION SHOWED WHAT TO DO: SOME DEPARTMENTAL SUGGESTIONS FOR COOKS RETROACTIVE PAY WAITING Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1/24/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/91efaad306c01d214b3df482ca0cde94.PDF cbd01705a2e46edc700a16bbf9765e81 PDF Text Text ' -r Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. JANUARY 17. 1947 No. 3 SlU Declared Isthmian Winner By NLRB; NMU Phony Protest Belays Certification I Entire Anti-CDmmie Slate Count Of Challenged Isthmian Ballots Elected In Lccal 88, MM&P Gives Seafarers A Final Election Tally NEW YORK—Despite the disruptive tactics of the small fraction of communists in Local 88 of the National Organization Master, Mates and Pilots, the elections in that union were carried through with a minimum of trouble. The attempts by the commies to splk the MM&P during the recent strike were repudiated by the member­ ship, and the commie candidates received only a scattering of votes. ^ Of 1256; NMU Ekes Out 813 Votes NEW YORK—The last dying gasps of the National Maritime Union, over the Isthmian election, are being heard this week as the NMU protested to the National Labor Relations Board about the fact that the Seafarers International Union has been chosen as bargaining agent for the unlicensed seamen of the Isthmian Steamship Company. 4- The SIU received 1256 votes, I against 813 for the NMU and 69 ^ for no union. This gave the SIU an overall percentage of 58.7, and ! was more than 20 percentage points better than the NMU was able to roll up! Only 171 votes were voided on j challenges, and this was a small All bodies affiliated with i fraction of the original 502 votes not popular with the strikebi-eak-; ing crowd down here, and that the Central Trades Labor As­ challenged by the NMU. includes the company and City sembly are responding to our The decision of the Regional authorities and they made sever­ call for cooperation 100 per­ NLRB was announced late al attempts to prevent its circu­ cent. The Seafarers Interna­ Thursday, January 9, and gave tional Union took the lead and the NMU five days in which to lation. All labor down here , is solidly donated $500, and we have file an objection. On Monday, behind the Teamsters, and now their offer of assistance in any January 13, the NMU did just morally, or that, and is endeavoring to have that the Seafarers has taken the way, financially, lead, we can expect even more physically. the whole elction set aside on This is not idle talk on the the phony grounds of collusion, support for these men in the fu­ ture. W. E. Sullivan, the Agent part of the SIU. for they back j As soon as it became clear that for striking Local 79, sums up up their words with actions. I the SIU was the choice of the the feeling in this statement, pre­ We greatly appreciate the ac- ! Isthmian seamen, the NMU starlpared especially for the Log; (Continued on Page 6) I ed to raise the bugaboo of colI lusion. Without one shred of real evi­ dence to back up its wild charges, the NMU has been able to stall for months, and Isthmian men are still being deprived of the union i-epresentation they leader, Joseph Shoemaker, died. | voted for, which they need so Members of the Seafarers In­ The remaining two, Sam D.. badly. ternational Union, and all mem­ Rogers and Eugene S. Poulnot | NEXT MOVE bers of unions, will not have any were scarred by the tire chains | On the strength of the NMU reason to forget Tampa, Florida, which were used on them, and protest, the NLRB Regional Diin a hurry. This is a notoriously barely escaped with their lives, rector must now make a report open shop town, and brutality In the investigation that fol-; to Washington, accompanied by and violence are part and parcel lowed, the police officials admit- j his recommendation. Using this of the way workers are treated. ted that members of their de-1 report as a basis, the National As recently as the 1946 SIU partment had been implicated in! Board will have the alternative of either certifying the SIU as General Strike against the dicta­ the murder and beating. Tampa today is a throwback to the bargaining agent for unli­ torship of the Wage Stabiliza­ tion Board, the Ships Chandlers the Tampa of eleven years ago. censed Isthmian seamen, or else in Tampa allied themselves with What happened then is taking hold new hearings to ascertain the police to try tp break picket- place right now, with police and the validity of the NMU charges. In either case, it is plain to see lines and send stores to the ves­ company goons having the run of sels which were sailing as scab the city while decent citizens that the Isthmian seamen prefer are in fear of their lives. tlie Seafarers International Un­ ships. The fight of the Teamsters in ion, and it is only a matter of For the rest of the labor move­ ment, the mention of what took Tampa is the fight of all oi-gan- time before the Company will of Shoe­ be sitting down to negotiate with place in Tampa on November 30, ized labor. The fighf '335, is enough. On that date, maker, Rogers, and Poulnot was the SIU. Only the stalling tactics of the three organizers were tarred and the fight of all union men then. At that time we were still NMU has prevented this so far, feathered and viciously beaten with tire chains. So brutal was young, but now the picture is and the NMU is rapidly running their ti'eatment, at the hands of different, and labor will not take out of ways to delay things any the police and others, that the the "Tampa Story" lying down. further. SlU Supports Tampa Teamsters; City Heads Try To Break Strike Also on the referendum ballot! were eight propositions, six of which were approved in the vot­ ing. The results of the election are as follows: President. John Tweekrum By SONNY SIMMONS First Vice-President. C. T. At­ kins. TAMPA—^The reign of terror Second Vice-President. A. J. in this city continues and in­ Shea. creases, and the only bright spot Secretary. Business Manager. since the strike started was the contributions of $500.00 sent to William C. Ash. : Trustee 3 Years. Harry Martin. me to be turned over to the bat­ Trustee 2 Years, M. C. Fesco tling taxi drivers. Here is the telegram that ac­ and D. J. Gillespie. companied the money order: Captain Harry Martin, who Enclosed is Seafarers Interhas been Business Manager of Local 88 for a number of years I national Union's check for was not a candidate to succeed $500.00 to be turned over to Tampa AFL Teamsters in their himself. • The two propositions which fight against repressive mea­ were defeated would have estab­ sures of local authorities. Inform Teamsters that Sealished rotary shipping in the Port 1 of New York, and changed the | farers are behind them 100 per meetings to the second and fourth cent physically, morally, finan­ Wednesday of each month at cially. Eyes of nation's trade-union 7:00 P.M. movement are on you in this FEW CP VOTES The position of the communists battle to protect labor's consti­ in Local 88 is graphically illus­ tutionally-guaranteed rights. trated by the fact that the highGood luck and keep up the good fight. (Continuei on Page 9) Harry Lundeberg. President Seafarers Int'l Union When this message was read to the striking drivers, they raised Due to the bad weather the roof with their shouts of ap­ which wrecked airplanes all preciation. This expression of over the United States and solidarity gave them a boost just finally forced the Govern­ when it looked the darkest for ment to ground all planes for them. a short time, the ballots from It is easy to see that the com­ Mobile, in the election for pany and city officials are not too 1947 officials, have not yet sure of their ground. Since they been received. control the press, only their side By the time the next issue of the story has come to the at­ of the LOG goes to press, we tention of the public. But the hope to have the complete copies of the Seafarers Log which count so that the names of have been sent down here for our the men who will lead the membership reached some of the SIU. Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ people of this town and gave trict, for the coming year can them an idea of the conditions.. be published. For this reason thg Log was Voting Returns Labor Hating Not New In Tampa; Union Drganizer Killed In 1935 �Pag* Two THESEAFAREES LOG Friday, January 17, 1947 SEAFARERS L Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At n Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 X & 3, HARRY LUNDJEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New Yoi-k, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 Stacking The Cards There's an awful lot of loose talk, in Washington and other places, about limiting labor's right to strike. The same tongues are continually wagging about ending the closed shop so that workers' will have real democracy in their industries. These mealy-mouthed speeches mean absolutely noth­ ing to anyone who knows about labor's struggles to achieve the trade union movement we now have in the United States. Those who preach that labor hasn't any democracy at the present time were not willing to grant democracy, decent wages, and good conditions for workers until the unions came along and forced them to do so. Now these same reactionary exploiters of labor set themselves up as defenders of the workers against their elected leaders. A member of a trade union comes closer to realizing democracy in his union than he does in the Government of the U. S. At least union leaders really go to bat for the membership. Congressmen only represent the bosses and the people with money. The red tape experts have invented many ways to tie up labor, and to stop workers when they try to advance themselves and better their conditions. Courts have always served the moneyed classes, cops have always swung their clubs against picketlines, and Congressmen have always been willing to pass a fast law against labor whenever the bosses told them to. But the laws and tricks which are already in existence are not enough for Big Business. They like to play games with the cards stacked for them. And so now they have sparked a drive for even more stringent restrictions against labor. Of course, the windbags in the Senate and in the House of Representatives will make long speeches about "the responsibility of labor," or "the closed shop is undemo­ cratic," or "we believe in trade unions, but—" but their real aim is to smash labor unions. They are obviously fol­ lowing out the directions of the corporations which they serve. Very little of the labor -legislation which has been suggested since the new Congress took office is of a con­ structive nature. Most of it seems to be guided by revenge, not real efforts to achieve industrial peace. They have masked their thoughts in smooth words, and they have sold a bill of goods to the average person in the United States. They maintain that they want only to cut down on strikes, but their real objective is to break the back of the trade union movement in the United States. Measures which have as their prime idea the threat to union treasuries (which are greatly inferior to the funds available to business), or which threaten the security of workers through their union contracts, are definitely antilabor and will not lead to industrial peace. It is easy to see what Big Business wants when the pro­ posed laws are analyzed. It is up to the labor unions to hold firm so that their ambitions will not be realized. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals 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 writ­ ing to them. BALTIMORE HOSPITAL FRANCIS O'BRIEN FRANK DOLAN FRANK NIXON RAYMOND HODGES • RUSSELL REDDERT JOHN DUDKO JOSEPH BENNETT JAMES DAVIS CHARLES HAHN MICHAEL McCOLAGH PETER LOPEZ THOMAS WADSWORTH LAWRENCE HOLMES SEBASTIAN AMENTA HUGH HOLLMAN GUNNAR WIKSTROM NATHAN CARTWRIGHT TOM MARTINEAU ARTHUR PRICE CLARENCE DOWDY $. Si Si STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL J. L. EAKIN E. F. SPEAR P. J. WILKINSON R. G. MOSSELLER D. HUTCHINS M. J. QUINN W. B. MUIR J. S. WOOD , W. G. H. BAUSE MOSES MORRIS J. GRIFFIN L. A. CORNWALL P. STEWART "CHIPS" NEILSEN H. BELCHER L. L. MOODY JR. C. KOLSTE Si Si s* NORFOLK HOSPITAL T. R. GOING R. P. McBRIDE J. E. HARRISON NELS COLLSTIUP W. MANNING J. McNEELLY T. BOIGOS R. FITTS H. S. HARRISON G. AHTIAINEN F. BONNER 4 4, t NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL H. G. DARNELL LIONEL ROTHERHAM THOMAS J. BAIER JOHN SERCU CENTRAL MASON W. BROCE, Jr. ERNEST J. COOPER JACINTO NAVARRO JOHN P. BROOKS You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) RALPH EWING J. STEFANIDES EDWARD CUSTER KARL PETTERSSEN F. BERGLAND E. R. BUCKLEY E. J. RIVIERE J. W. DENNIS R. M. NOLAN JOHN RETOUR 4 4 4 NEPONSIT HOSPITAL LINDER CLARK J. FIGUEROA L. L. LEWIS H. SELBY H. BURKE J. S. CAMPBELL J. T. EDWARDS B. LUFLIN G. F. McCOMB E. FERRER R. BLAKE J. R. HENCHEY 4 4 4 ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. MCDONALD J. KOSLUSKY �Friday. January 17, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Joint Action Of Did, New Members Vitai Factor in Success Of SiU By EARL SHEPPARD In the organizing drives con­ ducted by the Seafarers, equal credit must be given to both the old timer and the newcomer. Each, to their respective ability, have contributed the work and the driving force that is necessajiy to put any campaign across. Looking over the record of the past year, and discussing the drives on the unorganized ships and companies with the men who sailed the ships and did such a good job, we actually find more of the younger members of the union than oldtimers. The reasons for this was that it is much harder for the older man to land a job through the crimps and company offices. The companies are suspicious of nim from the beginning, feeling that, in the years he has been to sea, he must have become affiliated with some union. OLDTIMERS WISE Even after he gets a job on an unorganized ship, his position is harder because he has grown ac­ customed to good conditions on union ships. The company offi­ cers and stooges are suspicious of him and generally jealous of his superior seamanship. They use every means to make him "blow his top" and pile off the ship, leaving the job open for what they considered the more malleable younger seamen. To the oldtimer, however, be­ longs credit for proving that the unorganized companies could not mould the younger searnen into "company men." He taught them both the score of good union­ ism and good seamanship, and it must be remembered that on good union ships the two always go hand in hand. On deck, for example, it was the oldtimer who taught the art of splicing both wire and rope; how to properly coil, stow and break out hawsers; make mon­ key fists; to mix and paint; rig bosun's chairs and rig all ships gear. In other words, the thousand and one things learned by ex­ perience and not out of books. The same applied to both the En­ gine and Stewards departments. EDUCATE YOUNGER MEN At coffee time, and on the watch below, all of this would be .•supplemented with the first hand story of the oi'ganization of the Union, the story of how strikes were conducted, befs settled and victories won. The education of young mem­ bers and seamen on unorganized ships is the main task of the Union at all times,, and in the organizing drives of the past year the oldtimers have carried on this work well as is proven in the results of the Isthmian election. The Seafarers all can congratu­ late these Brothers on a job well done, and can be sure that they will continue to do the same kind of job when the chips are down in the future struggles that, are sure to head the Seafarers way. The role played by the new­ comer, often a member for just a few weeks and frequently even before he actually took out a membership book, was equally important. They did their job efficiently and thoroughly with all of the energy at their command. They took full advantage of all of the literature of the SIU, and thoroughly studied the organiz­ ing material and history giving them a first hand organizational weapon, which they used to the best advantage. These men were instrumental in extending the organizing drive beyond the ships and into every place a seaman could be found. They were not satisfied with or­ ganizing around the clock aboard ship, but brought prospective Seafarers right into the Union halls by the hundreds, actually lining them up in the majority of cases. In the Isthmian drive, many of these men piled right onto an­ other Isthmian tub before the old man's signature was dry on the one they had just got off. The new members do not have to take a back seat for anyone, whether it is on the job splicing a hawser, keying up the main en­ gine or knocking out a batch of bread in the galley. These young members are real Seafarers and will continue to be leaders in our future struggles. ON CONTRACT SHIPS Another important organizing task was the work carried on by thousands of Seafarers sailing on contract ships. These Brothers carried the organizing material to unorganized ships crews in every section of the world. Due to these activities, the Log and other Seafarers literature can be found almost anywhere a ship can dock or drop the hook. Prior to the general activizing of Seafarers crews, the SIU was little known—but now it is in­ ternationally regarded as the most successfull and militant seamens' union in the world. This has resulted in much favorable publicity and spread the name and influence of the Seafarers far and wide, many miles away from any ship or dock. This combination of both old and new organizers, volunteers and members sailing contract ships, has resulted in a smooth hard hitting organization. Wages and conditions, which were once regarded as wishful thinking and a goal that no mai'itime union could obtain, are now an actual­ ity due to the functioning of this apparatus. Just a very brief glance at the achievements of the past year: the successful general maritime strike; the knocking out of the phony Wage Stabilization Board; the defeat of Bridges in his juris­ dictional raid in the Coos Bay beef; the defeat of the govern­ ment medical program and the competency card proposals are just a few of the day-to-day, week-to-week beefs that the Sea­ farers have won. These, topped off by the de­ cisive Isthmian victory, prove that no aim is too high or no goal impossible for the Seafarers. THE TRIP AHEAD A full volume could be written on the individual and collective merits of the men who made the Seafarers' victories possible, but praise won't win our future bat­ tles. The Union has many tasks and, if the shipowners are given too long a breathing spell, they will use the time to muster their forces for still greater attacks on wages and conditions. Despite the victories that have been won, there is still plenty of room for improvement. The Union apparatus must be still rnore streamlined and strength­ ened. New forces must be de­ veloped to take the places of those officials who, like all sea­ men, wil be back at sea some­ time. Union expenditures will have to be so organized that each dol­ lar will insure the maximum Un­ ion representation. Union educa­ tion must be kept to the fore­ front, so that as many members as possible can qualify to hold any job in the Union. There are many things to do and no time to waste. A good job has been done, and done well, but as Andrew Furuseth said, "Tomorrow is also a day." There are bigger and tougher jobs ahead, and to met the fu­ ture well prepared the Seafarers can never let down for a single moment. UNIONISTS AID ANTI-FASCISTS By PAUL HALL According to some of the recent 'reports that have come to us from the membership, it seems to be extremely important for the Seafarers International Union to establish Halls in Trinidad and Port Alfred, Canada. Not only is it important, but it is desirable to have on the spot representaliun at tliese points. There is no question in the minds of the writers of the letters that, if at all feasible, we should have Branches where we can ser­ vice not only our own members, but also members of foreign unions, and those foreign seamen who have no union. That would serve to make the Seafarers truly an international union. This is one of the questions that should be taken up by the Agents' Conference that will be held shortly after the newly elected Agents are installed in office. Moreover, the Isthmian election has shown us that we must have, as soon as possible, a Hall in the Philippines. This was one of our weak points, and the election would have undoubtedly have been won more easily if we had a Hall there. It is to the credit of our vol­ unteer organizers that we did not lose ground in those ships which were concentrated on that run. Again, this is another question for the new Agents to discuss and act on. SIU Representation Best As long as the Seafarers continues to grow, we will have to establish new ports to service our growing membership. Wherever an SIU member sets his foot on solid ground, he should not be too far from SIU representation. Our main boast is that we give the best representation to our membership, as well as the best contracts in the industry. Let's make sure that we keep up that record in the days of progress that are still before us; There are many things that may beset us in the coming year. It's always that way for guys who woi'k for a living. Sometimes the bosses try to job you, and usually the politicans do their damnedest to deal you a dirty blow. But the main thing we have to watch out for in 1947 is that the shipowners will try to force us into premature strike action. If they have the Government and the Courts on their sides, they will be only too pleased if we pull the pin on their ships. Why not, if they can depend on "Uncle Sam" to fight their battles for them. This does not mean that we must bind ourselves not to strike in the coming year. Sure, we will lock up the ships if we see that is the only way to win our demands, but we should not allow our­ selves to be placed in a position where we have to play the ship­ owners game with the cards stacked against us. Ill-Prepared Strike Bad A strike against insurmountable odds is a bad deal for seamen. In 1921 the seamen were forced into a strike, when they ana every­ body else knew that the time was not right. The operators, espec­ ially, knew this, and so they held tight. The same situation held true in 1939. The year 1939 was the time of the NMU tanker strike. Of course, in that action we also had a typical NMU-commie treacheiV They called their membership out on strike, and then the commie leader­ ship showed them how to fink the tankers out. Without doubt, they, then and there, put the tanker organizing drive back five years at least. Not only did those fakers lose the strike for all honest seamen, but they had the nerve to blame the SIU for the defeat. We took the lead in offering to picket struck ships, and we hit the bricks in solid support of the strikers. The commie misleaders of the NMU finked those ships out, in defiance of the wishes of the NMU rank-and-file, and theri they had to go looking for someone to hang the blame on. Commies Pass Buck There are certain tricks used by all commies when they are faced with the results of their own ti'eachery. One of them is to blame an innocent party, and that is exactly what they did in this case. They tried to put it all at the door of innocent parties, but honest seamen were not fooled. A check for $1000 for the purchase of CARE food packages packages for exiled Spanish anti-fascists was presented by the Intl. Solidarity Committe to Fernando de Los Rios, who accepted the gift on behalf of the exiles. At the presentation were (L to r.): Vice-presidents Charles S. Zimmerman and Luigi Antonini, of the Intl. Ladies Garment Workers-AFL; Phil Heller, executive director of the Intl. Solidarity Committee; de Los Ries; and Na­ thaniel Minkoff, secretary-treasurer of the Dressmakers Joint Board. ILGWU. No more were they fooled by the various other tricks that the commies in the NMU have used. The attitude of true working sea­ men is that certain leaders of the NMU have done more to harm the advancement of seamen than all the shipowners, operators, and Government agencies put together. That is a tough record to have, and it is all true. Any group that sinks low enough to use the trade union movement for their own selfish purposes, should be prevented from associating with decent men. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fout FHd»y. January 17. 1347 su.. WHAT tTHIMIC., Eyes Prefits Of Operators QUESTION: — What should be the Seafarers' objectives in the year EOBERT NEBLETT, FOW: It • I ihink that all our pressure should be on the four-watch sys­ tem in the next year. I'm a Fire­ man, and I know how important it is for a Fireman to have plenty of rest in between watches. A man can't stand sort of work, over a long period of time, without cracking up. Six hours a day is all that a man can work on that sort of job. The shipown­ ers won't like the idea, but for seamen the four-watch system is a must. Jobs will be getting scarce, and that will also help out in that situation. GEORGE E. MARSHALL, Stew,; As in years past, I'm sure that the SIU will continue to shoot for higher wages and better working conditions. That's the way it has been in the past, and that is the correct way to work in unions. With rising rents and higher food costs, we need in­ creased wages, and I am sure that the SIU wil get them for us next year. I have been sailing for more than 20 years, and I haven't been able to save any money for when I retire. I hope that new men will not have to face the same sort of old age. WASHINGTON—A $22 billion war shipping scandal was in the making here last week as Sen. George Aiken (R., Vt,), chairman 1947? of the Senate Committee on Ex­ ecutive Expenditures, said hewould make a thorough probe of ELWOOD D. KITTRELL, AB; exorbitant subsidies paid to ship­ We should concentreite on the owners. companies to insure cleaner ships. Aiken, who is planning to or­ The one I just got off of was fility, ganize his committee as soon as and in terrible shape. The lock­ possible and bring together a topers were broken, roaches were on notch investigating staff, said he the loose, and the whole ship was believed Congress should be in­ badly in need of painting. These terested not only in knowing how vessels are our homes at sea, and shipowners pulled down enorm­ the companies should make the ous unearned profits, but why necessary repairs and keep the they require peacetime subsidies. ships in good condition. In the Meanwhile, the House Mer­ long run it wouldn't cost them much more because the ships chant Marine Committee branded would last longer, and seamen the wartime accounting prac­ would work harder for a com­ tices of the Maritime Commission pany that maintained clean ships. and the War Shipping adminis­ tration as "unsound" and "chao­ tic." The records were found to be in "such a chaotic state as to have made possible serious mone­ tary loss to the government." H, J. A. KOONING, FOW: I think that we should go all out to eliminate the Coast Guard. They want to play at being boss over us, but we don't need their watching over us. The Union will take care of our interests without the CG. During the war the Coast Guard did a good job at pa­ trolling the coasts and doing the kind of job they were supposed to do. Bui they lost the respect of all seamen by the way they tried to lord it over us all the time. Their hold on us should be broken; and we should be re­ turned to the jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce. The Maritime Commission had previously listed wartime profits of only 19 shipbuilding companies at $356,006,612 on just $22,979,275 invested capital. One of the most extravagant returns disclosed was an esti­ mated $58,840,88.5 profit by ohe Henry Kaiser firm on a $460,000 investment and a $1,080,000 take, on a $600 investment by the St. Johns River Shipbuilding Corp. of Florida. Political Partisans in Trade Union Movement Have One Objective—if Yen Can't Rule, Ruin And it was not only the NMU that was guilty of such actions. Any time, before the war, during thd war, and after the war, that the communist line changed^ the NMU and other communist-dom­ inated unions changed their pol­ icies accordingly. That is why the communists, in and out of the NMU, are so discredited. That is why the sea­ men voted so heavily for the SIU in the Isthmian campaign, and that is. one of the many reasons that is beating the commie-dom­ inated waterfront unions in their attempts to organize other un­ organized sdhmen. By LINDSEY WILLIAMS At no extra cost to the mem­ bership of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union, but at a terrific cost to the members of the Na­ tional Maritime Union, we are being treated to the sight of what happens when a bunch of politi­ cals grab hold of a trade union and start to use it for their own end. This fight m the NMU has been brewing for a long time, and if Joe Curran hadn't blown the lid off, the rank-and-file was sure to do so before too long. The communists have had con­ trol of the NMU practically ever since that- union was formed. That is the reason that a lot of honest trade unionists dropped out, and that is the reason that the SIU has always attracted the people who wanted to build a union on trade union lines, and not on the lines set down by Joe Stalin in Moscow, or by any other political faker for that matter. Wlienever it suited the com­ munists to work against the best interests of the labor movement, the communists in the NMU and in other CIO unions, did their dirty work to betray what sea­ men and other workers really want. Always their first idea was to. ENTITLED TO BELIEFS LINDSEY WILLIAMS Brother Williams is Gulf Area Organizer for the SIU, and in his work has had a good opportuniiy to observe how the politicals operate and what they stand for. suit the commies, and they didn't give a damn if that was not what was best for the American Labor movement. For that rea.son, the NMU subr jugated the reasonable demands of its membership during the war so that the ends of' the Soviet Union could be served first. In my organizing work, I come in contact with people who have various political views. There is nothing wrong with a guy be­ lieving in one political system or party or another, if that's what he wants to do. What is wrong is when the people who, believe in that sys­ tem try to take over" a trade union so that they can force the union to follow their line even if the vast majority of the mefhbens don't want to have any­ thing'to do with it. That is exactly what happened in the NMU, and you had a pic­ ture of the officials going counter to what the membership really wanted, and what was best for them as working seamen. Don't think that the NMU is the only union that the commies have been able to paralyze with their blind obedience to the CP line. There are at least four other CIO unions that find themselves doing Joe Stalin's dirty work just because the officials of the union are members of the com­ munist party. NO WITCH-HUNT This should not be taken as a call for a drive to force all poli­ ticals out of our Union. Under the democratic traditions of the SIU, it would be in violation of our Constitution if anyone tried to do anything as raw as that even against political finki. But this is a warning as to what can happen if we allow members who follow a certain political line, whatever it may be, to try and lead our member­ ship along that line and against honest trade union principles. In the years that tlie NMU has been declining* the SIU has been steadily growing, both in mem­ bership and in the respect of all seafaring men. No matter what union a seaman belongs to* he {Continued on. S4ge 14.) A Commei'ce Dept. announce­ ment last week was heralded as the year's greatest understate­ ment when it reported that "The year 1946 was one in which, busi­ ness activity, sales and profits were above the best pre-war years." Keep It Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Pcdrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff imtil everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one ' to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. �THE S E AT ^ REnS tOG Friday. January 1^, 194^ ^Vmanl Fire Series Of Mishaps On Abr. Ciark Page Five A WOT TIME ON SS ABRAHAM CLARK By JIM BERESFORD The SS Abraham Clark now . ei-gehcies by this time, that withhas a good chance of going down ^ out even a general alarm soundin maritime history as the Black ing, or without a single order Gat. At least, that is if you be­ from the Mate, the crew sprang lieve in black cats causing bad into action as soon as smoke was seen. luck. Men came running from all We crewed up the Clark on December 14, and sailed from parts of the ship, hauling fire Boston on the Pan-American run. hose with them. The dense smoke For a Liberty, the Clark was a poured forth out of the damaged fast ship, and we all looked for­ forepeak, and more than one man ward to a pleasant trip and fair was overcome. Soon, however, the fire was weather. But we couldn't have under control, and before long been further wrong. The first accident, or incident, it was completely out. Since this accident nothing else whichever you may prefer, took place in New York Harbor when eventful has taken place aboard Jumping Jack Dolan .sma.shed his the SS Abraham Clark, but we foot while working around the are ready for anything now, and we wouldn't be surprised if it ship. happened. Unfortunate as it was, we did not look upon it as the start of a jinx. Later we remembered it as the first in a series of inci­ dents that made us all creep into our sacks at night with our fingers crossed. LULL BEFORE STORM We soon put New York behind us, and had a fair run down to New Orleans The only beef was lack of sufficient stores, but in comparison to what happened later, this part of our trip was al­ most perfect. We tied up in New Orleans for a couple of dr|/s, and made everything shipshape for the rest of the voyage. Then we pulled out and headed for Mobile. Swinging about to head down Top picture shows the crew of the SS Abraham Clark springing into action as soon as the fire was discovered. From all the Mississippi River, we ran up directions, the men came running with the fire hoses. In a matter of minutes the blaze was under control. Picture, above left, over the opposite bank. Finally was taken as one of the crewmembers was being given first aid treatment after having been overcome by the smoke. On the the ship squared away and we right we see that the fire is almost completely out. and most of the crew is starting to go back to their regular jobs. started around the first bend in These pictures were taken by a member of the crew of the Abraham Clark. Donald Bean. the river, with every crewmemter swallowing hard to keep his heart out of his mouth. We were not disappointed. The action continued and became in­ If you don'i find linen creasingly more exciting. when you go aboard your MISS AND HIT ship, notify the Hall at once. ment for strike 'leaders. Govern­ WASHINGTON — In proclaim­ Our bow narrowly missed a WASHINGTON — The drive A telegram from Le Havre or ment suspension of union con­ C-2, we came even closed to a ing the formal end of hostilities for compulsory universal military Singapore won't do you any Laker, and we finally plowed in World War II on December 31, tracts, cancellation of draft detraining — a program opposed by good. It's your bed and you ferrment for strikers, and black­ right into a Liberty belonging all segments of organized labor — President Truman automatically listing of strikers by government have to lie in it. to Lykes Brothers. was given a boost last week when set the end of the Smith-Connally employment agencies. This ship was tied up to the President Truman appointed nine dock and, as we pulled away anti-labor act, and the wartime civilians to an Advisory Commis­ from it, our stern came ar -und excise taxes on luxuries for June sion of Universal Militaiy Train­ and hit the same ship. This time 30, 1947. ing. The elation over the latter was we did more damage than we had Labor officials w^ere quick to shortlived as in his State of the on the first collision. point out that no labor represent­ By this time we were all plenty Union address to Congress, Tru­ atives were appointed to this nervous, and our fingers were man asked for the 'enactment of body, and that all of the appoin­ all thumbs. We stayed right a law extending the 20 percent tees are known for their strong weher we were' all night, and federal excise tax beyond the pro-conscription views, and this LONDON — Reaching the peak more than 10 years over their in all probability indicates that The figured that we would start all June 30 expiration date. end of this tax covering liquor, membership of its history, the actual age. Most of them had the committee will decide on the over again the nekt morning. The following morning was furs, jewelry, and theatre admis­ British Labor Party recently re­ aged rapidly with high blood nature of the conscription plan dull and foggy, and we ran sions would mean a billion and a ported a 1946 membership gain pressure, heart diseases, and instead of debating the pros and aground twice in the Mobile half dollar saving for consumers. of 213,000. At the beginning of thickened arteries the rule. cons of conscription. Dockworkers claimed that the River. The second time it hap­ The Smith-Conally Act when last year, the Labor Party mem­ The AFL, CIO and Railway pened, we waited until the fog it expires six months from now bership amounted to 487,000, and uncertain work on the water­ Brotherhoods had reaffirmed their lifted before proceeding. means that by that time the gov­ this has now grown to 700,000 front and the heavy strain of traditional opposition to peace­ Coming down stream toward ernment-seized coal mines and according to Labor Party secre­ their jobs caused their physical time military conscription at re­ condition. \is we recognized the Alcoa Plant­ Great Lakes tugboats must be tary Morgan Philips. cent conventions, pointing out "The Labor Party's aim for the er, and at the same time we returned to private operation. % ^ % that conscription had been used first few months of 1947," said realized that our steering mech­ LONDON — A complete set of In addition, the expiration of as a weapon to break strikes by anism was out of whack and that the act •will relieve Labor of clubs an official, "will be to reach our new proposals for better pay and drafting strikers into the army. we were heading right* for the which have been hanging over its target, of 1,000,000 individual working conditions have been Joining organized labor in their members. other ship. presented to the National Mari­ head, such as the provisions opposition to conscription. Brig. time Board, central shipowners % % S. TRIED HIS BEST calling for penalties or imprisonGen. H. C. Holdridge (Ret.), CoSYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — A council, officers and men, by the The Alcoa Planter Skipper chairman of the Armed Forces Sydney specialist. Dr. McQueen, British maritime unions. What tried his best to miss us, and Committee of the American Vet­ recently revealed that the dock- the unions seek are paid holidays, even ran the bow of his ship erans Committee, stated in a radio ^ SID SHlPlSACLEAi^SMlp/ regular work, better shipboard workers have the highest indus­ aground in the process, but the debate that the program for com­ trial death rate among all Aus­ conditions and shorter hours. Stern of the Planter came around pulsory military training "is un­ tralian workers today. Dr. Mc­ 4. 4, t blocking the channel. SINGAPORE — Ending a 19 sound and dangerous." Queen declared his admiration Our Captain ordered a hard iioldridge charged that the arm­ for these dockworkers who have day .strike which had tied up right, but the Clark just would Singapore Harbor, seven thous­ ed forces, through their mono­ to make a tough living in spite not. answer the wheel, and we See TMAT HtooR and Indian dock woi-kers recently poly over national security, havfe^ of many physical handicaps. plowed right into the grounded SHIP IS IMSOOP The Australian specialist had returned to work. Their return become instruments of power oRt>ee 6EPOR£ ship. ITPAVSOFFJ a gloomy view about these work­ to work was based on the Gov­ politics, and intrude into every Immediately upon impact, fire ers over the age of 60, and ^id ernment's agreement to establish phase of our lives, in peace and broke out in the' forepeak. The in war. that the majority of them looked an arbitration board. crew had become so used to em- End Near For Smith-Connally Act With Termination Of The War • ATTENTION! Labor Opposes Military Draft �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six , TNE RISE ' t Since June,-^1946, consumer , prices hove risali 15^ .wiih food showing. •- Jbe greatest Tncreose. Rents hpve helcf steodyC : ; iNoa SIU Supports Tampa Teamsters; City Heads Try Te Break Strike (Continued from Page J) tion of the SIU and in the fu­ ture, as in the past, we want to state our loyalty to that or­ ganization. We are back of them 100 percent in all their undertakings, as they have been back of us in our time of trouble. Fraternally W. E. Sullivan, Agent, Teamstei's and Chauf­ fers Union, Local 79 The pre.ssure that the Seafarers Log stirred up has not been with­ out some effect on the labor-hat­ ing authorities here. Last week the original injunction against Local 79 was amended to allow picketing by the strikers in any 1939 • 1940 wi-goEEDs- ^ourtr Oroarlmtnt of lobor In his first economic report to Congress under the 1946 Em­ ployment Act, President Truman submitted this chart titled "The Rise in Consumer Prices." Since June 1946, said Truman, "con­ sumer prices have risen 15 percent with food showing the great­ est increase." Labor economists, however, contend that the 15 percent is low, that consumer prices have jumped 18 percent or better in these last six months. Sill Rejects NMD Proposal To Set Up Arbitration Board NEW YORK —Never have the differences between the policies of the SIU and the NMU been more clearly illustrated than this past week, when in a desperation move, NMU President Joseph Curran wired SIU SecretaryTreasurer John Hawk requesting cooperation in asking Labor Sec­ retary Schwellenhach to call a conference of labor and industry representatives for the purpose of arbitrating maritime union de­ mands. In line with basic SIU policy, Secretary-Treasurer Hawk de­ clined the invitation, and re­ stated the Seafarers position, "The policy of the Seafarers In­ ternational Union is to negotiate directly with our operators with­ out government interference and if we cannot come to an agree­ ment use our economic power to enforce our demands." • The complete text of the NMU telegram from President Curran follows: are in the same predicament and have provisions for wage reviews though there be different dates, but within a month of each other, for such reviews, you use your good offices to call together all the representatives of labor and industry and ask them to agree that the Department of Labor appoint an arbitrator to handle this problem as a national prob­ lem in order to eliminate the chaotic conditions that did arise in 1946 and may arise again if satisfactory conclusion is not ar­ rived at. Will you join us and sign such a telegram with us jointly? If it is possible will you reply by Sat­ urday. Joseph Curran In reply to this wire, SIU Sec­ retary-Treasurer Hawk sent the following answer: Mr. Joseph Curran President National Maritime Union 348 West 17th Street New York, N.Y. John Hawk, Secretary-Treasurer The Atlantic and Gulf District Seafarers International Union of the Seafarers International 51 Beaver St, Union of North America rejects New York. N.Y. your telegraphic invitation to We have been in negotiations join with you and sign your pro­ •with AMMI since December 27th posed telegram to Secretary of on wage review for our member­ Labor Schwellenhach suggesting ship. We have requested a 25 that he call a conference of rep­ percent increase plus adjustments resentatives of labor and industry on several key ratings. We have and request that they agree to received no offer from the oper­ authorize the Department of ators to date. Our final meeting Labor to appoint an arbitrator to is Saturday, January 11th. We decide whether or not the sea­ propose to send the following men should get an increase of wire to Secretary Schwellenhach wages or set wages for seamen. in the event we receive no satis­ The policy of the Seafarers In­ factory settlement at the meet­ ternational Union is to negotiate directly with our operators withing Saturday. our government interference and Contract provision assuring us if we cannot come to an agree­ of wage review on material sub­ ment use our economic power to mitted to company proves beyond enforce our demands. any doubt the necessity of our John Hawk xeceiving the 25 percent increase Secretary-Treasurer requested but operators refuse Atlantic and Gulf District to grant any offer at all. Our Seafarers International Union request of you Is that, in view of of North America the fact that all marine unions Friday. January 17. 1947 By JOHNNY JOHNSTON As long ago as the spring of 1607 the remaining forlorn and discouraged members of the illfated Popham colony launched the first ocean-going vessel to be built on American shores. The vessel was called the Vir­ ginia, and was built in the Kennebeck River. The survivors of the little colony of Popham used the ship for the voyage home, and landed safely in England months later. i J. S. This is fhe first time in the history of the United States that this country has ever had a strong merchant marine andj a strong Navy at the same time. At one time or another we have had a good Navy and prac­ tically no merchant vessels, or plenty of commercial bottoms which had to be converted to war ships in time of danger. February 22, 1784, marked the first time that an American ship sailed on a voyage to enter the Far East trade. The vessel was the copper-sheathed Empress of China, and she left New York with 10 officers and 34 mem­ bers of the unlicensed crew. She made a round trip to Whampoa, stayed one month in that port for trading, and return­ ed after logging a total of 32,458 miles for the voyage. The trip took 16 months, which is a far cry from the length of time re­ quired for the same voyage to­ day. 4- 4" Many of the provisions of the Act of 1790, the first attempt to give any consideration to the rights of sailors, are still in force. This act specified that seamen were entitled to a written contract setting forth a definition of the proposed voyage plus the rate of pay. If, for any reason, such an agreement was not executed, the ship Master could be compelled to compensate his men at the highest prevailing rate of pay. As a guarantee the ship itself could be held for security. but the "imm'ediate vicinity" of the office of the Tampa Cab Com­ pany. Previously the strikers were prevented from picketing any place in the city. VIOLATION OF RIGHTS The attorney for the union pointed out that the injunction denied the union the right to dis­ cuss or display placards about the .strike anywhere, which con­ stituted a violation of their con­ stitutional rights guaranteeing freedom of speech. One of the guiding spirits in the drive to break the Teamstei's in Tampa is Florida Attorney General Tom Watson, who is us­ ing this campaign as the opening wedge in realizing his political ambition to become either Gov­ ernor of Florida, or United States Senator. Watson is notorious for his anti-labor, open shop sentiments, and sparked the move to pass an "open shop" law in the state of Folrida. He has also openly al­ lied himself with anti-labor forces throughout the United States. From the start of this strike he has been present in Tampa, counseling the company, and ad­ vocating s tr i n g e n t measures against the taxi drivers. POLICE BRUTALITY The brutality of the police in this strike is indescribable. On numerous occasions, accompan­ ied by company goons, they have clubbed strikers. Violence has been resorted to more than once, and there are striking drivers in the hospital right now with stab wounds and broken heads. Only recently the police at­ tacked and arrested six picketers, and even the pro-company Tam­ pa newspapers reported that one of the picketers was treated for a "slight cut in his stomach." This sort of violence is not the excep­ tion, k is the rule. Although the union is willing to arbitrate, the Company has taken the attitude of the author­ ities to heart and they are arro­ gant in their refusal to put the whole question before an impar­ tial board. On one occasion, Sullivan, rep­ resenting the drivers, said, "I'll be willing to submit this whole thing to arbitration, so we could get out in the open and show the public what it's all about. The Mayor, or any one that Circuit Lewis Contempt Trial Begins In Washington Before Supreme Court WASHINGTON, January 14— The Supreme Court today start­ ed to sift the facts and dig into the arguments presented by the attorneys for the United Mine Workers, AFL, and the Govern­ ment in the appeal from the con­ viction of John L. Lewis and the UMW for contempt of Court. Attorneys for the union con­ tended that the restraining order violated the Norris-La Guardia Anti-Injunction Act and the con­ stitution. Interrogation established that the miners were not employees of the Government and that the Anti-Injunction Act was violated when Federal Judge T. Alan Goldsborough handed down re­ straining order. Judge Smith might name, would be acceptable." The company has turned down all efforts toward arbitration of this dispute, because they feel confident that the City Officials will assist them in bringing the strikers to their knees. It is a matter of official record that the pqlice in Tampa have been detailed to guard scab taxi cabs so as to insure their con­ tinued operation. BUSINESS WATCHING All the open shop advocates in the United States have their eyes on Tampa. If the union loses here, it might be just the blueprint for other union loses in other places. The Teamsters down here are not in this strike for fun—they need the conditions and security that the union will give them. If labor in the United States needs a lesson, this is it. Beware of the guys who come out with their open shop proposals. See what the price of an open shop state is, and do your level best to stop the.se union-busters in their tracks. They arc not honest in their convictions, they only know that Big Business can pay them bet­ ter than the labor movement. And they don't bite the hand that feeds them. The Patrolmen Say Time Off Although the shipping rules clearly outline the provisions for securing time off, some of the newer members are under the impression that they are entitled to time off in port as part of their job aboard a ship. This is not true. If these men will read the agreement, and in­ terpret it correctly they will find that the contract does not pro­ vide for regular time off. Time off provisions are con­ tained in the shipping rules where it is stated that if time off is desired the seamen should have the ship's delegate call the Union Hall for a relief. A relief will be furnished for not less than four hours nor more than three days, and will be paid at the regular overtime rate by the crewmember taking the time off. In this same vein don't put in overtime for time spent off the ship. This only creates a hard­ ship for the Patrolman, yourself and the rest of the members. Ray Gonzales ^ ^ ^ NEW YORK—Recently when the SS R. Semmes, Waterman Steamship Company, pulled into port the payoff was held up for two days on an overtime beef. It seems that the Chief En­ gineer had the Oilers oiling draft fans on the Captain's deck twice each watch. Under our contract this work constitutes overtime, but the Engineer refused to call it overtime and wouldn't okay it or turn it in to the company. Maybe it isn't overtime on NMU ships, where he probably came from, but we put him straight that it certainly is on SIU ships. After some wrang­ ling around we got the matter straightened out with the result that the three Oilers now have 125 hours overtime coming to each of them. Salvador Cdlls �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 17, 1947 Page Seven Maritime Commission Under Fire, But Nothing Will Come Of it By JOE ALGINA Shipping Is Slow In Savannah; NO NEWS?? Cattle Movements Due To Stop Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: By ARTHUR THOMPSON SAVANNAH —The week was 'fairly busy with three sign-ons and one payoff — all SUP ships however, so only the deck de­ partment was involved. The South Bend Victory was paid off and there was quite a bit of disputed overtime. It was finally squared away, and any of the crew who left can collect from America n-Hawaiian by sending them their address. The shipping of cattle from Savannah is expected to be stop­ ped next month. This will slow shipping even more in this port. We get quite a few cattle tenders coming in every day asking us to ship them oyt as seamen. We have to turn them down since we havn't enough ships to keep Shipping Is Up In Philadelphia; Future Is Bright By JAMES 'RED' TRUESDALE PHILADELPHIA—Well, Broth­ ers, now that the elections are over but for the shouting we can take down the "Vote Now" signs, congratulate the winners and offer condolences to the losers. It was a good election and a record number of votes were cast in the Philly Hall. Things along the waterfront here are gradually picking up and we expect to do much bet­ ter as time goes on. As the shipping increased dur­ ing the past few weeks many of the oldtimers have shipped out and we sort of miss their smiling faces around the Hall. Recently the Nathaniel Courier, which Waterman took over from the NMU, was in port and we went down to straighten her out. She sure was in need of more than straightening when we got a look at her. We were sure'that a bunch of pigs had been crewing her, as the whole ship was filithy. CLEANED UP The NMU crew must have done nothing toward tlie upkeep of the vessel. There was a lot of work to be done, but the new SIU crew pitched in and in no time all the rooms weer painted and she was sparkling like new. With a well satisfied crew aboard she put out to sea a per­ fect example of our slogan "An SIU ship is a clean ship." We still have the Seatrains in Chester, but no dope as to when they will start running again. They are all reconverted and ready to go, and we're ready to sail them. Maybe something will break with them soon and they'll start calling the Hall for crews. Well, fellows, though it's still winter, spring can't be far behind and with it those warm sailing days we're all waiting for. And that's the news from Philly for this week. our own members .supplied with CHARLESTON jobs, but in spite of that we still HOUSTON have difficulty in getting mem­ NORFOLK bers to ship out. JACKSONVILLE GETTING WORRIED PORT ARTHUR MOBILE Shipping is getting so bad that GALVESTON even the smart people are get­ BALTIMORE ting worried. Col. Alfred W. Parry Jr., president of the Parry The deadline for port reNavigation Co'., Inc., views with -ports, monies due, etc., is the apprehension the fact that our Monday proceeding publica­ merchant fleet is rapidly passing tion. While every effort will into the hands of foreign com­ be made to use in the current petitors. issue material received after We, the supposedly less intelli­ that date, space commitments gent working stiffs, predicted generally do not permit us to such a turn of events before the do so. war was over. The South Atlantic SS Co. and Strachan Shipping Co. have an­ nounced the creation of a legal department. Thomas H. Adams, who was discharged from the navy after nearly four and a half .years service is its head. The department was created "to bettei- cope with constantly changing regulations pertaining By BLACKIE CARDULLO to labor relations, wage-liour MARCUS HOOK — We've matters and tax-laws." It states further down in the announce­ known for a long time that the ment that Mr. Adams, upon his NMU organizers in this port are discharge, took a short course in having a tough time trying to tax and labor laws at Harvard. win the Sun Oil men to their THE PROFESSOR SAYS side, but we didn't realize how Speaking of college people and really tough it is until this story the intelligentsia, here's a honey came to our attention. I got from a local newspaper. Dr. It seems that one of the or­ Frank P. Graham, professor, no ganizers was giving his sales less, of economics, advanced what talk, but wasn't getting too good he conceives to be "four fallacies." a response. So, as the Sun Oil Here they are: tankerman was about to leave, 1. Inci'eased wages are neces­ the organizer took his name and sary to provide purchasing pow­ told him that he would receive a er to take potential output off five pound box of candy as a the market. Christmas present from a girl who 2. Wages should be increased lived in a small suburb near to meet the higher cost of living. Marcus Hook. 3. Wages should be adjusted in When the man got back to his direct cnrre.spondence with a costship he found the package all of-living index. right, but it was full of NMU 4. Workers had a higher stan­ literature, and not one piece of dard of living during the war candy. That's the kind of Christ­ than they now have. mas present that shouldn't even I have no argument with .the be given to a dog. last one, but if the other three NO GOOD WILL are fallacies, I'm a monkey's Candy Is Dandy, SeanianSays,But Let's Have Some UUtRLV IS A COMMO/Vl y FALLACY/ uncle. In case you don't know, a fallacy is a deceptive or false ap­ pearance, an illusion; I know because I just looked it up, so don't bother. Here's a story which is a bit old, but I think still good. A congressman had a maid who asked him if a senator was high­ er than representative. He as­ sured her that such was the case. She thought this over awhile and then asked, "Is there anything lower than a congressman?" • The least the NMU could have done was to send some candy along for the seaman to share with his buddies. That would not have helped the NMU in or­ ganizing these men, but it might have built up a litle bit of good will, and the NMU sure needs that right now. Our organizing campaign in Sun Oil Tankers is going along pretty smoothly, partly because the men down here know of the reputation of the Seafarers, and partly because we are working hard without fear of a split in our Union. The NMU piecards here are scared from day to day that they will be out iri the cold. NEW YORK—Every time the boys in Congress can't think of anything else to talk about, somebody gets up on his feet and starts to lam bast Iht; Maritime Commission for their extrava­ gance during the war. Then all the other men nod their heads and say that it sure was too bad that so much money was wasted, and that they had better investigate the whole situ­ ation. So they name an Investigating Committee, and everybody is happy. That includes the Mari­ time Commission, because the YES SIR/ -THE BEST INlVESTlGATiOW WE EVER HAV/ in pay for the man. for the entire trip. What I am trying to bring out, is that sometimes these hot-shot officers trj' to throw their weight around. When that happen.s, don't worry too much, but make sure that you report it to the Patrolman when you hit port. That will be all that is neces­ sary to get action on your com­ plaint. New Orleans Has Praise For One Calinar Skipper By C. J. 'BUCK' STEPHENS NEW ORLEANS — We found out here in New Orleans that the day of miracles was definitely not over. We had the SS Eleazor Wheelock, Calmar Line, come in to payoff last week and we de­ finitely ran across as good a Skipper that has ever sailed any Committee never does anything man's ship. This scow was on articles for that could possibly worry the over four months and spent quite MC. Those of us who sailed ships all a few days tied up by the various through the war years know how strikes here in N. O. before sail­ the Maritime Commission was ing. Just before sailing the crew wasteful of money, and how their got a bum steer, and 18 men inefficiency actually helped to walked off the ship and held her line the pockets of the shipown­ up a day or more, so the Calmar ers and operators. agents here placed charges An investigation is urgently needed, but what the people of against the men with the Coast the United States will get is talk, Guard. This Skipper was contacted and talk, and more talk, when ac­ tion is the only way to find out he took the men back and the ship sailed, failing to put charges the truth in the whole matter. Right now the Bigshots in against the men. "When the ship Washington are talking about returned, the Captain refused another investigation, this time again to put charges against so that the Republicans can em­ them, so the 18 men were cleared. There were 2 hours overtime barrass the Democrats. disputed, and the Skipper raised But the moment they find out that they will also be embarrass- j hell because they hadn't told ing their shipowner friends, you | him about it so he could have can be sure that the Republicans had it okayed before the payoff. will not be too much in a hurry So, fellows, from now on out, to go through with a real inves­ let's say Calmar line has one tigation. good Skipper, because Captain H. H. Fletcher is 100 percent. PICKING UP All the past few weeks we We can thank Captain Fletcher have been saying that shipping for making the SS Eleazor Whee­ and business would pick up, andj lock a good ship, and I feel with­ now it finally has. This past week' out a doubt that it's about the has been a very busy one, and only good Calmar Line ship. If we have crewed up plenty of there is another good one I can ships, and we have paid off quite stand corrected, but, as I said, the a few at the same time. j day of miracles is not over, and This week the Robin Tuxford, it will have to be proven to me, Robin Lines, came in from a five- because I've never seen a good month trip to South Africa, All Calmar Line ship or Skipper out­ beefs, and there weren't too side of Captain Fletcher. many, were settled at the payoff. So, good luck and smooth sail­ This was a clean ship, and the ing, Captain—and we hope you Stewards Department got a vote will get a crew to work along of thanks from the crew for the with you because you really rate swell job they did in providing one. So for the coming year the holiday meals for the men when best of crews to you. they were far from home on Christmas and New Years. But on the Span Splice, Alcoa, the story was entirely different. Part of the story come out in the Send in the minutes of membership meeting, so I don't your ship's meeting to the want to discuss it here, but the New York Hall. Only in that other part should be brought to way can the membership act the attention of the membership on your recommendations, right here and now. and then the minutes can be It seems that while at sea, the printed in the LOG for the Chief Engineer tried to get an benefit of all other SIU Assistant Electrician to sign on crews. as Engine Maintainance. When Hold those shipboard meet­ this was refused, he broke the ings regularly, and send man down to Wiper. Of course, those minutes in as soon as the Union took this up as soon as possible. That's the SIU way! the ship hit this port, and we were able to collect the difference Send Those Minutes �THE SEAFARERS LOG Fage Eight Shipowner Stooge, LSU Sponsor, Doesn't Like Seamen's 'Attitude' By HENRY W. CHAPPELL Keep It Clean! II is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. TOLEDO — The big money- Committee on Merchant Marine boys who own the ships on the and Fisheries, has publicly an­ nounced he will vigorously op­ Great Lakes don't intend to give pose the Seamen's Bill of Rights the seamen a minute's rest, as which is awaiting ratification in they constantly plot to under­ the Senate now. mine the gains made by us dur­ American seamen have come a ing the past years. long way since the sailing vessel One of these groups held a days when Mates and Skippei-s meeting recently in Cleveland were legally administering cor­ which was attended by represent- poral punishment, and in some tatives of government agencies, instances brutal murder. shipowners, and licensed officers. It should be kept in mind by At the meeting, seamen's unions all seamen that every gain we and the mental attitude of un­ have made in the past has been licensed seamen, came in for dis­ bitterly fought by shipowners, cussion and condemnation as be- and that we were only able to ing threats to the efficiency of ^hese concessions as an orthe Lakes Carriers ships. ganized body, not as an indivi­ John I. Horton, personnel man­ dual. ager of the maritime department SPRING DRIVE of the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Com­ This spring on the Great Lakes, pany, was the spokesman who did most of the blasting against the SIU is putting on an organ­ the "mental attitude" of seamen. izational drive for new members. This coming from an official of' The SIU has consistently proven ' in the past that it is the only the company which sponsors the,in phony Lakes Seamen's Union' sailors union, run by, and for makes us wonder which union sailors in America. Despite the opposition of the he is referring to. shipowners, government agencies, MENTAL ATTITUDE and the other so-called seamen's [ By JOHN MOGAN This group of anti-labor phon­ unions, the SIU, with the aid of BOSTON^—Shipping and busi­ ies, may wonders never cease, other AFL maritime unions, will ness still remain only fair for the admitted that unlicensed seamen progress forward until we are port of Bo.ston. Plenty of ships recognized as an important factor of the Great Lakes are capable in American shipping—and not to be contacted, but most of them of having a mental attitude. are in transit. One would never think so as a group of slaves or pieces of The 88 Stones River (Pacific machinery to be put into motion judging by the way Lakes sea­ tanker) paid off in Portland after men have been pushed around when we are needed, and beach­ a five-month voyage, with loads by the large shipping interests ed when shipping slows up with of beefs and exactly 43 loggings. not a thought or care from any during the past few years. Brother Sweeney covered this However, when these groups group as to how we will subsist payoff and spent three days in find that the seamen refuse to until we are needed again. Portland (where he said icicles In the past, seamen have been submit to their policies, they then hung from the chandeliers in his connive, through their legal staff, the last to enjoy the fruits of or­ hotel room) ironing out the beefs ganized labor such as Social Se­ and straightening out the logs. curity, unemployment insurance, The wind-up of the latter was and other conditions shore work­ that all were cancelled by the ers have enjoyed. This is only because we were not united as Master. This tanker was crewed by two-thirds SIU men and onea body. third SUP. After the effects of the first big grog party in five JOIN NOW months wore off, the crew turned You can do your part by join­ out to be a good gang. ing the SIU today and becoming EASTERN NOT READY an important part of this mili­ Shipping has been fairly good. tant organization. -Join and help the SIU retain the gains already Not only did. the tanker take a won, and help in securing great­ full crew, but the scows in tran­ er gains in the form of higher sit have been taking a few men to have some governmental wages, better working conditions, each. Eastern has taken over the agency formed to force their pol­ etc. Above all, to be recognized Samuel Parker and the Theodore everywhere as a damned impor­ Parker, both of which should be icies upon the seamen. tant part of American industry. taking on full crews this week. The SIU has always contended However, it looks as though So come into the SIU now, that as American seamen we do Eastern won't have its passenger not wish to be wards of the gov­ while the battle is on with the ships ready for a while yet. shipowners and all other factors ernment, to be regarded as serfs The outlook for the week isn't unable to look out for our own hindering the seamen's program so hot. One payoff is due for for a better life. Don't be a par­ interests both at sea and ashore. tomorrow; but at the rate pay­ We want to be recognized as asite riding the backs of your fel­ offs have been cancelled here re­ low workers, enjoying the gains free Americans. We want a voice they have fought for while you cently, we won't be sure until in all matters pertaining to our are hiding behind the dubious the Commissioner is ordered. welfare. Yet we can always figure on a We want our working condi­ membership of a phony political couple of tankers to pay off and or company union. tions, wages, etc., to be negot­ There is only one sailors union crew up in this vincinity. Then, iated through the company by too, we somehow always get the Union with no interference where the membership runs the enough diversions and unexpect­ show, that's the SIU. from government agencies. ed arrivals to keep the port out Tankers Keep Port Boston Free Of Red Ink SHAKE MILITARY We are the only group of civi­ lian workers in America who are under direct military jurisdic­ tion. Our aim is to have this sit­ uation altered so we will be rec­ ognized by the government, and the shipping interests, as free Americans just as other shore side workers. Organized labor can expect serious opposition in the coming congress. Seamen's unions, in particular, must be on the alert for battle, as Fred Bradley, Con­ gressman from Michigan, who is the new chairman of the House'«. Send Those Minutes Send in the minutes of your ship's meeting to the New York Hall. Only in that way can the membership act on your recommendations, and then the minutes can be printed in the LOG for the benefit of all other SIU crews. Hold those shipboard meet­ ings regularly, and send those minutes in as soon as possible. That's the SIU way! of the red. Rumors have been flying up from New York that it has snap­ ped out of the slack spell, and that anyone who wants to ship fast has merely to grab a train for the big city; so there's no .ex­ cuse for any member staying on the beach around here who wants to-get going. Latest information is that the Joshua Slocum (South Atlantic) and the Brigham Victory (Alcoa) are definitely going to payoff here in the next couple of days. Hence, we'll have to quit crying "poor mouth" until we see what else will develop. Friday. Janueury 17. 1947 Rated Jobs In All Departments Are Going Begging In San Juan By DAN BUTTS SAN JUAN — This sun-bathed port can report excellent ship­ ping during the past few weeks with every spare man being pushed aboai-d a ship. In fact, the jobs have been .so plentiful that we've had to go back into the sugar cane breaks and beg some of our members to ship. We've had rated jobs in all departments and not a soul in the Hall to take them. Just so the membership can't miss the Hall when they become inclined to ship out we've hung a new sign out in front. Now you can't miss tlie Hall from any di­ rection. We have made arrangements to put two floodlights on it to illuminate it at night, so with the addition of the lights, SIU men from the ships will have no trouble finding the Hall after dark oven if it's their first trip to San Juan. and the Messman had a cracked head. They're going to pull through all right, but they had to learn the hard way that the Island is not a jungle for seamen to run wild over. Now they realize that the police down here do not get paid to curry to their whims and fancies, but make it tough on them if they get out of hand. GOOD IDEA There were good crews on the Haiti Victory and Cape Hatteras that just pulled out of here. They BOLLET HOLES? IT MOST 86 — ^ OLDTIMERS BACK It is easy to see that some of the oldtimers are coming back to the rum 'n coke run, for on a meeting night half of the mem­ bership present is off ships dock­ et at San Juan. Ah, this won-~ rierful Island! Not so wonderful, however, was the trouble that broke out last week. There was a slight shooting incident in Ponce re­ sulting in the hospitalization of a Saloon Messman and Wiper off the Columbia Victory. The Wip­ er had three bullet holes in him realize the necessity of paying dues at this end of the run as well as the other. If all the ships that run in here regulai'ly for Waterman and Bull would adopt the system of pay­ ing one month's dues up north and one month's duos down here, this Branch would not only pay for itself, but could be remitting money to Headquarters as well. So, suppose you fellows on this run give this idea a little consid­ eration. Seafarers In Corpus Christi Were Kept Busy Past Few Weeks By J. S. WILLIAMS CORPUS CHRISTI—The past I Mate, Mr. A. R. Truett. We read few weeks have been busy ones in the "West Coast Sailor" of his for the port of Corpus Christi. being like an old woman. We The Wolf Creek, American Pa­ would like to apologize for the cific, came in with a clean pay­ misinformed person who report­ off, and over at Harbor Island, ed the statement. Mr. Truett is another clean slate was found one of the best mates any of us aboard the Newberg, Los Angeles have had the privilege of sailing Tankers. with. Big Phillips is Steward aboard Signed: Deck Gang, the Newberg, and the entire SS Newbeig." crew is singing his praise as one And so it goes this week from of the best Stewards in the SIU. Corpus Christi. Having a good Stewards Depart­ ment makes for a happy crew, and they all looked happy to me. The few minor beefs at the pay­ off were quickly ironed out. During the past week we also had a couple of unorganized ships in port which were covered and found to be very favorable for the SIU. The York and Cedar Break, both Pacific Tankers were ATLANTA—The AFL's south­ in this week on the coastwise run, also the El Moro, American ern drive last week announced a Pacific, likewise on coastwise, major campaign to organize the south's entire citrus 'industry dropped in for a short while. now employing about 75,000 ALL QUIET NOW At the moment the port is workers—the largest single group quiet with all ships clear of the of workers in the south, except harbor, but we expect more lumber and textiles, yet unor­ tankers in very soon. ganized. The crewmembers of the New­ The AFL, acording to Drive berg, before she sailed, gave me Director George Googe, launched a letter asking me to have it run in the Log. They wish to cor­ the campaign on the basis of in­ rect a misstatement printed in creased wage scales with "at the "West Coast Sailor" concern­ least a minimum of 75c for com­ ing .their Chief Mate. The let­ mon labo.rers." In addition the AFL will seek ter to the Log and "West Coast unemployment c o m p e n s ation Sailor" is as follows: "The crew of the SS Newberg where now the citrus workers are are glad to report the perfect co­ barred from relief rolls by legis­ operation given us by the Chief lative action. AFL Is After 75,ODD Southern Citrus Workers — / �Friday, January 17, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Seafarer Killed In Accident On Daniel Jason M. Mickelson, 44-yearold Seafarer from Seattle, Wash­ ington was killed December 30 aboard the SS Daniel Huger, Mississippi Steamship Company in Mobile, Alabama. Page Nine What To Do: Some Departmental Suggestions For Chief Cooks By JOSEPH VOLPIAN (This article is not an inter­ pretation of the agreement as it covers the Stewards Department, but merely makes suggestions to that Department in answer to many questions raised by mem­ bers. Each week an article is be­ ing run in the Log making sug­ gestions to each of the ratings in the Stewards Department. This week's, the second of the series, is for the benefit of the Chief Cooks.) After the Chief Cook reports aboard with his working gear, and turns his shipping card over to the Steward and Stewards De­ partment Delegate, it is sugge.sted that he follow the routine outlinecf below. First check the ice boxes and storerooms as to their contents and the location of the various items, then have the galley clean­ ed and made ready for serving meals. After this he should contact the Steward as to the menu, and with him work out the meal plan. Following this enough frozen meat for about three days should be removed to the thawing box. Night Cook and Baker, Third Cook, - and Galley Utilityman working directly under him. AJso the Chief Cook is responsible for all food that is prepared and served from the Galley regardiesg of who cooks the food. When the Chief Cook desire.'* to work any member of the Stew­ ards Department on overtime, it is suggested that he contact the Steward for authorization as to how many men to work. He should have the Steward Depart­ ment delegate keep a record of this. The reason for this is that many times, when overtime is disputed by the Steward, Com­ pany or Master at paj'off, they ail claim that they did not authorize the member or members involved to do the overtime work claimed. The Companies are putting on was so prejudiced as to preclude a big campaign to put the mer­ the men getting a fair trial. chant marine permanently un­ At the conclusion of the hear­ der the jurisdiction of the Coast ing, he ordered that the certi­ Guard. Their claim is that the ficates be su.spendod for a period Coast Guard would run the mer­ of six months. chant marine more efficiently HOT POTATO and would maintain better disci­ On or about the 4th day of pline. August, 1946, an, appeal was Since the formation of our At the time of Mickelson's Government ,the merchant ma­ taken from the order of the Hear­ death the ship was, tied up at rine has always been under the ing Officer and immediately the State Docks being made ready jurisdiction of the Secretary of wires and rails started to burn for departure to Galveston, Tex. Commerce, where it rightfully with messages and trips from the belongs. We have had proof that local Coast Guard officer to the Coast Guard is not as effi­ Wa.shington as to who would ADDITIONAL DUTIES cient or fair as they claim to be, handle this hot potato. In addition to his other gailey The idea was to take it direct in the now infamous "Helen" duties, the Chief Cook is respon­ case. Briefly, the following are to Washington; however, it was On Performers sible for all butchering where finally sent back to the local the facts: NEW YORK — We now have the agreement does not call for The crew was signed on the Commandant for a hearing of the entered into a new year and have a butcher. appeal. SS Helen under articles which signed contracts with most of the Finally, the appeal was heard When a ship is paying off, the. described a foreign voyage. The operators. The officials of the Chief Cook should make .s-me by Rear Admiral Ed H. Smith signing on was not done before Tin ion have done their part, and that the galley force prepare.s and, to be frank, he did not know a Shipping Commissioner as the HIS RESPONSIBILITIES expect that every member of the three meals for that day unless too much about the law in this law provides. SIU will do his part by living up case. the ship is on subsistence. As is known, the Chief Cook is However, the ship sailed and to these agreements and seeing After argument on August 16, responsible for the condition of (Next week the duties of the went to the West Indies and re­ that they are observed by each turned to New York which was 1946, a decision was handed meat boxes and galley at all Second Cook will be discussed individual who rides our condown by the Admiral in which times, with the Second Cook, and suggestions made.) the final port of destination. ti-acted ships. The cargo was unloaded and he affirmed the findings of the Remember these conditions the crew was paid. Several Hearing Officer, but cut the sus­ were not gained by being gassed- members of the crew quit and pension period from six months up and going up to the opera­ some remained aboard and other to three months. tors and demanding better con­ new men were assigned to the FURTHER APPEAL ditions.with more pay to the dif­ ship, who signed the original ar­ On August 22, 1946, a further ferent ratings; but were won by ticles. By HERBERT JANSEN appeal was taken from the or­ the cool-headed negotiating com­ Subsequently several men der of Admiral Smith to the mittee who put in many long from the Deck Department ask­ CHICAGO—As can be e.xpect-: make all the decisions on wag€.» tiresome hours before getting to ed to be paid off and nothing Commandant in Washington. It ed in mid-winter on the Great and conditions? was the understanding that a de­ Lakes, shipping is almost at a first base. was done by the Master to com­ UNION REPRESENTATION cision would be forthcoming in standstill. The Milwaukee Clip­ Now that they have played an ply with their request. You members of the NMU, a short time on this appeal. per is the only ship calling for Lakes Seamen's Union, and unor­ errorless game and won the pen­ NO ARTICLES However, not having heard men from this Windy City port, nant, it for the members who ganized seamen; Ask the SIU Shortly thereafter the Captain anything from the efficient Coast and only a handful of men are on sail these ships to govern them­ seamen. Find out for yourselves. Guard, on October 10, 1946, a let­ selves accordingly. The Union gave the men orders to stand by ter was sent asking that a de­ standby jobs aboard the sand You will find out that it's not boats. cannot be expected to stick out their unmooring stations for the cision be handed down. what it's smeared to be, but just Most of the Brothers who have one more attempt to discredit the its chin for any member or mem­ purpose of casting off and sup­ On October 18, 1946, a letterbers who, when gassed-up aboard posedly to take the ship into was received frryu the Coast. layed up their ships for the -win­ SIU on the Great Lake.s. ter are still dropping around the ship, decides to have some fun the stream. When you get the straight The men refused on the Guard stating that they did not Hall to keep up with the latest by destroying ship's property. dope, then join up with the SIU receive the appeal and that it grounds that they wanted to be and pick up the Seafarers Log. and get acquainted with the op­ probably got lost in the mail. NOT FUNNY paid off, that there were several eration of a rank and file union. An article printed recently in However, they would receive an­ men short in the Deck Depart­ It might seem very unimpor­ Get Union representation, not ment and that in view of the other copy of the appeal from the the Pilot accused the Great Lakes tant to the offender, but to the past history of the Company, the local Coast Guard office and we Secretary - Treasurer, Fi-ed Far- commie domination. Union it is detrimental. For At the Chicago Hall we're hold­ ship would not anchor in the would be promptly advi.sed of a nan, of selling out the Lakes seawhen a ship comes in port with stream but would continue on to decision. men by only asking for a ten ing checks covering the differ­ ' legitimate beefs aboard they are a voyage and on the further On November 1, 1946, despite percent increase in wages for ence in lay-up aboard the SS taken up with the company by their previous letter, they asked 1947. Gilbert for C. Brown, A. Kelliground that the ship might sail your shore representatives. for another copy of the appeal son and F. Plante. To this I say: How can an out­ without articles. from us and again stated that the fit condemn anyone when, based Sometimes the company re­ The good old Coast Guard was fuses to settle the beefs with the called in and took the men off appeal would be preferred at­ on their record all down the line, they have been riding the back representative for the simple and charged them with miscon­ tention. On November 12, 1946, another of the SIU? There is one thing reason there were some gas- duct on two grounds; refusal to hounds aboard who wilfully and obey a lawful order of the Mas­ copy of the appeal was sent to they will not print and that is maliciously broke open a lock Jo ter on two separate occasions Washington but nothing happen­ the true facts. ed, so, on December 17, 1946, an­ a foc'sle, or thi-ew a few cups without reasonable cause. PLEASE FIND OUT and saucers over the side. The case was tried before a other letter was sent by us in­ (Continued from Page 1) sisting that a decision be made If the author of the accusation est number of votes received by Instead of settling the beef, the Coast Guard Hearing Officer on the appeal. Finally, about company wants to penalize the who went far afield in his cross- January 2, 1947, a decision was does not know the facts, he any of the candidates backed by them out. Of the CP was no more than ten to Union for the acts of these bad examination of one of the wit­ handed down which affirmed should first find nesses. In the writer's opinion it course, when he finds out the fifteen percent of the votes gar­ characters. Admiral Smith's decision. real story, he will not come along nered by the winning candidates. When these destructive acts oc­ MEN RAILROADED later and issue an apology for Four men on the communist slate cur with frequency, the com­ misrepresenting the issue, but got less than 50 votes apiece. It is our opinion after reading pany then thinks the Union is will i-ely on the lies he fabricated The results of the election in the decision carefully that these shipping unqualified men, whose to mislead the Lakes seamen. Local 88, in which the commun­ men were railroaded by the Coast Send in the minutes of only desire is destroying company Their phony baloney docs not ists and their followers gained Guard in an endeavor to set an your ship's meeting to the property. fool anyone any longer. Their little comfort, are reflected also e.xample to all seamen that they New York Hall. Only in that Therefore, take a tip from commie tricks a'.d labor baiting in the national election of officers are under their iron fist. way can the membership act these few lines and govern your­ tactics only aid the companies for the MM&P. The decision of the appeal is on your recommendations, selves accordingly so your offi­ by putting the anti-union senti­ absolutely contrary to law and and then the minutes can be A complete slate of anti-com­ cials can always look the oper­ further action will be taken to ment in the minds of some of the munists was elected for the na­ printed in the LOG for the ators straight in the eye at the the Civil Court to break the un­ men -w-ho had the opportunity to tional organization, and there is. benefit of all other SIU payoff. holy stranglehold of a military be associated with that so-called little doubt that the commies crews. William Hamilton organization over a purely civil­ union, the NMU. Hold those shipboard meet­ have lost even the slight bit of ian industry. I wonder what the writer of prestige they had left in the ings regularly, and send These are just a few examples that accusation thiiks the res­ MM&P. Their actions during the those minutes in as soon as of the unfairness and inefficiency ponse of SIU members will be, strike showed them up for the possible. That's the SIU -way! of the Coast Guard. when they are the ones who finks and scabs that they are. Mickelson, a member of the Deck Department, was fastening hatch covers over a hold when he slipped and fell 50 feet into the hold. A City hospital ambulance and physician were called to the ship. The physician reported that death was caused by a fractured skull. The Patrolman Says: NMD Has Only One Weapon Left, Telling Lies About Seafarers Local 88, MM&P, Deals Commies Send Those Minutes �THE SEAFARERS LOG Pag* Ten Friday. January 17, 1847 SHIPS' MIMUTES AND NEWS f S H I P M AT E S All "Lost Weekends" aren't lost in whiskey bottles, despite the prevailing conception inspired by the motion picture of the same name. Lots of weekends are lost down the drain less spectacularly than those of the alcoholic var­ Brazil Crew Nips Purge Of Delegate When the First Engineer of the SS Brazil Victory attempted to "purge" the Engine Depart­ ment Delegate while on a trip to South America, the crew quick­ ly rallied behind the representa tive from the Engine Depart­ ment and squashed the attempt At the shipboard meeting held aboard the Brazil Victory, Dec. 8 the matter was introduced and the minutes state, "The First As­ sistant told the Black Gang that if they did not get a new dele­ gate they would not receive time off in Santos, Brazil." Ignoring the First Assistant's demands the crew quickly gave a vote of confidence to the dele­ gate when he asked if they wish­ ed to elect a new delegate. The entire department expressed com­ plete satisfaction with the work of the present delegate. Suspecting a possible on­ slaught on each departmental delegate Brother Terrington movglTHeR HE GOES OR Iso! HAW/ ed that "the crew reaffirm their stand behind all departmental delegates and recognize them as their delegates regardless of whether they please the ship's officers or not. If the delegates carry out their duties and live up to their end of the agreement the crew will stand solidly behind the delegates." The motion carried and with the crew solidly behind the Black Gang Delegate they went on to the next order of business. Spider Korolia then suggested that the SIU booklet, "Here's How Brother," be placed on the bulletin board in the messroom so all tripcard and pro-book men ^ could read and study it. Disposing with the remaining items on the agenda the meeting adjourned with all problems and grievances out of the way once more. Don't let that saucy sombrero throw you off. The wearer, Richard Pinckney, is not from "Down Under." He's a Seafarer and a good OS. formerly of the BY Coastal Defender. Pinckney is an able hand with the camera, too. The photo at the right was taken by Brother Pinckney just as his shipmate. Bedroom Steward Stiles, was about to light up for a few re­ laxing puffs. The men were photographed on the deck of the Coastal Defender on a recent trip to Baffin Island. Canada. Included in the vessel's itinerary was a stop at Frobisher Bay, where the Defender unloaded oil drums. Brother Pinckney recorded most of the trip's highlights with his candid camera. iety, but they are just as night-t - TT T~; T „ ' • 1. ,u 1 card s job and be home all the marish, nevertheless. time." Last week, down in the bustl­ Brothers Stephens, Birming­ ing port city of New Orleans, a ham and Bibbs moaned and precious weekend of the non-al­ groaned as they tried to get a coholic type was lost, like many mental picture of what they another before it. Lost, but quick­ vaguely recalled as home. Failing ly forgotten, since it is kind of this, they jokingly got their heads a routine loss, and it gives the together and came up with: "Pielosers a certain satisfaction in cards don't keep Jogs of their knowing the job is done. work but if they did, it would TOUGH TALE run something like this ..." The harrowing experience was Then followed a log of their contained in a little item entitled last and lost weekend. Here it is: "Facts in the Life of a Pie-card, Friday evening — The Hall or Blues in the Weekend." Auth­ closed and a bright look came ors of the piece were a trio of across the faces of all hands as hardworking musketeers known they prepared to leave for at 339 Chartres Street as "Buck" home to get a good hot meal, Stephens, Dick Birmingham and and the old lady or the girU Red Bibbs, who are Acting Agent friend. Temperature around 30; and Patrolmen, respectively, at raining to beat hell. Pie-cards the New Orleans branch. paying off the SS Bienville These three lads heard a leave the Hall at 8 p.m. member say, "You're a lucky Saturday noon — Hall closed stiff, being able to hold a pie- at noon. All hands look for­ ward to a rest over the week­ end. Pie-cards paying off the SS Grange Victory. Tempara-t ture still around 30; still rain­ ing to beat hell. Finished pay­ ing off about 3 p.m. Figured on where about halfway between going home. the Florida mainland and Key Saturday evening — Emer­ West." gency call for the MV Fire Isl­ Aside from the satisfaction Du­ and to pull a ship off the beach gina has derived from knowing at the Point. Vessel seven men that his note was found, the short, including all cooks. Freed couple's discovery has led Scouting around for cooks. to what may blossom into a friendship. Mr. Freed has al­ ready wriUen several friendly letters to Dugina which have been answered. Brother Dugina, now aboard •USTA WEAK 'ATRC>LMA^J -, a ship bound for Buenos Aires, VJK.) I previously had pitched a note over the side of the SS Cape Corwin. He is still waiting for word that someone has picked it up. Note Pitched From The Samuel Johnson In 1944 Is Picked Up On Florida Coast Somewhere in the mid-Atlan­ tic Ocean on July 24, 1944, Sea­ farer John J. Dugina, AB, drop­ ped a bottle over the side of the SS Samuel Johnson. In the bot­ tle was a note bearing Dugina's home address. The incident was promptly forgotten. A short while ago, more than two years after Brother Dugina had pitched his bottle-enclosed calling card into the sea, a letter arrived at the Dugina home in Clairton, Pa. It was from a W. R. Freed, an­ nouncing that the bottle had been J LOOK .•DEAR I j^-^BOTTLE ! / - I'LL BETALLirl^kr COMTAlNS ISA NOTE J r—-—-J picked up, quite by accident, on a Florida beach. Mr. Freed and /his wife, who live in Ashtabula, Ohio, are presently staying in Fort Lauder­ dale, Fla. Recently they were 'Caps Off To Mrs. Burns The Wild Ranger crewmembers had no lack of reading ma­ terial on their last trip thanks to Mrs. Ruth Burns, wife of Bosun Joseph Burns, who provided the boys with an ample supply of books and magazines to occupy their off-watch hours aboard ,ship. New Orleans Brothers Lose A Non-Alcoholic Weekend seamen since 1943, and at regular intervals dispatches a bundle or two down to the ships. For the last voyage, she sent over 200 magazines to the Wild Ranger. The crewmembers at the pay­ off asked that Mrs. Burns be thanked for her splendid work in supplying the seamen with reading material. ' Mrs. Burns, has been collect­ "Caps off" to Mrs. Burns from ing books and magazines for SIU the entire crew. driving to Key West when they stopped on the Overseas high­ way to take lunch at a roadside restaurant. Lunch over, they took a walk to stretch their legs before continuing the drive. THERE IT WAS "1 walked up the narrow beach of Key West looking for shells," Freed said in his letter. Sud­ denly 1 spi?^ a small bottle, which 1 thought had just been washed up since it wasn't even partically covered by sand. "1 picked it up and found your note, tossed overboard a couple of years ago. Freed described the spot where the bottle was found as some­ MINUTES OF SIU SHIP MEETINGS DIGESTED FOR EASIER READING WACOSTA. Nov. 17—Chair­ man E. E. Valis; Secretary W. R. Smith. New Business: Each man write down his own beefs and give them to Patrolman upon arrival in New York; that patrolman pay special attentio to the matter of charging the crewmembers for medical treatment; to have the slopchest investigated for prices, also why the slopchest was opened only at coffee and din­ ner hours. No notice was given when it was to be open and no price list was posted as per agreement. Motion carried that crew stand behind the Steward in getting his papers back that were suspended in Shanghai for selling butter that had turned rancid. Mo­ tion carried that arrangements be made to stop the Captain from interfering with the way the Steward runs his depart­ ment. Good cutd Welfare: Mo­ tions carried: to have the wa­ ter coolers and iceboxes fixed before the ship sails; to have new mattresses and mattress covers before ship sails; to have the ship fumigated; to have fans put in all rooms as per agreement. t i 4. COUNCIL CREST. Dec. 26— Chairman Blackie Gardener; Secretary C. G. Foley. New Business: Ice boxes and stores to be checked by Patrolman immediately upon arrival. i. 3^ 4. JEAN LAFITTE. Dec. 22— Chairman Annal; Secretary Foucek. Motions carried; to post minutes of previous meet­ ing; that working rules and Constitution be posted in crew's mess on day of signing articles; that crew go on record to post the minutes of this meeting with the repair list in Balti(Continued on Page 11) Find cooks. Now 9:30 p.m.; don't feel cold any more—too damned numb to feel anything.) Sufficient crew acquired to sail ship. Now 11 pun. Tempera­ ture dropped, like our resist­ ance, to 28; still raining to beat hell. Sunday n^orning — Call re­ ceived for five more men fori the MV Fire Island. Transfered them from the MV Watch Hill. Finally got the Cook down aboard at "^.2 noon. She's ready to sail. Yep, it's still raining to beat hell. Tempera­ ture, but not our resistance, up to 30. Sunday afternoon all was quiet on the waterfroiit. Two of the three sagging Seafarers hit out for the sack to salvage what they could of the lost weekend. It be­ ing too busy during the week, one of the Patrolman visited the Brothers in the hospital on Sun­ day afternoon. "What the hell," they said, "two of us at least, got Sundayafternoon off. Besides, we had just as much fun." �Friday, January 17, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Digested Minutes Of SiU Ship Meetings (Continued from Page 10) more so that new crew will sail until repairs are made; that legitimate overtime d i s p u ted must be paid before crew signs off. Suggested and agreed to keep messhalls clean, and. that foc'sles be cleaned before leav­ ing ship. 4- 4. MAE, Dec. 10—Chairman R. Schinger; Secretary Alfred Baker. New Business: Motions made and carried that the fol­ lowing be attended to: have heat in crew's quarters while in Baltimore; move wipers into spare room on main deck; change brand of coffee now in use; have Steward order electric coffee pot and glasses for Crew's mess; move one of the small urns that axe on the ship and out in use to the crew mess. Repair list read and attached to minutes. 4- 4. 4. NEWBERG, Dec. 22—Chair­ man L. L. Phillips; Secretary Silver. Motions carried: to see Chief Engineer in regard to having water turned on port scuttlebutt and broken spring on same; that new shower heads be installed in Steward's Dept. shower; that all port­ hole dogs in crew's quarters be freed up and cleaned. 4^ 4. HAITI VICTORY, Jan. 1— Chairman Paul Warren; Secre­ tary Charles F. Habighorst. New Business: Motions carried: that the Patrolman contact the company in regard to putting glass covers in all portholes in crew quarters; that drain be installed in pcissageway lead-<! ing to meat box; to have all flushing valves on toilets put in order; to have all springs in crew's quarters renovated. Good and Welfare: Discussion end suggestions of means and ways of keeping a clean and congenial ship. All members stood for one minute in si­ lence in respect of deceased brothers. I 4. t 4. ^ CARLSBAD, Nov. 22 — Chairman Steve Bradley; Sec­ retary Ernie Lena. Delegates reports accpeted. Good and Welfare; Motions made to tumigate entire ship; motion car­ ried to take off sugar at next) port. Motion carried to have glass ports installed. Motion made to have Bosun collect all fines and turn them over to pa­ trolman. Motion made to get milk, vegetables, ice cream, etc., in Phila. Motion carried to get face towels that will last all trip. ^ROrBCT-THESIU.^ TBcfTgCT YOURSELF/ COUNCIL CREST, Dec. 19— Chairman H. J. Collins; Secre­ tary C. G. Foley. Delegates re­ ported all in order. New Busi­ ness: Motion to have the Union investigate the slopchest in re­ gards to quality, quantity and sizes of clothing. Motion car­ ried that repair list be made up in triplicate, one ior Union, one for company, cmd one for next crew. 4. 4. it 'Frozen' Freezer Gets Cool Treatment From time to time you hear of guys whose enthusiasms for their jobs reaches such a pilch that they find it necessary to continue their work on their off hours. One such enthusiast is a guy who recently shipped on the SS Helen as Chief Freezer, accord­ ing to the minutes just received. On his night off he couldn't re­ frain from oiling up his own mo­ tor. He did such a neat job that for two days he was frozen stiff— and not because he didn't pour enough alcohol into his radiator, either. He didn't start thawing out until sailing time approached. One hour before the Helen was to put out to sea, the Freezer quit the .ship cold. His icy atti­ tude left his more Union-con­ scious shipmates cold, too. They can't warm up to guys who con­ duct themselves in such an unUnionlike manner. So, at the shipboard meeting, the Helen men passed a motion censuring the refrigerated crew member and called upon the SIU to reprimand him. The minutes stated: "The SIU has the best con­ tracts ever negotiated, and the only way we can be assured of continuing to have the best, is to live up to the spirit and letter of the contract. Drunks, trouble­ makers, etc., cannot be tolerated, as this tends to weaken the Un­ ion's bargaining position." It also weakens the position of frozen Chief Freezers. 4. 4. 4. MANROPE KNOT, Nov. 24 —Chairman Casey Jones; Secrefary Jim Connors. New Bus­ iness: Motion carried that cer­ tain tines be assessed against any brother that does not as­ sist in keeping the mess hall clean by keeping ashes and cig­ arette butts in their proper places, etc. Motion carried that company order three electric percolators and two, four slice! master toasters. Motion carried that Bosun designate a man to clean up the laundry. Amend­ ment: that Bosun designate man to clean the laundry and to receive overtime for so do­ ing, and that in the future the Deck Dept., Engine Dept., and Steward Dept. rotate weekly in keeping it clean. Good and Welfare: Open discussion on the new agreement. 4> 4. it ALCOA PEGASUS. Nov. 13 —Chairman Bosun; Secretary) Rathbone. Beef rfused about the purser selling cigarettes to passengers while the crew is Page Eleven SEAFARER SAM SAYS: rationed one carton a week. Discussion raised on the way food is served. Cold supper be­ ing served in pans to crew. Mo­ tion carried to notify the union about the way requisitions for stores were treated by the Al­ coa brass hats. Motion carried for the delegates to see the Captain to reach a settlement in getting an outside waterline and head for the stevedores while in the BWI. Motion car­ ried to see the Captain and see if the crew can get draws foif U.S. money. It was unanim­ ously agreed to have everyone wear trousers in the messhall. 4. 4. OUACHITA VICTORY, Nov. 20—Chairman R. Carlson: Sec­ retary N. Pratt. New Business: Motion carried theit coffee on board be removed upon arriv­ al in the States as it is unfit for drinking. Good and Wel­ fare: suggested that zneat lay­ ing out for purpose of thawing be covered because of engine soot. Suggested that Steward Dept. elect a delegate as ten days have passed already with­ out that department being rep­ resented. Due to unexpected/ rough weather there was a shortage of salt and pepper shakers, but this was soon rem­ By HANK edied with small glass jars. On this subject, better care of Last week we somehow came to the conclusion that we lost present furnishings was advis­ our touch with life, especially with the idea that there isn't any­ ed. thing new under the sun or even on ships, when we met two of the most sociable and humor-filled couples. Night Mate Alex "Baltimore Ski," with his wife. Deck Engineer Claude Davis, with his wife, and then bcwildcringly introduced by proxy to George, the rabbit. Believe it or not, Davey Jones will turn over in his locker amidst the graveyards of ships when he gets a wet wind of this yarn. Well, X % X being cold sober and neutral by forceful habit in all things, heard or SS EVELYN, Jan. 5—Chair­ seen, we were absorbed into the mysteriously humorous confidence man Morris; Secretary Dodd. of Brother Claude Davis, who owns and ships George, the sea-going Minutes of previous meeting rabbit, who was shanghaied from his monotonously hopping Isndread and accepted. Three de­ lubbing life in Wellington, New Zealand. partmental delegates gave their reports as okay. Treasurer also gave his report. Condemned First, we thought he was just pulling our gullible literary leg. Then, sinking deeper and deeper, with doubting eyes, we practice of leaving clothes too started shaking all over cit the thought that he might leave our long in washroom sink. Cook stated he would have storeroom leg alone and just pull out the darn rabbit out of the fedora sitting on his head. Well, to cut the carrots short, George is a cleaned up. Motions carried: to bonifide active sailor of a rabbit who has been sailing for two have wash buckets for each years with his master, is all white in color and rather large in man in each department; to put size for a rabbit. Well, Brother Claude Davis, don't forget when notice in washroom—steamline you and George come back from your trip to Belgium, come installed so clothes can be up to the Log office and get yourselves photographed . . Brother washed in buckets; port side of H. M. Benson said that when he and a few other shipmates hit sink to be used for soaking the Calmar company stiff in the office with a 24 hour notice of clothes, and starboard side for quitting, plus a technicality involving money, the proud fink of clean. Electric iron needs re­ a stiff answered them with these famous finky words, "Okay, pair, lockers ana aesks should I'll pay you the money because of this technicality but remem­ be installed, percolators should ber when you're cold and hungry on the beach, we'll remember be placed in several places. it too!" One minute of silence for Bro­ thers lost at sea. XXX Brother Benny Gonzalez, who registers all men for shipping; WILD RANGER, Jan. B — Chairman Charles Bush; Sec-I wants to hear from his shipmate, Herman Troxilair, down in New retary Sam Shatkovnick. Mo­ Orleans, whom he hasn't heard from in six years. Also from Vin­ tion carried: to make list of re­ cent Cook if he's down in New Orleans, too . . . Chief Cook Jerry pairs and equipment needed; Lima and Steward Robert Pillow just came in from a four and onehot plates, ashtrays for mess- half month trip to the Far East with an old man who wasn't worth room; that Delegates check anything. Brother Lima, went back to his home town of Tampa andl stores with Steward on board- • Brother Pillow headed for good old Tennessee . . . Angus "Red" ing ship; to keep PC messroom Campbell says that the Pittsburgh Marine Hospital is the best ol all. He went there for a blood test and they asked him if he also open at all times. wanted a tooth pulled out, or perhaps something else done, too . . . Oldtimer Lennie Grantham just blew in from an intercoastal trip. leave i|our ship md itsfTorf-jessIc^ clean and evcrq-fhine in rtSf>lacc. CUT and RUN 4. 4. 4. 4. "Carioca Red" Benway, while trying to shanghai some others, was shanghaied himself for an oiler's job and we heard that it must have broke his good old shanghaiing heart to get caught so fast .. Electrician Mike Kolonik went on the Madeline Victory for Germany and Antwerp and Electrician Nick Zevcrino grabbed the Martin Victory for a trip to Germany, too . . . "Ropeyarn Charlie Rappold anchored in and out of Snug Harbor for four years of more, just same back from a 12 day trip. Keep it up, Ropeyarn, you're doing swell . . . Mario Franciose is waiting to ship out with those familiar thumbs stuck in his vest . . . At­ tention Brother George Di George, how was your new job, after all? . . . Old timer Chester Brewer is in town right now. Shpie^ X X X X George Curran, a Great Lakes sailor, says that the SIU be^:? start increasing its organizing work in a bigger and wider scal^ {Continued on Page 13) �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday, January 17, 1947 sa» THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS CHIEF COOK Vertical Unionism Is Superior RATES ON THE SEATON TOPS To Craft Setup, Brother Avers Dear Editor: In the Seafarers International Union many of us oldtime mem­ bers do not readily agree with the statements of some of our Union officials that the Seafarer's is by far the most perfect of unions. We can assume that these few officials mean perfection in craft unionism within our particular group affiliated with the Ameri­ can Federation of Labor. The right to discuss, to deny, to challenge, is essential to the preservation of the democratic state. To deny this right of per­ suasion is to deny the basic prin­ ciples of the American system. A democracy cannot exist with­ out freedom of speech and free­ dom of the press. Our system is founded on the conception that the majority of the people possess ordinary com­ mon sense. The best way to fertilize and nurture un-American d.dctrines and vicious racial theories is to prohibit their free expression. AFL PLAN Under the American Federa­ tion of Labor scheme of organiza­ tion the solidarity of labor is largely a myth. Every union stands on its own footing as a rule. In the old days crafts were a po­ tent factor in the technique of production when craftmanship was a guarded secret only to.be revealed after a long and patient apprenticeship. In these days of mass produc­ tion no special training is I'equired, most of labor being casual employees hired from the non­ descript ranks of the unemployed. The American Federation of Labor still clings to the old-fash­ ioned ideas of a collection of af­ filiated unions, each composed exclusively of skilled artisans working at the same craft, usually with the impression they assume as the aristocracy of labor as be­ ing above the unskilled worker. Craft unions recognize the idght of the Capitalist system to ex­ ploit labor. It prospers when there is a large turn-over of labor power. It declines when the cyclical over-production of sur­ plus value precipitates a panic. It is increasingly helpless to protect the worker as the rate of surplus value inci'eases with improved technology. OPPONENT OF DEMOCRACY Capitalism has a government of its own outside the sphere of politics. Its opposition to de­ mocracy is instinctive and inevit­ able for the reason that demo­ cracy rests on human values, while capitalism rests on property values. Revolutionary ideas are going on every day and most of them make no noise. They are a nec­ essary function of life. The only things that don't move are dead things. Civilization is a living organism. We seek to create the "Brother­ hood of the Sea." Can we do such chained to outmoded ideas that have outlived their usefulness? Political action has never been anything under capitalism, but an instrument of demagogy and social deception for the purpose of maintaining the exploiting class in power. POWER SOURCE The source of all power is still at the point of production. On the job where wealth is produced. The capitalist class long since abandoned isolation and has or­ ganized a class to control pro­ duction. The working class must do the same. Its only refuge from economic and social oppresion to the level of absolute slavery is in "Indus­ trial Democracy." This is the basis for a real in­ dustrial union and its form of organization. To offset the re-' marks of my more conservative Union Brothers, permit me to take from Lincoln's message to Congress in 1861: "It is assumed that labor is available only in connection with capital; that nobody labors unless somebody else owing capital somehow by the use of it, induces him to labor. Labor is prior to, TULL AHEAD' PULLS and independent of. Capital. Cap­ ital is only the fruits of labor, and SEAFARER OUT could not have existed if labor OF THE BARREL had not first existed. Labor is Dear Edilor: the superior of capital and de­ As a member of the SIU, I un­ serves the much higher consid­ derstand that I can have the Log eration." mailed to my home. If that is so, Joseph S. Buckley I should like for you to place my name on the mailing list. Here is a personal item that may prove interesting: When the SS F. S. Bryant (Standard Oil of California) left on a hospital ship. If you see Chester, Pa., on Nov. 11, I v^ras him you can get the detaijs of the. left schooner-rigged as all my clothes were in the laundry. accident. "Sweetwater" Jim Matheson is THIS BIG serang on this ship, but the brine enooen? is slowly sinking in his sailors. We hope to be in New York al­ most by the time you receive this letter. Best wishes to all for the New Year. Jerry J. Palmer, 'Bremerhaven, -Germany Palmer Of Maiden Victory Reports From Bremerhaven Dear Editcr: Just a line to let you know the whereabouts of the SS Maiden Victory of the Waterman line. Since I am a firm believer in the old saying that "the proof of the pudding is in the eating" I am not turning in the news of this voy­ age until we get in. However, so far, the Mates and Engineers, most of them old SEAFARER OPENS SIU men, have been giving the CAFE IN boys a pretty square deal, and I think they realize the aid the ST. THOMAS, V.l. Seafarers gave them in their last Dear Editor: strikes. The Army is in charge of this Enclosed find card of the Paper port, and, as usual, is really mak­ Doll Club, a swell spot for Sea­ farers to meet and spend their ing it hard on the guys to have time while in St. Thomas, Virgin any shore leave. ANTINOUS VICTIMS Islands. There are several guys in the This club is owned by J. A. Giminez, a full book member of hospital here, some of them SIU the Seafarers International men; I went out to see Joe Union. The Paper Doll Club has Louis and Whitey Bilde, who a cocktail lounge, and is" the weer in the accident aboard the cleanest and nicest place in St. SS Antinous, a Waterman ship, Thomas. It is not yet well- when the boom fell. Bilde has a broken back and Icnown, but once Seafarers visit the place it shouldn't be long be­ a fractured skull. He is hoping fore it becomes THE spot in St. to get the support of our legal department and the Aftitinous Thomas. Will you please arrange to have crewmembers who witnessed the ten copies of the Seafarers Log accident. I told him and Joe that sent to Brother Giminez' Paper we of the Maiden Victory were Doll Club each week, so that the Standing by, and that they Should mtembers coming in here will be| feel free to call upon us if a prob­ lem arose. able to get the latest news. COMING HOME P. A. Ceirlson Louis' hip was thrown out of SS Alcoa Partner joint, and he might beat me back St. Thomas, 'V. I. Dear Edilor: I was asked by the crew of the SS William Seaton on voyage No. 7 to write a few words of praise for our Chief Cook, Ed Seeley. This is by no means the first write-up Ed has had, but if gets one in every issue of the Log, it is nothing more than he de.serves. I haven't been going to sea so long, but Ed is the best cook I have yet run across. He can make that old frozen chicken, turkey, etc., taste like it came fresh from a poultry market to the galley. Ed Seeley also backed up the Steward, E. E. Foster, who re­ ceived a big write-up in the Dec. 13 issue of the Seafarers iog. On the next trip we discovered that if we hadn't had a good chief cook, things would have been a hell of a lot different. You won't find a better complete Stewards department, than we had aboard this vessel last trip. These men are, with possibly one exception, tops. Ed left us in New Orleans for his Christmas vacation, but we sincerely hope he can be with us again after this trip. Roy W. Kilman READER, PLEASED WITH THE LOG, GIVES IT PRIORITY Dear Edilor: I really enjoyed the latest is­ sue of the -Uog. What with Joe Curran seeing the light of day, I suggest that his "team" song be "Sooner or later you're gonna be comin around." His "eulogy" was a real tear-jerker. Then there was the sjiip's menu, which ran in the Log. It still has me drooling. Had I served the same, my grocety bill would probably resemble the na­ tional debt. When the Log arrives, I usual­ ly drop whatever I'm doing (that's the day I do the ironing,) and relax to read. In no time at all the back page is staring me in the face. -It should never end so abruptly. Tillle Bishop Log- A - Rhythms The Search By Vic Combs All my life I searched for some­ thing. What is is I've never known; Sometimes thinking that I've found it. But always ending up alone. Seeking, searching through the shadows. In the gloom of heavy night. How long must I be a wanderer. When will it shine my light? Will I ever be contented. Will I find my happiness at last. Or has the life I've always look­ ed for Expired along the roads I've passed. Only The McCoy By Vic Combs Mary's found another lamb. Jack another Jill, Now when they come tumbling down. It's on another hill. Little Boy Blue has a brand new horn. His fun has just begun. But I don't want a substitute. It's you I want or none. Patience By Vic Combs If you have tried and haven't won. Never stop for crying; All that's good and great is done. Just by patient trying. Though the sturdy oak has known Many a blast that bowed her. She has risen again and grown Sturdier, loftier and prouder. Though young birds in flying fall. Still their wings grow stronger; And the next time they're able Nov. 11 was a legal holiday, To stay up just a little longer. therefore the laundry was closed —so no clothes. When we called at Baytown, If, by easy work you beat. Who the more will prize you Texas for a load of gas it was In making victory from defeat; Sunday—so no clothes. By then, Thet's ifhe test that tries you. my one suit of clothes were in pretty bad shape. The Capt. G. A. "Full Ahead" Johnson came Lofj Available to the rescue. In Copenhagen From his own duffle bag, he took a suit of khakis, which he Dear Editor: turned over to me. I operate a Union cafe and The question I'd like to raise cater to seamen from all overis why we can't have more Skip­ the world, among - them manypers like Captain Johnson? men from the Seafarers Interna­ W. C. Hall, tional Unidn. I would be inter­ 'Mineola, Texas ested in receiving five copies df (Editor's note:—-Your name the -Log every week for the men has been put on the mailing to read in my place. list. As 'folr why we cem't have more skippers like "Full Erik H. Recluse Abead." we guess that you'll Restaurant Tria find good and bad in every­ Fr. Nansens Plads thing.) 'Cdpenhageti, Denmarlc �THE S E A.P A R E RS L O, G Friday, January L7, 1947 Labor Gains Traced To Economic Action Dear Editor: An article which I wrote for the Nov. 29 issue of the Log has drawn comment in letters writ­ ten by two Union Brothers and appeared recently in the Log. In his letter, Brother Bennie Good­ man agreed with most of what I had to say, except that he takes issue with my advice to the men to vote. I will continue to advise the men to vote, although in civic affairs it is meaningless since professional politicians do all the nominating of the various can­ didates without consulting the average citizen. That is one thing. But voting in our Union elections is another. DEMOCRATIC CHOICE Every full book member with the proper amount of sea. time can nominate himself. Therefore any office can have any amount of candidates. Voting in such an election is expressing your right to pick the candidate most suit­ able for office, I say that voting is the democratic right to choose, and no vote at all means that an election is a foregone conclusion. Also, I differ with Brother Goodman in his idea that a La­ bor party such as he suggests would solve Labor's problems. All that Labor has accomplished has been through economic strength. Labor's duly is to ob­ tain the best possible wages and conditions in each trade. Play­ ing politics would leave the door open for certain factions, such as the communists and fascists, to gain a stronghold with the sole intention of using Labor to desti-oy the so-called capitalist sys­ tem. The power that would take over would soon outlaw Unions in the same manner as occurred in Germany, Italy and in the communist-dominated countries. We would see the entire Ameri­ can labor movement destroyed, and a dictatorship, such as now exists in Russia, put in its place. Until the time when such ele­ ments are removed from the Am­ erican Labor movement, we who represent Labor should continue to ignore politics. We should continue concentrating on the improvement of wages and work­ ing conditions for all American labor. Pag* Tliirl**ii SHANGHAI USS HAS PRICE LIST LIKE WALDORF Dear Editor: At a shipboard meeting today (Dec. 22, 1946), the members of this ship, the SB S. M. Babcock, voted to have a letter sent to the Log revealing conditions ut the United Seamen's Service club in Shanghai, China. Our Mrs. Galagher is presumed to be in charge there, but the place is actually run by Russians, aided by Chinese. We found theni to be overbearing in their attitude toward seamen. Mrs. Gallagher and the other Ameri­ can workers are seldom seen, and only show up to settle the fre­ quent disputes between seamen and the Russians or Chinese. All such arguments are decided in favor of the employees and the seamen are threatened with dis­ barment from the club. The Russian and Chinese em­ ployees are actually the bosses, and number ten times more than are needed. All of them eat there and are served far better food than is put out for the seamen. They are welcome to unlimited seconds. ANSWERS BOTH « I was also asked two questions by Brother Brady: "Does Labor have a political responsibility," and "Can Labor escape political responsibility." I believe my an­ swer to Brother Goodman also answers Brady, aiid I don't think it necessary to go further into debate, except to say to Brother Brady that the section in the Union Constitution he referred to was meant fo. business meetings. Also that the Log. which is one of the very few papers that print the truth, has the right to pub­ lish such articles as was written FABULOUS PRICES by himself (Brady), Goodman, my.self or any other member The fabulous prices charged to without violating any constitu­ seamen are as follows: tional rules. This ends any more The seamen pay $1.25 per meal, discussion on this subject as far usually consisting of one egg on as I am concerned. "hash. They must pay again if L. Coffin they request seconds. A hair cut is 65 cents, a shave 40 cents. Beer is 30 cents for a 12 ounce bottle, and Coca-Cola is 15 cents. A ham sandwich Th» Seafarers Log is your costs 20 cents. Union paper. Every member If you can't make the ship, a has the right to have it mailed bunk cost $1.00 per night and the to his house, where he and bed linen hasn't been changed for his family can read it at their leisure. If you havenT already done so, send your name and home ^ THE fA^ASHROX^ ? address to the Log office, 51 Beaver Street, New York City, and have yourself added to the mailing list. GET THE LOG BELMONT CREW BEFUDDLED BY CURRENCY SITUATION ABROAD At a recent shipboard meeting aboard the SS August Belmont the question arose as to a draw in the-next port. Most of the mem­ bership wanted an American currency draw as per the agreement. It was suggested that the matter be broached to the Skipper. The Skipper answered that it was not up to him but was for the Agent in the port to decide. The port in this case is Gothenburg, Sweden. Since this coun­ try was neutral during the war, the men decided that the draw should be in American currency, but we got our draw in Swedish currency. We would like to know—and have the rest of the membership know—for the future, just what the answer is in a case like this. Perhaps you can answer this question. When and where can a draw be made in American currency? Walter S. Balzer Answer:—It appears that the question of a draw in Ameri­ can currency in foreign ports is a bit difficult to obtain these days because of the muddled foreign exchange situation. From what we were able to leam. American dollars are not always available in many places. Most nations, as a result of the war and its effect on economic conditions are having a difficult time trying to stabilize their currency. International exchange rates are not steible. Although agreements call for a draw in American money when so desired, it appears thcit there is no penalty if American currency cannot be provided. The inevitable post-war mlxup and confusion makes it difficult to press the point. We did learn, however, that as soon as the foreign exchange situation is under control—which the World Bank is presently trying to accom­ plish—the SIU will take action to see that Seafarers get their draw in the curency they want. CUT and RUN (Continued from Page 11) Laftd-^Locked Seafarers Wait Patiently For Army Payoff HIGGINS COUNTS DAYS UNTIL HE CAN SHIP AGAIN GI SEAFARER WANTS THE AOG AND LETTERS Dear Editor: Dear Editor: especially in the biggest unorganized outfit over there, the Lakes Carrier Association, and also get distribution of Logs, pamphlets, etc. . . . Brother Bing Miller had a bad day last week. Ho fell asleep while waiting for a ship . . . Teddy Babkowski, a WilkesBarre, Pennsylvania man, is anchored in our big town right now . . . Paul Hellebrand is waiting for a ship after just finishing a short a couple of weeks. And you have trip to Puerto Rico . . . Did Eddie Mooney who is trying for a 49 roommates to keep you com­ bartender's job aboard some passenger ship, quit his bartender's job pany. Beer is drunk from bottles, in the Midtown Cafe because the Cafe just don't enjoy or appreciate any more visting Seafarers? not glasses. Coffee is 10 cents a cup, while a ham and cheese sandwich is 30 cents. We could go on writing of Army life is a little lonesome, pi'ices, but I think these will do. As a Seafarer now in the Army, I would like to address especially way out here. Most WHAT PRICE CIGARETTES this letter to my Union Brothers: of all I miss the waterfront, so how about sending me the Log How is everything out there Cigarettes are only for the to make life a little brighter for on the coast? Fine, I guess. As beachcombers, who get Raleighs me. for me, I can't say I'm enjoy­ and Old Golds. Other brands, it If you print this letter please ing myself. I'm certainly not. is said, go to the black market include my address and a little I suie wish I was out there with where they can be had for 40 to note asking some of my ship­ all you lucky dogs (sea dogs that50 cents a pack. Cigarettes mates to drop me a line. is.) But I guess someone has to stamped "sea stores" are on sale Thanks a million and don't for­ be in the Army. in thousands of Shanghai shops get the Seafarers Log. and stores. Since I have been in this Army Pvl. Marvin (Blackie) Stewart The club employees acts as I have been shipping with two Squadron BN-8. Flight 1464 though the place is their private of oui- West Coast shipmates, Indoctrination Div. home, and seamen are made to Frank R. Dutra and John J. Air Training Command. feel they are unwanted inter­ Samaroff. From now on the San Antonio, Texas lopers. throe of us are counting the days, (Editor's Note:—Ljfe should The joint is 100 per cent NMU. hours and minutes until we can be somewhat brighter for you We of the Seafarers have two head for the nearest seaport so soon—the Log is on the way. strikes on us before we learn the that we can ship out with our old We're hoping your shipmates score. The Russian influence pals and shiprnates. will write to you.) causes that situation. Seafarers Just now we are in. the ti-ain- iyoui Until I do I'll say "smooth are tolerated but made to feel we ing school for army paratroop­ sailing." are intruding on a private party. ers. We would like to hear from; Pvt. Leo (Tommy) Higgins NMU PRFFERENCE some of the old salts we used; to RA 13247033 ship with in the good old days. Co. D, 1st B'n. Members of the NMU, always Hpw about a few lines from ^eT;A.RJl. T;I.S. in the majority there, have to put otiier side,, boys? CI. 3^7 up with the same high prices I'll be waitinig to hear from-. Foci Banning, Ga» and poor servieeSi They are given Lilttle Jimmy Crescltelli, and his slightly visible mustache, blew in last week, well dressed, looking rich and feeling happy, after being away from the U. S. A. since January of last year. Jimmy hit lots of ports and ships, while out in the Far East, play­ ed the horses in Manila, and was treated swell by the crew of the Alcoa Pilot when they got off the ship when it was sold to the Chinese . . . Here's a letter dated January 3. 1947. from Tommy Murray and Bob "Indian" Beliviau, over there in Syd­ ney. Australia: "Well. Hank, we just thought that the ex-beachcombers would drop a line or two to let the beachcombers know how much we miss Puerto Rico. Well, we sure are taking a long way back to the islands. First, we're headed up to the Persian Gulf, then to South Africa and then Trinidad. Anyway, give our regards to Bud Ray and Dan Butts. P. S. Tommy sure misses Caledonia and Bob misses his Cuba Libra, indeed." preference in other ways, how­ ever. This is due to the fact that Mrs. Gallagher is an NMU stew­ ardess. These prices quoted above went into effect when the sea­ men got their raises. The reason for this letter is to let the other Brothers know the joint is phony, and not as nice as it was written IIP in the Log once before. Crew of the SS S. M. Babcock. Voyage No. 16 THEMEMBERSHIPSAVS; A SIO SHIP MUST BE A _ CLfANSHlP, SEFORE IT PA^SOFF/ :::: �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen Rank And File MEBA Man Urges Convention To Bolster Union The following letter was sub­ mitted to President Hogan and delegates to the MEBA conven­ tion by C. F. Berglund, a mem­ ber of that organization, with copies also being sent to the American Marine Engineer. MEBA publication. Seafarers Log and official organs of other mari­ time unions. were heavily fined. Portland Lo­ cal 41—no assessments and no fines for failure to picket. Seattle Local 38 — no assessments, al­ though they fined their member­ ship for missing picket duty. Friday. January 17, 1947 QUIET PEACEFUL SPOT How come the MEBA is not organized on a nation-wide membership basis — compatible with a migratory membership with a national headquarters hav­ ing the power to keep the finan­ cial records, issue membership books and weld the ocean-going engineers into a solid union, such as other maritime unions have? The above doesn't speak well for an organization that is sup­ posed to represent a migratory membership. Every one was pick­ eting for a common cause yet The shipowners have organi­ Mr. Berglund, in his letter, theer were different values or zed themselves along such lines. points up the weaknesses of the fines for failure to do so. From a shipowner's point of MEBA, and makes various sug­ view we don't present a united FEW GAINS WON gestions for improving its organi­ front and we will never have one sational structure. As the letter It is true that the MEBA has as long as we are organized in contains much of interest to un­ made monetary gains in the past our present local by local set-up This peaceful looking scene is of a public square in Ponce, licensed seamen it is printed here 12 years, but everyone knows without a headquarters. Puerto Rico. Picture was taken by a Seafarer, who prefers to in its entirety. that the unlicensed groups have remain anonymous, while on an island run. We are indeed organized tossed those gains at us. TEXT OF LETTER against ourselves. A chain is no However, those gains are not stronger than its weakest link. Open letter to President Ho­ gan, Delegates to the MEBA in proportion with gains made by We are a series of weak links Convention and the membership. other maritime unions since 1934. composing the weakest link in The MEBA has made little or no the whole maritime labor move­ Greetings: gains in working rules, which is ment. Another MEBA convention is the heart of all agreements and about to convene. I hope it no improvements in shipping NEW YORK —The New York SIU office be printed in the Sea­ LIVE WIRE OUTFIT proves to be a successful and long- rues, or conditions. Branch, meeting on January 2, farers Log. Mr. President and delegates, voted in favor of a motion by remembered one. I write these Brother Hall's motion also stip­ unless the above questions and Brother Paul Hall to concur in ulated that the resolution be re­ Shipping rules would be in the few lines as honest criticism and hope that you and the delegates bag if we w^re solidly and cen­ others are answered and solved a San Juan resolution that a short ferred to the Agents' Conference trally organized. Why can't the in the near future, I am afraid biographical summary and photo­ for deliberation and further consider them as such. I MEBA do the same instead of the MEBA is ripe to be "taken graph of candidates running for study. Mr. President and delegates of sitting around like ducks on a over." The resolution from the Puerto the convention, the rank and file pond? Rico Branch points out that many We smugly hold the collective members of the ocean-going En­ new men have joined the Union Speaking of conditions — how bargaining certificates, but some­ gineers want to complete revi­ since the beginning of the war, sion of the constitution for rea­ come Mates, Pursers, Radio Op­ day a live wire outfit will issue and are unfamiliar with the sons which will follow, even erators, Stewards, and some­ a few pledge cards and presto-r­ names and records of the candi­ times, Cadets have better quar­ an NLRB election will take place though bluntly and crudely pre­ dates running for office. ters than Enginers? How come and the collective bargaining cer­ sented. Thus to insuie greater demo­ the Engineers is the only mari­ tificates will change hands. About 1941 a member of the time union without a decent set cracy, as is the Seafarers con­ .Joe Curran was about to do Firemen's Union got a license and stant aim, the resolution calls for of working rules? How come the the very same thing on the east started sailing in it. He refused MEBA has no building program? (Continued fram Page 4) amendment of the constitution coast a few years ago—except to join the MEBA stating that it to read as follows: looks to the SIU for leadership How come the MEBA is only the MEBA obligingly went CIO, was a phony union with a phony "During the calender months in fighting all seamens' beefs. 40 percent organized on the east thus stopping one CIO union agreement. of November and December, We didn't get to this point by coast and 90 percent on the west from raiding another. When reminded that, since he coast? How come unlicensed there is to be a photograph and listening to the commies, or any A couple of months ago John other selfish group. We gained short biographical summary of the was reaping the benefits of their men such as Electricians and L. Lewis relieved the United Li­ our decent wages and improved candidates running for office, negotiations, the least he could Freezers take home more pay censed Officers Association of conditions by economic action, containing his efforts and pro­ do was join up, pay dues and than a lot of Engineers and work contribute to the support of the under a fine set of working rules their certificates in the same and by honest trade union deal­ gress in and for the Union, print­ manner. only organization in the field, and ings. Let's keep our Union that ed in the Seafarers Log, or any with little or no responsibility? that if he thought the outfit other periodical organ used by I believe my remarks repre­ way! phony, pitch in and help change WORKING RULES NEEDED sent a good cross-section of the Let's be smart enough to learn the Union to contact the mem­ it. bership." ocean-going Engineers—I hope from the NMU, and the other How come unscrupulous Port He did join up, regularly pays Engineers are allowed to make you take no serious exception to unions that are having trouble •In line with the motion passed his dues, and still says the outfit unscrupulous Chief Engineers out them. I hope the New Year finds with these politicals. Treat them calling for further stucj/, the is phony. Thousands have since of our membership with a bad us with a bigger, better and more as what they really are — the be­ Seafarers Log is open for sug­ gestions and comments from the followed in his footsteps and effect upon the rest of the mem­ soldified MEBA. trayer's of the working class in the MEBA, in comparison with bership? Maybe a good set of general and of the seamen in membership, to aid the Agents Fraternally yours, when they meet to deliberate other maritime unions, remains working rules would stop that. C. F. Berglund particular. the resolution. the same backward, do-nothing, No honest trade union can pro­ propose - nothing, have - nothing tect the worker and still follow union. How come? the line set. down by Joe Stalin or any other political commissar. MANY REASONS Two Branches Ask Pre-Election Photos And Biogs Of Candidates Politicos Have One Union Guide, Ruie Or Ruin The reasons are many and varied. The main reason is faulty organizational structure. The MEBA is composed of a migra­ tory membership, but is organ­ ized in locals of a shore-side na­ ture. Each local is a union all in its own—complete and absolute, which is not compatable with a traveling membership. For example, a member of one local cannot introduce or vote on a resolution at any othe local, even though that resolution is of vital importance to all locals. Technically speaking, a member of one local has no business in any other local outside of his own, and is quite often told so. Brother Recommends Action To Preserve Union's Gains Dear Editor: We all know that we have, and at the present time are, spending thousands and thousands of dol­ lars in organizational work, en­ deavoring to make more jobs. We have gone to bat with the ship­ owners and have the best wages and working conditions a sea­ man has ever known. The fact is very evident that at the present time we have moi'e men than available jobs so this work must continue. I think it is high time that we begin, with­ in our own ranks, an educational program and some process of edu­ cation for some of the chronic performers in our outfit. Since the time has come when we are receiving a livable wage I think the fact should be brought out that our employers have a right to expect a day's work for a day's pay. permit man, trip-card, and pro­ bationary member, and that blanks should be printed and furnished to each delegate on every ship, and that the dele­ gate be required to give a report on each man on each voyage. In this way we could have some­ thing concrete to go on when a man comes up from membership. We would know if he is a good shipmate, if he is sober and re­ liable and also have several men's opinions whether or not he will make a good union mem­ ber. • In this way the examining com­ mittee would not have to take one man's word. I sincerely think this process would eliminate a lot of our performers and in time show a real return on the effort given it. There is no exchange of min­ utes between the locals and very little cooperation. During the last strike, San Pedro Local 79 was assessing its working member.ship 10 percent. Members not I have been here .several days working were fined for not pick­ visiting my mother, but will be eting. San Francisco Local 97 back in the harness in a few FILE assessed its working membership days. 25 percent. Members hot work­ I also think that a file should William F. Kuschke ing and not doing picket duty 1 he kept at headquarters on every Caddo, Oklahoma Keep It Clean! It is the proud boast of the Seafarers International Un­ ion that an SIU ship is a clean ship Let's keep it that way. Although most of the crews leave a ship in excellent con­ dition, it has come to the at­ tention of the membership that a few crews have vio­ lated this rule. So they have gone on record to have all quarters inspected by the Patrolman before the payoff, and if the conditions are un­ satisfactory, he has the right to hold up the payoff until everything is spic and span. Remember that the Patrol­ man can only have repairs made if he knows what has to be done. Cooperate by making up a repair list be­ fore the ship docks. Give one copy to the Skipper, and one to the Patrolman. Then you'll see some action. Moran Towing Will Operate Two New Tugs Seafarers who have a passion for ocean-going tugs will be pleased to hear of the two new tugs being bareboat chartered from the Maritime Commission by the Moran Towing and Trans­ portation Co. The tugs to be crewed by the SIU, are of the V4-M-A1 type, which are 194 feet long, 1118 gross tons and have Diesel en­ gines developing 2250 HP. During the war, 49 of these tugs were built and saw service all over the world, but since then most of them have been lying in the boneyard. Moran is chartering the tugs for use in towing dredges to the Dutch East Indies for the Dutch Government. Up to this time most work of this nature has been principally in the hands of the Dutch and English, with Ameri­ can tugs used principally for coastal Work. �THE S E 4 F 4 R E R S LOG Triday, January 17. 1947 Page FlfieeB BUIXETIN TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Company Old And New Wage Scales Of Seafarers Compared Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and t945, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed below. The new contracts which the SIU has signed NORFOLK with the various companies have aroused a furor INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS that is even yet being felt in the lives of seamen. J. R. Jumcs. $7,00; H. R. Hutchins. $•17.00; C. Zobal. $25.00; J. Smith. Even if the other unions have benefitted by the $2.00; R. Cartwright, $12.00; F. \V. same gains, following the successful General Strike Bantz, $4.00; C. B. Vickin. $27.00; K. Hoffner. $1.00; K. Owen, $1.00; D. L. of the SIU against Government interference, still Dixon, $12.00. the leadership in this advance is generally accreditPHILADELPHIA ted to the SIU. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS The original contracts have been printed in the Crew of SS Tops Topa—$16.50. LOG at the time each one was signed. This, how­ P. Sarkus. $5.00; J. Monlero. $1.00. ever, has not answered all questions, since many Cone, William H NEW YORK Connor, Harry G letters still come into the New York Hall asking SS MANDAN VICTORY Conway, Walter for copies of the new wage and overtime rates. G. Gregerson. $2.00; H. C. Sumpter. Corbeet, Ralph P Therefore, for the benefit of all men sailing $2.00; C. F.. Wells. $10.00; E. Mayo. Corcoran, Hr. W $1.00; L. B. Clyde, $1.00; J. D. Wheal. on ships contracted to the SIU, the LOG prints the $2.00; L. M. Bean. $2.00; J. L. Osborn. Corrie, Joaquin comparative wage scales, showing the wages pre­ $2.00. Couchman, Henry D THOMAS HYDE Coulter, Sam H vious to the new agreements, the new wages, and Frlwnrd SSEndres, $2 00; L. A. Ware, Courtney, Arthur B the amount of the increase. Cut this out of the $2.00; R. Santillaria, $2.00; II. D. Cox, John M paper so that you can refer to it whenever you wish. Terrill. $5.00. Crawford, Robert SS CAPITOL REEF These wage rates are for freighters only. C. E. Gamble. $2.00. DECK DEPARTMENT SIU Old Wage Scale Rating Bosun Bosun's Mate—Day Work.. Bosun's Mate—Watch Carpenter Storekeeper AB Maintenance Quartermaster AB Seaman Watchman OS Seaman SIU Amount SIU Of Wage New Wage Increase . Scale $162.50 162.50 157.50 155.00 155.00 155.00 150.00 132.50 $205.00 192.50 180.00 205.00 197.50 187.50 172.50 172.50 172.50 150.00 $42.50 42.50 40.00 32.50 17.50 17.50 22.50 17.50 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Chief Electrician 2nd Electrician Asst. Electrician Unlic. Jr. Eng.-^Day Work.... Unlic. Jr. Eng.—Watch Machinist-Plumber Deck Engineer .«... Chief Reefer Engineer l.st Reefer 2nd Reefer Engine Storekeeper Engine Utility Evaporator Maintenance Oiler-Diesel Oiler-Steam Watcrtender Fireman-Watertender Firemen Wiper 252.00 294.50 42.50 182.50 187.50 187.50 194.50 162.50 252.00 220.00 201.00 227.50 230.00 205.00 23V.00 205 00 269.50 237.50 218.50 197.50 205.00 190.00 195.25 177.50 177.50 177.50 167.50 175.00 45.00 42.50 17.50 42.50 42.50 17.50 17.50 17.50 155.00 172.50 155.00 155.00 155.00 155.00 145.00 132.50 50.00 17.50 40.25 22.50 22.50 22.50 22.50 42.50 STEWARDS DEPARTMENT 202.50 182.50 182.50 167.50 157.50 132.50 132.50 Chief S Chief ( Night C Second Asst. C Messma Utility 220.00 205.00 205.00 185.00 175.00 150.00 150.00 17.50, 22.50 22.50 17.50 17.50 17.50 17.50 All members of the Stewards Department will be paid over­ time for all Sundays and Holidays at sea and for all Saturdays, Sun­ days and Holidays in port. No member of the Stewards Department will be laid off Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays at sea or in port. OVERTIME RATES 90c SIU New Under $200.00 a month SIU New Over $200.00 a month 90c $1.00 per hour $1.25 per hour SIU Old Pay rise of $17.50 is retroactive from April 1 to June 14. June 15 is the retroactive date for the remainder of the increase. All overtime is retroactive to June 15. SS COLABEE A. Smurda. $1.00; G. Brown, $1.00; If. Adamowit:z, $1.00; K. Korneliusen. $1.00. SS CAPE NAME C. Brewer. $1.00. SS WARRIOR POINT R. V. Fegler, $2.00; O. H. Stevens. $3.00; A. L. East, $5.00; II. J. Mc­ Donald, $3.00; Don A. Moore, $4.00; L. Valencie, $2.00; Hubert Garner. $2.00; L. Tullos, $2.00; D. E. Gordon. $2.00; N. U. Reitti. $2.00; John Herrera. $2.00; F. Jasso. $2.00; R. C. Neblett, $2.00. SS R. SEMMES G. Lima. $10.00; j. O. Moore. $5.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS James F. Wnrr, $1.00; A. J. Kanaday, $1.00; Lawrence Hall. $2.00. PERSONALS GILBERT ISNOR Crofton, Douglas Cronin, Harry J Crosby, J. T Culota, Samuel E. W Cummings, J. P Cuthbert, Richard G Cutts, James H Danielson, A. E Darr, William F Davies, R. D Davitt, George L Day, Belle F Dean. Kirby W Dean, Robert Deer, Leoge L Dewar, John B. ... Diaz, Vincent Dierinck, Emericus Dinne, John Derhoff, Ray Please write your mother at Doetsch, Melton B Indian Harbour, Halifax Co., No­ Dolan, R. J va Scotia. Dowoy, Joseph W Drury, William C LOUIS LARSON Dubiel, R. F Jim Conaghan of 373 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown, N. J., is anxious to hear from you soon. i i 4. FREDERICK DUNN 01 4.14 Dudek, Franil 31.76 Duncan, Edawrd L 5.62 Duncan, Roy L 1.25 Dungan, G. T 1.35 Dwyer, Raymond F 6.95 Euchauri, Vincent 14 9.86 Edner, Harold G 80 Elfers, Fred G 17.69 Ellis, Lloj-d 8.49 Ellis, Roy Van 2.64 Ellwanger, Ernest N 8.65 Ellyson, Jos 42 Engles, Joseph N 59 Engstrom, Charles 05 Epperson, Herbert A 06 Erickson, Lief H 18.49 Farrell, William E .13 Fath. Joseph A „ 17 Fay, John A 5.40 Ferst, Frank E .07 Fetter, Bill C .95 Field, Lloyd M 1.25 93 Finnegan, Thomas H 8.35 Fitton, Leslie D 12.99 Fitzgerald, Robert J 7.49 Flanders, Franklin B 13 Fletcher, Russell G 21 Forst, Raymond 62 Franzella, Salvador 1,18 Frederickson, G. ... 18.82 Frost, William A. ... 2.26 Gainey. Sam p. ... 48 Gallagher, Leo 11.04 Gardney. Roy M. ... 2.36 Garris, Robert L. ... .01 Geanuser, Peter G. 49 Geisz, William 1.41 .69 20.70 .89 7.90 1.30 28.79 .32 7.30 18.41 . .93 08 1.25 3.15 94 01 2.55 1.71 08 2.95 16.37 12 9.15 16.59 17.02 14 3.36 20.08 10 1.27 28 3.26 2.49 01 95 20 8.86 12 29.02 .90 Books And Cards In New Orleans 3748 Membership books and retiring Lusko, R. D 5928 cards are on file in the New Or­ Morrow, Wm Please get in touch with your leans Hall for the following SUP Marshal, Wm. P 791 P.D. sister. Miss Gertie Dunn, 20 and Pacific District men, and will Mills, J. W 781 P.D. Black Black March Road, St. be held for claiming until March Miflin, R. H 1 657 P.D. Johns, Newfoundland. 5902 Pro. 30, after which they will be sent Modeiros, J 5901 Pro. to Headquarters. Men listed be­ MuUins, A. E 3433 low should contact P. Monssen, Plank, E. D Per. 9342-9954 SUP representative. New Or­ Petree, E. Jr Soliday, J. H 6708 leans, La. Will the holder of Receipt No. 6290 Name Book No. Swope, E. M 45522, issued on January 6, 1947, Art, R. A 6806 3039 Simpsen, D. J from New York, please contact Aney, R. 0 612 P.D. 3524 Smith, J. E. the Patrolmen on the 5th floor of Burnyski, R 419 P.D. 5072 Swank, E the New York Hall in order to Bystedt, O Ve'Drine, Patrick H 707 4120 secure the proper credit for his Barnes, L 3333 560 Waldron, L money, 510 P.D. Caudill, E. C 248 P.D. Wolton, D 3016 4* 4* 4* Campbell, R 2930 Wright, C. P Receipt No. 42781, issued De­ Duffy, G. P 259 P.D. 2446 Winey, T. J cember 27, 1946, in New York. Dodson, G. L + Per. 14459 288 P.D. Watson, W. R Will holder of this receipt please Fanning, Wm. J Retiring Cards on File 2020 Pro. contact Louis Goffin, 5th floor. Golden, C. E 1873 1746 Cooper, B. M New York hall. 2146 Harrington, N. J 485 P.D. Chance, F. S X X t 1988 Harrigan, N. J 5302 Elisson, D. W MARVIN G. HANDLER 1879 Hendrix, J. S 5289 Hames, Wm Jones, W. C 2249 5385 Please get in touch with Rich­ Houkc, L Massengale, G. C 1255 Pro. P.D. ard M. Cantor, Room 1109, 51 Johnson, H 2105 299 P.D. Voce, I. Chambers Street, New York City, Kinney, K. C. ....^ Zieber, Walton L 2961 Lee, D. C 3500 as son as possible. I NOTICE! �THE SEAFARERS lOG Page Sixteen Friday. January 17, 1947 nr ii :-'a ;r: =• •'•••v-'ii V-sr ;-:r ^ if i 5sS>' 1 • 7^ !> • • V - :.•• aalbM ' . :m'm pS«: • tea 1H less UtaH fen ijcars seansen's • wai/es wemm/see/ • iFVM awax/Mum of l6s fot AB's to Hie iiiqhestinmaxif/Me ra}5r3 •.'riit-J ^mnr '•sUl^fP M-'-ILaj.--- ••^im •a a ill Pll:l.liRV ffftt:;;;- : if •; '/•- • •: :•' -i-t-iT, I ;-,-3 V T: '-; ' • ;• pi^a; • • W-- wr-'^* -. •" fe:a: ..i t'U--- Ki; |b:; SHrfe/- te^- "Im.sO'bqHie t JV« mi aift 'A hi a.aiH?!)' a::;iil| :: Ife .aaaMli Yfiri''; Kifw:;: • »>i-r: • = • tea. teffJ.rV • IBiba' ^by/:.':' j-• Seafarers Jhteriiatmal : •; .aaauavi: mima ; rtiti ; ,.•••;-. I'.i :i;t A :-A:\v^\X:\\ •: i-a-r-itt';-;i V A Aunirim - • ;J:.:S.?'>"S{'J5 ISfj??£1-1« j-*v. -• ,?7?.: £i4->."r, 1 ' S'/i' ''iji' • yiArf'r<i • . • •* 7 <*jwj � 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 January 17, 1947 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. IX, No. 3 Description An account of the resource Description: SIU DECLARED ISTHMIAN WINNER BY NLRB; NMU PHONY PROTEST DELAYS CERTIFICATION ENTIRE ANTI-COMMIE SLATE ELECTED IN LOCAL 88, MM&P SIU SUPPORTS TAMPA TEAMSTERS; CITY HEADS TRY TO BREAK STRIKE LABOR HATING NOT NEW IN TAMPA; UNION ORGANIZER KILLED IN 1935 STACKING THE CARDS JOINT ACTION OF OLD, NEW MEMBERS VITAL FACTOR IN SUCCESS OF SIU SENATE GROUP EYES PROFITS OF OPERATORS POLITICAL PARTISANS IN TRADE UNION MOVEMENT HAVE ONE OBJECTIVE--IF YOU CAN'T RULE, RUIN SHIPBOARD FIRE CAPS SERIES OF MISHAPS ON ABR. CLARK END NEAR FOR SMITH-CONNALLY ACT WITH TERMINATION OF THE WAR LABOR OPPOSES MILITARY DRAFT SIU REJECTS NMU PROPOSAL TO SET UP ARBITRATION BOARD LEWIS CONTEMPT TRIAL BEGINS IN WASHINGTON BEFORE SUPREME COURT MARITIME COMMISSION UNDER FIRE, BUT NOTHING WILL COME OF IT SHIPPING IS SLOW IN SAVANNAH; CATTLE MOVEMENTS DUE TO STOP SHIPPING IS UP IN PHILADELPHIA; FUTURE IS BRIGHT NEW ORLEANS HAS PRAISE FOR ONE CALMAR SKIPPER CANDY IS DANDY SEAMAN SAYS, BUT LET'S HAVE SOME SHIPOWNER STOOGE, LSU SPONSOR DOESN'T LIKE SEAMEN'S ATTITUDE RATED JOBS IN ALL DEPARTMENTS ARE GOING BEGGING IN SAN JUAN TANKERS KEEP PORT BOSTON FREE OF RED INK SEAFARERS IN CORPUS CHRISTI WERE KEPT BUSY PAST FEW WEEKS AFL IS AFTER 75,000 SOUTHERN CITRUS WORKERS SEAFARER KILLED IN ACCIDENT ON DANIEL HUGER WHAT TO DO: SOME DEPARTMENTAL SUGGESTIONS FOR CHIEF COOKS NMU HAS ONLY ONE WEAPON LEFT, TELLING LIES ABOUT SEAFARERS BRAZIL CREW NIPS PURGE OF DELEGATE NEW ORLEANS BROTHERS LOSE A NON-ALCOHOLIC WEEKEND NOTE PITCHED FROM THE SAMUEL JOHNSON IN 1944 IS PICKED UP ON FLORIDA COAST 'CAPS OFF' TO MRS. BURNS RANK AND FILE MEBA MAN URGES CONVENTION TO BOLSTER UNION TWO BRANCHES ASK PRE-ELECTION PHOTOS AND BIOGS OF CANDIDATES MORAN TOWING WILL OPERATE TWO NEW TUGS OLD AND NEW WAGE SCALES OF SEAFARERS COMBINED TAX REBATES MISSISSIPPI SHIPPING COMPANY Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1/17/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9b65f172b5d4ca6321418300b323b3b1.PDF a4b0c5b6832649147b1eb2bd0da450fb PDF Text Text m Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. JANUARY 10. 1947 VOL. IX. No. 2 SlU Asks Recognition As Bargaining Agent For Tidewater Seamen COUNTING THE VOTES NEW YORK—Representation of a substantial ma­ jority of the 254 unlicensed men employed on tankers op­ erated by the Tidewater Associated Oil Company was claimed this week by the Seafarers International Union when it petitioned the National Labor Relations Board -r-'-TA Hard at work counting the votes cast in the election for 1947 officials, the camera catches the Balloting Ccmmitice on the Fifth Floor of the Ne v York HalL Left to right, standing. Isaac Miller and Louis Salvatore, Seated, Sam Luttrell: Hi I Higgs, Bob Jones, and Bob Hillman. P&O Signs New Contract^ With SiU; SS Florida Sails dustry, barring none. P&O immediately resumed pre-war operation, and the SS Florida has already started on the first trip from Miami to Cuba. A new SIU Hall has been es­ tablished in Miami, under the supervision of Acting Agent Charles Starling, The new contract is to remain in effect until September 30, 1947, and can be automatically renewed each year unless any party to the agreement gives notice of its desire to amend or terminate the contract. This notice must be given at least sixty days prior to the expiration date of the con­ tract. Nine holidays are lecognized by the Company, and if VE day NEW YORK, January 9—The or VJ day are observed as nat­ complete tallying of what is al­ ional holidays, they will be added ready known to be the greatest to the list. Any day that is a recognized number of votes ever cast in an holiday for longshoremen in con­ SIU election was finished late to­ tinental United States ports shall day by the Ballot Tallying Com­ also be counted as holidays for mittee, elected at the last New the crew while in that particular York membership meeting. The port. results of this election will de­ The only significant changes termine the officers of the Atlan­ between the contract signed by tic and Gulf District for 1947. This tally, plus a report of the Missi.ssippi and the one signed by activities of the committee, will P&O are in the wages of Bosun, be submitted to the next mem­ Carpenter, Chief Steward, and bership meeting on Wednesday, Second Steward. Under the P&O agreement, the Bosun will receive January 15. The members of the committee $225.00 per month, the Carpenter are: Deck Dept., Sam Luttrell, $225.00, the Chief Steward $325, Bob Hillman; Engine Dept., Bob and the Second Steward $220.00. The Union Negotiating Com­ Jones and Louis Salvatoi-e; Stewmittee which won these new ards Dept., Isaac Miller, Bill Higgs. Although the final results were' gains consisted of John Hawk, not obtainable, the committee Secretary-Treasurer; J. P. Shuler, states that more votes were cast Assistant Secretary - Treasurer; in this eelction than in any pre­ and Robert Matthews, Engine vious balloting for officers in the Department Special Representa­ tive. history of the SIU. NEW YORK —Culminating negotiations that began more than a month ago, this week a contract was signed between the Seafarers International Union, and the Peninsular and Occiden­ tal Steamship Company, covering wages, manning scales, and work­ ing conditions for the Deck, En­ gine, and Stewards Departments. This agreement is very similar to the Mississippi passenger ship contract which, as is well known, is the best in the maritime in- SIU Vote Tally Ends; Committee To Report To Branch Meetings Isthmian Meeting NEW YORK. January 9— The informal meeting sched­ uled for Wednesday. January 8. between the SIU. the NMU and the Isthmian Steamship Company, has been post­ poned. Instead all the parties will meet today at the New York offices of the National Labor Relations Board. The LOG will have gone to press before the results of that meeting can be obtained, so all information coming out of the conference will be car­ ried in next week's Seafarers LOG. for an election in that conipany.*The petition was filed on Jan­ uary 3, 1947, and requested thai a poll be taken of the unlicensed employes, not including Pursers or Radio Operators, to determine a bargaining Agent for the men. This move climaxes an organizing drive of five weeks duration. A majority of the men work­ NEW YORK—With but four ing on Tidewater tankers have hours remaining before the Sat­ already signed pledge cards auth­ urday midnight strike deadline, orizing the SIU to represent them, and now that the machin­ an agreement was reached be­ ery has been set in motion to tween the Tugboat operators and hold an election, it is expected the 2,800 New York Tugboatmen, that there will be a rush to sign averting a tie-up uf New York cards on the part of men who Harbor. have not done so as yel. The Union's committee, headed The petition to hold an elec­ by Captain William V. Bradley, tion in the Tidewater Associated President of Local 333, United Oil Company follows close on the Marine Division, ILA, hailed the heels of another petition filed with the NLRB in the case of the agreement as an important vic­ unlicensed personnel sailing the tory for the tugboat workers. The tankers of the Cities Seiwice Oil new agreement calls for the longfought for 40-hour week, 11 per­ Company. The move to force an election cent increase in pay, and time in the Tidewater Tankers was and a half for Saturday and initiated with a letter to the Sunday work. The new agreement, which (Continued on Page 6) will run for one year, was reach­ ed after nearij' ten hours of al­ most constant sessions in New York City Hall, and brought to an end negotiations which had been in progress .since early No­ vember. consisting of close of to six hun­ MEMBERSHIP VOTE dred pages, 1 took the matter up with our International President. While the new agreement must Harry Lundeberg. We discussed still be ratified by the memberhaving it analyzed by a compe- ship, it was regarded as acceptable to the rar^k and file. tent attorney on maritime laws Ballots will begin going out affecting seamen. We wanted this done in order that the Union to the membership Jan. 8, and would be well equipped to appear will be returned by Jan. 29. If before Congress to combat the accepted by the membership the shipowners' and bureaucrats' new wage increase will be retrosuggested revisions of the law, active to Jan. 1. and also to take up the seamen's The operators up until the last ideas on amending the laws af- meetings had stuck to their offer fecting them. j of ^ 44-hour week and an eight Brother Lundeberg approved percent increase, but as the time of my suggestions, and delegated ran out they brought up their me to go ahead. 1 offer until is was acceptable to the I committee representing Local I have started work on this al­ 333. ready, and I would appreciate The new agreement raises the suggestions in writing from any­ one of the members with respect wages aU along the line lifting to changes that are believed the lowest-paid deckhand to 96c necessary in the way of improv- an hour and the highest paid, Captains to $1.71 an hour. ing laws affecting seamen. SIU Takes Action To Prepare For Changes In Shipping Laws NEW YORK — Word has just been received from Secretai-yTreasurcr John Hawk, that an attorney is being retained to an­ alyze the proposed changes to the Federal Shipping Laws, changes which are now before the proper House of Representatives Com­ mittee in Washington. Brother lining the farers is rights of Hawk's statement, out­ action which the Sea­ taking to protect the seamen, follows: 1 was recently informed, in­ directly, that there is now before the House of Representatives, Committee on Revision of Laws, a preliminary draft of the pro­ posed revision and codification of the Federal Shipping Laws. WELL PREPARED I communicated with the Chair­ man of this Committee, request­ ing a copy of same. Upon receipt of this document. NXTugboatmen Win 40 Hr. Week; Tie-Up Averted �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. January 10. 1947 SEAFARERS LOG Plib!/shed Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor J;f' At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. HAnover 2-2784 t 4. i 5. HARRY LUNDEBLRG ------- Presidci/t 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. The Plain Facts There are few workingmen in the United States who ido not know that our Congress is controlled from top to bottom by industrialists and big business men. Although ,we elect the Congressmen, they rarely, if ever, represent us. If they are not already bound heart and soul to big business before they reach Washington, it does not take Itoo long for them to find out which side is the most profit•able, and they soon start dancing to the tune called by the men who control most of the wealth of this country. There are very few laws introduced in either House ,.pf Congress that are of real benefit to the workers. Instead, year after year, and bill after bill, we see special preference being given to those who are few in number, comparative­ ly, but who wield power far in excess of their size; Right now we see the way big business operates, chrough its willing servants in the Halls of Congress. For a long time the industrialists have been wanting to chop down the Wagner Act, and to take steps to out. law the closed shop. The National Association of Manu­ facturers has had these two items high up on its lists of ^things to be done for the past ten years. Now the Senate of the United States, and the House of Representatives, are starting the action to put through both of these changes. Hospital Patients When entering the hoBpftal notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals Labor in the United States has worked hard and long These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, f.jd- the closed shop, and for the various provisions cmas reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging bodied in the Wagner Act. Yet, at the word from a group heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ' of men who want to grind down the workers so that they ing to them. can enjoy more power and better living for themselves, BALTIMORE HOSPITAL "CHIPS" ^EILSEN H. BELCHER the Congressmen are willing to take away the fruits of our MICHAEL LUCAS L. L. MOODY JR. THOMAS WADSWORTH long years of struggle. C. KOLSTE It is no secret that most of the bills which are intro<iuced in Congress, designed to limit labor, are drawn up by corporation lawyers and others skilled in battling against Labor. What is really horrible about the whole thing is that Congressmen are elected to protect il:e many, not the 'few. When a group of men who are the elected representa­ tive^' of 140,000,000 people go out of their way to do the bidding of a fraction of one percent of that number, then they lay themselves wide open to the charge of not carryfitig out the honorable duties that are expected of thern. The picture is now plainer than it ever was before. •'Big business maps the plans, and the members of Congrctss •carry out the dirty work. It will continue to work out that ,way until Labor is strong enough to match its strength against the power of big money. There is only one course open to Labor in the struggle ;to achieve such strength. All workers must be organized land the men who lick the boots of big business must not be allowed to continue in their mis-representation of the ^^ecent, hard-working people of the United States. PETER LOPEZ HARRY WALSH RUSSEL REDDERT JOHN DUDDKO SEBASTIAN AMENTA ORPHA JOHNSON JEFFERSON MORRISON EMILIO DI PIETRO FRANK DOLAN FRANCIS O'BRIEN JAMES DAVIS ERNEST TILLEY LOUIS SCHACKLEFORD CHARLES HAHN S. & 1 STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL J. L. EAKIN E. F. SPEAR P. J. WILKINSON R. G. MOSSELLER D. HUTCHINS M. J. QUINN W. B. MUIR J. S. WOOD W. G. H. BAUSE MOSES MORRIS J. GRIFFIN L. A. CORNWALL P. STEWART 4- i -i NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL H. G. DARNELL LIONEL ROTHERHAM J. W. DENNIS W. BROCE JR. E. J. RIVIERE J. P. BROOKS . JACINTO NAVARRO RALPH EWING CENTRAL MASON R. M. NOLAN JOE CAMBLOR JOHN (DUTCH) SERCU F. BURGLAND THOMAS BAIER EDWARD CUSTER KARL PETTERSSON E. B. BUCKLEY H. GRAY t t X SAN JUAN HOSPITAL P. FELECIANO E. LARKIN W. TROLLE B. AGUILAR F. APUNTE J. BERGERIA You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. -m, (on Ist and 2nd floors.) NEPONSIT HOSPITAL LINDER CLARK J. FIGUEROA L. L. LEWIS H. SELBY H. BURKE J. S. CAMPBELL J. T. EDWARDS B. LUFLIN G. F. McCOMB E. FERRER R. BLAKE J. R. HENCHEY » » » BRIGHTON HOSPITAL H. SWIM E. JOHNSTON E. DUNPHY G. BONDI E. MAY E. DELLAMANO R. BAASNER G. VICKERY 4" ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. MCDONALD J, KOSLUSKY �Friday. January 10. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Rip Van Curran Finally Wakes Up; Finds NMU Officials Are Gemmles The most recent issue of thetNMU Pilot, dated January 3, 1947, contains some very revealing in­ formation for NMU members, in­ formation which they would al­ ready know by heart if they fol­ lowed the Seafarers Log. Joe Curran, president of the Communist line changes in this country during the past several By PAUL HALL NMU, and now engaged in an all- years may definitely be separated into three distinct periods. These out struggle for his job, has three periods in turn are related to certain policy changes laid down Curran's fight against the communist party in the National some plain facts to pass along in in Moscow, and concurred in by all commie front outfits or by any Maritime Union may yet prove to be of great help to the bona his column, "Passing the Word." outfits in any way controlled or dominated by the communist party. fide seaman. There is no question but that Curran is right in his For the first time since Joe has As proof, if further proof is needed, that the NMU has been con­ accusations that the top leadership of the NMU has been members been doing the bidding, and trolled by commie misleaders throughout these years, the record of of, and followers of, the communist party (the record proves that dancing to the tune of the com­ several NMU-commie functionaries is given so that it can be com­ easily, as a glance across the page will bear out), and that the munist party, he lashs out in pared with the Moscow line. CMU was a creation of the CP forces in maritime to consolidate print against the other members their hold on the smaller unions. of the NMU Executive Board. Hitler-Stalin Love Feast This was the period from August, 1939, until June 22, 1941—the Others connected in any way with As a result of the failure by the CP to capture maritime, we timeof the Hitler-Stalin love feast—during the life of the Nazithe waterfront, have known that have a right to take pleasure in the cracking of the CMU. The Soviet peace pact. At that time, the Moscow line opposed U. S. in­ Joseph Stack, NMU vice-presi­ AFL unions steadfastly refused to join or cooperate with it, be­ tervention into World War II, and classed it as an "imperialistic war." dent; Howard McKenzie, another cause we knew it for what it was: another attempt to control the The line was definitely anti-government and anti-Roosevelt at the vice-president; and Ferdinand maritime unions, just as was their first attempt, the west coast time, also anti-shipowner. Smith, national secretary, are ac­ Maritime Federation of the Pacific. Here's what Howard McKenzie, NMU Vice President, had to say tive members of the communist This is not to say that unity among all maritime unions is not party, and have been carrying out in the report of the National Council meetiqg appearing in the NMU necessary. As a matter of fact, it was never more needed that it the orders of the party in the Pilot of Jan. 26, 1940: "Another reason is that there are certain ele­ is today, with the threat of anti-labor legislation hanging over our NMU. ments in the present Administration in Washington which are trying heads, the proposed recodification of maritime laws, and the Coast to force this country into war ... It is our belief that these elements LISTEN, NOW Guard determined to exercise its coytrol over seamen^to mention in Washington advise the operators to take it easy and sign the Joe Curran has consistently de­ only a few. agreement. They still hope that if war is declared, they can hook the nied this, and has maintained union up to the war machine and destroy the hiring hall along with that his actions, and the actions First Real Chance wages." of all the other members of the Ferdinand Smith, NMU National Secretary, had this to say in Now that the disruptive CMU has been thoroughly discredited NMU executive board, have been for its raiding and political tactics, there is a great possibility that dictated solely by the desire to a Pilot article of February 9, 1940: "The manacing M-Day plan for for the first time there is a chance for real unity among all seamen strengthen the union. Listen to industrial mobilization, twin product of the War Department and labor-hating financiers, is ready for operation the minute war is based on a common program. what he has to say now. declai-ed. "They were in no position to Recently all maritime unions, AFL, CIO and independent, have -"Maritime workers, naturally, bear the brunt of any war-time been invited by Vincent J. Malone, president of the MFOWW, to to do so (criticize in a construc­ attacks on labor. Ouis is a basic, strategic industry. Our organiza­ meet in Washington to discuss joint action on problems affecting tive manner Curran's resignation tions are considered a menace to war profiteering (especiaUy in all seamen. It would be a great thing for the seamen if this ma­ from the CMU) because they munitions and shipping) and are bound to be the first victims of terialized. There is need for a move of this kind now. Action, and knew that the statement made by the drive on trade union rights." fast action at that, should be taken if any of us is to survive the myself was correct and that our Frederick Myers, former NMU Vice President and Field Or­ Union was in danger. The simple .attacks of the shipowners and the government bureaucrats. ganizer, stated in the Pilot of February 9, 1940: "We in Marine reason they did not, is because Let us not be super-optimists, however. Such a conference their loyalties and their motives object to the transfer of American vessels, the corruptness in the would not end jurisdictional lines between the various unions. This have not been for our Unioh Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation, the Maritime Commis­ we know is impossible at this time. The lines are drawn too deeply first. They have openly made it sion's shipowner-policy. President Roosevelt's utter disregard for for us to throw aside overnight. clear on the floor that they spoke seamen obtaining social security and general welfare. We support We should be able, however, to unite on a specific program, officially as members of the com­ Lewis in condemning these Government officials who are more in­ and combat all common enemies: the shipowners, government bu­ munist party and for the com clined to make political porridge of the labor movement rather than to help better wages and working conditions and improve the con­ reaucrats and the communits party. One of the first things we have munist party." ditions of life of Labor in this country." to face with joint action is Coast Guard regulation, and unless we COMMIE POLICY do so we all stand a good chance to be enslaved by the hooligans. A few paragraphs further, Joe Pro-Govt. and Shipowner Period / goes back into the NMU record The second period was that which ran between the invasion of Four-Watch System during the war to prove that Ru.ssia by the Nazi.s on June 22, 1941 and the expulsion of Earl Next—if indeed it is not the first thing—is to coordinate the NMU policy was dictated by the Browder as head of the American communists in the early part of contract expiration dates of all seamen's unions, and then, going communist party all that time. 1946, to be replaced by William Z. Foster. This was a period of full He says, aU-out, by strike if necessary, for the four-wateh system. cooperation with the government, collaboration with the shipown­ "Just as two years ago when ers, and agitation for all-out war against the Nazis with full-support This type of program is a simple one around which all seamen Myers was vice-president,^ Mc­ could rally without going into the ticklish problem of jurisdictional Kenzie, Myers, and Smith at­ for Russia. Fi-ederick "Blackie" Myers stated in the N. Y. NMU meeting beefs. Just so long as there are unorganized outfits left, there will tempted to promote the idea that of March 12, 1942, "When we gave up our right to strike we did so naturally be some very hot beefs while organizing is going on. How­ the shipownei- was 'our friend' with the prime intention of guaranteeing to the nation that our ever, these beefs can be controlled and handled. and that we should not worry vessels were going to move, and that we were going to move them The big thing will be to show that seamen can and will unite about wage increase.s—the ship­ on schedule . . . The proposal we made today—whereby we would on a simple program against general, common enemies. In fact, owners would give them to us out establish a "Keep 'Em Sailing Board," composed of representatives we must write a working program or the entire propaganda of the of the goodness of their hearts. from the Unions and the operators and the government—would con­ communist party will be proven true—that only through the CP can That was the same time that the tribute the maximum effort toward working out a joint program to working unity be achieved. We must prove it to be what it is—a lie. communist party promoted col­ iron out all the wrinkles that now exist." laboration with the employers Howard McKenzie declared at the same New York meeting Eliminate Communist Party and so it had to be pushed into (March 12, 1942), "The first responsibility of every loyal American our Union." is to contribute his or her maximum contribution to winning the At the same time, definite steps should be taken, agreed to by All of the statements made by war. It is the duty of every patriotic American, it is the duty of all unions, to eliminate from maritime the communist party as an Curran about Stack, McKenzie, the shipowners as well as the Union." organized group. In the face of their terrible wartime record this Smith, Myers and others, are Later, in his report, McKenzie asserted, "We also proposed a should not be difficult to do. (rue, but nowhere does Curran joint statement with the shipowners that they join with the union It must be pointed out to all seamen that should the occasion admit that he accepted all of in supporting the government for an effective price control, ration­ arise, the commies will once again sell-out to the bosses, just as they these policies until the split over ing consumer commodities and eliminate war profiteering." did during the war, when—to give but one example—they whole­ the CMU. At a special New York membership meeting on July 7, 1941, heartedly supported Coast Guard dictatorship over seamen. One statement in Curran's col­ NMU National Secretary Ferdinand Smith, in discussing the NMITs The time has come when something can be done about these umn sticks out like a soi'e thumb statement of policy on the suddenly changed international situation, and the other enemies of maidtime workers. We should not let it to anyone who believes in trade said "I want it stated here, although some of you say we should not union democracy. Here is what get away from us. give any aid to the Soviet Union in particular, it is not a question of Curran has to say about the us, as a trade union, preserving our own interests, and our interests way decisions are made by of­ are the defeat of fascism. The defeat of the Soviet Union would only ficers of the NMU. This is from mean potential invasion by the forces of fascism." a report of the National Council Committees, and was suppressed CP Super Militancy Again from the membership: The third period, the one we are now in, called for the re­ "The records we examined surgence of CP super-militancy once again. After the collabora­ show that Vice-President Myers, tion of Browder, the CP decided that in order to capture the popu­ Vice-President McKenzie, and lar labor fancy once more that they would have to replace Browder Secretary Smith did make indi­ with the more militant Foster. So, the next line change. This one vidual decisions on organization, called for anti-bureaucracy, anti-shipowner policies, and pro-Sovietnegotiations and personal ques- ism, as usual. {Con tin lied on Page 6) (Covfinued on Page 4) Re<5ord Shows NMU Leaders Follow Changes In CP Line �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 10, 1947 Curran Finds NMU Leaders Are Commies WRAT ttwiiK (Continiied from Page 3) tions at Variance with union policy." The report further state.s that QUESTION:—In your opinion, what was the greatest SIU victory during 1946? ". . . The New York Agent, Joe Stack, had on occasions exceeded FRANK DUNKLEY, Cook: CLIFFORD BROWN. FOW; his authority as agent and taken All the victories last year were As far as I am concerned, and unto himself responsibilities I think this goes for most sea­ important. That includes the new which properly belonged to the men, the new contracts are the contracts, the General Strike, the national officials." most important single victory the victory over the WSA Compe­ NOT RED-BAITING Union won all last year. It meant tency Cards, and the way we Curran makes the very good Kliiii quite a big increase in wages, and stopped the commies every time. point that in the past, in the also better conditions. For years Don't forget the way the SIU NMU, it has been difficult to seamen have been sailing under took the lead in setting up the criticize the officials who follow­ poor conditions, and with wages AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ ed the commie line because "they that shoreside workers would ment, either. However, if I have always made the plea that they laugh at. Now we are getting to pick one outstanding event, were being criticized because paid a little better for the risks I'd say the new contracts are the they were members of the com­ we take and for the work we do. most important. The advances munist party and that this was We still are not earning all we made in these new agreements red-baiting. Since that time, how­ deserve, but that will come, too, mark a long step forward for all ever, McKenzie himself spoke for through the SIU. seamen. the communist party at the Na­ tional Council, stating that the communist party and/or its mem­ bers can and must be criticized, whenever in the opinion of any­ KYLE BASHAW, AB: one, they do wrong and it is not HYMAN PITKOFSKY, MM: red-baiting." Winning the General Strike was I firmly believe that the new In bringing to a close his reve­ the main event for our Union last contracts weie the most outstandlations of what the communists year. It showed that we have a Rng victories of last year. The have done in the NMU, Curran lot of power, and that we are SIU has always had higher wages says definitely that the commun­ not afraid to go to bat for what and better conditions than any is rightfully ours. All seamen, ist party is seeking to maintain other seamen's unions, but the even those in other unions, bene­ full control of the NMU and its contracts we signed last year put fitted from our actions. The Gov­ policies. us e\'en further ahead. All sea­ FACTS DISTORTED ernment was used to pushing la­ men look to the SIU for leader­ "Their deliberate distortion of bor around, and they expected us ship, and we gave it to them in the facts concerning our rela­ to fall down and play dead when extra good measure last year. tions with. the CMU," he says, they ruled against our new wage Winning the Isthmian election is "is desperate action on their part increases. Well, we showed them also a victory, although the stal­ to keep the NMU captured and different, and the other unions ling around that the NMU is do­ under party control; the same followed our lead, and won the ing is holding that one up. tactics, attempts to create panic same increases. through lies, slander, packed meetings, are clear in this pic­ ture now and the members should he fully aware of if." The record is very clear on the role the communists have played in the labor movement, and in the National Maritime Union. Noth­ ing that Curran or any other By EARL SHEPPARD dition.s are concerned, the letter these Atlanta City seamen. Here's to say, "Pile off." But it takes a NMU official has been able to continued, the crewmembers a case where a number of men real Seafarer with real guts to say has changed the plain facts Two militant Isthmian crewthink that by the time they re­ on an unorganized ship went out stick on a ship like that, and fight that the NMU has been domin­ members, Alfred D. Pereira and turn from their current voyage and did the kind of a job that things through to a successful ated by the communists, and has Pete Blume, proved recently that everything will be fairly ship­ any Seafarer could be proud of conclusion. They did it, and so taken its ideas and line from the it just takes a little of that old Daily Worker, the organ of the shape. having done. The fact that the could anyone else. Seafarers fighting spirit to get communist party in the United ship lnvas an unorganized one decent conditions aboard an Isth­ It's men like these fellows from States. READ AND LEARN makes the job that much more the Atlanta City that make the mian ship. Now that Curran has come out commendable. Brother Pereira went on in his These two boys along with SIU the strong and militant un­ against his former comrades, it their fellow crewmen got fed up letter, "I would like to have this Too many times, fellows are ion that it is today. And, it's men makes the picture that much with the intolerable and unsani­ beef mentioned in the Log if it ready to pile off a ship when the like these that are going to make more plain to the naked eye. The tary conditions on board the At­ is at all possible, because I think coffee isn't perked properly, or the Seafarers into the biggest and NMU has been under the influ­ lanta City, and as a result raised that the Seafarers should read if they only get one kind of meat strongest maritime union in the ence of the CP, and now the bat­ a little hell with the Isthmian aad understand about a situation instead of two, or for a number world. Always remember, it's tle is on to rescue that union like ours. Port Captain. your Union, Brother, and you from the clutch of the red fas­ of other trivial reasons. "Sometimes, it is better if the Before they got back to their make it what it is! cists. When you're trying to organize ship, the company akeady had a men would stay aboard an unor­ an unorganized ship or company, shoregang cleaning out the filthy ganized ship with bum conditions you have to put up with some heads. Later, new mattresses and work to better those condi­ hardships in order to do a job for were delivered aboard for the en­ tions," declared Pereira, "and in the Union and yourself. Those that way it would be a better ship tire crew, also a new toaster. Switching his raiding tactics companies serving Alaska order­ conditions will always be im­ You see, it does pay to squawk for the next crew. When the sea­ to the frozen north, Harry Bridges ed Ketchikan-bound freight to proved considerably when the about the living and working men pile off a ship with plenty is once more attempting to muscle be restricted to only one hatch ship is finally unionized. conditions, even on an unorgani­ of beefs and when things look in on SUP jurisdiction and jobs and to be limited in amount. zed (but, not for long!) Isthmian bad, they are not helping them­ by ordering his longshoremen to NOT DISCOURAGED Although the CIO Longshore­ ship like the Atlanta City. Of selves or the next guy." usurp winch-driving work on an men have been badly beaten in Take the men on the Atlanta SUP ship in Ketchikan, Alaska. In concluding his letter, Pereira course, the fact that these men similar attempts to raid our con­ had the backing of the SIU in stated, "These conditions aboard City as an example. Those guys tracted jobs, they seem to be ask­ The center of trouble, the SS their beef was an additional club the Atlanta City would never had filthy heads on their ships, ing for trouble again. The SUP North Sea, reports that the ILWU for bargaining purposes. have been looked after if we, the improperly working, and many has served notice that infringe­ According to the letter from crew, hadn't beefed so much. Of other sub-standard conditions as members have demanded to take ment on its juristictional rights, over winch-driving work for Deck Delegate Pereira, men are coui-se, half our battle was won compared to an organized ship. by commie-inspired raids, will which Sailors Union of the Pacific working on the Deck and Engine with the splendid support we had Were thety discouragted? Hell, not be tolerated. deck crewmembers have a con­ room heads, installing new valves, from a crew which was strongly no! They went out and did a job The Seattle Branch of the SUP, and getting everything in work­ sprinkled in the three depart­ through beefing aboard their ship, tract. which is handling the beef, has REDUCING CARGO ing order once again. In addi ments with some good Seafarers, and having their elected dele­ gone on record as condemning tion, a load of new fans also ar- and the balance made up of sea­ gates take up their complaints As a result of this action, the this action and has instructed its with the Port Captain. -rived, so that conditions on the men friendly to the SIU." Northland Transportation Com­ members to protect their con­ JVtlanta City have improved con­ They got results. And so could pany, operators of the North Sea, tract rights by refusing to move LISTEN HARD siderably. you, if you came up against the have ordered immediate drastic any ships where the ILWU has Although the ship is still not Seafarers should listen to ad­ same kind of a situation on an restrictions on cargoes from Seat­ encroached upon the rights of what it should be as far as con- vice such as that coming from unorganized ship. Sure, it's easy tle. Also the three steamship the SUP. Jiiii Atlanta City Crewmen Show How SIU Tactics Can Win Improvements On Isthmian Ships Bridges Tries New Raid �-T-ra^F—TTiT" Friday, January 10. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG CRACKERJACK CREW Wm. Clay Is Kept On The Ball By A Crackerjack SlU Grew NEW ORLEANS—Even though the William Clay, Alcoa, was shorthandcd in'the Stewards De­ partment on Cljristmas Day, the crew of the Liberty did not suf­ fer in the eating line. The whole Department, under the able direc­ tion of Chief Steward Bill Oliver, pitched in, and the result was a meal fit for SIU members to eat and cat and eat. Here is the menu that they went to town on: Russian Fruit Salad Consomme a-la Florentine or Louisiana Chicken Soup Roast Young Tom Turkey and Giblet Sauce Old Plantation Dressing Crcuiberry Sauce Stuffed Round Steaks a-la Caillu Virginia Baked Ham with Pineapple Sauce Boiled Filet of Sole a-la Levantine Glazed Sweet Potatoes Asparagus De Hoj^t Four Watches First Among Seafarers Goals Page FivA Anglaise Sweet Peas Souffle Sweet Corn Mashed Potatoes Dauphinose Potatoes Augustin Pumpkin, Mince Meat and Canadian Apple Pies Layer Lemon, Fruit Marble and Pound Cakes Candies and Nuts Assorted Fresh Fruits Hot Coffee or Tea Hot Parker House Rolls • The William Clay is on the bauxite run, and it is' a good, clean ship. Most of the crew, including the Bosun, A1 Guanire have signed on for another trip. Eksewhere on this page is a picture of Al." Although he looks like he had a losing fight with a meat grinder, the explanation is much more simple than that, and also much more interesting. Al had a senorita on each knee when the chair broke under him, throwing him against the table, and giving him a black eye. At least that's Al's story and he sticks right to it. The crew of the William Clay brought in a clean ship, and most of the crew signed on again for the same run. This is the Deck Gang. Left to right, front row, Arrid Gylland, AB; Chad Hagbred, OS; Al Guanire, Bosun; Paul Knipp, AB; and Tony Moshak, AB. Back row, William Siesfeld, OS; Al Dolce, OS; James Van Sant, AB; Carson McCoy, AB, and John Heacox, AB. By HOWARD GUINIER NEW YORK—The Seafarers In­ ternational Union is embarking on its ninth year with a remark­ able record of success in secur­ ing benefits for its members. Those of us who were instru­ mental in creating the organiza­ tion can well be proud of its rec­ ord, and the manner in which it was constituted. In the past year, the SIU by its militant action leaped to the forefront, assumed and gave leadership in the maritime field that has left its rivals gasping and the shipowners wondering what will come next. I feel safe in making the flat statement that foreiiiost among our contract demands will be the establishment of the four-watch system. We should, therefore, discuss and explore all angles of the question so that when the time comes we shall be able to make concrete recommendations as to just how it shall be in­ stituted. PRIMARY OBJECTIVE There is no doubt that the war interrupted a program of organ­ ized labor that would have re­ sulted in the establishement of the six-hour day. We can, there­ fore, look forward to that as the primary objective of labor in the coming negotiations. This will not be handed to us on a platter. We must tighten cur ranks and see to it that the few performers still with us learn the facts of unionism. There is no place for disrupters (intention­ al or otherwise) in our Union and it is my opinion that the .sooner we unload these people the bet­ ter off we will be. Union members have a respon­ sibility to their organization to conduct themselves as such, and it is every member's duty to see to it that this is*.done. It is interesting to note that many crews have adopted a sys­ tem of fines for infractions of rules that has resulted in cleaner •jnessroms and quarters. This should be encouraged, thereby teaching our new members that an SIU ship is a clean ship. The black eye that Al Guan­ ire, Bosun, is sporting, did not come as the result of a tight. He says he got it when a chair collapsed under him when he had one girl on each knee. That's a good way to get hurt, in any case. On this page appears the menu served to the crew of the Clay on Christmas Day at sea. Tho | Stewards Department, above, is responsible for the swell feed. Left to right. Bill Oliver, Chief I Steward; Clarence Lyons, Chief Cook; Jimmie Williams, Night Cook and Baker; Gettis Light- i foot. Third Cook, and Leonard Jones, MM. Merchant Seamen Are Eligible To Buy Surplus Small Vessels may inspect them without ooltgation. Lists of vessels being offeieSt for sale will be issued from i.-mo to time by the Maritime Commia^ sion. Seafarer's who wish ro bo placed in the mailing list shouf^ write to the United States Mari­ Sales of the craft will be limit­ time Commission, Room 2410, 'V/ ed to veterans and to merchant Building, Washington, D. C. seamen who have received, or are eligible to receive, a certi­ i ficate of substantially continu­ ous service. Merchant seamen are eligible to purchase Government surplus small vessels 65 feet and under in length, according to terms of an announcement just released by the United States Maritime Commission. NOTICE! Seamen who are interested in inspecting the vessels for .sale are advised by the commission to contact the nearest office in their district. This is the Engine Department, lined up from left to right for this picture. Paolo Pringi, D. B. Moller, Tommy O'Shea, Al Freund, Alfred Medina, and Boleslaw Czeck. Like the other members of the crew, these men have done a swell job of keep­ ing the William Clay on the ball. Smooth sailing fellows. The Commission's latest an­ nouncement lists some 80 small craft of varying types and speci­ fications, ranging from 30 to 65 feet in length. Prices range from $100 for a Higgins Landing Craft (personnel) to $20,000 for a sea­ going tug. Several motor launches and speed boats are listed. The vessels are located at var­ ious naval and shipbuilding es­ tablishments throughout the na­ tion, where prospective buyers Jack Balson shipped aboard the Benjamin R. Milam on a run from rbo boneyard at Wilmington, N. C. to New York, where the ship was delivered to the French Government. Hf> claimed to be an SIU member and gave two different num­ bers, 234 and 2234. Investi­ gation proved that neither of these numbers is his. Agents in all ports and ships dele­ gates are urged to be on tho lookout for this man, and see that his book is clear be­ fore he ships on an SIU ship. J f J { 1 �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six Defense Of Bilbo Bleeding Hearts Comer Blocks Host Of Anti-Labor Bills :^£CO<L SiixtmAAip Gympxi/ru^, //vc. WASHINGTON — By an ironic twist of fate, one of Labor's worst enemies, Senator Theodore Bilbo, is responsible for staving off temporarily the flood of antilabor bills waiting for introduc tion into the new congress. Bilbo, who is being threatened with denial of his Senate seat for graft in war contracting, and for intimidating voters in his dis­ trict, has the backing of a small group of southern senotoi's wlio have pledged a filibu.ster until he is seated. If the Biblo group makes good its threat, the rcactionarie.s with their briefcases bulging with antilabor bills will have to cool their heels outside the senate chambers, and weep bitter tears over the fact that labor is being granted a reprieve by one of their own boys. Among the bills slated for first consideration by both houses are those aimed at strangling the rights of Labor. They are taking various shapes and forms, but all have the same purpose; the destruction of unions. One is the infamous Case Bill, with its outlaw of boycotts and sympathetic walkouts; another is a proposal to prohibit strikes in basic industries and for compulsary arbitration. Also there is no ddubt but revisions of the Wag­ ner (NLRA) Act, calling for the Open Shop, will come high oil the agenda. These are but a few of the anti-labor bills that will be in­ troduced in the 80th Congress, to be rushed through committee, and passed on to the President quick­ er than the bill that raised the salaries of Congressmen. There will be more of them. Gadsden Crew Gives To Baltimore Brothers In Marine Hospital By RAY WHITE BALTIMORE—This week the crew of the SS M. B. Gadsden do­ nated thirty dollars to be di­ vided among the hospitalized SIU members at the Baltimore Marine Hospital. The hospital committee headed by John Taurin reported that the money given by the considerate crew of the Gadsden was divided equally, giving $3.00 to each of the following hospitalized Sea­ farers: Manuel ^S. Romero, M. H. Walsh, W. L. Gillespie, Francis R. O'Brien, Emilio DiPietro, S. J. Amento, Joseph Ramieri, Peter Lopez, John Fitsimmons and Orpha Johnson. ATTENTION SIU, SUP CREWS When your ship comes in­ to the port of Tampa, do not buy one single thing from any of the Ships' Chandlers there. Those men. with the help of policemen, crashed our picketlines during our General Strike. Keep those finks off your ships, and re­ member to pass the word to other seamen. This is action thai has the backing of the entire membership of the Seafarers International Union. PieR*K" WCCHAWKCN. N.J •e«. LO»«oAe«»c »••«*> • T IOOO Kov60b«r 19th 1946. He regret to Inform you that you ire not entitled to vecatlon or transportation money for the time you hare been working as Chief Steward for t hie Company. The anion has ruled that there be no more TacatloRj, they feel that by paying vacations. It will Mice company men cut of you. In other wordi, any man, who one year» eervlco with the Company, prior to the eigning of the arjeen'^nt on Auguet 4, 1946, has forfeited hla vacation. This haa nothing to do with the caspany'e feeling but le ilrlclly ths 0 land taken by the Union. Regarding tranoportatlcn, again It eeeme to the writer that the Union haan't doneeiaotly the right t hlng towarde the Crew. As you know, the artlcleo were not terminated wnou vou arrived In the Port of Mobile, Eowever. the Union forced the men to sign off on mutual conoent and, when that happened, no transportation had to bo paid. The writer, for' one, regrets having to explain thle to you. as ws would very much like to see you getting paid for both vacation and tranaportablon, but, ae you can readily understand, the Company cannot do for one and net for another and, therefore, we have to live up to our agreement with the Union. Hoping you ere In the best of health, wo are Very truly yours, yaCQA STEAKSHIP COBPAWC, IMC. O.-'ICKAMSW-— Comiciesary Supt. GHHxCBA Friday. Janoary 10, 1947 AICDB CDDperates With SIU; Sends Stewards Cute Netes A slimy, finking technique em­ ployed by the Alcoa Steamship Company's commissary superin­ tendent to alienate Chief Stew­ ards from their shipmates by means of subtly worded letters was exposed this week by the Seafarers International Union as part of a vicious anti-union campaign. The Union's expose was sub stantiated by one of these letters sent recently to an SIU mem­ ber who has worked as Chief Steward aboard Alcoa vessels The Steward recognized the let­ ter's purpose and turned it over to the Union. The letter 'was written on of­ ficial company stationery at its Weehawken, N. J., office's Drip­ ping with syrupy friendship, it sought to convince the Seatarer that the company was his great benefactor. Any shortcomings which the Steward found in the company's treatment of him, the letter al­ most tearfully pointed out, were not the company's desire. OH. HARD LIFE Very few Stewards ar* duped by the crocodile tears shed by such good Samaritans as Hansen for the "poor unprotected Stewards." One of the questions in the minds of the Stewards is why the self-styled "chcunpion of the cause" never thought to pay them overtime at sea on Sundays and holidays, and in port on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. They are astounded at the idea that a man who had their interest at heart as much as Hansen says he does, never thought to raise their pay. They often wonder how long Hansen had to plead with the Union to let his company give the Stewards an increase of 3S cents an hour for fheir overtime. They can hardly understand why Hansen never thought of easing their work by putting on an adequate manning scale. Although Hansen's interest in their problems is appreciated, the majority of the Stewards prefer to string along with the Union as long as the SIU continues to he "influenced" by him to sign agreements such as the one recently signed. Hansen, nor any other company stooge, can never sell the Stewards, or any other Union man. the idea that their best iriends are the companies or their commissary superintendents. In fact, the company would like to do more for the Stewards than the agreement calls for—it says in the tear-jerker—but it wouldn't be living up to its agreement. "The Company cannot do for one and not for another and, therefore, we have to live up to our agreement with the Union," the letter concludes. The end of the letter, quoted above, reveals its true purpose, which is to pilay the Stewards against the other crewmembers. The SIU has known for a long time that various companies have been trying to pry away from the Union the selection of Chief Stewards when calling for crews. Stewards for freight vessels are shipped off the board. For pas­ senger ships, the Union clears Stewards through the Hiring Hall, SIU Asks To Be Recognized As Bargaining Representative For Tidewater Seamen (Continued from Page 1) Company, and at the same time the petition was submitted to the NLRB. Here is the text of the letter to the Company: Mr. R. K. Kelly, Vice-President Tidewater Associated Oil Co. 17 Battery Place New York, Nev/ York Dear Mr. Kelly: Please he advised that we are the authorized representatives of a sufficient number of the unli­ censed personnel now employed in the Tidewater Tankers to qual­ ify us as the Bargaining Agent for Ihe unlicensed personnel in your company. This is to further advise you that we have petitioned the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board for an election in these tankers as of this dale, copy of which is en­ closed. Sincerely, Paul Hall, Director Tidewater Tankers OrgcUiizing Committee The letter to the NLRB fol­ lows: Mr. H. LeBarron, Director National Labor Relations Board but the companies would like to give these jobs to their specially selected men, free and clear of the Union. These supposedly friendly, per­ sonal letters, plus the many other overtures made by Alcoa pur­ porting to show the company as good Samaritans to the Stewards, form a definite pattern. The SIU has definite reasons to believe that the primary pur­ pose of the campaign is to drive a wedge between the Chief Stew­ ards and the other crewmemher.s. OLDTIME FINK It was pointed out at Unyjn headquarters that the signer of the letter, Commissary Superin­ tendent Hansen, has a notorious finking record, and finked on the SIU during the 1941 bonus strike. The fact that the Alcoa com­ pany allows an official to openly employ finking tactics leaves open to question their announced desire to deal with the Union in good faith. Calling upon Alcoa to back up it.s pronouncement to deal in good faith, the Seafarers recom­ mended that the company de­ monstrate its intent by not using Hansen to continue his anti-un­ ion devices. Crime Wave Hits Waterfront In Port Galveston A wave of crime is sweeping the waterfront in the Port of Gal­ veston, Texa.«!, witli seafaring men the chief victims of holdup and sluggings. One SIU member is in the Marine hospital reported­ ly suffering from a skull fractui-e a.s a result of a beating ad­ ministered by thugs in the latest of the series of attacks. The incidence of waterfront crime in Galveston was reported to the Log by John D. McLemore, a Seafarer. Brother McLemore said that "the highwaymen's fra­ 120 Wall Street TcUiker Corporation of same, as ternity in this port has been con­ New York, New York of this date. We are, therefore, centrating recently on the sea­ Dear Mr. LeBarron: using ihe facilities of your office men." in order to make preparations The Seafarer hospitalized with This is to inform you thai the for an election to he held within the skull injury, "Fats" Wolfe, Seafarers International Union of was in the company of C. A. North America represents a suf­ this company's tankers. Hancock when the two men were This letter also was signed by ficient number of ihe unlicensed attacked following the payoff Paul Hall. personnel now employed on aboard the SS Hastings on which Tidewater Tankers fo qualify us The drive to organize Tide­ thej^ were crewmembers. as the Bargaining Agent for this water is another step in carrying company. out the Seafarers pledge to or­ The two Seafarers were beaten We have advised Tidewater ganize all unorganized seamen. and "rolled" for over $500 each, according to Brother McLemore. Seafarer Hancock received a less severe beating than did Wolfe, and did not require hospitaliza­ tion. (Continued from Page 3) NMU Leaders Followed CP Line In the Pilot of April 5, 1946, Secretary Smith declared in an ar­ ticle on maritime unity, "By virtue of their huge profits and their importance in world trade, the shipowners today are in an extremely strong position. This position is buttressed by many friends in Congress and in government agencies related to the maritime industry." The article continued, "They (American and British tories) want to break up the Soviet Union and smash labor's organizations, so that they can depress wages and working conditions at home and continue to exploit the colonial peoples." Vice President McKenzie declared in a Pilot item of April 26, 1946, "The employers of this country are determined to smash the labor movement. The employers, including the shipowners, are trying to prepare the groundwork for a Third World War against the rising democracies of Europe, against tKe liberation movements and against our great ally, the Soviet Union." rsf? Within the past week there have been four other cases of as­ sault and robbery, McLemore re­ ported. McLemore warned Seafarers to "watch their step" while ashore in the Port of Galveston. He urged particularly that they ex­ ert exti-eme caution in handling and displaying their money in public places. "It's no fun to work for four or five months for your money only to learn that you'll never get the use of it," McLemore said. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 10, 1947 \<m- V Pag* Saraa study In Contrasts—Okay Skipper And Bucko Mate—In Marcus Hook By BLACKIE CARDULLO ... MIMM Check The Ship Before Sign On NO For Stores And Needed Repairs By C. J. 'BUCK* STEPHENS Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: get about being black balled be­ CHARLESTON cause the new agreement covers HOUSTON you so that the Union protects NORFOLK you completely. As far as having JACKSONVILLE to kow-tow to the cOiripany Port PHILADELPHIA Steward, those days are gone, too. PORT ARTHUR Remember you are a member SAN JUAN of the SIU, and bear in mind that MOBILE your Union is the strongest in GALVESTON the industry and will definitely CORPUS CHRISTI take care of you in a beef with The deadline for port re­ the Port Steward. ports. monies due, etc., is the If the Port Steward claims that Monday proceeding publica­ you are feeding too much, then tion. While every effort will you are solid with both Union be made to use in the current and crew. But don't waste food. issue material received after On the other hand, if you are that date, space commitments hungry, and the crew brings you generally do not permit us to up on charges because you are do so. trying to chisel on their grub, then all the Port Stewards in the whole country will not be able to help you sail another SIU ship as Steward. Remember, when you are at sea, your Delegate is your gobetween with the Skipper and yourself. If the Skipper cuts By JOE your store list, repoi't it to the WATCH SIGN-ON NEW YORK—A couple of the I would like to take a blast Delegate so he in turn can call boys in the Baltimore thought at the crews that sign on in one a meeting of the crew to .see to it they were getting a real break port and then go to another port that you are not to blame. when they went down to Wil­ to have repairs made, additional DEPT. DELEGATE mington, North Carolina, to take stores put on, etc. Recently we have had ships a ship out of the boneyard and This is definitely not a good coming in without a report on sail it to New York. practice and should be stopped. the disputed overtime, beefs, re­ They were taken aboard the Once the companies get you on pairs, etc, as a matter of fact SS Benjamin Milam, Waterman articles they give you the old run without even electing Delegates Steamship Company, and they around. They say that no one on the ship. sailed the vessel right into this told them there were stores need­ This practice .should stop. It hai-bor. ed or no one put in a repair list is the duty of each and every So what happened? The com­ or what have you. crew to see to it that there is a pany tells the boys it was all a We have two ships tied up here reliable member of the crew in mistake, and that they were as­ now that were supposed to have each Department elected as Dele­ signed to the wrong ship. The signed on yesterday. Both ships gate. ship they were supposed to bring came from other ports, but the The Union rules gives this au- up here is still resting quietly in crew had used savvy enough not Ihe boneyard. (Continued on Page 8) to sign on foreign articles with a promise, and the ships are hung alongside until the stores are put aboard and repairs are made to the satisfaction of the crew. It makes it easier for the crew to get plenty of stores aboard a By HENRY W. CHAPPELL •ship, especially when she is fully loaded with pay eargo and ready TOLEDO — Although activity the NMU is "finished with en­ to sail, if the crew is not on ar­ in this Great Lakes port is pretty gines." ticles. The December 27 issue of the But, Brothers take it from me, much at a standstill, Lakes sea­ "Pilot" gave a fairly accurate if you are signed on foreign ar- men are taking advantage of the description of Wisconsin and tcles, it's mighty damn hard to slow season by coming into the Michigan's new ship the Chicago force the company to come across Hall to get the real dope on the Clipper. and usually you are up the well But after going to all the trou­ SIU. As a result every week new known creek without a paddle. ble of procuring and printing the Besides we still have the won­ members and former NMU men data giving all the dimensions, derful boys in blue, the Coast are being signed up in the SIU. cost, passenger and crew accom­ Guard Gestapo Unit. Now that the entire structure modations, etc., the writer for­ of the NMU is crumbling, both got to mention the main item of FOOD A PROBLEM Another beef on the list is ends against the middle, the SIU, interest to Lakes sailors—which against those Siewards who do which has proven itself to be the is that the ship will be crewed not confide in the crew and hol­ only sailors' Union, can exert and operated by SIU seamen. No doubt just a slight over­ ler to high heaven that the com­ more energy in fighting the sea­ man's common enemies, the ship­ sight on the part of the "Pilot" pany will not give them this or owners and their government reporter. that or the other thing until they 1947 BIG YEAR are out to sea, and there "aint no agencies. With 1946 stowed away in the "FINISHED WITH ENGINES" more." history books, the coming year The feeling of resentment These Stewards should confide should be one of great advances in the Delegates and not tell them among the rank and file of the in maritime despite the anti-la­ at sign-on time that they hav/ NMU, coupled with the fact that bor bills that will come up before enough for two months and then Joe Curran can no longer endure the new congress. the complete domination of the two days out begin to run short. One thing is sure—it will be a Some of these Stewards are afraid communist party officials and year that will see the SIU lead­ members in union policies, veri­ that they will be black balled by ing the maritime field again in fies the predictions and opinions the company. Brothers, for Pete's sake, for- of SIU officials and members that 1947 as it did in the past. NEW ORLEANS — Things are really booming in the Crescent City, with all hands that wanted to ship before the holidays able to pick their own jobs. Prospects for the next couple of weeks do not look so good, so the members that wanted to spend the holi­ days home may have a lonjger stay than they expected. Shipments of grain out of this port have really been going strong and so much has been com­ ing here that the railroad had to put an embargo on grain for this port, so they would not have too many railroad cars tied up here waiting to unload. There is so much grain here in the elevators that they are not even putting in any more, but are loading the ships directly from the barges and also from the elevators at the same time. We have the SS James Smith and the SS Zezulon Pike loading out at the present time and three more ships waiting. MARCUS HOOK — In many years of sailing, on practically every kind of a tub, I have heard of good Skippers and bad ones. You sort of get used to them after a while, and so it takes either a real bad one, or a very excellent one to arouse any in­ terest. Last week we paid off the SS Carlsbad, Pacific Tankers, and met Captain F. H. Bishop, a Skip­ per who doesn't have to take a back seat to anyone when it comes to taking care of his own crewmembers. Some of the Cap­ tain Bligh's who are sailing in command of ships should take a lesson from him. There were no beefs on this ship, and I never heard a crew praise an Old Man like they praised Captain Bishop. He set­ tled each beef on the spot, and the ship came in clean and ready for payoff. If more Skippers would follow his example, there would be more cooperation between the men and the officers. The unlicensed personnel does not expect any favors, but they do insist on be­ ing treated like decent men. And when they are treated that way, they go out of their way to show their appreciation. We wish Captain Bishop many more years of happy sailing, with SIU and SUP crews, to add to hia 20 years of sailing time. BAD ACTOR And now as contrast, let me show you how another char­ acter operates. This one was a Chief Mate whom we met when we paid off the McKettrick, Pa­ cific Tankers. This officer, who was called a "joker" by all the members of the crew, tried to give orders to the Deck Gang without going through the Bosun. Soon the men were so mixed up that they didn't know whether they were coming or going. Then he laid down the rule that there was to be no whistling on deck. Now that used to be a superstition in the days of the old sailing ships, but it no longer holds true, and the men laughed themselves sick over that one. But the one that really took the cake was his order that the men soogie without putting it down as overtime. When the crew asked about this, he told them that ALGINA unless they did as he ordered, Well, the boys shrugged their he would take it out on them shoulders, and admitted that it when he became a Skipper! was too bad, but what were they GOOD AND BAD expected to do about it. The com­ pany wanted them to payoff, That kind of fellow would have which they were willing to do, been able to get away with a lot but refused to pay them trans­ of that stuff if he hadn't been up against a militant SIU crew. Some of the boj-s were on the picketline right here in Marcus Hook during the General Strike. I know that they mind their own business, but if anyone steps on them, they fight back hard. So, as I said in the beginning of this report, you meet all sorts of officers, good and bad. Last week we met both kinds, but usually the good are more fre­ quent than the poor ones. Unions, for both imlicensed and licensed portation back to Baltimore, the personnel, have done plenty to bring about better understand­ port of signing on. Needless to say, the company ing between the two sections of finally came through with trans­ the crew. portation dough, and the men are Organizing work at Sun Oil all happy. Come to think about Company is still going on strong, it, I guess the company is the and we are still having the same unhappy party to this whole deal. old trouble. The SIU Tanker The Topa Topa, another Water­ News comes out regularly, and man ship, came in from a three from the way people grab for it month trip, and paid off in Phila­ and read it, I'm sure that it is delphia. This ship was crewed more popular than the Marcus by a bunch of oldtimers, and the Hook dailj' papers. trip was very successful from all points of view. Most of the men came back to the New York Hall to ship out again. Business and shipping continue The Log wants at once* Iho fair in New York, but we really names and addresses of bars, expect things to pick up next clubs frequented by seamen, week. Have you heard that one particularly in foreign ports, before? so that they can be put on Robin Lines has three ships the Log mailing list. With coming in from the South African the postal delivery to ships run next week, and that will be snafued, this remains the only like a shot in the aim to us. If practical way of getting the other companies show the same Union paper into the mem­ kind of improvement, we will be berships hands. kept hopping for some time to So do it today—send us the come. names and correct addresses Still and all, there are a good of your favorite places all many jobs appearing on the over the world, with an esboard each call. With the good estimation of the number of weather we are enjoying lately, Logs they can use. and with jobs available, what else can a sailor ask for? Wrong Ship But Right Crew (SIU) Takes Trip From Boneyard To N. Y. NMU Is "Finished With Engines;" Lakes Seamen Gome To Seafarers Let Us Have 'Em �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Friday, January 10, 1947 Weather Reroutes Freight Ships But Tankers Keep Boston Busy Check The Ship Before Sign On For Stores And Needed Repairs By JOHN MOGAN beefing to him that you are going to report him to the Union. Call a meeting of the crew and tell them to keep track of every phony move he makes, then when you come in you have it on the bird and it will be very easy to The elected Delegate should have him removed. keep a list of all the men in his Make .sure that your nose is department when they are paid, and when a.ssessments, etc, are clean though, before you request the Union to have the company paid. wipe the nose of one of its of­ He should keep track of all beefs ficers. Get the deadwood on him and at the time the beef takes and have it in black and white. place he should make a detailed report so that the Patrolman pay­ NO REAL BEEF ing off will know what the score Recently we had a company it. beef that the Union was not co­ He should see that regular meet­ operating with it in trying to sail ings are called so new members its ships on time. can be taught the principles of I would like to remind this Unionism and can be told of the company that in the future, as great struggle that the unions well as in the past, we will not went through to make the preswork on a promise and have a ent wages and conditions possible. ship signed on before all repairs, The Delegates 'should keep stores, etc., are okay. track of all disputed overtime, and The same company that cries above all, not argue with the to high heaven for unity between head of the department because the Union and it, waited until he disputes overtime as he is only the afternoon of December 24 to pay off a ship. Even a seaman should have been on his way home for Christmas Eve. {Continued from Page 7) thority to the shore Patrolmen, but even they do not know the man that is capable of being a Delegate so they leave it up to the crew. was no good anyway. There was a swell gang on the Klamath Falls; but possibly it wasn't real­ ized by the crew that Boston Patrolmen cover Providence, also. SEE PATROLMAN Quite a lew of the unorganized By JOHNNY JOHNSTON tankers are hitting up this way now, with the prospects of a When Mount Pelee, the naked greater trafTic in the very near mountain on the Isle of Martinfuture. que in the West Indies, erupted Everything appears in good on May 8, 1902, it completely shape, though the turnover on wiped out the city of St. Pierre these scows is terrific. And, also, and killed forty thousand people. it is becoming increasingly diffi­ When rescue parties arrived in cult to make contact. St. Pierre next day they found a SIU men on these vessels dead city and no one to rescue. should make a special effort to For four days the town was Set ashore and contact the near- searched for survivors, and two est Hall, even when docked at men hunting through the debris out-of-the-way ports up around heard a faint cry which seemed to hei-e; or, even more important, come out of a crack beneath their at refineries where Patrolmen feet. Other members of the party cannot get aboard. were called, and they started To sum up, shipping and busi­ digging through the rock and ness is just about fair in Boston. lava. Hours later they discovered a Improvement of the situation is MOSTLY TANKERS hopefully looked for, but even criminal, who was in his cell We had a Mississippi ship (SS at pre.sent there are times when when the eruption started, and Tarleton Brown) in Portland last it is a struggle to get the sixth had thereby e.scaped the fate of week, expect another to pay off book-member AB for a full deck the others in the citj'. here within a couple of days department. S. 4. J. (weather permitting her to got And as far as business is con­ Did you know that the song down from Portland). cerned we are keeping above "O Bury Me Not On The Lone Except for these and a Moran water, so this department isn't Prairie" was first sung and writ­ lug, it was the tankers which too bad, either. But we are still ten by a sailor who had left the kept us busy, one of which paid ^ looking for some improvement, sea? off in Providence a few days ago, | and no doubt it will be Eastern He was driving cattle up the and another of which is scheduled , that will provide it — toward the Old Chisholm Trail during the to pay off in Portland tomorrow.' end of January. great cattle boom after the Civil The SS Klamath Falls paid off War, and he was homesick for on New Year's Day without, a the sight and smell of the sea. Patrolman. This is something So he started singing a song well that shouldn't occur again, and it known to seafaring men of that a member of the crew and he has is up to the Delegates to notify time. instructions to go by. Keep track the Hall and to await the Patrol­ The song was "O Bury Me Not of it and bring it in to the shore man's coming before starting to In The Deep Blue Sea," but since Delegates and if its okay they payoff. It is quite possible to lose he was on the open range, he will get it for you. good money by not waiting. changed the words to suit the lo­ However, when the Patrolman The Delegates on various ships cale. arrived at the ship and checked have beefed against the Skip­ The song became very popular, the disputed overtime, it develop­ per, Mates, etc., and wanted and has been translated into ed that all the questionable stuff them pulled off the ship. In some many foreign languages. Wher­ cases they had good beefs, and ever you go today, you can hear in some they had bum beefs, so the lone.some words and tune of a few words of advice. a song that started with the sea If you have a phony on the but which has become the cowship, don't put him on guard by punchers' song. BOSTON — My last report, it seems to me, was chiefly about the weather up this way. I could easily fill up a couple of columns this week about the same thing, fur it is still mighty tough going up this way. There apparently is a direct connection between the weatlier and shipping. The daily papers have been replete with news of shipping accidents, groundings, etc., occurring in the immediate vicinity, which may or may not be the explanation as to why most of our steamship companies are shifting their base of oper­ ations to the south. Judging from the reports of our Agents in the Gulf area, shipping and business is really good. Just by way of example: four Waterman ships were scheduled to payoff and crew up here this first week in January. Every one of the four was cancelled and other ports got the business. New Branch Opened in Miami By Seafarers Calmar Ships Given To Bull And Overlakes By W. H. SIMMONS SAN FRANCISCO — Shipping around the Gold Coast is better than it has been for .some time, but it still isn't what one can call too good. But we are looking for ship­ ping to pick up in the near fu­ CHARLES STARLING ture with jobs for all the men on the beach. To facilitate the handling of The ACA Radio Operators' beef union business in the Port of with Calmar Steamship Company Miami, the Seafarers Internation­ has been settled, with the WSA al Union has opened a new reallocating the Calmar ships to branch office in the Florida re­ Bull and Overlakes Steamship; ^^rt city. The office is located at Companies.. This switch is okay, 1355 N. E. l.st Ave., Miami, Fla. with us as both these companies Charles Starling, former Patrolreceiving Calmar ships are con-1 man in the Port of Baltimore is tracted to the SIU. handling the business of the new The crews of the four ships branch. which turned over to Bull and Brolhei' Starling was tempo­ Overlakes came out okay on the rarily appointed by Secretaryswap, and everything is smooth Treasurer John Hawk, and he at present. This eliminates a will fill the post until such time headache which has been plague- as he is replaced. ing us for some time out here. The installation of -an office in At the moment there is little Miami was nece.ssitated by the to report from the Gold Coast flow of SIU business in that port. wth everything running smooth. Seafarers signing on, paying off Maybe something will pop in the and calling at Miami are now near future to make a big story assured of on-the-spot Union rep­ from the west coast, but until resentation in line with the SIU's then the Gold Coast reporter policy of giving its membership will sign off. the best possible representation. 4. 4. S. The 31900 ton Mauretania, an English passenger ship, will live always in the history of shipping. Built in 1907, she set an Atlantic crossing record in 1909, steaming from Cork Harbour to Sandy Hook in 4 days, 10 hours, and 41 minutes. This i-ecord was not beaten for twenty years, and during that time she was the fastest ship afloat. 4- 4. 4. As long ago as 1879, the first ship with electric lights was al­ ready afloat. True, she only had six electric lamps in all, but she caused a sensation wherever she went. The ship was the City of Berlin, belonging to the Inman Line, and was the talk of the maritime woHd. 4. 4. The horsepower rating of a ship is an important factor in gauging the maximum spei-d the ship can be expected to give For instance; 12 knots requires 45000 HP 16 knots requires 11000 HP 20 knots requires 22000 HP 24 knots requires 39000 HP It is obvious, therefore, that to double the speed, you cannot just double the horsepower. Re­ sistance increases three times as quickly, as speed does. This same outfit can never get a company official down when the Patrolman makes a paiticular ship, but when it's tied up or the payoff stopped then they find time to get there. They cry for unity. Well, in the coming year they will got all they want, but first they had better get squared off. And above all, when a payoff is set for 1:00 p. m. let them make it one, and not five. This outfit should remember that the war is over and no of­ ficials of the Union need to won-y about being drafted or being threatened with being reported to the army, for now it is the Company and the SIU, and the army is a past issue. So to this company I wish a happy , and a prosperous New Year, for they can really have one if they want it that way. The Patrolmen Say,.. Gold Coast Invites I the old SIU banner in a militant manner. SAN FRANCISCO — After a MORE TRANSFERS two week vacation on the East Coast I have returned to the old This fact has begun to show Gold Coast to find everything on the Gold Coast, as every day moving along in fine shape. we have men coming in want­ There are a few ships out here ing to transfer from other stuffy that are moving slow due to the unions to reap the harvest SIU fact that the CIO Radio Opera­ members have been enjoying. To the men who have been tors have been trying to raise a coming in to join the SIU, I fuss just to get their names in would like to impress upon you the papers. that this is one union you can That is about all the hulla­ brag about. This is one Union baloo ever amounts to as I fail that you do not have to apologize to see /here they have ever for. Every SIU man holds up his gained anything for their mem­ head arid is proud of the pin bership. he wears. While I was in the East, I visit­ PASS THE WORD ed the Port of Tampa, and the day I arrived it was so foggy I Out here on the Gold Coast we don't believe any one recognized like to hear from the Brothers me nor did I recognize the port. wherever they may be. After the mist cleared, I found Once in awhile a few Brothers that Brother Simmons and his staff hit the beach here and we get a have done, and are still doing, chance to chat, but as it is impos­ some fine work around that port. sible to chat with all we would He has made a good start in like you to drop us a line once making it one of the finest ports in awhile. on the mainland. Keep up the Brother Simmons is still taking good work. Brother Simmons, for good care of the port, so write it's officials such as you that us, or when in town come in and make the Seafarers International get acquainted. Union members proud to carry E. H. Teague �Friday, January 10. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Frenchy Pens Open Letter To Membership Dear Brothers: , , , . am going o e caving you fellows in a few months to devote all of my time to a shoreside busi­ ness. But there are a few things that I would like to call to your attention before I drift along. and I find that I have paid less than two hundred dollars, dues assessments included, during the full six years that I have en­ joyed the benefits of this organi- Let's .see if we can't be a little more tolerant with the Johnnycome-Iatelys. Some of us have a habit of sneering at 'ern as "young punks." To be young i.sn't r.eces.<-'anl7 For practically as long as he When I consider what this to be a punk. The hope of thi.i. could remember, John Dugina al­ Union has done for me and then organization lies in the type of ways wanted to go to sea. Stuck First, I would like to thank the read some boss' stooge's account new blood it can attract to its in the s)nall coal mining town of Seafarers International Union for of what a racket unionism is, banner. Clairton, Pennsylvania, the lure the economic security and the de­ then I am forcibly reminded of We've ail .-ailed with guys who of the open sea was something cent working • conditions that I how little organized labor has were thirty years in the business that he had to fight to resist. have enjoyed during the six years blown its own horn. and all they had learned was to Some of his boyhood friends that I have been a member of The next time you read a blast become expeit at turning out a had already graduated from high the organization. at organized labor in the nation's botched up job. It was the young­ school and were sailing ships into I've gotten so much more out press just remember that the er element of this organization, the war zones as merchant sea­ of this Union than ever I put in­ press is wholly supported by the under the firm guiding hand of men. to it, and so many of my friends bosses and that the scribblers real big-time know-how, that did When they came home on in­ tell me that they have enjoyed who edit the papers are not about the magnificient job of organizing frequent leaves, they told him of the same experience, that I feel to bite the hand that feeds 'em. what will prove to be the bal­ their adventures, and of their that it would be a good idea to Brothers, the financial reserves ance of power in the m.ai'itimo Union, the Seafarers International review them biaefly. of our organization has been dan­ union field—the Isthmian Steam­ Union. He couldn't wait to grad­ gerously depleted during our re­ ship Compan,y. I think it especially desirable uate from high school himself so cent successful strike. The Union to remind you of these benefits The next lime you feel your­ that he could join his friends and was foj'ced to lay out an enorat this time because the press self burning because .'^ome ordin­ share their adventures. has been enjoying field days/"ous .sum., to feed and flop the ary .seaman can't tic a bowline, But when he did receive his lately telling us what rackets membership and to conduct the just remembei- that you couldn't diploma from the local high school unions are. business of .striking. So I want splice a line 'til you were kneehis mother put her foot down to sail out on an unorganized I went to sea in the twenties opportunity to urge high to a grown goose yourself. firmly on the idea of his going to tanker. and I can tell you that it was all of my brother members to acsea. She claimed that he was too So, steady as she goes, fellows. "I've noticed the bad conditions tivelj' work for a ten dollar vol­ young, and that she would not on unorganized tankers berthed rugged. The bosses were in the Give her head and play her fair. untary rehabilitation assessment. saddle then with no union standsign the necessary papers. And W'hen t.he long rough voy­ near us," he recalls, "and I want I've learned the hai'd way that So John made the best of a bad to do my part to bring good con­ I ing by to make 'em let up on the age is over and the Master calks only a strong union can win and us topside for our pay, why, may­ situation, and went to work in ditions and decent wages to tho.se spurs. one of the local steel mills. He men." Brothers, they drove me hard. maintain decent wages and work­ be there'll be an old smoothie became a member of the CIO Sometimes I was forced to ship ing conditions. And the only way like Joe Volpian .standing by to SEA HIS LIFE Steelworkers Union, and al­ workaway in order that I might a union can be strong is for it square the "iogs" for the likes of though he has the highest admir­ be standing by to get a chance at to be financially sound. you and me. Following the sea is not just a I know that there are many ation for that union, neverthele.ss, a job. Frenchy Michelei temporary job for Brother Du­ men in this organization who feel he firmly believes that the SIU is And what a job it was. They as I do, and who would like gina. He wants to continue sail­ cleaner and more efliciently run. worked me from kin to kaint, nothing better than to have this ing because he "meets a fine SIU FOR HIM flopped me crumb-bum style and opportunity to contribute ten dol­ bunch of fellows, likes to travel, Soon he was old enough to go and gets good Union protection on fed me swill the swine would lars to a voluntary fund that they swear off of. to sea on his own, and he did as SIU ships." might even in this small manner fast as he could. Fiivst he enroll­ Ye.s, and they paid me the show^ their appreciation for all Like all seamen, John has his ed with the Maritime Service, but favorite port.s. His are all in the magnificent sum of $37.50 for a that this Union has done for as soon as his training was over, British Isles: Glasgow, Liverpool, month's wages. Oveidime? Why, them. So let's all actively peti­ he made arrangements to sail and Hull. And his reasons are the there wasn't any such word until tion for this voluntary assess­ with the SIU. same as those of other seamen in the union coined it a few years ment. The SS Mello Franco, center o;l' The war was still going on in naming their favorite ports of ago. Finally, a word to the oldfull force, and the North Atlantic the controversy which precipi­ I have just checked my book timers. {Conlinucd on Page 14) was still dangerous territory for tated the Coos Bay tie-up last convoys. Here is where John got July, has finally sailed from that his baptism of fii-e, on a run that Oregon port after ••ilmost six had its share of submrnane at­ months of idleness. tacks, air alert.s, and other ex­ citing happenings. The following named trip card and/or permit member applications have now been approved, and The dispute, which made tne In all his war service, and that these members are eligible for probationai-y membership in the Seafarers International Union of Mello Franco known up and includes trip-S in the Mediterran­ North America upon payment of the initiation fee, etc., as outlined below in any Atlantic and Gulf down both coasts, began whon ean also, Brcjther Dugina, who by Han-y Bridges' longshoremen re­ now was sailing as an AB, was District Hall: fused to load or unload any car­ John Dugina SS Mello Fransi Leaves Coos Bay With Memories Permit Men Eligible For Pro Books never huid. The buzz bombs of Antwerp were frightening, the submarines and dive bombers the same, but he was never in­ jured as a result of enemy action. As he puts it, 'T was lucky during the war, but as soon as the war was over, I got mine." Name Z Number T.C. or Permit No. Init. Hosp. 1946 $25.00 $2.00 TCA-5478 Atchin.son, Joe N 567628 2.00 25.00 TCA-4360 Christopher, Peter 673166 2.00 25.00 TCA-4006 Craddock, Edwin C. .' 567312 2.00 25.00 TCA-9151 Clement, John R 569959 2.00 25.00 TC-15662 Costello, Joseph A 56622 25.00 2.00 P-3-42G0 Di.xon, James B 567123 CALMAR CHISELS 25.00 TCA-4463 Dunne, Joseph E 673518 2.00 John was on a Calmar ship. Dworanczyk, Edward B. 334647 25.00 2.00 TC-21423 2.00 the William Packer, at sea, when' Dziondzielewski, A. 367416 . 25.00 TCA-9675 he was injured in a shipboard, Emory, John H 285345 25.00 2.00 TCA-5532 accident. He was laid up for ^ Folia, Joseph M .5.58255 2.00 25.00 TC-15611 2.00 twenty-one days in the Staten Graham, Harvey L 567368 25.00 TCA-5102 2.00 Island Marine Ho.spital, and then Habighorst, Charles F 517287 25.00 P-3-2547 2.00 was convalescent for another Hernandez, Silverios 569462 TCA-9170 25.00 month. 2.00 TCA-5278 25.00 Howard. Charles W 112028 Big-hearted Calmar then offer- Hunt, James W 573142 TCA-7074 25.00 2.00 ed him $82.50 in full settlement King, Eden E 136217 2.00 TC-18786 25.00 of his claim. Dugina held out, Layton, John L 323217 2.00 TC-18870 25.00 and was rewarded with a settle- Lea, James 573083 2.00 P-3-3429 25.00 ment of $200.00, which was not Leslie. Edward J 690767 P-3-4046 2.00 25.00 nearly enough to pay for the time Mahou, Louis J 2.00 TCA-1G91 25.00 275936 he lost, and for his injur.v, but McClain. Eugene 25.00 2.00 366586 TCA-315 which was better than the origin­ McNeil, William J 25.00 2.00 TC-18759 573285 al offer. 2.00 Menendez, Andres J 300918 P-3-549 25.00 John has been elected Delegate Murphy, George 673377 TCA-4443 2.00 25.00 of practically every ship he }ias Nugent, Simon H P-3-5100 572576 25.00 2.00 been on during the pa.st tv/o Rice, Howard E 25.00 674341 P-3-3686 2.00 years, and was a Picket Captain Richards, Paul J TCA-4433 25.00 2.00 430868 in Houston during the 1946 Gen­ Robillard, Joseph A 181448 P-3-4437 2.00 25.00 eral Strike. Sanders, Eugene B 123956 TCA-I382I 25.00 2.00 "The SIU is the finest thing for ScuUy, John 2.00 675214 P-3-4516 25.00 seamen," he says. "I've been on Snow, Thomas 2.00 815075 TCA-7904 25.00 tough ships, with tough Skippers Wells, Raymond J 2.00 260013 TCA-290 25.00 and Mates, but the Union alw^ays Williams, George 567528 TCA-5417 2.00 25.00 straightened things out." The above named applicants may pay their initiation fee, etc., in any John sails mostly on tankers, and after his next trip he intends tify this office where the member wishes his book sent. 1946 A.O.A. 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 port. 1947 A.OJIL. 1947 A.S.A. $5.00 $3.00 3.00 3.00 3,00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.0C 3.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 go until the SUP ship was crow­ ed by an CMU crew. The SILi^-SUP in return threw picketlines around all NMU ships tied up in New York as a warn­ ing to Bridges to discontinue his raiding tactics. After this demon­ stration of SlU-SUP strength, arbitration of the dispute was agreed upon and as a result Bridges was .slapped down. BEATEN IN RAID liDcige.s, seeing liie handwrit­ ing on the wall, ordered his men 5.00 to handle the Mello Franco and 5.00 ended iiis attempted raid upon 5.00 American-Pacific ships. 5.00 The Mello Franco, renamed the 5.00 SS Bayeinx. left Coos Bay with 5.00 j a load of lumber destined for 5.00 ' Calloa. Peru, and it was with 5.00 mingled feelings that the crew 5.00 took her out to sea, for during 5.00 their long stay they had begun to 5.00 feel like permanent guests of the 5.00 town. 5.00 The Skipper married a local 5.00 girl and other crowmembers were 5.00 in town .so king they began to 5.00 feel like solid citizens and started 5.00 making speeches at the Lioni". 5.00 Ciub. 5.00 5.00 With the unfreezing of the port 5.00 of Coos Bay. the large piles of 5.00 lumber accumulated on the docks began to move to the paper com­ The Agent wiU nopanies which rely on this port for their .«^upply of woodpulp. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Fao* T»n Friday. January 10, 194T ' SmPS' MIMUTES AND NEWS MEN AT WORK — AND HAPPY, TOO \ >. .. J. .. . N >. Ch. Engineer On Emerson Has Foul Line ^ y All Missed The Skipper's Object Things were popping in New York harbor one day last week— that is, they would have been popping if the object which a ferryboat captain saw turned out to be what he thought it was. Going about his daily business of plying his ferryboat between 69th Street, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, the vessel's captain sight­ ed an object floating in the quar­ antine area off Rosebank, S.I. It resembled a floating mine, and in a harbor like New York—or any­ where, for that matter—a thing like that left around loose could raise plenty of hell, the captain opined. ALL EXCEPT THE MARINES He immediately notified the authorities. Before you could say "dmigod," the area was alive and screaming with harbor police and the Coast Guard, in addition to the Army and Navy units which were sent to dispose of the explosive. Swabbing the deck evidently is an enjoyable task for Red Hanson, crew member of the MV Coastal Defender. Anyway, that's a right pretty smile Red has for the cameraman. Photo at right shows the Defender's Bosun, Milton Williams, directing cargo loading when the vessel put in recently at Frobisher Bay, Canada. Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings No Percolator No Coffee A few percolators would go a But no mine was found. The long way toward making all ferryboat captain went back to hands a bit happier on the SS Evelyn, according to the Dec. 22 minutes, just received. vwyooth-i At the meeting, held at sea, the lads passed a motion to obtain coffee-makers for the officers' lounge, the crew's mess and the engine room. In case you're won­ dering how come the request was broadened to include the officer's lounge, here's the explanation: As things now stand the coffee has to be transported from the galley to the bridge, via one of the crew members. Since bad weather is now in abundance at his ferryboating probably won­ sea, it makes things pretty tough dering if the whole thing was for the coffee-carrier, in fact, the operation calls for a human cen­ worth all the noise. Later, the captain's eyesight tipede to insure safe footing and received & clean bill of health, safe arrival with his cargo. If no percolator is forthcoming but his knowledge of naval war­ for the officers' lounge, no coffee fare weapons was dropped down will be brought to the bridge a peg or two. The Coast Guard during bad weather, the crew reported that a private buoy that decided. broke away from its mooring at Seems fair enough to us. Pier 22, Staten Island, and an 4. i 4. empty oil drum had been found MAYFIELD VICTORY. Dec. in the vicinity where the ferry­ 16—Chairman L. Graniham; boat captain first was panicked. Secretary H. Figley. Deck PROBABLY IT Delegate reported the matter of , It was believed that either of using the laundry and washing Action postponed these two objects might have machine. pending investigation. Steward been what the captain saw. Delegate reported to have Pa­ Anyway, it is hoped that the trolman contact company re­ skipper will keep right on re­ garding steak. None is on hand porting what he thinks he sees, in current meat supply and pre­ even if the Coast Guard does get vious requisition for same has annoyed. Better to be wro.ng on been denied by company. New the ferryboat than to be right in Business: Motion carried for heaven. levying the following fines: Two, dollars for sitting on tables, one dollar for feet on chairs; one dollar for refuse on floor, and one dollar for leaving cups on table. All fine money col­ lected to be turned over to the Seafarers Log. Toaster Terror Loose On The Argonaut Some guys—if you read your comic strips—are always hitting a poor little kid. XMAS PICKINGS GOOD ABOARD LAREDO VICTORY First of the tempting menus of Christmas dinners served to Sea­ farer crews to come to the Log, is the one from the SS Laredo Victory of the South Atlantic Steamship Line. Prefaced with a wish for a Men-y Christmas for all hands, the menu follows: Chilled Tomato Cocktail S/iiffcd Celery with Salmon Flakes Mixed Pickles and Olives Sal/inc Crackers Soup Consomme a la Royal Broiled Fillet Spanish Mackerel de Hotel • Duchess Potato Roast Maryland Turkey with Giblet Gravy Oyster Dressing Cranberry Sauce Imperial Sweet Potatoes Buttered Early Green Peas Parkerhouse Rolls Butter Coffee Tea Hearts of Tomato de Laredo Old Fashioned Pumpkin Pie Mincemeat Pic Fruit Cake Assorted Nuts Fresh California Mixed Fruits C. H. FYFE, Steward On the SS Ai-gonaut it's not quite that bad, but, say the ship's minutes, some guys are always "abusing" the pantry toaster. The minutes don't amplify what is meant by "abusing" al­ though it should be fairly ob­ vious. It might be that some im­ patient crew member is using the unfortunate toaster to dry his socks. Then again it could be that some hungry hands are us­ ing the toaster for a sandwich grill. Anyway, the crew ruled, the toaster isn't getting the care it deserves, and anyone caught abusing" the toaster is going to get a roasting himself—and fined to boot. That oughta learn him. The Chief Engineer, who work­ ed aboard the SS Frank Emerson during Voyage No. 10 is a throw­ back to pre-Union sailing days. His anti-Union philosophy was sumemd up in a remark to the effect that he would take a pay cut if he could see the crew mem­ bers working for $50 a month. In the ship's minutes and the Engine department Delegate's re­ port, the Chief Engineer was the subject of the crew's censure. Be­ sides the fact that this character yearns for the "good old days," he was reported to have expressed a callous indifference for the wellbeing of his department members. The Engine Delegate's report reveals that when a FWT hurt his shoulder ashore in France, the Chief Engineer stated that the in­ jured man "might as well be paid off" as he was of no further use to the engine room officer. NO OVERTIME, EITHER When it came to overtime he disported himself just as would be expected. He was completely consistent in every detail. When the Oilers were turned to aid the Second Assistant with water and' the lines in Mobile, Ala., the Chief Engineer disputed the over­ time involved. The overtime was later approv­ ed by the Emerson's Skipper. "The Emerson's Black Gang ap-. proved for Union membership one permit card man, Clarence Schroeder. Another man travel­ ing with a permit card was not recommended for membership as he has consistently shown an attitude not becoming a Union member," according to the Dele­ gate's report. Pointing out further the rea­ sons for membership refusal to 4. 4. it YAKA, Dec. 15 — Chairman Smith; Secretary Mitchel. Min­ utes of previous meeting read and accepted. Delegates of the departments gave their reports which were accepted. List of repairs submitted by the Dele­ gates, four copies made and given to each delegate. Broth­ er Thompson asked the chair that if he were to be on watch in port at any time and he was to be called in on a beef and had to go to the Hall to have it settled, would one of the Oilers volunteer to do his job until he returned. The Oilers agreed to do so. List of items missing from the menus submitted to Steward with advice that if he couldn't procure them to so notify the crew, so that they could lend their aid in obtain­ ing them. "When he was told to do sani­ tary work," the report continues, "he was 'finished' and in the messhall at 8:15. When a person would try to set him right, the impression would bo given that you could go fly a kite." Another crew member aroused the displeasure of his shipmates on Voyage No. 10. The Chief Steward was ciiticised for sever­ al alleged shortcomings in both (Continued on Page 11) (Continued on Page II) the man In question, the report says "he is under the impression he came aboard for the ride, and that he has to have someone on his tail all the time" before he gets any work dune. INDIFFERENT �Friday. January 10. 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings {C(ynt'wued fro7n Page 10) (Name of ship not given). Chairman J. Hanson: Secre­ tary K. Leonard. Crew agreed to drop all charges against Third Engineer on the grounds that he was warned and he stopped painting when told. His Union will not be notified, as it may be possible that they will lake up charges and crew does not wish this to happen. Crew to ask for statement of wages, accounts, etc. Motion carried that the company be approach­ ed in regards to a decent form of bed to be put aboard. Letter to be written and sent to them explaining the poor condition of the last ones sent to the ship. Motion passed to have the ice box inspected and cleaned. Al­ so that the delegate have the flour inspected for weavels. and have the old stuff dumped. Patrolman to see the same on arrival in port. List of repairs made and attached to minutes. Crew resolved that all men will be sober at the payoff as to help both the Patrolman and themselves get away quickly. ALOCA PEGASUS. Oct. 2— Chairman P. J. Avera; Secre­ tary A. P. Fertitta. Motions carried: that Ship's Delegate see the Captain about provid­ ing a cat-walk over the deck load; to contact the Union to require company to rig jury toilets for stevedores. After dis­ cussion a motion was carried to have company get services of another doctor in Montreal to care for sick men aboard the vessel cit present time. One minute of silence observed for Brothers missing at sea. Ch. Engineer Has Foul Line (Contimied from Page 10) Ihe Dock and Engine Delegate's reports. The ship's minutes like­ wise pointed up the crew's dis­ satisfaction with the Steward de­ partment head. According to the minutes, the principal charge was that the Steward "refused to let the Dele­ gates check the stores." He was credited with saying that he took his orders from the Port Stcwai'd. The crew charged that the ves­ sel was loaded with inferior sup­ plies, and that if the Stewai-d had allowed the Delegates to check the oncoming stores prior to sail­ ing, a complaint could have been registered in the States and -ac­ tion taken thereon. MEALS POOR It was also alleged that the Steward put out food for meals that was below the usual stand­ ards of messroom quality for SIU ships, and that he put out night lunches at varying hours de­ pending on his whims. At the shipboard meeting there was considerable pro and con dis­ cussion as to possible disposition of the Steward's case, ranging from motions to allow him an­ other chance to redeem himself to one recommending that he sail as a Chief Cook for a period of six months. The latter motion added that if the Steward proved efficient in the capacity of Chief Cook, he would'be restored to his former rating at the end of the pi-obationary period. John Santos served as chair­ man, R. J. Ingraham as secretary of the shipboard meeting. ters, and fans checked. Motion carried instructing Deck Dele­ gate to see Patrolman about collecting Deck Maintenance pay. Minutes are to be posted in messrooms and one copy sent to the Log. Motions carried: that all beefs be settled before any man pays off; to inquire about tripcarders being pulled off before 60-day trip. Agreed that Skipper is the best the crew has ever sailed with. 4 4' JOHN MILLEDGE. Oct. 15— Chairman F. D. Russell; Secre­ tary J. L. Early. Meeting call­ ed for the purpose of further ac­ tion on accepting tripcard men as future members in the SIU. Motion made that present tripcard Chief Cook be given an­ other chance to sail as Chief Cook. Amendment: that the Chief Cook retain his tripcard but he is not to ship at any rating higher than Second Cook and 'Baker for at least three trips. With amendment motion carried. Five other tripcarders were approved for ad­ mittance into Union. S. 4. Garbage Gets Crew's Goat SE^yll?8?SWS;flVS TALK FOR TOUR J^ SUPPER! 4 CARLSBAD, Dec. 23—Chair­ man Candler; Secretary LaBrosse. All Department Dele­ gates reported everything in order. Good and Welfare: It was agreed to remain out of each others foc'sles unless in­ vited thus relieving anyone from suspicion should articles be reported missing. Depart­ ment delegates requested to have complete repair list for Patrolman at next payoff. Bro­ thers were asked to cooperate with messmen to keep messhall clean. It was suggested that men going on watch be served first. 4 4 4 HORACE SEE, Dec. 25— Chairman Lester; Secretary Messenger. Good and Welfare: During meeting following were discussed: try to get new tank­ er contract; delay payoff until Patrolman gets aboard; radio repairing, parts sent ashore in Wilmington; Delegates make out copy of repairs to be sub­ mitted to Chief Engineer and Captain. Crew agreed not to take milk aboard in Mexico be­ cause of low standard of food laws. Vote of thanks to Stew­ ard Department for splendid cooperation during trip. All crew members who are being fired desire to know ahead of time. Request to see Captain about it. Also wish delegates to see Patrolman about trans­ portation back to port of en­ gagement which is Key West, Florida. Fair warning that further im­ proper disposition of the garbage aboard the SS Ouachita "Victory would result in notification of the proper authorities was sound­ ed by the crew at a shipboard meeting Dec. 8. The crew recommended that the garbage disposal be watched, and that if the method is not re­ garded as proper, the Public Health Service be notified. Supplies also incurred the crew's wrath, with potatoes head­ ing the list of shortage items. This supposedly plentiful food­ stuff was, up to meeting time, ab­ sent from the menu for a week. A motion passed saying that there be no signing of articles henceforth until the Steward okayed the supplies for the en­ tire trip. Under this motion was 4 4 4included an addendum to the ef­ fect that a Patrolman be present CAPSTAN KNOT, Dec. 12— at the next signing of articles. Chairman L. B. Brown; Secre­ It was also suggested that the tary E. Davis. New Business: Steward order a variety of meats Motion carried to have all in order to break the monotony watches keep the messhall of a daily diet of sausages served clean and a 25 cent fine impos­ for the night lunches. ed on any violators. Motion carried to have crew's laundry 4 4" 4 cleaned by those who use it, CAPE HATTERAS. Dec. 10— and a fifty cent fine be imposed Chairman Torres; Secretary on whoever leaves it unclean. Hamson. Minutes of previous Such money from lines when meeting read, discussed and ac­ collected to be given to the cepted. Department Delegates Patrolman in the first U.S. port gave their reports. Suggested towards the SIU Hospital Fund. that Steward order new toaster Good and Welfare: Motion car­ upon arrival in New York. Also ried that no tropical animals or that shower heads be ordered birds be brought aboard at any for all showers, and air-condi­ time. tion be repaired. Crew wants better coffee for next trip. Recommended that Mate be advised to obtain keys for pad­ lock on foc'sle doors. Steward department's foc'sles need pajnting; coat hangers should be installed. One minute of si­ lence observed for departed brothers. 1. S. 4. (Name of ship not given), Oct. 28—(Chairman not noted); Secretary William McKeon. No beefs in any department. Stew­ ard department commended for fine work by Deck and En­ gine crews. Repairs needed: new rubber gaskets on port holes, gears on port hole fans, overhaul of lockers in all quar­ Page Elev«« W6Aie VouR SIU PI A •— fue SATOe OF A FKStfUMS UNION... (/WR UNION ! MAUE SURETHAT SUFF!C!ErrrSlDRES ARE PUTON 60ARD BEFDRENtoClSkSWOfi. YOU (2Ai^'T EAT COMfAMY Pf^MlSES/N MID-OCEAH. CUT and RUN By HANK Four of the best examples of SIU militancy just blew in from a trip to Bremerhaven aboard the Topa Topa, which brought over a cargo of those rare Dutch tulip bulbs. The men are; Johnny Weir, the prolific thinker and talker: "Red" Whidden, the best militant Seafarer; Mike Rossi, the Smiling Bosun, with his faithful mustache, and Johnny Ward and his mustache . . . "Blackie" Vince Kane, who has always been faithfully answering the call of the islands, is m town ri^ht now, staying on his intercoastal run to Baltimore and Philly. "Blackie" says; "I have to stay away from those isl.ands. That's why I'm heading for the West Coast and stay there for a year. At least I'll get me a stake there.'' Taking a vacation, eh, Vince? . - . Brother "Happy" Harper just sailed in recently after a trip to Ant­ werp. "Happy" just registered for .shipping and announced that he was still celebrating the arrival of the SS Happy New Year tha* just came in. Brother George Freshwater, a volunteer organizer, is in town right now with sensational news about what the NMU is doing. Well, up in Boston and down in Lake Charles, the NMU has been selling books for membership for the sweet little sum of ten dollars to unorganized seamen. The NMU must be so de.sperate and distrustful of their phony organising thai they have to sell their books so cheaply instead of leaving the unor­ ganized seamen figure out the strength, the progress, the hon­ esty, the militancy and the big things accomplished by a union for the benefit of seamen—so that such unorganized seamen can willingly choose the best union and know themselves whal union is best for them . . . Any unorganized seaman who chooses ihe SIU to be his union, will not only be a proud American but also a proud union seaman on any waterfront of the world. The SIU never has and never will obey any Communist dreamers, Washington politicians or bureaus, phony Coast Guard decisions or steamship company chiseling or trickery. 4 4 4 4 Brother John Santos says that his wife up in Massachiisetts enjoys reading the Log, even more than he doe.s—especially the sea slang in articles now and then. etc. Well, for a wife who has been practically all over the country with :-ou. Bixuhcr Santos, and al­ ways reading the Log, she should enjoy and understand all the things the SIU has accomplished . . . Look at Brother Jantcs Hand. Ho says hi.s wife down in Tampa, Florida, keeps blowing her wifely top because he don't write her letters. Brot'ner Hand, however, realizes psychologically, that as long as she keeps getting and en­ joying the Log she'll know that he's okay—becau.se the hospitaliza­ tion or other ne\ts of any Seafarer is always pu'oli.shed. Pleasant reading to you, Mrs. Hand, indeed . . . One of our best shipmates, a big, young Seafarer named Gordon Ellingson, just came as passen­ ger from Port Said where he was anchored several months for hos­ pitalization. But he recovered so well that he wont ahead and spliced himself. Congratulations, Gordon, and good luck to you and the bride when you start living and working in your home town of Minneapolis. Minnesota. 4 4 4 4 Brother Arthur King, who is soon going back to his home town of Tampal confessed that he, the Captain and the pilot had a tough time getting their ship into Providence, Rhode Isl­ and recently. Brother King also remembers some electrician who wouldn't eat anywhere but with the scrambled-egged officers. Such glory must have gone to his head and short-circuited it— but good . . . One anonymous Seafarer wants to know why Skippy Gusczynsky, now spliced for a year and a half, can't ship out because of his lovable ball-and-chain? �Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 10, 1947 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS The Colabee Enjoyed Good Weather On Northern Trip Brother Differs With Bause On Food In Marine Hospital Dear Editor: In Ihe foreground is Ihe North Gape of the Canadian coastal trade, while the SS Colabee idles in the background. Photo taken by Seafarer Luis A. Ramirez at Baie Comeau, Quebec. The Colabee was recently dispatched on a mercy mission from the point at which she is pictured above to the St. Law­ rence river to rescue survivors of a disabled plane. The victims were rescued from treacherous ice floes by airplanes before the Colabee reached the scene. I have just finished reading the Log, issue of Jan. 3, and I must object to the article "Christmas and Mystery Cheer Seafarers abed in Staten Island Marine Hos­ pital." I'm a bed patient and have been for several months and I have experienced the treatment and attention one receives at this hospital. I'm afraid Brother Bause ex­ aggerates somewhat when he speaks of conditions in the hos­ pital. When he wrote, "The food has improved considerably and is still on the upgrade, also up here in B-5 we have some nice nurses, orderlies and a top notch medic­ al staff," I'm afraid he must have been thinking of the food he ate while on a pass, because what I've been eating sure isn't on the upgrade. ATTENTION LAX The nurses are not to blame, many of them do their duty sat­ isfactorily, the orderlies do not do too much for the bedpatients, and the top notch medical staff— well, you don't have much trouble with them as they are seldom around. The doctors might be in the office in the morning and issue passes for some patients who are healthy enough to go out, but that's about all. All in all I don't think there are many patients with Bause's feelings around here. (Although I'm not in B-5, I'm still on the fifth floor). I have read the Log for a long time and like it very much and I will continue to read it when­ is under charter for transporting The year 1946 was kind to all of newsprint to the Daily News in New York. of us. Besides the numerous vic­ I really did enjoy a nice trip, tories which we won on the wa­ though it was short. I got back terfront, we. also had some pretty good weather for shipping . In in time to enjoy the Christmas holidays at home. support of this contention, I offer At present, I am standing by the enclosed photo which I snap­ as a FWT aboard the SS Peters­ ped of the freighter Colabee on burg Victory, at the Erie Basin, Dec. 15, 1946 at Baie Comeau, with a view to spending the first Quebec, Canada. few days of 1947 with my wife As you may know, it is rather and son. unusual to see such clear, beau­ Even if it may appear too late, tiful waters in this region during I'm wishing all Seafarers the best this time of the year. of luck, and especially to those Dear Editor: I was a crewmember aboard who never hesitated to help me The new Congress convenes this old Hog. It is a 5,517-ton learn the little I now know about this week and there is not the freighter operated by a subsid­ ships, I send my best wishes. slightest doubt what its inten­ Luis A. Ramirez iary of the Chicago Tribune, and tions are. It is just itching to go to work on the unions. Senator we will have to swing again, and Ball has a little gimmick ready soon. If it is to have peace on to outlaw the closed shop. Right now is a good time to the waterfront, I think the boys figure how we will handle these will go for it. anti-strike laws. If you analyze But believe me, they want no Dear Editor: just what a strike is, it becomes Perhaps you don't know it, but part of the CMU or the CIO. They obvious that it is not merely I have been reading your Union are most bitter against it. You wrong to try to abolish strikes. are also aware that we have some paper all the time and it is pret­ commies in our ranks, but they It is just impossible. Well, what is a strike? It is ty good. It also gives this old- don't get to first base trying to the simplest thing in the world timer a kick to see your young— bore from within. —you just go fishing. And if and I should say militant—^Union I will be coming east sometime, everyone else happens to pick the going places. Believe me, the and plan to stop in at the Hall. same day to go fishing that you way they are going you should I predict your good Union is go­ do—well, you can't help that. be able in the near future to lead ing places. Best regards to all. Maybe the fish are biting. the waterfront on all coasts. —S. Y. I suppose you know our rivals LET'S GO (Editor's note: The correspon­ are on their way out. Their na­ If 50,COO seamen decide to go dent's name has been withheld tional council members are fight­ for obvious reason.) fishing, what can they do about ing among themselves. There's it? Shoot them down in the too much politics, and the "di­ streets? Run them into jail? vide and rule" boys will know it You'd have to build an awful very soon. Most of the rank and lot of jails. filers we know are getting out in Any law designed to prohibit disgust, and this oldtimer doesn't strikes would be an absurdity. blame them. After all, a law is only a resolu­ I have been in the Firemen's tion, words on paper. It doesn't unioD sometime now and it is a change the actual situation. It good union but it looks as though doesn't create or take away any­ they will have to go AFL again. thing that doesn't exist already. Your Harry is a smooth and fast You still have the power to strike; worker. It is in the cards that it just says you can't use it. But Dear Editor: ever I can obtain a ' copy. Al­ though I'm not a SIU member, I am a seafarer (SUP) and I still find the rag of interest. I read the recent article in the Log about a Brother seafarer, and the treatment he received at the Galveston Marine Hospital. During my hospitalization I have seen many cases like that. It is a shame when a seaman happens to be sick and in need of hospit­ alization he must land in a Marine Hospital. As for myself, I have given up all hope. For three or four months I complained about my condition, but to no avail. I believe they have forgotten I am here. I could write more, but as I am writing in bed I will close wishing the Log and all the read­ ers a Happy New Year. (SUP member's name withheld) U.S. Marine Hospital Staten Island, New York (Editor's note: We think it only fair to mention, for those who are not familiar with Brother Bause, that Bause has been confined at the Staten Island hospital for almost a year, much of ihe iime which he spent in bed. He has been one of the most consistent and militant advocates of better food and conditions at that institution. In the Seafarers Log of May 3, and May 31. 1945. Brother Bause had letters de­ nouncing the food served up to patients in Staten Island. Since that time, he has made critic­ isms. both favorable and un­ favorable, as he saw it. Log -A-Rhythms Balderdash By JESSE A. MILLER With time on my hands the other day. By a travel bureau I did chance, I picked up some folders on places I'd seen. Supposedly loaded with ro­ mance. One said, "Egypt—the Land of Mystery, The wonderful land of the Sphinx." But to me Egypt isn't a mystery; To me Egypt plainly—stinks. There was a picture of Italy's Appian Way, Built some two thousand years ago. But they haven't repaired Italy's other roads For three thousand years or so, India, too, has the 'Taj Mahal. Where a stately princess lies. But India can keep the Taj Mahal, With India's filth and flies. And so the folders ramble on About lands of honey and cream; Let's exile the jerk who wrote that trash. To one of the lands of his dream. Steamboat Goes A-Fishing For An Answer To Threatened Anti - Strike Legislation DIVISION AMONG THE 'DIVIDE AND RULE' BOYS what's going to stop you from using it, it neglects to explain. What can they do? Create a gestapo to wake you up every morning and whip you with a cat-o-nine tails? Chain you to the steering wheel? Lock you in the fiieroom? DID IT BEFORE To mean anything, a law must be enforceable. And in all the bull and blarney about stopping strikes I have yet to hear any­ one explain just how they are go­ ing to do it—except "pass a law." I would really like to see the law that would tell me I could not quit working. In the famous words of Shakespeare, "You don't gotta do nuthin but die." And, mister, I will die before I let anyone teU me that I can't quit my job any and everytime. I, feel like it. Hell, Americans have been dying since 1776 for nothing more than that. Seems to me a few died just recently to prove it all over again. Can they prohibit the right to advocate going on strike? Can they stop a union leader from saying, "I think it would be nice to go fishing next Tuesday?" Not while there's free speech they can't. Can they prohibit the closed shop? On paper, yes, but I won't work with a fink. I doubt if any other union man will either. Theer are 15 million union men in this country. Where will they get 15 million finks to replace them? Wliere, outside of Washington, D. C. that is. WANNA HAT? Can they prohibit picketing? All right, so the cops arrest you for carrying a sign. Wear a panama hat instead. If the long­ shoremen go fishing, and I see a lot of guys in panama hats walk­ ing down South Street you won't have to draw me a diagram. Or maybe they will pass a law against panama hats? You see how quickly this all becomes an absurdity? Let the professors play with their theories. Let the billionaires buy full-page ads. Let the Congressional baby-kis­ sers pass their resolutions. Let them—we'll go fishin! Steamboat O'Doyle �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 10, 1947 HO-HUM, WHAT A LIFE This MV Cap­ stan Knot crew member puts in some rugged sack duty "after the night be­ fore," writes Seafarer Dean T u s o c k, who took this picture in Trinidad. The sack hound is unidentified. Brother Tusock says these two crew mem­ bers became know lEiter as the "Cannon-ball K i d s." Locale here is St. Croix, Islands. Virgin The "Kids." who prefer the cannonball designa­ tion, insist those are cannonballs — not coconuts, which don't pile so neatly. CHIEF STEWARD DIFFERS WITH COMPANY ON OVERTIME My question is whether Sunday (in port or at sea) is overtime for excess of hours woi'ked. Hank Serves Up Recipes On Bellyrobbers, Advises Taking Them With Grain Of Salt Dear Editor: Now, brothers, I am not in any way qualified to safely and suf­ ficiently talk about Stewards, be­ ing that I have never had the de­ sire or courage to enter the food department and try to live under the inventory thumb of any un­ fortunately gifted artist of a sea­ man called the Steward. And I also never associated my­ self, by choice or chance, with any such homo sapiens of the sea life, like for example—drinking out of his private medicinal bot­ tle in his foc'sle while listening to his troubles or dreams—or sticking my face with his face into the oven to see what's cook­ ing so he could make me under­ stand his ever-changing opinion of his men or his own inherited sanity. TAKE IT WITH SALT Anyway, take a few pinches of salt and you'll most likely be­ lieve what I have to say, which will be mostly in defense of such a genius and now and then against him, too. Of course, if you're a self-analyzed type of a Steward, you won't believe my imaginational pot-wash. Well, some how indeed, when I think how much a Steward means to a ship and a trip, I will easily be­ come maudlin, especially if some beers are fresh and handy for me and a Steward happens to be close by looking like he lost his worst cook, or because the gal­ ley stove blew up in his face just when he knew he could straighten out the darn contrap­ tion. Of course, I have beefed with one or two Stewards in the messhall about the food being cold— or old—or served too slow—or not sufficient enough for a sea­ gull and the new-born baby, gull just starting to sail over ships for left overs. Sometimes I had the horrors thinking that the Steward was really trying to win the war by starving us—and sav­ ing all that fruit juice, etc., etc. YOU HAVE TO LIVE IT. But to really understand a man you have to live under his thumbs, even if you get pains in the stomach or not enough over­ time. Well, that's like everything in life, but with a Steward it I have worked my Cooks on Sundays on several different oc­ casions on jobs that had to be done on that particular day. The company says that that work is overtime on overtime. I can't see it. Will you please clarify this matter for me? Jim Sharp, Chief Steward ANSWER: We're not exactly certain thai we understand the question since you do not specify the type of work perform­ ed. However, on the basis of the information which you give, we got the following answer from the Patrolmen: You cannot pyramid overtime on top of overtime. A man performing a job which calls for overtime rates cannot get ad­ ditional overtime pay for doing the job during overtime hours. He would be entitled, however, to straight overtime compensa­ tion for the time involved in the work. It was pointed out that a man is to get overtime pay for Sunday work whether he puts in one hour on a job or twenty hours. Should this answer still not clear up the question in your mind, we should be glad to hear from you further. We'll do our very best to see that you get a satisfactory reply. Page TUztaen the Steward of a ship is the most i important, the most tortured and the most dangerous sailor doom­ ed aboard ship for any voyage. Nearly every Steward I've seen has been either short and wornout thin, or big, and barrel-shap­ ed. Most of them, or I should say all of them, smoke cigars and drink a little to keep in good hu­ mor with the voyage and the daily incidents, which are usual­ ly stormy like a couple of eggs and a slice of bacon getting all hot and bothered in the early lazy morning. ANOTHER TYPE If a Steward is bald-headed and whispers, then he has always had plenty of nerve-wracking beefs and complicated shocking inventories to make. If he is big, jolly, and has no shiny naked armor aging his brains, then you know he always had good cooks or the best line of convincing baloney for the crew so they wouldn't boil over into mutiny over their bacon and no eggs. But if a Steward is an amateur, then the crew keep blowing their tops and the Captain mumbles to QUINN THANKS SEAFARERS FOR XMAS GIFT Dear Editor: In behalf of Brother Bause and the rest of the SIU members I want to express my sincere ap­ preciation to all the Union Broth­ ers for the generous Christmas gifts we received at the Staten Island Marine Hospital, and also the Christmas card we received from our swell agent Paul Hall. With all his headaches he did not forget to send a word of good cheer. Also to our good and able Hos­ pital representative, Joe Volpian, and to all our brothers and former shipmates, we send our sincere appreciation. We would enjoy a visit from them if they get around Staten Island way. I guess I will be here for some time as I have about six fractures and such things usually take some time to heal. My best regards to all the boys and my good friends Jimmy Stewart and Paul the Dispatcher. Also to the editors of the Log who are doing one swell job in the old SIU tradition. Best wishes to all the boys and a more prosperous New Year for the SIU. Michael J. Quinn, Staten Island Marine Hosp. himself up in his airy castle. He can't sleep, the ship gets off course too often, and he brings the draws too late in all ports. An amateur Steward is one who reads too many novels in his bunk, doesn't know where the canned carrots or the baking powder is, and keeps himself ridiculously devoted to the pre­ sumably important and intellec­ tual people for days and nights, whether it be playing cards or chewing over deep conversations and having plenty of cigarettes and coffee. HE NEVER KNOWS Such a fool never knows how the crew gets along; whether the cooks are boiling their fingers or dropping the potato peelings into the soup; how much of this or that is left in the dry stores or whether the messhall stays clean every day. Ah, but a good Steward is one who makes sure he knows all, sees all, hears all and when he should, he literally does all—in every­ thing concerned with food, etc. And he knows that the crew is the most important part of his life, although some Stewards will scream that some crews are the worst calamities of their lives, and sometimes they are right. Well, one old timer said last week that a Steward should be a diplomat. Well, I say, that not only does he have to be a diplo­ mat, but a good shipmate, and es­ pecially the best cook of all the cooks aboai-d (but not just in theory) with a tough but fair, understanding bi-ain. "Cul and Run" Hank (Editor's Note: Wheit do the Stewards have to say about Hank's observations?) Wanted: Tips Ships are again on the roll, plying the seas to the four corners of the earth. You Seafarers who man these vessels will be popping into ports of call in Africa, Asia, Australia. You'll be hitting the Near East, Middle East and the Orient, and you'U be making the high spots and the low in the islands, and down South America way. Your experiences in these places, the characters you meet both ashore and aboard ship as you wend your way, make interesting stories. Surely, you'll run into strange gals and guys, clip-joints. WIFE TRYING TO LOCATE BOB RUTLEDIGE really is too much sometimes. And sometimes you think that some certain Steward was born and raised in a blind alley or something. Especially if he is of the dreaming type, torn right out of some exciting love-soaked sea novel, mingling with the scrambled eggs topside and try­ ing all his language and services to calm and delight the nervous­ ly excited passengers who de­ finitely are of the opinion that they will die during the trip, sooner or later, either from eat­ ing the Steward's food, the sea sickness traveling all around in­ ternally or the monotonous scen­ ery of sea and sky. I don't think any of the novel­ ists ever did say in their poetic and romantic, foolish novels that Dear Editor: I am trying to contact my hus­ band, Robert MacDonald Rutledge, age 43, light brown hair, five feet, eleven inches tall, ro­ bust and weighing about 175 pounds. You may put my address in the paper for Bob does not know where I live at 1718 Girard Ave­ nue, Philadelphia, Pa. At this time I should like to wish the SIU continued success, for I know many Seafarers. If there is ever anything I can do to benefit your organization, I shall be glad to do so. I am a waitress belonging to an American Fed­ eration of Labor union, and I am very much interested in labor unionizing. Mrs. Mary Rulledge dives, and points of historical interest. Maybe you'll have a beef on the way, or a lip to pass along to your Broth­ ers that might save them some trouble. We want to hear about any and all of these. Just jot them down and mail them to the Seafarers Log, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4. N. Y. Enclose pictures if you have any, well return them. �Page FourieeR Friday, January 10, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Snug Harbor Rejects Official Investigation; SlU To Push Case NEW YORK — SIU Special ject to the right and duty of the were not up to the same standard Eepivsentative Joseph H. Vol- State Department of Social Wel- as provided on SIU ships, and were, in fael, considerably sub­ pian this week rereiverl nntire farr^ to inspect and to suggest. standard. from the Snug Harbor Trustees The State Department of So­ A letter outlining these com­ that thej- would not permit a two cial Welfare has inspected the inan SIU Investigation Commit­ Sailors' Snug Harbor from time plaints was sent to the Snug Har­ tee to visit Snug Harbor and to time, and its reports have bor Governor by SIU Special check on conditions existing shown that conditions are satis­ Service Representative Volpian there. According to the letter, factory and the food is good. In on December 4. An exchange of the Trustees think that the in­ j these circumstances we do not letters ' between various Snug spections conducted by the State I believe it appropriate to open the Harbor officials and Volpian fol­ Department of Social WeKare, Sailors' Snug Harbor to private lowed, with the letter from Mr. from time to time, are sufficient. agencies to inspect it. Visitors Peter Grimm being the latest in Reference is made in the Trus­ arc welcome at the Sailors' Snug the scries. Each letter, up to the present, tees' letter to the fact that they Harbor between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. 'do not believe it appropriate to daily except Sundays. We do has been pidnted in the Log in open the Sailors' Snug Harbor to not believe there is any proper order to keep SIU members fully basis for concluding from this informed of the developments in private agencies to inspect it." reply that the Trustees have any­ the Snug Harbor beef. Who should know better what thing to conceal. conditions are favorable for aged "It is the full and considered Yours very truly .seamen than representatives of intention of the SIU to continue Peter Grimm. the Seafarers International in an endeavor to check up on President, Union? Certainly, the SIU can Snug Harbor conditions," declar­ Board of Trustees determine whether the retired ed Volpian. "Due to the Trustees' •seamen ai*e being fed, housed Original action on the part of refusal of permission for a special and cared for properly much bet­ the Seafarers regai'ding Snug two man SIU investigation, this ter than the N.Y. State Depart­ Harbor was taken as a result of survey will now have to be con­ ment of Social Welfare or the certain, complaints reaching the ducted on an individual basis in Trustees of Snug Harbor. SIU Special Services representa­ accordance with the Snug Harbor tive in New York. rules for visitors. The results of the Dated January 6, 1947, These complaints were to the that investigation and any other complete text of the letter foleffect that food and other condi­ developments will be printed in lows: tions prevailing at Snug Harbor the Log." Seafarers, Int'l Union of N.A. 51 Beaver Street New York 4, N.Y. Att: Mr. Joseph H. Volpian Gentlemen: Receipt is acknowledged of your communication of December (This article is not an interpre­ delegates and the unlicensed 27th, addressed to Governor tation of the agreement as it cov­ crew. Flynn, which has been forward­ ers the Stewards Department, but In this respect, it is suggested ed to the Board of Trustees, and merely makes suggestions to that that the Chief Stewai'd work di­ i have been requested to advise Department in answer to> many rectly with the crew delegates ^.•ou that the responsibility for questions raised by members. instead of taking complaints to the Sailors' Snug Harbor rests Each week an article will be run the Captain or the company, and with its Board of Trustees, sub­ in the Log making suggestions to in this manner command the re­ each of the ratings in the Stew­ spect of the delegates and crewards Department. This week's is members. for the benefit of the Chief In making up the daily menus Stewards.) the preparations should be work­ BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. The first suggestion is that, af­ ed out between the Chief Cook Calvert 4339 and Chief Steward. BOSTON 276 State St. ter boarding a ship for the first Boudoin 4455 time, the Steward should make a Before sailing, the Chief Stew­ BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Cleveland 7391 complete check of all linens and ard should notify all members CHARLESTON 68 Society St. workable and perishable stores that any overtime, other than Phone 3-3680 routine overtime, be brought to CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. aboard the ship. Superior 5175 Also all requisitions and con­ him for an okay before the actual CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. firmations should be ehecked, work begins, thus eliminating a Main 0147 CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. j and, if there are any articles source of dispute if the work is Corpus Christi 3-1509 I missing or required, they should dune before the Chief Steward DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 be ordered at once from the com­ has been notified of the job. 0ULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. pany purchasing agent. i Melrose 4110 WEEKLY CHECK The Chief Steward should call i GALVESTON 305 22nd St. All departmental overtime 2-8448 a meeting as soon as possible of; HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. the entire Stewards Department should be checked at least once S8777 and explain just what each mem-^ a week by the Steward Depart­ HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Phone Wentworth 3-3809 , ber's duties are, and just what is ment Delegate, and any ovei-JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. Phone 5-5919 expected of them during the trip time that might in the future be MARCUS HOOK W. 8th St. I to coroe. disputed be placed on a separate Chester 3-3110 sheet and turned over to the Pa­ MIAMI 1355 N. £. 1st Ave. , COMPLETE CHECK trolman boarding the ship at the MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 2-1754 Immediately the Chief Steward payoff. **• NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. , should check all storerooms, gal­ By bringing overtime up to Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. ley, quarters, linen lockers, and date each week any di.sputed HAnover 2-2784 iccbo.xes as to their cleanliness work is fresh in mind and can be NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street 4-1083 and condition. While making the handled more easily than when PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. check, a list of necessary rer-alrs all the overtime of the trip is Phone Lombard 3-7651 handled at one PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. and changes should be drawn up. piled up and Phone: 2-8532 If, after making a check of the time. PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St. .storeruonis, it is found that there A final suggestion: When the Beacon 4336 iRICKMOND, Calif 257 Sth St. is a shortage of stores, or if the Chief Steward requires work 2599 company has failed to produce done that is payable as overtime, SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. Douglas 5475-8363 the stores requisitioned, the mat­ he should ask the Delegate to SAN JUAN, P. R 252 Ponce de Leon ter should . be reported to the select a member or members of San Juan 2-5996 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. •ship's delegates so that they can the Department for this work. 8-1728 take the necessary action to cor­ This is for the purpose of insur­ SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. rect the condition. ing equal division of overtime. Main 0290 When the ship's delegates call TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. In this manner no member of M-1323 Union meetings, the Chief Stew­ the Stewards Department can TOLEDO 615 Summit St. accuse the Chief WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. ard should attend all meetings rightfully Terminal 4-3131 and take part in the discussion. Steward of discriminating against VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. The Chief Steward should never him. Garden 8331 VANCOUVER ....144 W. Hastings St. be t6o busy to listen to a good (Next week the duties of the Pacific 7824 beef, and at all times make for Chief Cook will be brought up cooperation between himself, the for discussion.) What To Do: Some Departmental Suggestions For Chief Stewards SIU HALLS •k By JOSEPH VOLPIAN On December 31, 1946, the Maritime Commission's Second War Risk Insurance Policy, which insured Merchant Seamen against injuries and death due to enemy action, was terminated. In announcing theii- decision to bring to an end the life of this policy, the Commission stat­ ed, "As practically all insurance required by American shipping interests is now being supplied by the commercial markets, it is not anticipated that serious dis­ turbance will be caused by this action." The terms of this policy limited the beneficiaries to $5,000. It was supposed to be a protection aganist loss of life, injury and loss of personal effects caused by the risks of war and arising out of maritime disasters. The title of this coverage would lead one to believe that the in­ surance coverage under it was much broader than was actually the case. To start with, intei-pretations were placed upon the policy both by way of forms and procedure which beneficiaries found diffi­ cult to comply with. At different times during the life of the insurance, various di­ rectives wore handed down which limited it in scope, so that as time went on the coverage, not broad to begin with, became so very narrow tliat the chances of a beneficiary collecting the pro­ ceeds were improbable. NARROW POLICY An example of the narrowness of the policy was in the case where a seaman off a torpedoed Meet The Seafarers (Cot!tinned from Vagc 9) call. John says that the women, the liquor, and the food, in those places is the best in the world. "But 1 might change my mind after this trip," he grins. "My ship is headed for Buenos Aires, and 1 hear that that is a fine port also." Although John Dugina has only been a member of the Sea­ farers International Union for a short while, he has already taken up the traditions of militancy and honest trade unionisyn that arc part and pai'cel of the Seafarers code. With men like him in the Union, both oldtimers and new­ comers, the Union is sure to grow and to go on to more and bigger victories for all seamen. PERSONALS FREDERICK DUNN Your sister, Miss G. Dunn, reque.sts that you write to her at 20 Black Marsh Road, St. John's, Newfoundland. 4. t t RALPH E. GRIFFIN Your remaining gear from the SS Sirocco was left at the SUP baggage room in San Francisco. vessel, after weeks in life boats and makeshift quarters in war areas, turned up with tuberculo­ sis. The ruling of those administer­ ing the policy was that tubercu­ losis claims had to be filed with­ in 90 days after the disaster. Naturally these torpedoed sea­ men, very often, had no idea that their experiences were causing their health to be undermined until after the 90 day period had passed. When they did find it out and tried to put in their claim, they were informed that they could not recover benefits, not because they did not have tuberculosis or that it was not caused or aggravated by the torpedoing, but rather be­ cause more than 90 days had passed before they put in their claim for allowance under the Second Seamen's War Risk Policy. The writer has been told by many .seamen, who tried unsuc­ cessfully to recover benefits due to enemy action, that they had been assured that in time, a Seaman's Bill of Rights (similar to the G1 Bill of Rights) would be enacted, which would give them benefits in lieu of the bene­ fits under The Second Seamen's War Risk Policy. To date even a very shallow Seamen's Bill of Rights is still so much smoke. Information com­ ing to the writer is that, at pres­ ent, The Seamen's Bill of Rights is somewheie in Congress; and it has been watered down to where the only possible benefits these men may get is continuous treat­ ment in Marine Hospitals, but no cash. PASSING THE BUCK The Second Seamen's War Risk Insurance Policy, in com­ bination with the usual P. & I. policy carried by ship operators, can be used to slough off legiti­ mate claims. An example is where a blackedout ship had a hatch cover miss­ ing which caused injury to a member of the crew. Such claim could be found to come under the War Risk Policy or under gen­ eral P. & I. insurance, depending upon the hairbreath distinction whether the injuries resulted from the open hatch cover or from the blackout. The importance is apparent when it is recalled that the limit of recovery under The Second Seamen's War Risk Policy is $5,000. In addition, the two policies administered by different organ­ izations resulted in the accept­ ance of very small settlements by an injured seaman after a period of Ijeing shuttled back and fourth between The War Risk people and the P. & I. Companies, each telling him that the risk came under the other organiza­ tion's insurance policy. ' In the writer's opinion, the seamen, as a class, are not losing a whole lot by discontinuance of The Seamen's Second War Risk t % % Policy. After all, it was little DAVID B. ALBRIGHT more than mere window-dressing Write to your father. He wants for recruiting and soothing mer­ to hoar from you. chant seamen in wartime. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. January 10. 1947 Page Fifteea miijjiiTiiN -w - 11 ®K7- : U-A /•_" TAX REBATES Mississippi Shipping Con^pany Seafarers who were employed on Mississippi Shipping Company vessels and have credit balances in their unclaim­ ed wage account covering overdeductions of Social Security taxes for the years 1943, 1944 and 194S, can now receive money due them by writing to the Mississippi Shipping Company, 1300 Hibernia Building, New Orleans, La. When writing the company mention the money is due for Federal Old Age Benefit overdeductions, and give your Social Security number. Those entitled to rebates and the amout due are listed below. I Old And New Wage Scales Of Seafarers Compared The new contracts which the SIU has signed with the various companies have aroused a furor INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS G. Medlicott. $2.00; C. L. Parr. $9.00; that is even yet being felt in the lives of seamen. L. E. Blackslone. $6.00; J. Nelson, Jr., Even if the other unions have benefitted by the $1.00; W. R. Findley, $10.00. same gains, following the successful General Strike PHILADELPHIA of the SIU against Government interference, still the leadership in this advance is generally accreditINDIVIDUAL DONATIONS M. Nobles, $1.00. ted to the SIU. The original contracts have been printed in the NEW ORLEANS LOG at the time each one was signed. This, how­ SS ELEAZOR WHEELOCK ever, has not answered all questions, since many 7.42 Deck Dept.: letters still come into the New York Hall asking Ehmenn. $2.00; Molina. $1.00; Boyle. 14.57 $1.00; Wolff. $2.00; Lee. $1.00; Wal- for copies of the new wage and overtime rates. .53 rath. $2.00; Green. $1.00; Doldcn. $2.00; Therefore, for the benefit of all men sailing .35 Cambura, $1.00; Roberts, $1.00; Simer26.20 man, $1.00. on ships contracted to the SIU, the LOG prints the Engine Dept.: .29 comparative wage scales, showing the wages pre­ Staples, $2.00; Weimer. $2.00; Sla1.68 horc, $1.00; Fiomrmons. $J.00; Ra- vious to the new agreements, the new wages, and 4.14 mrier, $2.00; Pinero, $2.00; Iglesias. the amount of the increase. Cut this out of the 13.65 $2.00. Stewards Dept.: paper so that you can refer to it whenever you wish. 22.10 Marciniewicz, $3.00; Quanico, $4.00; .25 These wage rates are for freighters only. Sapolinski. $3.00; Schondeck. $1.00; NAME Adams, Eloon R Ahlsti'om, Ellis NORFOLK AMOUNT Booth, Lionel $ 1.25 30.07 Bordelon, Thomas A. .12 Botona, Santiago V. ... Alexander, Benjamin 36.96 Boubede, Albert H Almerigotti, John .35 Bouzan, William J. Andrade, Carlos 5.36 Bradford, W. C. .... Ander.son, Arthus .32 Brady, Edward W. Anderson, Fred M 2.59 Anderson, Henrick M 5.17 Andrews, Edgar C 45 Antoniau, C 10.86 Branquilo, Vincent T. 4.41 Ewing. $2.00; Hayes, $2.00; Williams. DECK DEPARTMENT Apiki, A. K 1.00 Bremen, Earl E 6.02 $2.00. (This crew also donated $5.00 to the SIU Amount SIU SIU Aronson. Leon .60 Brennan, William E. 2.19 New Wage Of Wage Old Wage Ashworth, H 3.32 Brokjob, Peter : 2.09 boys in the hospital.) Increase Scale Ayres, Robert E 35.40 Scale 6.74 Rating BOSTON 94 Babala, Loyola 1.05 Brooks, Richard A $205.00 $42.50 Bosun $162.50 SS MONTAUK POINT 90 Bacon John A 40 Brown, Paul H 192.50 Bosun's Mate—Day Work Bill Rowe. $2.0; Roy Cuthrill. $2.00; 1.12 Bacon, John A 21 Brown, T. E 180.00 13.10 Dewey Bordeaux, $2.00; Joseph Thomas, Bosun's Mate—^Watch Bain, Chas. Jr 13.69 Bryant, Joseph P $2.00; C. Harris, $2.00; K. Q-Briant. Carpenter 42.50 205.00 162.50 6f68 $1.00. Bain, Chas. Jr 19.90 Bulaga, Raymond J 40.00 197.50 Storekeeper 157.50 4.06 Baker, Ernest J 1.36 Burger, John 32.50 187.50 AB Maintenance 155.00 NEW YORK Banks, Harold C 3.38 .01 17.50 172.50 Quartermaster = 155.00 Barrett, Thomas G 68 .28 SS GERVAIS 17.50 172.50 AB Seaman 155.00 10.35 Barton, Charles B 21 Butler, Robert G Harrnld I,. Parrish, $1.00; Clyde Watchman 22.50 172.50 150.00 Beaufort, Paul T 18.58 Callan, Cyril .40 Roders, $1.00; Elbert Chatham, $1.00; 150.00 17.50 OS Seaman 132.50 4.99 Calpitts, L Becker, Theodore 4.02 J. Robinson, $1.00; C. M. Houchins, 16.66 Campbell, John . .04 $1.00; Edward Brezina, $1.00; \V. Kraus, ENGINE DEPARTMENT 18 Cappelin, J. M. Belcher, Lawrence ... 8.09 $1.00; J. P. Cross. Jr.. $1.00; Robert F. Grant. $1.00; D. H. Roszel, $1.00; A. 294.50 42.50 252..P0 Bellins, Warren G. 1.25 37.74 Brunelle. $1.00; H. Goering, $1.00; R. Chief Electrician 2nd Electrician 9.80 Caracausa. Albert Bennett, William J. .83 L. Toler. $1.00; G. W. Rrickley. $1.00; 45.00 227,50 182.50 16 Benoit, R. S 1.73 John J. Dugina, $2.00; R. Hutchinson, Asst. Eleetrieian 42.50 230.00 . 187.50 Unlic. Jr. Eng.—Day Work... $1.00; Peter Vargo. $1.00. .23 Carroll. Paul S. .. .47 17.50' 205.00 187.50 Unlic. Jr. Eng.—Watch SS VAKA Bentel, Henry P 1.97 Casey, Robert F. 8.93 42.50 237.00 194.50 E. Ghcrman, $1.00; L. Bugajcwski. Machinist-Plumber Berg. Thowald 19.52 .72 42.50 205.00 162.50 Deck Engineer Bergeron, Druby J 32 Castanel, Patrick R. 2.06 $2.00. 17.50 269.50 252.00 Chief Reefer Engineer' SS HILTON 1.91 Celmayster, S 15.68 17.50 237.50 220.00 1st Reefer H. C.mfield. $1.00; J. Gross. $2.0(1; Berman, Henry .54 Chagistamatoloa, E .24 17.50 218.50 201.00 2nd Reefer 11 Bu-ser, $2.00. Bei'nay, Harry A 1.14 2.86 197.50 Engine Storekeeper SS HORACE SEE Biggers, EaH G 3.71 Chandler, Wor.sham S. 6.34 50.00 205.00 1.55.00 1 lorracc Coriielius. $1.00; Elzie I laves. Engine Utility 9.11 .30 17.50 190.00 172.50 Evaporator Maintenance $1.00; P. C. Johnson. $1.00; L.' E. Bi.>i]iop, Archibald C 8.15 Chauncj', Howard 2.44 Price, $1.00. 40.25 195.25 155.00 Oiler-Diesel 1.25 Blodgett, Donald C 18.30 Chi'isman, John 22.50 177.50 155.00 Oiler-Steam SS GOLDEN FLEECE 33 12.25 Christiansen, James C 177.50 22.50 155.00 Watertender A. Begg. $1.00. Blonce, Manuel .14 Christiansen, Gerhard A. .. 23.25 177.50 22.50 155.00 Fireman-Water tender INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Blossfield, Paul 4.91 17.79 167.50 22.50 145.00 J. Arras, $2.00; John A. Weiss, $2.00; Firemen Boiohada, Edward W 12 .55 175.00 42.50 132.50 1.23 R. B.ascombe, $1.00; Ben Miller. $11.00; Wiper Bolger, Joseph 1.94 Clark, Carlton D •A. Gold.smit. $7.00; Lester D. Yoder. 11.15 $2.00; Bolton, S. F 1.28 Coll, Andrew STEWARDS DEPARTMENT W. H. Williams. $3.00, Jue A. .25 .01 Ecock. $2.00. 17.50 220.00 202.50 Chief S 22.50 205.00 182.50 Chief ( 22.50 205.00 182.50 Night C 17.50 185.00 167.50 Second 17.50 175.00 157.50 Asst. C Seafarers who have left gear aboard Seas Shipping Company vessels can now re­ 17.50 150.00 132.50 Messma claim their belongings if their name is included in the list below. All gear is being helc Utility 17.50 150.00 132.50 Unclaimed Baggage — Seas Shipping Co. for claiming at the offices of the Seas Shipping Company, 39 Cortland Street, New York 7, N.Y. M. Armando C. Albury Frank Becker H. Benter G. Castro G. L. Crews R. A. Chastain H. A. Campbell Frank Durdeen P. Fember S. Goldenberg E. H. Hopka R. Kosmicki ; 1 Seabag 1 Seabag & 1 suitcase 1 Seabag Papers 1 Zipperbag Papers 1 Seabag Papers 1 Zipperbag 1 Suitcase 1 Parcel Papers 1 Suitcase W. Jackson W. La Bauer C. Mockl.v Mai J. Pranible C. Snackers E. Stanzcack H. Taylor J. F. Thompson R. Sullivan R. C. Valandingham H. C. Yates L. Wuestner All members of the Stewards Department will be paid over­ time for all Sunda.vs and Holidays at sea and for all Saturdays. Sun­ i Suitcase days and Holidays in port. No member of the Stewards Department i Seabag will be laid off Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays at sea or in port. 1 Seabag OVERTIME RATES Papers l Seabag SIU New SIU New SIU Old i Bag Over $200.00 Under $200.00 1 Box & 1 Seabag a month a month 90c j Box i Zipperbag $1.25 per hour $1.00 per hour 90c j Suitcase \ Pay rise of $17.50 is retroactive from April 1 to June 14. June 1 Seabag & 1 Zipperbag Papers 15 is the retroactive date for the remainder of the increase. All i Seabag overtime is retroactive to June 15. aji �m. Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 10. 1947 TANKEI?MEN/f/ How Jo (fpa wanth^cfourjob? Under cm SIU conttact pick qour ghip -tmpjck Company -^ou pick goar run —and. ndbodg can sag no! I 'uHT'''.?, v> / The Seafoters IntemJtbrual Onicncf ^JbrttiAmetioa -AEatL � 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 January 1, 1947 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. IX, No. 2 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU ASKS RECOGNITION AS BARGAINING AGENT FOR TIDEWATER SEAMEN N.Y. TUGBOATMEN WIN 40 HR. WEEK; TIE-UP AVERTED P&O SIGNS NEW CONTRACT WITH SIU; SS FLORIDA SAILS SIU VOTE TALLY ENDS; COMMITTEE TO REPORT TO BRANCH MEETINGS SIU TAKES ACTION TO PREPARE FOR CHANGES IN SHIPPING LAWS THE PLAIN FACTS RIP VAN CURRAN FINALLY WAKES UP; FINDS NMU OFFICIALS ARE COMMIES RECORD SHOWS NMU LEADERS FOLLOW CHANGES IN CP LINE ATLANTA CITY CREWMEN SHOW HOW SIU TACTICS CAN WIN IMPROVEMENTS ON ISTHMIAN SHIPS BRIDGES TRIES NEW RAID WM. CLAY IS KEPT ON THE BALL BY A CRACKERJACK SIU CREW FOUR WATCHES FIRST AMONG SEAFARERS GOALS MERCHANT SEAMEN ARE ELIGIBLE TO BUY SURPLUS SMALL VESSELS DEFENSE OF BILBO BLOCKS HOST OF ANTI-LABOR BILLS ALCOA COOPERATES WITH SIU; SENDS STEWARDS CUTE NOTES GADSDEN CREW GIVES TO BALTIMORE BROTHERS IN MARINE HOSPITAL STUDY IN CONTRASTS--OKAY SKIPPER AND BUCKO MATE--IN MARCUS HOOK WRONG SHIP BUT RIGHT CREW (SIU) TAKES TRIP FROM BONEYARD TO N.Y. NMU IS "FINISHED WITH ENGINES" LAKES SEAMEN COME TO SEAFARERS WEATHER REROUTES FREIGHT SHIPS BUT TANKERS KEEP BOSTON BUSY NEW BRANCH OPENED IN MIAMI CALMAR SHIPS GIVEN TO BULL AND OVERLAKES FRENCHY PENS OPEN LETTER TO MEMBERSHIP ALL MISSED THE SKIPPER'S OBJECT CH. ENGINEER ON EMERSON HAS FOUL LINE Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1/10/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d04e08b379cd7f09e1166aece3e31812.PDF cdb585b0076537f2153ae9eb15fe958e PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gidf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. IX. SOLIDLY WITH THEIR UNION 2 SlU Ships Crash; 1 Man Is Injured Two SIU freighters were vic­ tims of the heavy fog shrouding Mobile Bay last Sunday morn­ ing, when the Waterman Steam­ ship Corporation's SS Abraham Claik struck the SS Alcoa Plant- or amidships, tearing a four-foot wide hole in the vessel's side from the deckhouse to a point below the waterline. One Seafarer was hurt and at least six others narrowly escaped injury when the Clark's bow stove in a large section of the deckhouse in which the messroom is located. The men were drink­ ing coffee at the time of the col­ lision. COMPTON HURT The injured man is Howard Compton, 25, a Messman, of Crichton, Ala. Brother Compton was removed to the Marine Hos­ pital when the Planter docked early Sunday afternoon. Following the crash, fire broke out almost immediately up for­ ward in the Clark's oil-filled storm tank. With her bow partly split open by the impact, a strong northeasterly wind quickly trans­ formed the tank into a roaring inferno. The Waterman crew fought the llames for three hours before get­ ting them under control. The fire was extinguished as the vessel pulled into her berth at Pier C, State Docks. None of the Clark's general cargo was damaged by the collision or fire. Fire also broke out on the Alcoa Planter, when flames •jumped from the Clark and ig­ nited wooden partitions in the Planter's cargo hold. The fire was put down quickly by the crew. The Clark nosed into the Plant­ er as the latter vessel was lying aground at Beacon 30, about nine miles from Mobile. BAD STEERING GEAR The crash was attributed to the Clark's faulty steering mechan­ ism by her master, Capt. Ralph Smith. Smith said; "When the Alcoa Planter loom­ ed ahead in the fog I turned the wheel hard to the right, but there was no reaction. We were pro­ ceeding at slow speed at the time." He added that he ordered fullspeed astern in the engine room a moment before the collision. Apparatus from two Mobile fire-fighting companies wei-e at the State Docks when the vessels pulled in. It was the second collision in three days for the Abraham (Continued on Pege }) No. 1 NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. JANUARY 3. 1947 Aside from the men on the picketline, here aro the striking cab drivers in Tampa, meeting to plan further strategy. Standing ed the left, wearing a white shirt, is Sonny Simmons, SIU Tcunpa Agent. The SIU has pledged full support to the strikers, and has already assisted as much as possible. Tampa City Heads Help Company Against Striking AFL Teamsters By SONNY SIMMONS TAMPA—This town is a nor­ mally colorful city of 250,000 peo­ ple—a town that has grown ter­ rifically during the past six or seven years. Before the start of World War II, Tampa enjoyed a reputation as one of the finest of the Florida resorts. And during the war many fliers and radio technicians were trained at Drew Field which lies very clo.se to the town. Tampa has everything a city needs to make it a good place in which to live, and a fine place in whih to bring up children. There TUGBOAT STRIKE Unless the operators climb down from their high horse before midnight. Saturday, January 4, New York faces another paralysis of the sup­ ply lines into this large met­ ropolis. On that date members of the United Marine Division, Local 333. International Longshoremen's Association, will walk off the job unless their reasonable demands are arbitrated in good faith by the committee representing the tugboat operators. For a story of the develop­ ments to date, and the ar­ rangements made by the union in the event a strike is necessary, please turn to page 5. are wide spacious streets, a pleas­ ant residential district, and the sea right at the front door. Yes, Tampa is a wonderful city most of the time. But right now Tampa is the scene of one of the most vicious attacks ever launch­ ed against the free American la­ bor movement. CAB DRIVERS OUT For about two weeks now the taxi drivers, members of the Teamsters and Chauffeurs Union, AFL, have been on strike for bet­ ter wages and conditions, plus recognition of their Union. Since Florida has a law against the closed shop, the union is asking- merely for an agreement recognizing the union on open shop principles, and providing for wages, seniority, working condi­ tions, and machinery for hand­ ling grievances. It is pretty pitiful when labor has to come, hat in hand, to beg for such small requests. This is one of the prices of an "anti-la­ bor" state. The company has refused to bargain with the union, and has employed goons and thugs to keep the taxis on the streets, and to intimidate the men on strike. Many of the strikers have been beaten up, some seriously, but the police have made no move to ap­ prehend the attackers. Instead, the. newspapers scream daily about the violence of the strikers, and the police and other local officals have played an ac­ tive strike-breaking role. Only recently O. C. Wilson, peacefully picketing, was set up­ on by a number of goons and badly beaten up. While all the new.spapers are keeping feelings at a fever pitch by carrying ar­ ticles about what the police should do in the event of violence by the strikers, this incident was glossed over by police and press. Since more than half of the strikers are returned veterans, and quite a few of them suf­ fered war wounds which would disable them for any difficult or rigorous work, the action of the company, abetted by the local Government, has rigged a Hitler­ like job on these men. NO GAINS The two arbitration sessions held so far have not produced one single gain for the union. On the other hand, the stand taken by (Continued on Pege 3) New Isthmian Meet Called ByTheNLRB ' NEW YORK—Invitations have been extended to the Seafarers International Union, the Nation­ al Maritime Union, and the Isth­ mian Steamship Company to send representatives to an infor­ mal meeting on Wednesday, January 8, at the New York of­ fice of the National Labor Rela­ tions Board. The conference has been arranged by the Field Ex­ aminer, John A. Penneilo. The campaign of silence which the NMU has embarked on re­ garding Isthmian, is still con­ tinuing with not one word ap­ pearing in last week's edition of the Pilot. The many threats by the NMU and the Pilot that they had un­ covered evidences of coUusion between certain SIU representa­ tives and certain Isthmian offi­ cials have been shown ro be idle charges, and it is obvious that the NMU would be pleased to forget the whole matter at this time. BAD TASTE The eagerness with which the NMU has worked to deprive the Isthmian seamen of union repre­ sentation has left a bad taste in the mouth of every seaman and waterfront worker. NMUers have been unable to defend the position adopted by their own union, and have put a lot of pressure on their leaders to withdraw the phony protest so that Isthmian seamen could en­ joy the benefits of SIU contracts and protection. Only the stalling of the NMU has prevented this so far. It is hoped that the conference on Wednesday will find the NMU more willing to see the impend­ ing defeat which it faces, and to agree to having the challenged votes counted. When that hap-' pens. Isthmian too will be SIU. Snug Harbor Trusteos To Take Up SIU Request For Investigation • NEW YORK, January 2—Fur­ ther action on the Seafarers' de­ mands for an SIU two-man com­ mittee to investigate conditions existing at The Sailors' Snug Harbor is now awaiting the next meeting of the Snug Harbor Trustees. In answer to the request, sent last week, SIU Representative Volpian received a letter dated December 31, 1946 from Snug Harbor Governor Howard A. Flynn stating that the SIU re­ quest "will be presented to the next meeting of the Trustees for their consideration." In line with the Snug Harbor Trustees' decision to take this matter up at their next meeting, the SIU is holding up on any further action until the results of the meeting are made known. However, SIU members can rest assured that the action will be in the best interests of the Snug Harbor inmates and of all seamen as a .whole. �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LQG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District SEA P 4 R EM S LOG Friday, January 3, 1947 AFTER ALL/©ENTiEMeN, vw^o's AGAiftmr NATIONAL OBFENSE ? Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 t, 4, 5, HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK ------- Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 Training Strikebreakers Within the next few months, after the Republican Congress takes office, we can look forward to new at­ tempts to put over a Compulsory Military Training Law. Not that the Democrats would not do the same; it's just that the Repubs will now be able to take the play away from the party that has been in power in Washington for close to 14 years. All the howling in the world that the Congress will do, cannot convince any thinking American that compul­ sory military training is necessary for our protection against foreign enemies. The atomic bomb makes any old idea of defense look silly. From now on, men will net win wars, they will merely be killed in them. When Congressmen and businessmen ask for mili' tary training for the young people of the United States, their real idea is to build up a vast anti-labor reservoir that can be used to break strikes and to grind labor down to nothing. That has always been the ambition of the bosses, and with compulsory military training, they have their best chance of making it come true. Soldiers, and those other people who are trained to follow orders without question, are the only ones who can be depended upon to carry out the anti-labor plans of the big-shots who want to extend their power over you, you, and you. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post> card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now In The Marine Hospitals You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, All the smug words of the Senators and Represen­ as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging tatives in Washington cannot hide the real purpose of the heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ coming drive to make robots out of the citizens of the ing to them. United States. While they preach preparedness for war, NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL MOSES MORRIS they will be practicing preparedness for the war against J. S. WOOD H. G. DARNELL labor. Before the hostilities in Europe and Asia were over, B. BONIFON JOE GAMBLER soldiers in many southern camps were already being trained S. RIVERA LIONEL ROTHERHAM J. C. GRIFFIN NEPONSIT HOSPITAL in strike breaking techniques: use of billy clubs, tear gas, etc. M. ELTON D. B. BROWNLEE LINDER CLARK EDWARD CUSTER Only the white , light of publicity stopped this move J. FIGUEROA R. M. NOLAN t X A L. L. XEWIS in its tracks. But if the training of our young people in JACINTO NAVARRO BALTIMORE HOSPITAL H. SELBY ipeacetime becomes the law of the land, nothing will be F. BERGLAND H. BURKE ORPHA JOHNSON able to stop the forward march of the anti-labor, fascistic W. QUARLES J. S. CAMPBELL MICHAEL LUCAS CENTRAL MASON big businessmen and their stooges—the men we elect to J. T. EDWARDS THOMAS WADSWORTH KARL PETTERSSON Congress, but who represent only the wealthy and powerful. B. LUFLIN PETER LOPEZ MELVIN COLLINS G. T. McCOMB HARRY WALSH THOMAS J. BAIER As seamen, we see what is up the sleeve of the redE. FERRER JOHN DUDDKO J. P. BROOKS tape artists. They let the cat out of the bag when the R. BLAKE SEBASTIAN AMENTA J. W. DENNIS Maritime Commission stated/that some of the men who will J. R. HENCHEY EMILIO DI PIETRO W. BROCE, Jr. be drafted under the new program should be assigned to FRANCIS O'BRIEN WILLIAM GRAY AAA the merchant marine for training. JAMES DAVIS BRIGHTON HOSPITAL MANUEL ROMERO • H. SWIM In an already overcrowded industry, this has but one STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL E. JOHNSTON X 'X 'X . meaning. If the merchant seamen are forced to fight like E. F. SPEAR E. DUNPHY GALVESTON HOSPITAL dogs for jobs, they may be induced to give up the gains R. G. MOSSELLER G. BONDI W. G. H. BAUSE LONGKEMPT they have made, at such a great cost, over the past few E. MAY W. B. MUIR PAURGASON—SUP E. DELLAMANO years. And pushing men into the industry by means of L. L.. MOODY ALDERHOLDS R. BAASNER compulsory training is one way to bring on this condition. H. BELCHER KING G. VICKERY L. A. CORNWALL MITCHELL The fat boys have tipped us off to what they are AAA C. KOLSTE DOWELL really trying to put over. Now that we have the warning, C. R. POTTER ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL DEETRECH let's do our level best to stop them cold. Tf we don't, we D. HUTCHINS i D. MCDONALD SWENSON may be out in the cold instead. j M. J. QUINN J. KOSLUSKYCASTAGNERE—B.C. �Triday. January 3, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Three Tampa Officials Help Break Taxi Strike ploy union men and non-union"? HITTING A STRIKER DOESN'T HELP men." the city officials has strengthen­ If the union had insisted on the ed the hand of the company, and spokesmen for the company have same stand as that taken by the become increasingly arrogant as company, it is obvious that the press and the petty officials would the strike continues. be howling for the scalps of the The company still has more union members and their lead­ than 50 percent of its scabs on ers. But the press and the offi­ the streets, all with police protec­ cials in Tampa are owned body tion, and now the company main­ and soul by the bosses, and. they tains that there is no strike, and have developed a habit of look­ that union and non-union men ing the other way when it is to will be hired, as is company pol­ the benefit of the companies for icy. them to do so. The union leaders, headed by In the SIU 1946 General Strike, W. E. Sullivan, Teamsters and the Tampa police and press were Chauffeurs Union business agent, a potent factor in trying to sail and Oscar Bloodworth, secretai-y hot ships out of that harbor. Only of the Central Trades and Labor the cooperation of the local Team­ Assembly, have made charges sters Union, and the striking cab that the strike was forced by the drivers are part of that union, company when many drivers were kept the shipowners from carry­ fired for union activity or because ing out some part of their scheme. they had joined the union. The city resorted to any tactic to break the seamen's strike, just They further charged that as they are trying every possible peaceable pickets have been as­ trick to force the cab drivers to saulted by company thugs in an throw in the sponge. Discredit­ attempt to provoke violence. ing the union leaders and threat­ The company countered by ening them with jail, is only one making statements to the effect of the many underhanded de­ that the strikers are guilty of vices that were used in the SIU rowdyism, and the Mayor of Tam­ Strike, and which are now crop­ pa then issued orders to give the ping up in the cab drivers action. company all the protection it The pattern of this strike is needs. very much like any other strike they have had down here. Only UNION BUSTER the fact that the SIU strike was O. C. Wilson, above, was beaten badly by the goons in the Florida Attorney-General Tom on a national basis pi-evented the employ of the Tampa Cab Company, but he is not licked. Fifty Watson, whose activities as a city authorities from breaking drivers are still out on strike for better wages and conditions rabid union-buster were revealed the the strike and sending the and for recognition of their union as their bargaining agent. The in a Log article a few months ships out of here at will. The company has refused to negotiate, and in cooperation with the ago, injected himself into the dis­ Shipchandlers here requested po­ local authorities, have instituted a reign of terror. But the pute recently. lice support in busting picketlines, drivers are holding firm, and it will take plenty to beat them. He made a public statement ad­ and they were able to crash vising the Mayor to take strong through the lines. As a result, men; this month the taxi cab steps to "keep law and order," no SIU or SUP ships coming into the entire state, and never hsis drivers; next month it's any­ there been a better example of and has encouraged the company this port has since bought a single body's guess as to whom the what happens when the bosses to hold firm against the strikers article from these finks, and police will be intimidating and control all the news publica­ by giving them every help they chances are that they never will. driving from the streets. tions. need to keep their cabs on the REMEDY NEEDED 4. Labor must use the law streets. 2. Education is a crying need and the courts. When the law For a public official, he has The situation shows the need in this section. Workers must is deliberately violated by made some statements which are for certain minimum points so be shown how to break the elected officials, labor should certainly dangerous, if not down­ that labor in this section could yoke of the anti-labor harness go into court to prevent this. right fascistic. In a press con­ hold its own in disputes with which is imposed on them by All city laws pertaining to traf­ ference, Watson said, "unless or- management. Right now the cir­ laws such as the anti-closed fic safety have been ignored by • ganized labor and others desist cumstances are appalling, but Shop Law, and the Loitering the police and the authorities from the unlawful practices and with a few things added, labor Law which prevents more than so as to provide the Tampa Cab three people from gathering on refrain from trying to set up a could hold up its head here, and Company with enough scabs to closed shop operation in this have a good chance to gain its the streets together. This last break the strike. is used to break up street state, speaking without any intent just demands. 5. Organize politically. The to be blasphemous, hell is going Here are the most urgently meetings and rallies, as well as way to stop city officials from to persecute people doing picket to break loose in their neighbor­ needed remedies: mis-using their power is to duty. hoods." I. A local paper that will give elect only officials responsible labor's side in a dispute. There 3. Show the people the pat­ This type of statement is par­ to labor. The Mayor who is is not one pro-labor paper in tern. Last month it was the seaticularly dangerous since it de­ now doing his best to force the liberately obscures the issue. The cab drivers to their knees is the union has never asked for a same official who used police closed shop, but merely for recog­ to crack the SIU-SUP lines a nition of the union as the bar­ short time ago. Labor can go gaining agent of the cab drivers to the polls and vote men like employed by the Tampa Cab this out of office. In Tampa Company. light. A bauxite carrier, the there are 18,000 voters, and {Continued from Page 1) If the company needed any Planter suffered extensive dam­ over 30,000 members of various more encouragement to hold out Clark. On Friday she figured in age to her deckhouse, in addition unions. The answer is obvious; against the union, and to use a crash with another freighter in to the gaping hole cut in her side. if labor wants to do the job, goons and thugs to break up the the Mississippi River, near New Brother Compton told a physi­ the fakers can be driven out of union, Watson's remarks were Orleans. The steering device was cian at the Marine Hospital that office and replaced by honest likewise blamed when she was more than enough. "some of the men in the messunable to avert colliding with the room saw the bow of the Liberty men who don't toady to the In the face of the obstinate at­ S. J. Hutchinson, a Lykes Bro­ bosses. ship as she loomed toward us titude adopted by the company, ther ship, in a heavy fog. Labor in. Tampa is solidly be­ during our coffee period." the union has continued to search hind the cab drivers, just as it GROUND TWICE for an agreement that would was behind the seamen. When WARNING SAVED CREW satisfy both, parties. The spokes­ this beef is over, labor must get Capt. Smith said that fog con­ A cry of warning from one of set for more trouble, in Tampa as man for the union asked the May­ or to appoint an arbitration board ditions were so bed at the lower the crewmembers who sighted well as all over the United States. end of Mobile Bay Sunday morn­ the oncoming Clark probably ac­ to assist in solving the unioning that the Abraham Clark counted for the fact that no one The best way to be prepared is company controversy, but the grounded twice en route from the was seriously hurt, Compton said. by having a program—a program company lawyer replied: mouth of the Bay to the State Both vessels were able to make that will eventually lead to a Docks. He said that the ship was their berths without assistance solid labor group. VICIOUS STAND able to back from shoal waters from tugs or the Coast Guard. Only in this way can labor beat "Mr. Mayor, in answer to that, under its own power. On her first run for Waterman, the Tampa finks and scabs, and there is nothing to arbitrate. The The Alcoa Planter was pro­ the Clark was taken over by the the rest of the people in the drivers we have now are satis­ fied, but the union is just de­ ceeding from Mobile to Port of Company in Boston on Dec. 4. United States who think that manding that we sign up for a Spain, Trinidad, at the time of Previously she was operated by they can prey on labor without fear of retaliation. closed shop. We are I'eady to em­ the accident and was traveling the Grace Line. {Continued from Page I) Alcoa Planter, Abr. Clark Crash In Mobile Bay; Seafarer Injured Rank And File Upholds Curran On Resignation NEW YORK—A packed meet­ ing of the National Maritime Union, held at Manhattan Cen­ ter on Monday, December 30, rousingly received President Joe Curran's reasons for resigning as Co-Chairman of the CMU, and by a standing vole of approxim­ ately 7 to 1, they concurred in his action. In another direct slap at the communist fraction in the NMU and the CMU, the same meeting directed Mr. Curran to meet with Harry Lundeberg, President of the Seafarers International Union, and Vincent Malone, President of Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders, and Wipers, Independent, in Washington. This meeting was suggested by Malone at an informal conference with Lundeberg and Curran in San Francisco a few weeks ago. The main purpose behind this coming meeting is to map out ways and means of combatting the anti-labor legislation that is sure to be introduced by the Congress that went into session on January 3. A number of restrictive labor laws, some aimed principally at seamen, are up for consideration, and only prompt action by the honest seamen's unions will be able to deal with them effective­ ly. CP OPPONENTS The opposition to Curran in the NMU is spearheaded by Joe Stack and Howard MacKenzie, Vice-Presidents, and Ferdinand Smith, National Secretary. All three are acknowledged com­ munists and have been the spokesmen for the communist line in the NMU for many years. So far, Curran has had all the best of it in this fight for control of the NMU. But it is too early to count the communists out, and it should be kept in mind that this whole battle might just be some communist strategy to make the public think that the weak anti-communist p r o g r am adopted by the CIO Convention in Atlantic City is being carried out. The leaders of another com­ munist-dominated union in the CIO recently issued a blast against the CP, and this may just be one more part of the same ruse. ATTENTION SIU, SUP CREWS When your ship comes in­ to the port of Tampa, do not buy one single thing from any of the Ships' Chandlers there. Those men, with the help of policemen, crashed our picketlines during our General Strike. Keep those links off your ships, and re­ member to pass the word to other seamen. This is action that has the backing of the entire membership of the Seafarers International Union. �Page Four ITHIMK THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 3, 1947 1946 Was Year Of Many Victories For SiU; New Drives Progressing The SIU petitioned for an elec­ companies and some new com­ tion of these tankermen a few panies which we are working oh Now that 1946 is over — gone weeks ago, but the NMU inter­ at the present time. However, we but not forgotten — and we are vened, and no election date has can't reveal anything about these entering a brand new year, it's yet been set. When it is, the Sea­ outfits at this time, until it's time time to briefly review the Sea­ farers is fully confident that these to petition for an NLRB election; QUESTION:—What port has the fondest farers' organizational p r o g r am, men will follow the lead of the One good thing occurred in the what it has meant to you as a Isthmian seamen, and vote for memories for you? member of the Seafarers, and the SIU as the union of their past week. CMU "unity" is now a thing of the past, according td what it should mean in the choice. * the statement of Co-Chairmari months that lie ahead of us. TEXACO TANKERS Joe Curran (NMU President)' Through our various organiza­ OTHO BABB, Second Cook: As far as Texaco is concerned, when he resigned from that po­ tional efforts, we have learned the SIU moved into this outfit sition. New York has the fondest several lessons which should be With the defection of Curran memories for me. This is my invaluable in our new organiza­ some time ago, and did a good home, and to this place I return tional work." Very few Seafarei-s job of organizing the lai-ge ma­ and the strong possibility that after all my trips. My family had any organizational experi­ jority of them into the Seafarers. other fringe party liners might lives here so it's not surprising ence prior to the past year, and However, on the strength of a decide to desert the sinking ship that some of the best times of now we have a large pool of contract which had expii'cd over just as the rats always do, it five years ago, the NMU went seems to be only a question of my life have been spent right trained ships organizers. through the Texaco back door time before the CMU is complete­ here. I was born in Norfolk and These men are now on tap for and negotiated an agreement cov­ ly wiped out. Then, perhaps, that is my next choice, but New any SIU organizing project, and ering a bunch of men who want­ we'll have the beginning of gen­ York is the best port in the they're trained men who know ed no part of their Moscow Line. uine cooperation and unity on world, bar none. I settled here the SIU score and aren't afraid By means of goons, bargain the waterfront. right after I started sailing and to shout it out to the whole world. basement unionism, and every Originally formed for the pur­ I just can't imagine living any Several different organizing other place. New York has every­ drives are now under way as part other filthy trick in their finky pose of being a front for the comthing, and I've seen them all so of the present Seafarers' organi­ book, the NMU did their best to mie-dominated waterfront unions terrorize the Texaco tankermen. in their attempt to take over the I ought to know. zational program. These different Despite this, many of these tank­ Marine Firemen and other small outfits are in varying stages of ermen remained in the SIU, and development at the present time, are fighting hard to secure Sea­ unions, and with the possibility and it will be necessary to go into farers representation and a con­ of being a home for the commie unions in the event that they details concerning the status of tract they can have something were kicked out by Papa Mur­ each one individually. to say about. •• . ray, the CMU is being given the ISTHMIAN They know that they were sold kind of burial that all phony out­ THOMAS BLUITT. FOW: , Isthmian should be dealt with down the river when the NMU fits of its kind deserve. Pori Selte, France, is a rarely first, because it has been hang­ signed their sweetheart agree­ The roles played by Bridges visiled port and so things are ment with Texaco, but they won't and all the commies, including ing fire much longer than any of very cheap there. At least that's the others, and certainly a decis­ take it lying down. The Texaco Joe Curran before he got "relig­ ihe way it was a year ago when ion should be reached on Isth- tankermen are fighters,' and in­ ion," make you realize what a I was last there. The people were main within the near future. We tend to see this through to the good thing it is that the SIU-SUP nice to us and seemed genuinely are waiting to hear from either end. is streamlined for effective action, glad to see us. They didn't jack the NLRB Regional Director or OTHER OUTFITS and is an important part of the up the prices on things when we the Examiner who conducted the Aside from these four compan­ powerful AFL Maritime Trades came to town and they made informal hearing on this case. ies, we have two other tanker Department, sure that we only bought mer­ Meanwhile, Isthmian seamen chandise of good quality. We had are being denied the union rep­ a lot of fun there, and in these resentation which they need so diays of rising prices, a port where badly and which is being.with­ articles were cheap was a real held from them through the finky treat. There should be more like actions of the NMU commissars. Port Sette. These guys are playing a dogALEXANDER CITY, Ala. ^ A and urged him to ignore a gov­ in-the-manger game where, if sordid story of anti-labor terror­ ernment suppoena to the hearing. they can't win themselves (and ism, police strike-breaking, brutal Murphy declared that Mann paid they've already lost Isthmian), attacks on unionists and spying him $22 to "pimp" on union act­ they are trying to make it impos­ WILLIAM O'BRIEN, AB: was unfolded here last week as a ivities and offered him $25 to sible for anyone else to win. I guess the general population Finky tactics such as the NMU National Labor Relations Board reveal the identity of the union of Edinburgh, Scotland, was the has displayed throughout the hearing. leader in one of the Russell mills. most receptive to merchant sea­ Isthmian drive have brought Police Chief Mack Horton and In addition, he testified that men and so that's why Edin­ home to the Isthmian seamen the two other policemen were charged Mann told him at police head­ burgh has always been my fa­ fact that they are lucky that they with administering a vicious beat­ quarters before Chief Horton that vorite port. My fondest memories voted for the SIU. Certainly, the ing to J. P. Mooney, international "they (the police) were going to are about the fun I had there, smelly reputation of - the NMU representative of the Textile break the union." and the many things that were has lieen spread all over the Workers Union — CIO, in the available for us to do. The food •world as the re,suit of their Isth­ downtown section of this city $100 GOON was excellent and the liquor was mian antics. during an organizing drive at the Roy H. Boddie, another mill of good quality. Although I Russell Manufacturing Co. worker, said Horton and Mann CITIES SERVICE haven't been there in over two Mooney testified he was given offered him $100 to beat up a mill years, I would enjoy returning As far as Cities Service is con­ a bloody beating about the face, there to see what changes the cerned, no date has yet been set kicked repeatedly, stamped on employe who was helping to or­ years have brought. I'll bet it's for the start of an NLRB election and had his head banged against ganize the union. William T. Anthony, an ex-GI, testified that still a good friendly city. in this tanker outfit. The SIU is the pavement. police offered him money to stay still going ahead making gains in After the attack, when he re­ at the Russell Hotel and spy on signing up members, and as soon fused to leave town, Mooney was as the date is set, voting within arrested and taken to the police the union. Organizers were living at the hotel and holding union this fleet will begin. station where his life was threat­ meetings there. Anthon|,r said Here, also, the NMU is doing ened in the presence of Chief the police told him they would all in its power to hold up the Horton. pay all his expenses, but he re­ EUGENE McGUINN, OS: date of an election, preventing Protesting this to Horton, fused. these Cities Service tankermen Mooney was told by the Chief, New Orleans is my kind of NLRB Field Examiner Joe from getting decent union repre­ "They can get away with any­ town. It's full of life and there Bailey testified that he was un­ sentation. These delaying tactics thing around here. I told you be­ as something doing all the time, successful when he sought to look of the NMU have raised such a fore this was going to happen if every minute of the day. A sea­ at police records at City Hall deal­ strong smell around the water­ you didn't leave town." man can have a good time in that ing with the attack on Mooney. front that no decent seaman place; in fact if he doesn't have a Mayor Thomas C. Russell has PAID SPIES would thing of voting for that good time it's his own fault. The been subpoenaed but has not ans­ outfit. They, too, want the kind bars stay open all night, and as The evidence against Horton wered the summons. of contracts, wages, and condi­ long as a guy keeps out of trouble and the two policemen — all While claiming that phlebitis tions that only an SIU contract Ihe cops will stay away from you. charged with interfering with keeps him from the hearing, he can give them. Some of the best times in my life union activity and acting as has been seen in town numerous were spent on the beach in New MATHIESEN TANKERS agents of the company — piled times. Orleans. Maybe some day 1 will higher with the testimony of his This company only has one Mayor Russell is the uncle of visit another port where I will son Murphy, a cotton mill worker. Thomas D. Russell, president of tanker as yet, but they are plan­ have a better time, but I doubt it. Murphy said that Horton and the Russell Manufacturing Co., ning on buying others and will possibly go into the dry cargo Policeman Floyd Mann "used" and is also a vice-president of the him to spy on union activities company. business as well. By EARL SHEPPARD Ala. Police Use Beatings, Spying And Bribery To Smash Unions �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 3. 1947 New Smith Bill Would Strip Labor Of All Proteetlon .WASHINGTON — Formulated by one of the most reactionary members of the House of Rep­ resentatives, Howard W. Smith of Virginia, a new bill designed to strip labor of all the protec­ tion of the National Labor Rela­ tions (Wagner) Act, was complet­ ed this week. As soon as the new Congress convenes, the bill will be presented. Described by Mr. Smith as a bill which would "restore equal­ ity betwen industry and labor . and . . . prohibit the practices that have lead to the present labor dictatorship," this proposed measure contains much of the Cjase Bill which was vetoed last May by President Truman. Also included are Wagner Act amend­ ments which were adopted by a two-to-one vote in the House in 1940, after the Smith Committee had "investigated" the NLRB'. This move was later blocked in the Senate. Some provisions of the Smith Anti-Strike Bill are also revived for inclusion into this all-pur­ pose, labor crippling bill. The Smith ;Bill, when originally brought up in 1940, met the same fate as the amendments to the Wagner Act'. The curbs on labor, as proposed by this new bill, go much further than any previous anti-labor scheme to be drafted in Wash­ ington. Besides the measures out­ lined above, the bill would ap­ ply the recently rejected provi­ sions of the so-called Petrillo Act to cover all industries, rather than just radio broadcasting, and in that way meet the constitutional objection that classed the Pe­ trillo Bill as "class legislation." ANTI CLOSED SHOP Under the new measure, strikes in public utilities and related in­ dustries would be outlawed, as would secondary boycotts and sympathy strikes. The closed shop and industry wide bargain­ ing would likewise bo prohibited upon passage of the Bill. One section of the Bill would make it an unfair labor practice for either an employer or a un­ ion in a public utility or an in­ dustry essential to public health to refuse or neglect to insert in new contracts an agreement to arbitrate any and all disputes. Failure to comply with this would exempt both parties from their rights under the Wagner Act and the Norris-LaGuardia and Clayton Acts. Stating that the move to or­ ganize foremen has been "the chief stumbling block in the coal negotiations," Mr. Smith has writ­ ten into the proposal that fore­ men and supervisory employes would be stripped of their col­ lective bargaining rights. This would not only apply to the coal mines, but to all industries. EXPECT QUICK ACTION Indications are that the Bill will fall into anti-labor hands when it comes up in the House Committe on Labor. The Com­ mittee is dominated by Republi­ cans, and Rep. Welch, California, who has a reputation of a "friend of labor," has announced that he will accept the Chairmanship of the Merchant Marine Committee, rather than the Labor Commit­ tee, for which he is also eligible by right of seniority. The two men next in line for this important post are men who were fought bitterly by organized labor because of their vigorous support of the Case Bill and other anti-labor measures. The two are Gerald W. Landis of Indiana, and Fred A. Hartley Jr., of New Jer­ sey. In the Senate, much activity is also being expended to work out a labor bill to be ready for consideration by February 15. A statement from Senator Taft, Ohio, leads to the belief that most of the Senate concentration will be on proposed outlawing of the closed shop, plus various points of the Case Bill, before ronsidering revision of the Wagner Act. Action on bills to control la­ bor should not take long, ac­ cording to Mr. Taft, since "many hearings (on the Case Bill) have already been held, and there are volumes of testimony and dis­ cussion relating to its provisions." Labor has already voiced its op­ position to the proposed mea­ sures, and all labor leaders have stated flatly that there is no in­ tention on the part of organized labor to take any restrictive laws without putting up a battle. Analysis of the Bills, and the arguments put forth in their fa­ vor, have aroused no sympathy from workers, who feel that busi­ ness and management have al­ ways been more powerful than labor, and -that that power was never' as strong as it is right now. VIeet Tommy, Great Lover By JOHNNY JOHNSTON In the old days of wooden ships and iron men, salt beef was the principle meat caried on sailing ships. Some of these ships also carried live stock such as pigs, sheep, and poultry, but the sea­ men never knew what this meant for rarely did a tender morsel find its way forward. Salt beef was the only meat that the sailors were served, either in stew or just plain boiled chunks, that were called "old horse." But even with salt meat, they were poorly dealt with since the choice pieces in each barrel were taken off for the officers. What was left was for the men in the foc'sle. Here is a poem about "old horse," from Richard Dana, Jr's "Two Years Before the Mast." OLD HORSE Old horse, old horse, what bought you here. From Sacarap to Portland Pier? I've carted stone this many year; Til, killed by blows and sore abuse. They salted me down for sailors use. The sailors they do me despise. They turn me over and damn my eyes. Crew Satisfied Cut off my meat, and pick my NEW YORK—The SS Yaka of bones. the Waterman Fleet came in And pitch the rest to Davy Jones. town last week after a 45-day t i 4. round trip across the pond. On the night of September 29, It was not long after .she tied up that the ship's delegate came 1913, Dr. Rudolph Diesel; the in­ up to the Hall asking that a dele­ ventor of the engine which bears gation of five Patrolmen be sent his name, -was.crossing the Eng­ out to the ship which was lying lish Channel on his way to Lon­ don to attend a meeting of man­ at pier 6. Bush Terminal. The Agent was unable to send ufacturers and to confer with five Patrolman out to her as some members of the British Ad­ there were numerous other ships miralty. After dinner he went below to his stateroom and was to be paid off that same day. The agent instead assigned Jim never seen or heard from again. Purcell and myself, along with It was rumored that German three rank and file members, to agents had done away with him go over and investigate the situa­ to prevent him from giving sec­ tion and return to the Hall with rets about the invention to the the findings. British. Years later, however, his son Eugene Diesel, told an QUICK FIX UP incident that helped to clear up So, out to the ship we went. the mystery. After going aboard and hearing Rudolph had speculated in real all sides of the issue it did not estate in Munich, and had suffer­ take any great length of time to ed a heavy loss. Before his trip, have the entire membership of he had discussed methods of sui­ the crew well satisfied and happy. cide with his son, Rudolph, Jr., The ship's delegate, Bill Thomp­ and the boy, not realizing what son, then told the crew that the was on his father's mind, told three rank and file members that him that the best way would be came along with us were mem­ to leap from a fast moving ship bers who were not paid to do a on a dark night. job, but gladly did so on their By taking his own life, this own time, the way all Seafarers great man did not live long should do to keep down all dis­ enough to see his name become a satisfaction among crew mem­ household term. Today, Diesel bers. powered liners speed across the The delegate then suggested sea, Diesel trucks roar along the that a small donation be taken highways, and Diesel motored up and turned over to the Pa­ airplanes blast their way across trolmen to be divided so these the sky. willing brothers could buy them­ 4 3^ 3^ selves a little something as a Dead Man Island, an old land token from the crew of the Yaka, and he hoped there would not be mark in the harbor of San Pedro, any hard feelings among the crew California, also has a seafaring woman, buried on it. She was the throughout the next voyage. The crew then made up a purse wife of the Captain of the Laura of $37.00 and turned it over to the Sevens. His ship left San Pedro Patrolman who divided it be­ and was never heard of again. •When his wife died, she was tween Brothers Joe Bordon, Oli­ ver Hodge and Siegfried Jafgem buried on the Lsland, and is the only woman who was ever buried doy. William Hamilton there. The Patrolmen Say Page Five Numerous articles have appear­ ed in the pages of the Seafarers Log regarding the exploits, ad­ ventures and what-have-you of various Seafarers. This item isslightly different in that it deals with a human interest—er, we mean feline interest — phase sel­ dom covered in the average story. This, my friends and readers, is the saga of Tommy the Tomcat, as stalwart a Seafarer as ever sailed the bidny deep. Our hero. Tommy, of whom a picture appears herewith, is no usual Tomcat. No, he is an un­ usually intelligent individual who has certain daily duties and a regular schedule for performing them. Usually, when the New York Hall opens in the morning. Tommy may be found perched on a table alongside the doorman. CATTY LOOKS Tommy carefully scrutinizes each would-be entrant, and once in a while registers extreme dis­ approval. The reason for this dis­ approval becomes readily appar­ ent when investigation discloses that the individual in question is either a member in bad standing or some non-member trying to get past the vigilant eyes of the doorman. Tommy knows his Sea­ farers. You can't fool him. After completing his morning stint at the door, Tommy calmly strolls over to the elevator and cooly awaits for George the oper­ ator to open the doors. At the completion of his ascent to the third deck, Tommy lines up for a grand exit and makes for his usual resting place — Jimmy Stewart's desk. This is Tomniy's favorite resting place, where he recuperates his strength after an exhausting night. Just as occasional Seafarers, Tommy has an eye for the fairer sex. His favorite jaunt is over to the French Lines office where he is carrying on a torrid affair TOMMY. THE TOMCAT with a certain French cutie. Yes, he's an internationalist, our Tom­ my, but not of the same variety as some of the NMU stooges. He's merely an international lover. LAY OFF! Tommy's protector and guard!-, an, Red McKenzie, swore when he shipped out that he was going to take Tommy with him. So, when v/e searched the hall for Tommy this morning to complete our interview, no Tommy was evident. Checking a little further, we found that Red had shipped out with — yes, you've guessed it — Tommy. "When he returns from his current trip, we expect to finish our interview, and should be able to add some of Tommy's recent exploits abroad. FLASH: ! •^''e just ran into Tommy on the Second- deck. So, Red must have sailed without his buddy after all. Guess Jimmy Stewart protested too vehemently when Red tried to kidnap Jim­ my's protege. Jimmy says that if Rod or anyone else gets Tommy on a ship, it will be over his dead body. That cat has more guard­ ians! Tugboats Will Halt Saturday If Operators Refuse To Bargain NEW YORK, Jan. 2—This town order the membership on strike of over 8,000,000 people faces the if negotiations or arbitration second tugboat tie-up in a period terminated. Your Committee met with the of 15 months this Saturday, Jan­ Owners today and found that uary 4, unless the so far obstinate it is impossible to come to any operators show a willingness to agreement. Therefore, the Com­ get down to business and bargain mittee voted unanimously to honestly with the United Marine Division, Local 333, ILA, the union order a Strike for the coming' which represents the tugboatmen Saturday at Midnight, January 4, 1947. in this area. The conditions of the Strike That much became plain today are to be as follows: when the result of the strike ref­ All men are to cease work erendum, conducted during the at midnight Saturday in ac­ past few weeks, was made public. cordance with the follo'wingi The vote was heavily in favor of rules set down by the Wage arbitration, but with the proviso Scale Committee: that strike action be resorted to All Oil Tankers loaded be- ^'A if the operators continued to stall. fore Saturday midnight are to / \J The meetings between the be unloaded and returned to Union, the operators, and the their home port or designated Mayor's Arbitration Committee place set by the Owners. have so far not been productive Tugboats that pick up a tow of any gains for the union, and so, before midnight Saturday are to unless something beneficial takes deliver the tow to their designa­ place during the meeting to be tions and report to the designat­ held on Friday, January 3, the ed place set by the Owners. tugs are sure bets to stop opera­ All vessels requiring a watch­ tion at midnight Saturday. man, one member of the crew Below are^he instructions issu­ is to act as watchman amd the ed to all members of Local 333 so Union shall be notified of the that they will know exactly what man who-is watching it. How­ to do if, and when, the pin is ever, if the Company attempts to move any of its equiptment pulled: all watchmen will be with­ On a referendum Vote held drawn from the vessels. by Ihe Membership of Ihis Or­ The vessels of the Central Ver­ ganization on Thursday, Jan­ uary 2. 1947, it was voted by mont Transportation Company, the majority of the members the . Providence Steamboat Com­ that the Wage Scale Negotiat­ pany, and all Ferries, are exempt ing Committee be authorized to |from this directive. �Page Six THE SEAFARERS LOG Fxiday, Januuy 3, 1947 SUP Signs Contracts With Deconhil, Pacific Tankers And American Pacific Any such notice shall be given at The foregoing basic wages shall least thirty (30) days prior to the be retroactive to June 15, 1946. expiration date and after notice 1. Overtime. The overtime pay has been given specific proposals for all unlicensed personnel shall must then be submitted and ne­ be one dollar ($1.00) per hour.. gotiations commenced within ten 2. Hours of Work in Port. The ' (10) days. If such notice shall not work week in port shall be forty be given, the agreement shall be (40) hours per week. It is under­ deemed to be renewed for the stood for the purpose of this par- . succeeding year. agraph all work performed in The terms and provisions here­ port on Saturdays, Sundays and of shall not be binding and ef­ recognized holidays shall be paid fective until all the terms and pi'ovisions hereof shall have been for at the overtime rate, subject, approved by the United States however to paragraphs 4 and 5 below. Maritime Commission. Deck Dept. Per Month 3. Hours of Work at Sea. At This agreement is also subject Bosuns , $215.00 to approval by any other govern­ sea the hours of work shall be Quartermasters 180.00 mental agencies having jurisdic­ forty-eight (48) hours per week ^ Maintenance Men, for men standing watches. It is ' tion in the premises. day work 195.00 understood that for the purpose IN WITNESS WHEREOF the of this paragraph Sunday at sea AMERICAN PACIFIC STEAM­ Effective 10-1-46, the rate for Able Bodied Seamen .... 180.00 150.00 parties have executed this agree­ shall be considered the overtime SHIP COMPANY Extra Meals (Section 7, Article Ordinary Seamen ment this 20th day of November day, that is to say, all work perVII, pages 34, 35 of Union Agree­ Engine Dept. Manning and Wage Scale 1946. foi-med on Sunday at sea shall ment) is to be 50c per meal. Dry Cargo Liberty Vessels Electricians $294.50 be paid for at the overtime rate, AMERICAN PACIFIC Stand-by Work In Port: Revised Dec. 7, 1946 Pumpmen 225.00 subject, however, to paragraphs STEAMSHIP COMPANY Effective 10-1-46 the rate for Pumpman-Machinist .... 225.00 Effective Effectiic Effective Effective 4 and 5 below. As General Agent for the United Oiler 180.00 5-14-46 6-1 5-46 6-25-46 y-26-46 Stand-by work in port (Section 4. It is agreed that there shall States Maritime Commission 34, Article I, pages 12, 13 of Un­ Combination Firemanbe no duplication or pyramiding No. Rating Watertender 180.00 ion Agreement) is to be $1.45 per Signed—H. H. Birkholm of overtime and/or penalty time. 1 Boatswain Watertender 180.00 hour. President $205.00 $205.00 $205.00 $205.00 5. It is agreed that overtime Firemen : 175.00 1 Carpenter (See Note) Cash Subsistence: shall not be paid for regular SAILORS' UNION OF THE Wiper , ;.... 160.00 205.00 205.00 205.00 205.00 watches stood between the hours PACIFIC All payments of cash subsis­ 6 Able Seamen of 5:00 p. m. and 8:00 a. m. and tence must be fully explained, Stewards Dept. Deck Department 172.50 172.50 172.50 172.50 giving reasons in detail, specific Chief Steward on Saturdays, Sundays and recog­ $227.50 3 Ordinary Seamen nized holidays during the period 210.00 dates, and actual meals involved. Chief Cook SAILORS' UNION OF THE • 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 Room allowance only payable 2nd Cook and Baker a vessel's departure is delayed by 190.00 PACIFIC failure of the Sailors Union of the 155.00 NOTE:-Carpenter to furnish when quarters are not available Galleymen Engine Department Pacific to furnish unlicensed 150.00 own tools. If Maintenance AB on vessel. Reasons for room ah Utilitymen deck, engine or stewards' de­ 150.00 carried in lieu of Carpenter, lowance must be stated in com- Messmen SAILORS' UNION OF THE partment crewmembers. The foregoing basic wages shall . wages are $187.50. If Purser/, detail and sptJfic dates PACIFIC 6. The foregoing paragraphs 1 be retroactive to June 15, 1946. Pharmacist—$229.00 per month, "^"^t be indicated. Stewards' Department to 5 inclusive shall be retroac­ (In place of Purser.) 1. Overtime. The overtime pay Unlicensed tive to June 25, 1946. 1 Deck Engineer Signed—Harry Lundeberg Effect. Effect. for all unlicensed personnel shall 180.00* 205.00 205.00 205.00 Sec.-Treasurer THIS AGREEMENT shall be 5-14-46 10-1-46 be one dollar ($1.00) per hour. 3 Oilers $ .85 $1.00 Breakfast 2. Hours of Work in Port. The AGREEMENT TO AMEND IN binding upon the respective par­ 172.50* 177.50 177.50 177.50 Luncheon 85 1.00 work week in port shall be forty CERTAIN RESPECTS AGREE­ ties to and including November 3 Firemen/Watertenders 1.00 Supper 1.00 (40) hours per week. It is under­ MENTS OF OCTOBER 1st and 18, 1947, and shall be considered 172.50* 177.50 177.50 177.50 Room 2.50 3.00 stood for the purpose of this para­ 17th. 1945 BETWEEN PACIFIC as renewed from year to year 2 Wipers graph all work performed in port TANKERS INC.. DECONHIL thereafter between the respec­ 150.00* 175.00 175.00 175.00 TOTAL $5.20 $6.00 on Saturdays, Sundays and recog­ TANKERS. AND SAILORS UN­ tive parties thereto, unless either 1 Chief Steward (All payments of Cash Subsis­ nized holidays shall be paid for ION OF THE PACIFIC. DECK. party hereto shall give written 220.00 220.00 220.00 220.00 notice to the other of its desire tence must be shown on payroll at the overtime rate, subject, ENGINE AND STEWARD 1 Chief Cook to amend or terminate the same. or pay voucher, as these amounts however, to paragraphs 4 and 5 DEPARTMENTS 200.00 205.00 205.00 205.00 Any such notice shall be given at below. are subject to both FOAB and I 1 2nd Cook & Baker least thirty (30) days prior to the IT IS AGREED between the State Unemployment Insurance 3. Hours of Work at Sea. At sea 185.00 185.00 185.00 185.00 Tax.) expiration date and after notice SAILORS UNION OF THE PA­ the hours of work shall be forty5 Utility/Messmen has been given specific proposals CIFIC and PACIFIC TANKERS eight (48) hours per week for 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 Linen Allowance; must then be submitted and nego­ INC. that the following wage men standing watches. It is un­ (*) Denotes changed rate. $2.00 per week to all person­ derstood that for the purpose of scale will be applicable in all tiations commenced within ten OVERTIME AND CASH SUB­ nel for each full week no linen this paragraph Sunday at sea tankers under contract beween (10) days. If such notice shall is issued. (Linen allowance sub­ shall be considered the overtime the SAILORS UNION OF THE not be given, the agreement shall SISTENCE SCHEDULE ject to withholding, FOAB, and day, that is to say, all work per­ PACIFIC and the PACIFIC be deemed to be renewed for the Revised Dec. 7, 1946 CSUI Tax.) formed on Sunday at sea shall be TANKERS INC., and that the succeeding year. DRY CARGO—(Liberties) paid for at the overtime rate, sub­ contracts between them dated Oc­ The terms and provisions here­ Travel Subsistence: tober 1st and 17th, 1945, shall be of shall not be binding and ef­ ject, however, to paragraphs 4 Personnel Classifications: $4.00 per day for all ship's per­ amended in the following re- fective until all the terms and and 5 below. sonnel. .spects: Unlicensed: provisions hereof shall have been 4. It is agreed that there shall (Travel subsistence is only payapproved by the United States be no duplication or pyramiding Deck Dept. Per Month All other crew members not able when transportation" is furMaritime Commission. of overtime and/or penalty time. licensed including Chief Steward, nished. It is not payable when Bosuns $215.00 This agreement is also subject 5. It is agreed that overtime Quartermasters Watch Personnel: (For purposes cash in lieu of transportation is 180.00 to approval by any other gov­ shall not be paid for regular of Sunday Overtime at Sea.) i paid. No travel subsistence is Maintenance Men, ernmental agencies having juris­ Unlicensed—All Able Seamen, payable when transportation is watches stood between the hours day work 195.00 all Ordinary Seamen, all Oilers, via air.) of 5:00 p. m. and 8:00 a. m. and Able Bodied Seamen .... 180.00 diction in the premises. all Firemen/Watertenders, all Also concluded with the Amer- on Saturdays, Sundays and recog­ Ordinary Seamen 150.00 IN WITNESS WHEREOF the members of the Stewards Depart- ican Pacific Steamship Company, nized holidays during the period parties have executed this agree­ ment. 1 the Pacific Tankers, Incorporated, a vessel's departure is delayed by Engine Departmenl ment on the date first herein Non-Watch — Day Workers: and the Deconhil Tankers, were failure of the Sailors Union of Electricians 294.50 mentioned. (For purposes of Sunday Over- contracts covering wages of the Pacific to furnish unlicensed Pumpmen 225.00 SAILORS UNION OF THE time at Sea). j tanker personnel. The contract deck, engine or stewards' depart­ Pumpman-Machinist .... 225.00 PACIFIC ment crew members. Staff Officer, Boatswain, Car- was entered into on October 1 Oiler 180.00 penter. Deck Engineer, Wipers. and 17, and amended on Novem­ 6. The foregoing paragraphs 1 Combination FiremanSigned—Harry Lundeberg ber 14, 1946. All new wages and to 5 inclusive shall be retroac­ Sec. Treasurer Watertender 180.00 Overtime Rates: overtime rates in these agree­ tive to June 25, 1946. Watertender 180.00 PACIFIC TANKERS INC., ments are retroactive to June 15, Unlicensed Personnel 175.00 THIS AGREEMENT shall be Firemen As General Agents for Effective 5-14-46 • ; 160.00 binding upon the respective par­ Wiper Regular Overtime ....90c per hr.' the same reasons as out- ties to and including September THE UNTED STATES Effective 6-15-46 lined above, the new provisions 30, 1947, and shall be considered Stewards Department MARITIME COMMISSION Regular Overtime ..$1.00 per hr.' are printed in their entirety: as renewed from year to year Chief Steward 227.50 Signed—^Allen Cameron , Unlicensed Personnel with base thereafter between the respec­ Chief Cook 210.00 AMENDMENT TO AGREE­ General Manager wage of $200.00 or over tive parties thereto, unless either 2nd Cook and Baker .... 190.00 MENT DATED OCT. L 1946 Effective 9-19-46 party hereto shall give written Galleymen 155.00 Witness: Regular Overtime ..$1.25 per hr. It is agreed between the Sail­ notice to the other of its desire Utilitymen 150.00 Signed—Omar Hoskins . Handling Cargo (Longshore ors' Union of the Pacific—Deck to amend or terminate the same. Messmen 150.00 U. S. Comm. of Conciliation A new dry cargo contract, comWork) $1.35 per hr prising wage increases and addi- Handling Explosives..$2.50 per hr tions to the manning scale, was (Other miscellaneous special rates recently concluded between the per Union Agreement) Sailors Union of the Pacific and Effective 6-15-46, all Unlicensed the American Pacific Steamship watch personnel to be paid overCompany. time at $1.00 per hour for regular The contract was signed on De-, watches stood at sea on Sundays, cember 7, 1946, but various por-' Overtime at $1.00 per hour to be tions, mainly wages and over- ] paid for all routine watch work time rates, are retroactive to as in port on Saturdays and Sundays. far back as May 14, 1946. When performing unlicensed Since many SIU members ship on the vessels of the American personnels' work. Relief EnPacific Steamship Company, and gineers and Relief Mates shall resince many members of the SUP|Ceive $1.00 per houi-, for length read the Seafarers Log. the con- of time work is performed, in adtract is being printed as a serv- dition to the regular rate of $1.50 ice. Below are the provisions of per hour, the new contract: Extra Meals: Department, Sailors' Union of the Pacific—Engine Department, Sailors' Union of the Pacific — Stewards' Department (affiliated with Seafarers International Un­ ion of North America, American Federation of Labor) and Amer­ ican Pacific Steamship Company, that the following wage scale will be applicable in all tankers under contract between the parties and that contract between them en­ tered into as of October 1, 1946, shall be amended in the follow­ ing respects: �Page Seven THE SB4F4ReRS LOG Friday, January 3, 1947 New Revision Of Riarilfnie Laws Not Do Seamen Any Good By JOE ALGINA K Was Hot Time On Cedar Break But The Boys Finally Cooled Off By D. L. PARKER GALVESTON — The port of Galveston is coming out on top again with quite a bit of shipping going on. WB also have had sev­ eral transient ships in and out plus some payoffs, which is the way we like to see things. One of the ships that hit port this week, the Cedar Break, real'ly was. in tough shape after a coastwise trip. It seems that she was. coming out from Bay town and on the way down the Chief Engineer and the First Assistant were drinking a little joy juice, and came to the conclusion that the Oiler, Fireman, and Second As­ sistant didn't know how to handle things in the engine room. They had the notion that they could handle things better than the ones that were sober, so down into the engine room they went. ENGINE ROOM DRAMA The Cjiief took over from the Fireman and cut all fires out, ran all the water out of the boilers and then decided that she should come full astern. After playing with the throt­ tle for awhile the steam ran out, so the Chief ordered the Fire­ man to put fires under the boiler even though there was no water in it. The Fireman had no alternative and for about 15 minutes there was no steam coming up from the boilers, so the Fireman cut the fires out to keep from blowing everything to hell and gone. While this was going on the First Assistant decided that he and the Chief should have an­ other drink, so he ordered the Oiler to go to his room and get the bottle of joy juice. After about four hours of this, the two riammys went on the top side and passed into the arms of Mor­ pheus. SAD AND SOBER After the ship tied up here, I got the story and went out in the roads taking the Steamboat Inspector with me. Immediately the now sober Engineers were charged with misconduct and the matter was referred to the Coast Guard in Philadelphia as the ship was' ready to sail. I also notified Brother Red Truesdale about the-matter. As for the unlicensed person­ nel aboard the Cedar Creek, they were a real union crew, and I must say that they were right on the beam and handled the situation the best way possible. Incidentally anyone who wish­ es to grab a ship should come ATTENTION! If you don't find linen when you go aboard your ship, notify the Hall at once. A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any good. It's your bed and you have to lie in it. down here and ship out on tank­ ers or dry cargo ships to any place on the map. There are jobs in practically every rating open, so come down and take them off my hands. I wonder what Sonny Sim-, mons is doing these days? I never hear from him; however, I guess he has the old fort well under control, and that includes Mother Williams' Cocktail Lounge. Believe it or not, none other than the great writer and bellyrobber Frenchy Michelet paid this fair port a visit, and while here shipped out as bellyrobber on the SS Thomas Heyward, Waterman scow. He brought some samples of his canned shrimp and traded them for canned heat, at least he got something he could u.se out of the deal. FINAL DEPARTURE One of our SUP members. Brother Samuel Price, passed away this week. He was going aboard the SS Hastings and as he climbed the gangway he slipped and fell to the dock breaking his back and neck. He was rushed to the hospital but died 10 hours later. Calmar Now Readying List For Back Pay By ARTHUR THOMPSON SAVANNAH—The good news many Seafarers have been count­ ing on heavily broke recently with the announcement by the Calmar Steamship Corporation that its retroactive payrolls are in preparation. NO NEWS?? Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE PHILADELPHIA PORT ARTHUR SAN JUAN MARCUS HOOK The deadline for port re­ ports, monies due, etc., is the Monday preceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. NEW YORK — The Federal Shipping Laws are going to be revised, which is a damn good thing. Most of the laws are handme-down from the days of the old windjammers and so it's about time that something was done about them. quite some time. But no seamen are asked to assist in the job, and no one on the Committee even thought to get advice from sea­ men who make their livings by sailing the ships of the United States merchant marine. KNIFE IN BACK But with such a worthwhile Of course they got plenty of project in mind, do you think advice from the shipowners. Most that the Government would con­ of the revisions that I have had sult seamen, men whose lives are a chance to study so far will give most affected by these laws. nt> advantage to working sea­ No such thing. They got to­ men, but shipowners will bene­ gether with high priced ad­ fit. miralty lawyers, guys who make The powers of the Coast Guard their living by toadying to the shipowners, and from this un­ are broadened, and that is bad holy combination a revision of news for all seamen. I can't im­ the Federal laws was produced. agine our men taking this stuff There isn't one single repre­ sentative of any of the seamen's unions, nor is there any one on the Advisory Committee who could be called friendly to labor. That's a fine thing. Here they set out to do a big job, and a job that has needed doing for Lakes Carriers Seamen Learn; Come Around To Chicago Hail By HERBERT JANSEN CHICAGO—With the holiday spirit still in the air, the boys around the hall are getting their snow shovels out for the snow­ storms which have finally over­ taken the city. We've been impatiently await­ ing the white stuff and finally it came with a blast relieving the tension of all the fellows around. It wasn't a White Christmas, but it is going to be a White New Year. Now the winter sessions around the Hall will, be in earnest, and the round table debates will get stronger as the winter progresses, and the boys stand looking out the windows chafing for the spring to roll around. Shipping Is On The Rise In Corpus Christi By J. S. WILLIAMS The company said further that checks would be mailed as soon CORPUS CHRISTI —We have as possible after receipt of re­ something to celebrate during quests from men having 'money this holiday season and that. is due them. the continued upswing of ship­ The retroactive payrolls arc ping and business in this port of being drawn up alphabetically, the Lone Star State. and the company will be ready In fact, we feel in such a holi­ to begin payments when the list day mood that we are extending is completed. an invitation to Seafarers to come According to information made down to ^ this port and catch a available to us, Calmar is send­ ship, but don't forget to bring ing out letters to men who have along your ten gallon hat and worked their ships, stating that high heeled boots so as to gain the company would soon be in the proper almospliere. Out at Harbor Island we had position to make retroactive the Carlsbad and El Morro this payments to those having claims. week, and we expect the Wolf A statement to be filled in by Creek in next week for a payoff the claimant setting forth the de­ from Germany. Brother Joe tails of his claim and then re­ Wread is aboard the Creek, so turned to the company, accom­ she should come in in good shape. panies the letter. Over the week-end we had the It is advisable that Seafarers Tide Penn in port and she was having retroactive wage claims carrying a pro-SIU crew, which on the Calmar Company, and speaks well for our organizers who have not received any noti­ up North. They really have her fication from the company to in fine shape. Keep sending the write to Calmar at 24 Broadway, ships down here in that manner New York 4, N. Y., requesting and we won't Jiave to worry about a thing in the tanker field. the form for filing claim. Among the boys who are in daily attendance at the Hall are Louis Engfer, Joe Anderson, Vic­ tor Gustofson, Oscar Zacher, Thomas Bush, Ed. Eisner, Jack O'Connor and Fred Rausmussen. They will be joined in a few days by the crew of the SS Amer­ ican which is on her way up now to her winter berth in South Chicago. MORE JOIN As the 1946 season came to an end, the last week of the year brought in more seamen who sail on the Lakes Carriers ships to take out books in the SIU. This action on the part of these seamen shows how the trend will be in 1947 when most of the unorganized seamen who want representation from a rank and file union will be coming to the SIU Halls. The attitude that they have is healthy, for they are dead against the Lake Seaman's Union and the NMU. The have watched the per­ formances of both and have found that the only organization that gets conditions and representa­ tion for the seamen is the SIU. They have found that the SIU, not by putting out phony propa­ ganda, but through direct action of all its members gets what it goes after. CLEAN RECORD The clean record of the SIU is getting around to the men who sail the Lakes ships and it is do­ ing an effective job. There is no better selling point than a imion's record and the SIU has nothing to be ashamed of on that score. The record of the NMU, in spite of aU the high-sounding leaflets and pamphlets, is finding its way to the unorganized seamen and one whiff of it is usually enough to drive them from any intention of joining that outfit. I am sorry to report that Broth­ er Patrick Wyne passed away De­ cember 15 at the Marine Hospital here in Chicago. Pat was wellknown on the five big Lakes, and the Union lost a staunch member. Burial will be by the Union as he leaves no relatives. lying down, and I'm sure that the officials of the SIU and the SUP, as well as the leaders of the AFD Maritime Trades Department, are going to raise a holy stink about this sort of underhanded dealing. For a change, we have some really good news about shipping and business in this port. Very suddenly things started to pick up, and now we could use some rated men in all Departments. We've got our fingers crossed, and we hope that it continues. Although we could use some men as stated in the above paragraph, it would be smart for men to send a telegram to the New York Hall inquiring about jobs on the board before hopping a rattler to this town. The situation might change overnight, and that could mean a needless e.xpense with no • job at the end of the trip. Nordeff Crew Plays Santa In Baltiinore By RAY WHITE BALTIMORE — Seafarers off the SS Charles Nordhoff, this week in Baltimore, donated the sum of $47.50 to their brothers in the Marine Hospital of this port. The crewmembers donating the funds to their recuperating broth­ ers are: Vernon Porter, $5.00; K. Nikander, $5.00; R. Kehoe, $5.00; H. Hesman, $5.00; A. Suha, ^ff.OO; M. G. Mickey, $5.00; J. Ragens, $3.00; R. A. Rosekrans, $2.00; J. B. Weeler, $2.00; C. Horton, $2.00; Chief Engineer, $2.00; Pedro Badar, $2.00; W. Harris, $1.00; V. Gilliland, $1.00; H. Johnson, $1.00; S. Vick, $1.00; and O. Smith, $.50. The hospitalized brothers re­ ceived $4.00 each and the moneys was distributed among P. A. O'Brian, W. L. Giecispie, Leo Rhodes, March Ramro, Emilio DiPietro, Joseph Ramieri, Oliver Headly, Harry Walsh, Peter Lopez, Roy Justice, J. F. Davis, and John Fitjamon. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight NMU Slander Campaign On Lakes Falls Flat As Seamen Learn Truth Testimonial Dear Edilor: Friday, January 3, 1947 Boston Officials Boldly Mush Into Far North To Service Ships The members here in New By JOHN MOGAN Orleans Marine Hospital have BOSTON — Winter really de­ Cashing, American Mail, West TOLEDO—Activity in the port the brass hats in Washington for requested I write to you and of Toledo has quieted down a bit their efforts in aiding the train­ have you publish a little piece scended on this area full weight. Coast. A full deck department now that the majority of crews ing schools and ships. in regards to a person that has An average of 10 inches of snow will be needed for her, and the of the 60-odd ships tied up here The NMU was strangely silent been very good to them while covers New England with liberal same for the SS Eldridge Gerry, doses of sleet and rain to make Pacific-Fai- East, which is being for the winter have finished the when the SlU-SUP forced the in the hospital. activated after a long lay-up, to lay-up work and left for their Wage Stabilization Board to re­ In October she sent them things worse. And, as might be expected, go to Sweden and Denmark, winter homes. verse its decision and give the shaving cream, tobacco, tooth­ The NMU in the Pilot is still members of the SIU-SUP the paste, playing cards and sev­ now we get some shipping up The coming weeks loom as continuing its campaign of slan­ wage increases negotiated by the eral other very useful items Maine way, where, at this writ­ pretty busy ones, with several dering the SIU officials and mem­ Union and the Company. But that have come in very handy ing, the newspapers tell us ab­ payoffs expected before January bers. Well, they know whom that when their wages were brought as there was quite a supply for solutely no transportation is 6. This will help considerably, title fits. The NMU officials who up to SIU-SUP standards then all hands. At Christmas time functioning. Airlines are ground­ for despite the fact that few book signed such a finky agreement the Pilot in large headlines pro­ she sent them a fruit cake ed, trains are hours behind sched­ members are around right now, ule, and of course, buses and auto­ as they did with the Bethlehem claimed to the woi-ld. The big­ each and a very nice card. January 2 will find scads of them mobiles are stopped cold. Company here this fall, permit­ gest victory we have ever won! on dock for a job. Of course, She is the mother of one of ting these ships to operate with So v^hat happens? The SS there are quite a few oldtimers NOT WORRIED our members and her name is Tarleton Brown, Mississippi, pulls NMU crews eight days after they Florence Krech, 2447 Grove St., into Portland and is scheduled around, but most of these are not The SIU officials on the Great were picketing non-union ships moving until Eastern does. and docks, have little reason for Lakes do not worry about the Blue Island, Illinois. These for payoff today. And even The boys in the Marine Hos­ name-calling when they are in campaign of slander from the members have thanked her worse, the Alcoa Pilgrim pulls possession of such a scabby rec­ NMU as we know this outfit push­ personally but would like a into Searsport, Maine at the pital here were the recipients of ed the indicator on the Chad- very special thanks published height of the storm on Saturday, nice cash presents for Chri.stmas. ord. burn over to "finished with en­ in the Log where all hands can and we get a call for two re­ It was gratifying to us in the PEGLER STUFF gines" when they pulled the see the .swell work and deeds placements. office to receive letters from the Some misinformed NMU offi­ phony organizational drive up done by this swell friend of the Two hardy souls volunteered ho.spitalized members, expressing cial took a personal blast at our here in August, and eight days SIU Seamen. to go up there. We haven't heai'd their gratitude for the generosity Great Lakes Secretary-Treasurer, later signed the finky agreement Hoping that this thanks and from them since Saturday noon; of the Union, but the feeling predicting that he was selling out with Bethlehem. greetings from the boys to Mrs. but if the Mounties should call, would be even better if it were to the D&C. Krech makes a swell place in we'll know it's with reference to possible for every member who Nor does the SIU on the Great This Westbrook Pegler type ar­ Lakes worry much about the the Log, I am those two interpid characters. donated to the Christmas Fund to ticle can be expected from NMU company sponsored outfit that The only payoff during the know how the boys inside feel Fraternally, officials who would sign, or per­ C. J. 'BUCK' STEPHENS week was that of the SS William about it. mit to be signed, such an agree­ calls itself a union. Any man who has ever sailed the Lakes ment as they did with Bethlehem FEW IN HOSPITAL whereby they agreed to submit to knows the LSU is sopnsored by Not too many of our members a government agency to dictate the open shop Lake Carriers As­ were patients over the holidays, their working conditions, crew sociation, and is the brain child of a company attorney whose I am happy to say, so the Fund quarters, etc. still has some good money in it. While the SIU is fighting both knowledge of ships was gained Which means that our hospital the shipowners and the govern­ in a law school, and later by be­ By STEAMBOAT O'DOYLE delegate can spread good cheer ment on these conditions, trying ing employed by a shipping com­ This is the whole idea behind for New Year's also. Take a stiff drink before you to improve the conditions both pany to protect their interests in the courts, as he is still attempt­ the Maritime Service when it read the following statement ashore and aboard ship, the NMU Comparison are odious, hence, ing to do, by forming this phony was first formed. Every act of its made by the Maritime Commis­ has continually sided with the suffice it to say that throughout sion: "It is in the best interest of history proves that it's long range shipowners who have spawned company union. the ho.spital our members were our national defense and our program is the compulsory mili­ such boards as the Maritime Com­ made prouder by being told by Merchant Marine that a propor­ tarization of American seamen. mission, the War Shipping Board, their fellow paients, "You guys First, it tried to do this by tionate part of the peacetime and the Wage Stabilization sure belong to a real outfit." compulsory military trainees pro­ flooding the industry with poten­ Board. These Government agen­ posed by the President be train­ tial strikebreakers. It took large Here's hoping for a lot of sun­ cies are designed solely to place ed. by the U.S. Maritime Service numbers of woodchoppers direct shine this week, to get rid of .seamen in a state of serfdom. as a national reserve of merchant some of the snow and ice. Else BLOCK ADVANCES seamen." this weekly report will continue The NMU has been outstand­ to look like a weatherman's Think that over! They are ask­ ing in their efforts to bend over column. But seriously, this is the ing that free Americans be draft­ backwards to please and cooper­ WASHINGTON—Not too pleas­ ed into the Maritime Service just time of the year that Portland ate with these vai'ious boards, and ant news announced the day after as they are into the Army and usually shows some life, and we blocking the efforts of the mili­ Christmas by the Bureau of Labor Navy. need some fairly decent weather tant SIU in attempting to rid sea­ Statistics of the Labor Dep't in order to function efficiently. If you refuse to join this bellmen of . these shackles. showed that retail prices of con­ bottomed scabbery you would be Still, like the U; S. Mail, the SIU In January 1937, Joe Curran sumer goods in the U.S. hit the called a draft-dodger and sent to will get through okay! came out with a statement ap­ highest level on record on Nov. a federal penitentiary. Best wishes to all hands for a proving of the Copeland Fink 15. Once in, you would be govern­ Happy and Prosperous New Book. Harry Lundeberg empha­ The consumers price index on ed by strict military law. You Year! tically refused to abide by the Nov. 15 was 1.5% higher than in would be in a junior edition of provision set down by the Cope- June 1920 — the peak after World the Navy, with uniforms, saluting, from the CCC, and trained'them land Act, and on February 11, War I — and 13.8% higher than and all the trappings. to be "seamen" when there were 1937, the American-Hawaiian five months earlier before Con­ ten real seamen for every job. CHEAP LABOR ship Columbian was boarded by gress crippled price control. During the war it tried again U. S. Marine Inspectors at New Between mid-October and midYou would get the standard by working a deal with the Coast York in an effort to compel a November, retail food prices rose pay of an enlisted man—75 per. Guard whereby men could no west coast crew to accept the fink 4.3%. Retail prices of fats and Of course, you would not spend longer obtain papers for the ask­ WASHINGTON — A five-man book. oils rose 65%, with lard prices all your time marching up and ing, but had to go to this fink- AFL delegation will visit Argen­ No support was given by the soaring 104% in the one-month down Muttonhead Bay. You hatchery instead. At the present tina early in January for a brief NMU in fighting this finky deal, interval. would be assigned to a ship. What time, it has a bill pending in study of labor, economic and poli­ but the crew fought it and final­ Besides the spectacular increase kind of a ship? Why a merchant Congress to form a "Maritime tical conditions in that counti-y, ly compromised by accepting in in food prices, the BLS found ship, of course. Reserve" which would be used as AFL President William Green an­ lieu of the fink book a certifi­ that higher prices were asked for How the owners would tremble a strikebreaking machine. nounced last week. cate of identification. When this nearly every type of apparel, in­ with joy to see a number of cargo BLACK LIST gain was made the NMU put on a Making the trip at the invita­ cluding shoes and shoe repair. ships manned in this way by Recently there have been rum­ grandstand play and told their tion of the Argentine government In the year between mid-Nov­ draftees, whose penality for men­ ors of a new plan, a plan to bring members to build a bonfire out and the Argentine Confederation ember 1945 and mid-November tioning "union" would be hard forth a so-called "official service of the finkbooks. 1946, food prices rose 34%; cloth­ labor in a military prison. How record" of every seaman, which of Labor will be: Arnold S. Zan­ TRAINING SCHOOLS ing 13% ; housefurnishings 15%). far would it be from this start to will no doubt have a blank space der, president of the American The NMU is also very militant Rents advanced "only slightly" having cargo ships manned by for "union agitation." What a Federation of State, County and in aiding government training and gas and electricity costs de­ this uniformed scab organization. beautiful black list that would Municipal Employes;. Lee W. Minton, president of the Glass Bottle schools, which turned out thous­ clined about 2%. You can almost picture it. First make! Blowers Ass'n; Israel H. Gold­ ands of young lads with the rat­ Despite the repeated promise.s they would take over "strategic Now it has come forth with the berg, vice president of the United ing of AB, who hardly knew east of meat packers and their lobby­ routes" — in the interest of na­ most brazen piece of skunkery in Hatters, Cap & Millinery Workers, from west on a compass and were ists here that meat prices would tional defense of course, Next, its whole career. By demanding Miguel Carriga, vice president of lucky if they could pack their rise only "reasonably" with the they would find it necessary to that free Americans be forced the Hotel & Restaurant Employes gear right. end of price controls, the BLS man "vital operations" like the into it on a compulsory basis it Int'l Association; Scrafino RomuThe SIU leadership and mem­ found retail prices of all meats tankers and colliers. After that has pointed the finger of finkery aldi, of the Int'l Ladies Garment • bers contend a man does not need have risen 55.4%. in one year, they would expand into the pas­ at its own self. Workers. to go to school to be taught or­ most of this since the end of senger ships — but only to "pro­ At last it has admitted what dinary seaman's work and can­ price controls. Pork rose 83.9%, vide greater safety." it has always been accused of — Romualdi, AFL Latin-Ameri­ not- become a competent seaman beef and veal 61.2%, lamb 50.8%., Pretty soon all our ships would that it wants to take, over the can representative, will serve as in six months, while the NMU has between mid-November 1945 and be manned by uniformed swab whole Merchant Marine on - a secretary and interpreter for - the been praised by the press and 1946. jockeys working for peanuts. group. military basis. By HENRY W. CHAPPELL Maritime Commission Rigging Up Gigantic Doublecross For Seamen Cost Of Living Hits New High In November AFL Officials Go To Argentina �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday* January 3. 1947 Page Nina The Patrolmen SayHats Off NEW YORK — I thought, until the other day, that I had seen the cleanest ships on the seas. Then I handled the payoff of the John Gibbon, Bernstein Steamship Company, and had to change my After twenty-six years of sail­ mind for she was the cleanest ing time, Hemsley Guinier, Stew­ ship I have ever had the oppor­ ard, still looks forward to each By JOSEPH VOLPIAN tunity to visit. new trip with the same enthus­ I'm sure if I had gone over'her The office ofthe Shipping Com­ ping Commissioners and we have iasm of a new seaman. Even sail­ with white gloves, the way the missioner is of such importance always been treated fairly and ing through danger zones during brass does Saturday morning in that one is stationed in almost squarely. However, their hands the war couldn't kill his love for the Navy, I wouldn't have pick­ every port in the United Stales, are tied very often when they .see the sea. ed up any dirt anywhere. including some ports in the Great an injiistice being done because "The .sea Has been good to me," In addition to being spotless Lakes. They were placed in office they are unable, as we said be­ he says, "and I have made out from bow to stern there were for the express purpose of pro­ fore, to initiate proceedings or, if^ well by learning all I could about no problems for me to handle. tecting the rights of seamen. This the Master refuses to appear be­ the sea and my job." Everyone was sober, and there protection begins from the mo­ fore the Commisioner, he cannot were no beefs at all as not one a That statement is very true. ment the men sign articles. As enforce his rulings. Therefore, it minute of overtime was disputed. Hemsley started out as an ordin­ you no doubt know, before the is our opinion that the Shipping The crew of this ship certainly ary Seaman in 1919, aboard the commencement of a voyage, a Commissioners be given more deserves a lot of praise for bring­ SS Esparta. Today he sails as contract is entered into between power. ing in the ship in fine condition. Steward and is qualified to carry the Master, representing the Com­ These are the right to issue a GOOD CHOW out his functions on any ship, no pany, and the seamen. summons requesting that the Chief Steward Joe Malone re­ matter what the size. This contract or Articles sets Master or the seaman appear beceived the heartfelt thanks of the Brother Guinier has also work­ entire crew for the good chow forth the ratings and wages of fore him and if they fail to do .so, ed ashore for quite a few years, the men and also gives the dest­ without a justificable excuse, that serving as chief cook in some of he has always volunteered his throughout the entire trip; es­ ination and diuation of the voy­ their papers be cither taken away the finest resort hotels in the services not only on the picket pecially the Thanksgiving Day age. As you can readily see, there 01 su.spended. Understand, of Dinner, over which the crew was Islands. For a few years he was line, but as Cook or Steward. could be many instances where course, that in 999 times out of chef at the Constant Spring Hotel, Wherever he was needed, there still licking their chops when I seamen can be imposed upon. The 1,000, the Master is the one to be came aboard. in Kingston, and later served in he would be, doing his best. Shipping Commissioner is there summoned and not the seaman In addition to being all ship­ In the 1946 General Strike, the same capacity at the Myrtleto supervise the signing of the becau.se the Master exercises hi.s Hemsley was on the picketline shape at the payoff, the crew Articles to make certain that bank hotel. so-called judgement upon the showed their true Union feelings in New Yoik,''and also served as these injustices do not occur. man tvhen he logs him. It i.s when they donated $18 to the BACK TO SCHOOL standby Steward for the duration Before Commissioners came in­ usually on loggings or desertion.s Marine Hospital and $17 to the In 1937, in an endeavor to im­ of the action. Anyone who re­ Seafarers Log. and the Chief to the picture, men were abandon­ that the men complain against prove himself even moi-e, Guinier members the good food that was Mate Richard Moore donated $10 ed in foreign ports, they were, in the Master. If in the event the went to London, where he en­ dished out knows how hard the to the hospital collection. many instances, .«hanghaied, and decision is i-endered against either rolled in the school operated by cooks and pot washers worked to Paying off a ship like the John did not know the duration or party 4hen the Commissioner the United Food and Cookery make that part of the Strike Gibbons is always a pleasure to dc.stination of the voyage. shall be given some method of Association. He took two courses Committee function smoothly. enforcing his decision. any Patrolman. Hats off to a real We thus can .see from this alone Guinier's idea about the SIU in Culinary Arts. SIU crew. that the Shipping Commissioner It is our opinion That once u Soon after this he began to tire is short and sweet. "The SIU has Jim Drawdy more than earns his money, ac­ decision is made against a Master for the of his life ashore, and the call of fought a very fine fight .t. he protects seamen's interests. or the Company that unless they the sea proved to be more than he good and welfare of all seamen, At the time of the signing on abide by the decision that they he says, "and that's why all sea­ could withstand. So, in 1941 he of the articles, the Shipping Com­ should be punished either by the came to the United States, and men should support it. That is Sometimes a Skipper thinks of missioner also takes care of allot­ Master losing iiis license until why I am a member of the SIU." joined the SIU. He sailed con­ himself as a cross between Hitler ments and sees that they are such time as he does heed to the tinually, all through the war, and the Mes.siah. At least, the properly made out. ruling or that the Company be transporting farmers back and Master of the MV Costal Stevefined the amount found to be due GOOD JOB DONE forth between the United States doi-e. Bull Linos, tried to make the .<eaman by the Commissioner. At the termination of the voy­ and Belize, Barbadoes, and Kings­ the crew think that he was a tin age, the Commissioner must be ton. God. present at the payoff and signing j Although this was not in the When the ship arrived here in off of the articles. At that time, most dangerous sectors of the port, we went aboard for the pay­ he is suposed to .settle all disputes Atlantic Ocean, nevertheless, off, and found that the crew had between the Master and the crew. plenty of trouble was encounter­ put in overtime for lowering life­ By and lai'ge, the Commissioners ed. His ships were attacked many WASHINGTON — If America boat for the pui-pose of fishing. times, but luckily they escaped slides into an economic "reces­ When we inquired about this, no­ have done a fairly good job of serious damage and he person­ sion" in 1947, the fault will lie body would admit that the Cap­ this phase of their work, however, ally was never hurt. with those employers who keep tain had ordered any such thing. many cases have come up where the man supervising the signing saying "no" to all reasonable re­ By JOSEPH VOLPIAN So we had them break out the INTO DANGER off of the articles is unable to quests of workers for wage in­ official log book, and lo and be­ In conversation with many docAs the war lasted, Guinier vol­ creases, it was charged last week hold, we found that not only had settle a dispute. The question is then placed j tors I have learned that manyunteered for more dangerous by James A. Brownlow, Secre­ the Skipper ordered lifeboats before the Chief Shipping Comi I'uns, and finally got a ship that tary-treasurer of the AFL Metal manned for the purpose of fish­ men are not following through to missioner of the port for a de­ took him to the Mediterranean Trades Department. ing, but he had also stopped the cision. If both parties agree, in rompletion their ami - luetic area. The convoy he was with "It is about time that employers vessel on several occasions so writing, to submit the matter to ireatiiient thu.s leaving thcmscF was attacked by bombers and stopped saying 'no' from begin­ that he could haul in fish. ai'bitration then the Commission­ ves open to the complications submarines, and four ships were ning to end of collective bargain­ Well, you can bet that the overer has the right to render his de­ and disorders the disease leaves sunk. For hours they .stood olT the ing," he said. "Industrial peace tune was paid. cision which should be binding attackers until the fighting ships can never be attained if one party in its wake. We inquired for the Old Man, of the convoy were able to rout persists in exercising veto powers. but he was not on board since the upon both parties. However, the Commissioner cannot institute a should not be necessary to the planes and undersea ships. "Instead of taking a negative FBI is looking for him on the hearing except with the express i urge men to complete their treatLater he was on the Flying position, employers should corne charge that he bought various consent of both parties and even j ment, but it seems that many Elagle, Mississippi Steamship to the bargaining table prepared articles into this country without after he renders his decision, he j the disease is comCompany, when that ship was to listen to reason and willing to the formality of clearing them cannot enforce it. | ph'tely cured upon receiving the caught-in the now famous typhoon agree to a reasonable compromise. with the Customs. Another duty of the Shipping final shots. This is not the case. off Okinawa. One of the escort Compromise is no new idea. Life REDUCED IN RANK Anyone who has been treated ships was sunk then, and all 960 is a series of compromises be­ Between the Skipper and the Commissioner is to receive all hands were lost. Although the tween what the individual wants phony Second Mate, this trip was dcserter.s' wages and personal ef­ for syphilis must continue to men of the Flying Eagle did all and what he can get. The same a nightmare for the men of the fects. He then turns these over haye blood and spinal fluid tests they could to try to effect a principle is the basis of collective Costal Stevedore. The Bosun to the United States District until informed by his physician rescue, the ferocity of the waves bargaining. was busted for demanding his Court where they are held either that further tests are unneces­ caused them to give up rescue "Many thousands of employers, rights as a Bosun, and an AB for the account of the seaman, sary. attempts. Many patients make the mis­ who sincerely engage in collect­ was demoted for the same thing. if he is subsequently declared . "What I remember most about ive bargaining, have found that it Of course, both men received the not to be a deserter, or, the pro­ take of believing that they can that," he recalls, "is the courage pays dividends in uninterrupted difference in pay at the payoff. ceeds are turned over by the make their own interpretation of of the cfew. Their morale was production and peace and har­ Most unlicensed officers are Court to the United States Treas­ the various te.sts for syphilis, excellent, and especially the mony within the production pretty good guys, having come up ury supposedly for the use and and not infrequently this result.® Bosun, and Deck Maintainance family of management and labor," from the ranks in most cases.. benefit of sick and needy seamen in, their failure to get further ex­ who both, were outstanding ex­ Brownlow said. aminations and tests which are But every now and then you meet or their families. This is a thumb-nail outline of necessary. amples of brave men." "If the old guard of hitherto up with a character who trys to uncompromising industrial lead­ live up to the traditions of Cap­ some of the duties of Shipping Therefore, if you have ever GOOD UNION MAN ers will agi-ee to stop saying 'no' tain Bligh twenty-four hours per Commissioners. been treated for the disease and, FAIR DEALING Brother Guinier has carried out to organized labor , and start try­ day. That's the bird who gives have not had the blood test, spin­ acceptable adjust­ you trouble. his Union responsibilities with ing to find As an experienced seafaring al fluid examination, or physical Ray Gonzales the same earnestness that made ments, fair to both sides, peace­ man and especially in the position examination recommended b y Salvadore Colls him strive to better his job per- time production will break all we now hold, we have had many your doctor, follow through, and James Sheehan foimiance. During strike action records in 1947." occasions to appear before Ship-' see him now. Hentsley Guinier .-.r; MM piiiii Good Fishing Bosses' Refusal To Bargain Will Bring Recession VD Cases Must Follow Through With Troatmont iiiiCaaAA.;!.-. �THE Tan- S t 4 t > H k H S Lafitte's Conditions Blasted By Delegate Knife Wielder Hawser Crew A flash of knife-play aboard the MV Hawser Eye following an argument between two crewmembers provoked a stem warn­ ing from the crew that any fu­ ture displays of violence would result in offenders being brought up on charges before the Union, according to the minutes of a special meeting called at sea Dec. 19: The war is over, but some of the wartime' shipboard conditions linger on. They won't linger long, however, for Seafarers are going to eradicate any carry-overs from the days of war shipping. The crew of the SS Jean Lafitte, which arrived recently in the Port of Baltimore after a fivemonth trip to the Far East, is preparing to do just that, accord­ ing to Ship's Delegate Blackie Bankston. In a letter to the Seafarers Log describing some of the more glar­ ing of the LaFitte's deplorable conditions, Blackie said: "The war may be over, but for the Brothers of our good Union the fighting has just begun. Con­ ditions on this ship are lousy, and it's not the fault of any of the crew members. The purpose of the meeting was "to decide action to be taken" against the Steward Utility who PEACE IS DIFFERENT threatened the Wiper with a knife after the Wiper had quelled "During the war," continued a fight between the utility man Blackie, "we had to take things and another member of the crew. they shoved down our thi-oats, but it's a different story now. WHAT HAPPENED When the shipowners give you a The ship's minutes recon­ run-around and would have you structed the incident as follows: sail their old scows around the The Steward Utility created a world in any kind of way, it sure disturbance in the messroom dur­ makes you feel good to know ing a meal, when he picked a you're a member of the SIU." The Lafitte pulled into Balti­ more "a hungry ship," Brother Bankston said, and the men hope to get "things squared away" there so that future Seafarer crews won't experience a repitition of the voyage just completed. Everything was in order when fight with the Deck Delegate. The Wiper, attempting to quiet the men, was struck across the face by the utility man, who was then forcibly ejected from the messroom by other crew men. The matter was presumed to have been forgotten. Several minutes late, however, the Stew­ ard, department man returned to the messroom in high temper, brandishing a knife, and threat­ ening the Wiper for having in­ terfered. Crewmembers again quelled-the disturbance. Shortly after there was another outburst, this time in the passage­ way, during which the enraged utility man inflicted a minor cut on. the Steward's arm. This time the vessel's Master came to the SG^e, quieted the man and took bun to his room. Later, the Captain called the Delegates to his quarters and suggested that they do their ut­ most to prevent any repetition of the incident. He said that he would lend them aid, if neces­ sary. CALL TO ACTION It was then that- the special meeting was called. Several recommendations were made to handle the situation. One motion'urged that the Delegates seethe American consul about the possibility of removing the Stew­ ard Utility from the vessel. The Friday. January 3. 1947 LO G SHE LUGGED TUGS the Lafitte went into a Mobile drydock after the previous trip, says Bankston. A complete re­ pair list had been drawn up by the crew, and they were promised that it would be fulfilled when the ship got back off the coastal run scheduled to last a month. But the repairs were never com­ pleted. TUG CARGO Blackie shipped aboard the LaFitte in New Orleans, when the vessel pulled in to take on a cargo of tugboats shipped to China by the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration. Principal cargo aboard Ihe SS Jean Laiilte was a deckload Every available inch of space of tugs consigned to China by the United Nations Relief and on deck was given up for the Rehabiliation Administration. Above, one of the tugg has just payload. "They were on our been lifted from the vessel's deck at Kobe, Japan, to be trans''front porch,' and only inches shipped to its final destination. from our bunks," relates Bank­ ston. 1, Then the LaFitte got under icine chests I've seen in a long way and with it the series of un­ time — nothing in them. We got pleasant conditions which the one carton of cigarettes every crew is now intent on cleaning up. ten days. Here's the way Blackie relates "Food gave out long before we what aren't the finer points of the started heading home. We were trip: feeding passengers and a dozen extra heads in every port we hit. HOT STUFF "Live steam came from both The ship was supplied for three the hot and cold lines in the months and the voyage lasted showers, and some of the brothers about five. "In the Phillipines, some linen got burns. The wash water was so dirty it didn't make any dif­ was supposed to have been stolen. ference whether you washed or A side port and a door leading not. The toilets were throwing into No. 3 cargo hold was open all the time we were there. The back. "As far as air-conditioning is Captain took it out on the crew concerned that's just some swivel- by. giving us only one sheet a chair admiral's brainstorm. The week. The Steward had enough ship has the poorest slop and med- to give us two a week until we reached Singapore where he could have the stuff laundered. Seen on ihe aft. deck are iwo NOT RESPONSIBLE lugs awaiting their turn in the "Our agreement says that the unloading operations. All pic­ crew. shall not be held respon­ tures are by Brother E. Hunter, sible for lost linen, but we were AB and were sent to the Log held responsible. "In Kobe, a maritime guy gave by Brother Bankston us a line, a mile long that there was no shore leave, the ship was going to shift and sail the next aboard without a reason." And so goes Brother Bankston's* day, there was nothing to go letter. ashore for, and a lot of other hooey. Ports on the LaFitte's schedule, "We learned that there was no. in the order of call, were: Colon, Army order forbidding shore Honolulu, Kobe, Shanghai, Man-, leave. We were there two days, ila, Masinloc, Bulan, Legaspi,.. and we have put in for overtime Singapore, Sweetenham, Penaqg. for the two days we had to stay and Port Said. G. Washington To Continue Bermuda Run Until Easter The Alcoa Steamship Company will continue to operate the pas­ senger vessel George Washington on her regular weekly run to Bermuda probably until after Easter, it_ has been announced. Continued heavy demand for steamship accomodations from New York to Bermuda resulted in the company changing its orig­ crew approved this action by a ing his performance he would be inal plans to suspend the run on Jan. 1. brought up on charges. fourteen-to-five vote. Part of the Lafitte's crew. In the front row, left to right, are: Ship's Delegate A. Bankston, AB; Deck Del. H.'Durant, AB; Engine Delegate W. Holmes, Oiler; Steward Delegate C. Perkins, Steward. Middle row, left to right, N. Rohder, OS: D. Tippets, AB; C. Hayes, Bosun; T. Kesyer, Fireman; A. Dickin­ son, Fireman. Back row, left to right, C. Hawkins. 2nd'Cook; L. Tippets, OS; J. Yancy, Deck Maint.; R. Jones, Wiper; and F. McConico, Steward. Revealing a sporting desire to give the offender a second chance, the crew voted down a motion that he be brought up on charges. A motion was passed, however, saying that if the utility man gave any indications of repeat­ An amendment broadened the motion by saying "that if any trewmember should attack an­ other with a weapon," charges would immediately be preferred against him. Despite the fact that the fall season is customarily- a slack period for tourist travel, requests for space on the Washington have fallen off only slightly, it was re­ ported. The George 'Washington is said to be operating now at close to 100 per cent passenger' capacity. The Alcoa company put theGeorge Washington on the Ber­ muda run last July. The weekly schedule has the vessel leaving New York on Saturdays and re­ turning on Thursday. The ship's passenger capacity was reduced' recently from 270 births to 200:' births to provide more tworbertht rooms. The George Washington is ano i 1 - b u r n i n g, turbine-driven steamship with an overall length of 390 feet and a beam of 54 feet. She has a gross tonnage of 5,184: Prior to the war the ship operat­ ed in coastwise passenger traffic. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, January 3, 1347 Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings PLATTSBURG. Oct. 19 — Chairman George J. Espalla; Secretary C. R. Sloan. Deck Department Delegate suggested repairs for head, also that foc'sles be cleaned and made ready for painting. Black Gang Delegate made same sugges­ tion for his department. Stew­ ard Delegate also reported needed repairs in his depart­ ment. Motions carried: that quiet be maintained in foc'sles 60 that men may get proper sleep; that letter be sent to Union commending Steward de­ partment for its cooperation with other departments; that passageways below deck be split up equally among all de­ partments for cleaning jobs, and preparation for painting. t X %. CAPE NOME. Nov. 30— Chairman H. A. Moore; Sec­ retary J. E. Melton. Minutes of last meeting read and ac­ cepted. Motions carried: thai Delegates check with Steward on all stores coming aboard, if anything is short the Steward will notify Delegates to have action taken; to have cold wa­ ter faucet fixed; he had re­ ported it to 3rd Ast. several times but nothing was done about it; that Delegates meet with department heads about repairs needed; that alarm sys­ tem in iceboxes be repaired so that men will not be locked in. XXX WILLIAM MACLAY, July 4 —Chairmsm Carl P e d e r s e n; Secretary James Van Sant. Good and Welfare: Motion car­ ried to see what can be done about securing addiiional foc'sle for black gang—especi­ ally for the oilers, whose quar­ ters ha'*e not the proper ven­ tilation. Motions carried: to se­ cure a library in Canada; to send a copy of minutes to Log; to keep buckets out of shower rooms; to appoint a commit­ tee of the three department delegates to call on the Sea­ men's Union of Canada to get information about the new con­ tract negotiations; to get a new radio speaker in Crew's messroom; to ask delegate to speak to Radio Operator about play­ ing radio more frequently. Chairman Pedersen promised to try to make arrangements to secure all back issues of the Log. All hands stood in silence for one minute in tribute to the memory of our Brothers lost at sea. NEW ECHOTA. Aug. 18— Chairman Paul M. Palmer; Secretary William T. Harrison. Delegates reported and over­ time to be held for discussion with Union Patrolman. Other Business: Motion carried that each crewmember after coffee must wash own cup and after eating he must put night lunch back in ice box. Last man on each watch to see that the messhall is clean. Motion car­ ried that men will be lined for not observing sanitary rules in heads. tit The Midway Hills Meets An Obstacle ALCOA PILGRIM. Sept. 22 —Chairman Gednes M. Hearn; Secretary James B. Baldwin. Delegates reports: Deck dele­ gate listed various hours work­ ed towing dunnage, etc.. with­ out the required rest periods. Reported that Captain ordered the men to work until Male knocked them off. New Busi­ ness: Discussion about over­ time for meals served to one of the crew laid up in hospital. Crew was told of two crewmembers being denied hospi­ talization in one port due to some mixup by the Mate and Company. Matter of messhall clock not being repaired was aired. » » * BUTTON GWINNETT, Nov. 17—Chairmetn A. Schiavone; J. C. Jutchess. New Business: Motion carried to make up a list of needed repairs for the benefit of the next crew. Good and Welfare: Several cases of violations of shipping rules, and it was decided to bring them to the attention of the boarding Patrolman. The crew agreed that as they found the ship clean they also would leave it clean, if not cleaner for the next crew. It was also agreed that all hands would submit their books and trip cards to their respective delegates with slips enclosed stating the num­ ber of months dues they wished to pay. in this way hope it would help the Patrolman and give him more time to take care of beefs if any arise. Copy of minutes to be posted on bul­ letin board for next crew, also copy to Patrolman and Log. XXX Midway in the proceedings of a recent meeting aboard the Mid­ way Hills, a Seafarer rose and started debate on a matter which, in the crews opinion, smelled to high heaven—the water in the ship's tanks. The discussion wound up with unanimous passage of a motion offered by Brother Gallagher Gallagher stating that "at the next port of call, the Patroln.an shall be called aboard and the water tanks inspected. If the water is unfit for use and if noth­ ing is done about the situation the crew shall give 24 hours no­ tice." At the next port of call, the sore-spot was called to the at­ tention of the Patrolman, accord­ ing to a later set of minutes. The E, T. FRELINGHUYSEN. — Patrolman advised, however, that the crew not take any im­ (Date. Chairman and Secretary mediate action since the port was not given). New Business: Mo­ in an "out of the way place," and tions carried: that all crewno facilities for repairs were members have innerspring mattresses; that all foc'sles be available. Since the Chief Engineer was painted; that windshields be doing everything possible to obtained for portholes; that fan remedy the condition of the wa­ and ice box be repaired; that ter, and, consequently, the water any man found leaving cups, was beginning to show some im­ knives, forks, etc.. on tables provement, the crew decided to donate 25 cents to fund; that accept the Patrolman's advice all men be fully dressed to and postpone any further action come into the messhall and no one to appear with undershirt until, the next port was reached. At Log press time, there was at the meal table; that each de­ no further word on this state of partment take turns cleaning affairs. Perhaps, the Midway laundry, departments to rotate Hills was getting over the hump each week; that a letter be written to John Hawk concern­ of things. ing Mates and Engineers whom 4- 4* 4* we refuse to sail with until clearance is made by them in MAIDEN CREEK. Dec. 16regard to recent strike. (Chairman and Secretary not given). Motions carried: that beefs between Oiler and Stew­ ard be put on agenda for next meeting; that ship delegate see Captain about repairing fan in galley; that OS and wipers clean recreation room every other week; that Steward see about getting new coffee pots; that if Brother should run afoul of> membership's advice again concerning the health and welfare of the crew, dele­ gate shall send in to headquar­ ters recommendation that his book be pulled. Amendment: WCAie ^oofi SIO f»/M — that delegate see Captain about -THE 'BAI&e OF A Fl6RVne his condition and he be placed UNION ... (/OOfl UNION ! on probation for remainder of voyage. Page Eleven SEAFARER SAM SAYS: you VONT HAy/e 'fOBEA J $HAKESPEARe/ IT DOESN'T HAVE. To BE A WORLQ-SHA^m EVENT -BUT EVERY TRIP WILL HAVE A HIGHLIGHT THAT WILL INTEREST THE U/VioNMfMBERSMiP; AN AMUSING INCIDENT A CccD MEETNG, AM OOrSfAMOlHQ UNioN JOB. WHATE\^R IT iS, SEAJDITIN); IP IT'S PRINTABLE, Wf'LL -PUBLISH IT S CUT and RUN By HANK This week's column just ain't up to our now-and-then notice­ able Plimsoll mark due to Merry Christmas and Happy New Year knocking us off course and plugging up our radar ears from de­ tecting fresh news. Well, so help us, it looks like these two holidays were too merry and too expensive. Just about e very bod j' (except a few guys now and then who didn't know we had a strike recently) is flooding the hall to ship out . . . Brother Paulo Pringi, with his mustache and a black rain coat, just registered for shipping . . . The little Steward always with a cigar. Brother Joe Arras, just sailed in from Marseilles, France! And, oui, we naturally presume Joe preferably brought back cognac, which seems to be the only perfume a sailor is usually odored with, just like anybody else is too, now and then . . . We hope that Brother Joe Miller, nicknamed the "Little Admiral," somehow enjoyed a Merry Chi'istmas after all, to cover up his blues from losing out in a night-club investment down in Florida. i. 4 4 Perhaps Joe couldn't get a liquor license so he served all sorts of orange drinks, if that's possible, and the Floridian nightowls just couldn't enjoy themselves boxing the nightly compass in such a unaffecting manner . . . Brother H. W. Greenless, who was taxi-fcuring in West Virginia, sent a Christmas card from Arizona to Paul the Dispatcher. Are you digging for gold or just expanding your taxi-ships. Brother Greenlee? . . . Brother Steve Carr. who got married recently, shipped out. Let's hear from you. Steve . . . Abe "Bob" Sprung, just sailed into town after six months of shuttling bauxite between the Carribbean islands and Canada . . . Thomas Massey. who came in to see his wife, says that his trip with Salvatore Frank ended rather humorously in Mobile. After paying off their long trip. Brother Frank went out and bought a brand new second-hand suit for 17 dollars. The high cost of living must have hit him. too, eh Tommy? 4 4 4 Here's a few of the oldtimers anchored here in town until the ships take them out: Cliarlie Roinikaitis; Bosun Charlie Bush; Andy Thevik; B. Murio: J. Kelly; J. Santos; J. Rockhill; Harold Farrington; F. B. Ortiz; Bosun Francisco Morciglio; and Thor Thorsen . . . Thanks to Joe, the boss of the Mariner's Bar and Restaturant below the Union hall, for way he bottled his Merry Christmas greetings to al his friends topside . . . Bob Hicks just sailed in from Baltimore where he says he couldn't find his pal. One Eye Pete De Pietro, who was meanwhile anchored in the Baltimore Marine Hos­ pital suffering from something—maybe too many peppers? Kidding aside Pete, how was Merry—was she around—1 mean, how v;® Christmas, merry? We were shocked lo hear thai the oddest and rather un­ expected Christmas present the seamen in the "Doghouse" on South Street received was a 50c more raise in prices for sleep­ ing there. Maybe the place needs the money more than the ^ seamen themselves! Well, seamen always have absorbed the worst things in their lives—but the SIU membership has knocked out many of these unfair practices on their lives thrown, at them by all sorts of happy bureaus, military stiffs, phony medical experimenters, financial company wizards, and happy Washfor a living—gel dirt and cuts on their hands, grease on their ington labor-haters. Why don't they go out and really work pants and pains in their backs? "^ �UK if THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Twelve Friday. January 3, 1947 TBE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Moon Koons' Warm Advice For Men Making Island Run Dear Editor: On our recent trip to South America on the SS Del Valle, a Mississippi scow, which, as you know, left New Orleans after the strike was over and after the new agreements were signed, we met several ships operated by SIUcontracted companies. The men aboard these vessels didn't have any knowledge of the new agreements, therefore we distributed several bundles of the Seafarers Log which contained the complete agreement. On all Waterman and Mississippi ships we met, we explained to the men that the agjreement with the aforementioned companies is bas­ ically the same as the agreements with the other companies, with only a few changes in working conditions. MET ALCOA SHIPS NEWS FOR TANKERMEN TANKER MEN book men. The crew blames the Steward, who they say is a tripcard man, and he in turn blames the Captain. There is plenty of food avail­ able in this country, and no need for the men to go hungry. It seems that the old man is a man with an iron whip. It has also been said by some of the crewmembers that the old man said he didn't care if the men ate,or starved. I would like to pass the word to the branches up and down the coast to be on the lookout for this ship when she gets back home as there is plenty to be straight­ ened out aboard. Moon Koons Did You Really Try? By Wayne McAllisJep READ THE S. I. U. TANKER NEWS IH West 8th St. Phone Chester 5-3110 Stickers like the one reproduced above appear all over Marcus Hook. Pa., advertising the SIU's Tanker News. The paper contains all the latest news of interest to men sailing tankers. Christmas And Mystery Cheer Seafarers Abed In Staten Island Marine Hospital We also met two of the Alcoa Steamship company's vessels in Buenos Aires. They left New Orleans for a 21-day trip to the Dear Editor: islands on a bauxite run which I would like to thank the SIU, wound up here in Buenos Airies. the Log. and all the Brothers for It seems that the Alcoa company the splendid generosity shown to is taking several of their ships. us hospitalized members this Christmas. It sure gives a fellow a great moral lift to realize that in this militant and adventurous year of fighting to better a sea­ man's living conditions, we, the sick and disabled, were not over­ looked. In behalf of all SIU men in Ward B-5 I thank you, and many thanks to Joe Volpian, our splen­ did hospital delegate. We all wish the SIU the success and victory it deserves as an Americiin seaman's o r g a n iz a t i o n. "Steady as she goes!" after the run to the islands, and Life here in the Staten Island sending them to the River Plata Marine Hospital has been improv­ area to load grain bound for Bal­ ing as a whole. The food has im­ tic points. proved considerably and is still As you know, it is very cold in on the upgrade, also up here in the Baltic this time of the year, B-5 we have some nice nurses, and when a seaman leaves the orderlies and a top notch medical states on an island run he doesn't staff. take any heavy gear with him. Christmas here was well cele­ So please advise our Brothers brated and it seems like every­ leaving on island runs for Alcoa one was remembered. We wish to be prepared for a trip which to thank the various organiza­ might take them the full length tions for their generous effort in of the articles into any port in the behalf of the sick and disabled world, and to bring heavy clothes seamen. from the states with them. The DARK MYSTERY crews of the above-mentioned ships have no winter gear and A very dark mystery occurred they are headed for Sweden. here some time ago involving a One of these ships is the Cald­ colonel, lieutenant, and an in­ well. The Blanchard brothers spector which resulted in the com­ are aboard her. We also laid plete disappearance of the lieu­ alongside the New Afoundria, a tenant. The story is absolutely Waterman ship, which needs in­ true and took place about a vestigating when she returns to month ago. The names of the the States. She has been around inspector, colonel, and lieutenant the world and has just come are as phony as their ranks. How­ from Shanghai to Buenos Aires ever, the story has a moral and where she will load grain for is good for a few laughs, so here's what happened: France. It was a very dull day in Ward A HUNGRY SHIP B-5, most of the patients were on This ship. New Afoundria, is the sack, the sky outside the win­ very hungry. She has been in dows was leaden and grey, while port seven days at this time and within the ward aH was silent. when we arrived they didn't have Suddenly the calm was broken by ang sugar, coffee, or anything to the shrill jangle of the telephone eat but water-buffalo meat and and someone barked: "Lieuten­ very few stores. It appears that ant Bull is wanted on the phone." there are but few men who are Immediately, to the phone dashed Log'A'Rhythms Oil a spry young fellow. Lieutenant Bull, of course. Two men sitting peacefully on their bunks looked questioningly at each other, "Wonder if he is a real looey?" With the war being over looeys are kind of scarce around here. Suspicion arose in their minds and tacitly then and there it was decided to investi­ gate the looey. LATER One hour later another call came through for Lieutenant Bull, and in anticipation a spy had been placed near the phone booth. To our spy's ears it seem­ ed that an Inspector of some office was calling and was demanding to know of Lieutenant Bull where in the hell he got his high rating. The lieutenant, quick on the comeback, replied that he was a Steward and that all Stewards were looeys, full lieutenants on big ships and lieutenant (j.g.'s) on small ones. The inspector whose name is McSnoop, and who had been a Steward quite a while, wouldn't believe it and ordered Lt. Bull to call Colonel O'Stupid, who is an old army man and has investi­ gated many a messhall, to the phone. The Colonel was called and soon an-ived sputtering and pushing his wheel chair to the phone. The inspector related to the colonel the details and de­ manded that the colonel place the lieutenant under restriction at once and investigate his creden­ tials. HOW COME After hanging up the phone the Colonel turned to Lt. BuU and asked him just how come he was a lieutenant, and demanded his ID card and papers. Bull was only able to produce evidence of having sailed as a messman on a Liberty, evidence which did not satisfy the colonel even though he knew very little about the sea and its ratings. Colonel O'Stupid pressed his investigation and found that Bull wore two full gold stripes on his sleeve and an eagle on his cap. It was also revealed that our boy used his "Z" number instead of stamps on his letters. All this displeased the colonel no end, but Mr. Bull had aroused the colonel's sympathy and he said he would try to get Bull off with a couple of years in Atlanta. The inspector, who had foment­ ed the whole issue arrived on the scene and after hearing the report of the investigation ordered the Colonel to place Bull under re­ striction pending further action in the morning. Are you a good for nothing. Or a lazy sort of guy. With not too much to offer To this world as you go by? Do you think that they are wrong. And that you are always right. Or to let the other fellow do it Is the only way to fight? Do you just sit back and wait For the good things in this life. Or are you in there pitching When it means an honest fight? Does everything you try to do Seem always to be wrong. And to have to try them over Seems a little bit too long? When they're passing out good fortune. And you're standing in the line. Does the same thing always happen That you don't get there in time? If the things you hope and wish for . Seem empty as a lie. And you never seem to get them. Perhaps you really didn't try, 4, 4, 4, Cheerio . By 1. H. PEPPER Let's haunt the old places. With all our old friends. Let's dance all night long And laugh and drink — This is the one night I dare not think. And when the time comes, I'll shed not a tear. HITS THE ROAD Just bid me goodby. That night we all hit the sack While I drink up my beer. to await the morrow and the dis­ position of Mr. Bull, but we were disappointed for when the sun rose in the morning over the hos­ pital, Mr. Bull was missing and upon examination it was found his bunk had not been slept in. Colonel O'Stupid and Inspector % McSnoop, who by a strange co­ incidence were patients in the Dear Editor: same ward as the departed Mr. I am an ex-seaman. During the Bull and just as phony as far as last war I was injured at Casa­ ratings are concerned, upon dis­ covering that their chaige Lad blanca, North Africa and now I flown the coop decided that there am paralyzed from the waist is no honesty in this world and down. left the ward in an ill frame of I would appreciate it very mind to talk of old battles over much if you would send me a a nickel cup of coffee at the can­ Log. at the address below. The teen. book number is 3070, SIU. So, dear readers, thus ended the Give my regards to all the mystery of "Lieutenant" Bull who no doubt, returned hurredly Brothers. to his fleet, with' the curse of Hart G. Brown Midas ringing in his ears. Anoth­ 1330 Queen St.. N.E. er boy had learned that all that Washington, D. C. glitters is not gold. (Editor's note: Former shipmates of Brother Brown might drop William Bause, Staien Island Marine Hosp. him a line at the above address.) WAR INJURIES . LEAVE BROWN SEMI-PARALYZED �Friday, Jfenuary 3, 1947 Compulsory Arbitration Viewed As A Snare For Union-Smashing Dear Editor: Page Thirleea THE SEAFARERS LOG ences held between big business and their political representatives is the one whereby labor unions would be forced to write into their contracts the proviso that arbitration would be the sole way of settling all differences with the employers. Those labor ROUGH STUFF sugar-coated pill, but the real name for this sort of thing is compulsory arbitration, more familarly known was "the two-toone against." The history of com­ pulsory arbitration is a history of the kicks and blows Labor re­ ceived whenever it gave up (or was forced to give up) its right to strike. The end of the war saw prices of food, clothing and other neces­ sities climbing higher and higher. As a result, the labor unions in the great mass industries were forced to break through the "no strike" restrictions imposed on them during the war. UP TO LABOR In round after round of mighty battles the seamen, coal miners, Organized labor can put a stop Steel workers, truck drivers, auto to this by calling its own Congress workers, etc., beat the ears off the of Labor. This Congress could be giant monoploy owners, and gain­ composed of delegates from all This scene of a not-so-steady day at sea is familiar to most ed substantial wage increases. Unions regardless of affiliation. Seafarers, and was recorded by Brother E. Snyder, Oiler, on Its purpose would be to devise Badly licked in the economic a recent voyage. ways and means of defending field, the profit-hungry owners Labor's rights. In this way, a turned to their paid political lac­ solid front of organized labor keys in Washington for help. The could be opposed to the solid Government promptly lifted con­ trols over prices, allowmg them unions that refused to do this front of the bosses. to raise prices as they pleased. In would be deprived of all legal This Congress of Labor would this way the increases won by rights contained in the Wagner put the unions in position to de­ Labor were wiped out. clare a general strike if that were Act. Labor had no alternative but The Wagner Act makes it legal necessary to defend the right to Dear Editor: found himself flying through the to prepare another round of for a union to strike and to or­ strike. It would be able to set up air aided by the Bosun Vince strikes to meet the increased cost ganize and it prevents the issu­ a Labor Party so that Labor After seeing the notice in the Carrecas and a SUP man from of living. The United Mine Work­ ance of injunctions in strike sit­ would be enabled to vote into Log, "Wanted: Tips," I thought I Brooklyn. Alexander landed with ers, under Lewis, went on strike uations. Loss of legal rights con­ Congress representatives from the woirld drop you a line and give a thud on the dock and we, in no when the Government, acting for tained in the act would leave a mines, factories and ships in place uncertain terms, told him to stay the coal owners, refused to negot­ union wide open to attacks from of the present politicans who rep­ the brothers a tip-off on a char­ iate a new contract containing all sides. resent the mine, factory and ship acter we ran across in Rouen, higher wages and better condi­ France. SAC-Rg BLED - I -THE Congress may try to hide this owners. /,LEXAMDER-A^A OUT­ tions. Benny Goodman This guy's name is Alexander union-smashing dose under a RAGE !! *^0 i-OAkSEft DO I MACHINE GOES TO WORK and he hangs out around the GET waterfront in Rouep, France. He WHOLfSAl-E» Immediately the propaganda thinks he has a neat racket and drums began to beat. Through his victims are merchant seamen. the controlled newspapers, over His first order of dirty work is to the radio, and from the floor of come down to the ship inquiring Congress itself, the public was were cut to a half glass per man, if any of the crew plans to shove Dear Editor: told hysterically that the fate of and four cans of milk per day the country, the very right to Here is a story of how the for the crew. The flour and yeast off for Gay Paree over the week­ end. Then this rat takes the un­ life, liberty and the pursuit of great Waterman Steamship Com­ were so bad that the Baker could suspecting Brothers into tow and happiness depended on depriving pany feeds on their fine ships not make bread fit to eat. gives them all the information on Labor of the right to strike. since we received our little raise how to spend a delightful week­ When we arrived in Shanghai In the face of this, Lewis was in pay, and it looks like they're off the ship, and if he ever camw end in Paris. we were told that we were to go forced to retreat. His union had taking the raise out of our hides. back the crew might not let him proved more than a match for The "Hungry" Hastings left to Hongkong, from there to Man­ "GOOD JOE" off so easily. the mine owners on the coal New York on the 17th of August ila, and then to France. All this Just as a warning to all Sea­ I was aboard the SUP ship fields but was helpless when the for Shanghai after leaving San by a ship with two and one half farers who hit Rouen, though I owners took refuge behind the Pedro September 2. The fun months' stores. In Manila we took Benjamin Goodhue when she hit don't think anyone will be gull­ skirts of the Government. started when the messman said on flour and yeast so the bread Rouen last July. This phony ible enough to fall for his line, The United Mine Workers were no seconds on the food, so we was better. Here the fun really found out about some of us fel­ this is his description: He is about started. It was no this and no lows planning to go up to the big 5 ft., 9 inches tall, has silvery slapped with a three-and-a-half called a meeting at once. million dollai' fine for having dar­ The Steward was called in and that, and so on until we got to city for the week end, and hot­ hair, is about 35 or 40 years old, ed to exercise their right to strike. asked the reason for the actions France. Here we couldn't get but- footed it down to the ship to give and of course speaks English. If organized labor had replied to of the messman, and we were and eggs, or anything we really us all the facts on having a good This phony operates a perfume this dastardly attack with a gen­ told that the Company had cut needed to make the trip enjoy­ time. We all thought he was a shop about six blocks from the eral strike, and followed up by his store list by two thousand able, but this didn't make any Good Joe, going to all this trouble docks. Look out for this character organizing their own poUtical dollars and the Cooks had to difference to Waterman 'cause for us, but we soon discovered because he'll only get you in parly, the big shot owners and weight everything so that the they stuck aboard 19 more pas­ his true stripe. some kind of a fix. their office boys in Washington stores would last until we re­ sengers to eat up what little we After the week end in Paris, HEADIN' SOUTH had left. Well, what the hell do which was enjoyed by all, this would have beat a hasty retreat. turned to the States. they care, it's more money for guy came aboard and told us he Now, having tasted blood, the This kid from New England is HALF RATIONS them so let the crew starve. profit-hungary bosses are conspir­ was going to do us another favor. down in Marcus Hook looking This is what happened after ing as to the best way of locking He then calmly told us we had for a southern run. Bob Pohle, BAD MEAT just two weeks at sea: fruit juices the "no strike" handcuffs on kicked out doors, smashed win­ Dispatcher and local ladies man After leaving France, bound dows and did other damage to is right on the ball these cold Labor. One of the schemes which is WANTS MYSTERY for home, we ran out of butter the hotel he had recommended to days. gaining most favor in the confer­ OF MISSING LOG and then eggs and we soon had us. While I'm writing the Log I'd only one meat at meal time and We were pretty well surprised like to have you send the paper INVESTIGATED by this double cross, but he was to my home. The AFL Newspa­ New York Fades not through. He told us that per Guild is on strike in Spring­ Dear Editor: IT'S MOT SO 8AD,WILM€R fortunately the manager of the field, Mass., and it gets kind of —'THE TooTHPiC-KS I had been receiving the Log hotel was a personal friend of his dull without a newspaper. My for about a year or more until ARE B^MD ME\Ail and if we kicked in the sum of Dad is a.n old Lakes sailor and he about three months ago. I would 10,000 francs he would speak to misses the news of the water­ like to know why I am not re­ the manager and have the gend­ front. ceiving it anymore. I sure do armes called off, who, he said, Well, take it easy you guys up miss reading it. were hot on our trail. in Boston. I'm just curious as to I find it very interesting to whether Shorty, six-foot of mess­ HEAVE HO read, and the important things man, has shipped out yet. Does I clip out and sent to my hus­ Alexander no more than got the he still walk down to Common­ band. The rest I keep until he words out of his mouth when he wealth Pier and drool over the returns from his trips, so that ships, wishing he was on one? he will know what is going on in we don't have to go without the Charles W. Halla, no one could eat that, also there the Union. things we should have. We un­ Wesifield, Massachuseiis Please look into this matter for was no milk or anything you can derstand now that this ship was (Editor's note: Anybody had me. I am a steadfast reader of think of. sent out on a trial menu with any similar experiences?) The Captain did what he could lust enough stores to cover that the Log. Seafarer Okeil Jones caught Mrs. Wesley Young to get more stores, but you can­ menu. Well, Brothers, believe not get them in foreign countries. me, if you don't starve on that this shot of the Big Town's Baltimore. disappearing skyline from the (Editor's note:—We don't know The members of this crew think menu you have to be able to live stern of a vessel it headed why you haven't been receiving it is time to do something about on water and toothpicks. out to sea. Brother Jones did the Log, but at any rate, we're this and make sure that Water­ Red Hancock not give the name of the ship. making sure that you get it from man and all other companies Deck Delegate Is it a Statmi Island ferry? store their ships in the U.S. so now on.) Alexander Of Rouen Ruined By Racket-Wise Seafarers The Hastings Is Strictly From Hunger, Says Delegate �I THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Fourteen Asks Whether Labor Has Political Responsibility I' i Dear Editor Having read Louis Coffin's ar­ ticle in the Log concerning the vote of labor and Bernie Good­ man's answer to it, obviously raises the question, have Labor Unions a political responsibility? Both agree that Labor can ex­ pect nothing from the two ma­ jor political parties of Big Busi­ ness. On the other hand, Good man takes issue with Goffin, say that Labor can have a po­ litical party of its own. Both Brothers Goodman and Goffin obviously do not see eye to eye that part of our constitu­ tion—Article XV, Sec. 1—which states, "The Chairman shall per­ mit no religious subjects or po­ litical subjects to be discussed." Since our constitution denies po­ litical expression at Union meet­ ings it takes the position that la­ bor has no political responsi­ bility. How often then can Gof­ fin and our constitution supply answers to situations where strikes are counter-acted by po­ litical force? INTER-RELATION This whole question of political responsibility in Labor unions ' is predicted on the premise that . economics and politics are in- SS JEAN KEPT THINGS HUMMING IN ALL PORTS Dear Editor: Who said Bull line ships were built for the rice and beans run? The SS Jean has proved them all wrong. At present we are rid­ ing the hook in the harbor of Las Palmas, Canary Islands, bound for Gothernberg, Sweden. We have made all the major ports in South America: Buenos Aides, Rio, Santos and Montevi­ deo. We have a swell bunch for a crew on here; everyone is • a character. One of Bud Ray's warm weath­ er boys is riding as Serang — James Corcoran. The Jean has made a name for herself in every port, so far. The crew has kept things humming wherever they have gone, and the painted ladies and the giggle juice kept us broke all the time we were in South America. ONE PHONY We have a nice Skipper on here and topside is pretty good, as are the engineers. The only phony is the Purser, who wears more gold. braid than the Captain. When ; the trip is over we are going to reveal all his doings to the Log. By the way, is Johnny Martin still holding up the bar in the Marine Grill? The Chief character on this l ship i$ John Kugat, knowri to : the crew as Sporty Ody. He's : been Fireman one week, and ; Wiper the next, alternating off and on. At present he's Bull: wiper, while I am holding down the Chief Bellyrobber's Job. We hope to be home for New Year's Day, but in case we don't make it, here's wishing everyone a Happy New Year. The following guys want to be remembered to all: James Callis, Jimmy (the Lost Weekend) Boone, Hug Randall and John Kugat. Dennis (The Brooklyn Kid) Saunders terlated. The proof that one has a direct bearing on the other was made very plain in the recent coal strike. So long as economic action produces violent political reaction to Labor, it cannot es­ cape political responsibility to safe-guard its own interest. BROTHER URGES UNITED FIGHT IN CG HEARING UNITS Dear Editor: Let's all stick together in our fight against the plague or disease called the hooligan Hearing Units (USCG). Let us publicize through the medium of the Seafarers Log all the case histories and beefs of each individual who has been treated unfairly by this outfit. I am sending you a few clip­ pings for publication, and, from time to time, I wiU send you more. I should like this letter to be published in the Log. Let's get this ball rolling for our own benefits. Please with­ hold my name for personal reas­ ons. B. R. Friday, January 3, 1947 A SEAFARER GOES SIGHT-SEEING ' . - '' Whether we like it or not, poli­ tics has made itself a part of la­ bor's action and as such, has made labor a part of politics. In this situation that has been thrust upon us we have denied ourselves the use of political ex­ pression to effectively oppose our enemies. By this do nothing policy in the realm of politics, what are we actually doing? It (Editor's note: The clippings amounts to this, let our enemies control all political weapons for which the Brother sent were the suppression of Labor. Let reports on CG Hearing Unit them appoint their Judges and activities. In June 1946. 1.581 haul our elected official before cases were investigated, from which hearings resulted involv­ their courts as criminals. ing 318 unlicensed men and 75 This is what happened in the officers. Of the unlicensed per­ coal strike and it will continue so sonnel. 17 had papers revoked. long as we refuse to participate 172 suspended. 118 were placed totally in what is Labor's interest. on probation. 55 were volun­ At this point, in the words of tarily surrendered. 4 closed Mark Anthony, "I pause for a with admonitions and 14 were reply." I would appreciate very dismissed after hearings. much a profound answer from The cases increased slightly Brother Goffin to the questions— in July 1946. with 1,633 being Has Labor a political responsi­ investigated Hearings resulted bility? Can Labor escape political 230 unlicensed men and 54 of­ 2-esponsibility? ficers. Unlicensed men had 18 certificates revoked, 99 suspen­ W. J. Brady sions. There v/ere 94 suspend­ ed on probation. 55 surrender­ ed voluntarily. 5 received ad­ TRIPCARDER HAS monitions and 12 were dismiss­ RATING CHANGED ed. Officers fared only slightly TO PFC (MARINES) better in both months. Dear Editor: CREW OFFERS I used to be one of you and still consider myself a good SIU SOLUTION TO man even though I held a trip SORRY SLOPCHEST card at the time. I have a probook coming to me now. I made Dear Editor: a trip on the Andrew Jackson in I wish to bring to the attention December of 1945. She is an old of the Union members the situa­ C-2 that lost her screw in the tion regarding the inadequately Indian Ocean. When the SS Meredith Victory called at Rotterdam, Hol­ stocked slopchest aboard our ship. land, recently, crewmomber Gilbert Parker, an avid cameraman The Deck Delegate on that trip There is absolutely no excuse —and a good one—stepped around town in quest of "shots." was Thomas Joseph and he was for this condition to exist. In most Two of the results, a canal thoroughfare and one of the country's really a good guy. If he happens cases there seems to be a com­ famed windmills are pictured above. to read this I would enjoy hear­ plete disregard for the seamen's ing from him, also I would like needs. to receive the Log if possible. It Recently, on an eight months would be a godsend because I like to keep up on all union mat­ trip to the Pacific, I had the mis­ fortune to be on a ship that was ters. completely out of slopchest I am in the Marine Corps now stores after only two months at Editor's note; The SIU's an­ check which has Just come to me. and stationed on an airfield doing sea. I was Deck Delegate, and I nual custom of cheering its At this time I would like to MP duly. There are quite a few asked the Captain if he would members who are confined to thank the membership for this SIU men here with me and there purchase additional supplies hospitals during the holiday gift and the donations which I are also some nickel moochers, when we arrived in Saipan. He season was repeated this have received in the past. but we are trying to convert them informed me that the money be­ Christmas, with $10 gift checks Here's wishing everybody a to the Seafarers. Some of them longed to the WSA, and that, going to all hospitalized Sea­ Merry Christmas. To the Union said they will be glad to sail for therefore, he couldn't do any­ farers in the Atlantic and Gulf as a whole, my best wishes for a union that is on the level. Well thing about it. District. The gifts were authr continued success. mates, I have to secure for now. orized by vote of the member­ J. McDonald, ' Fortunately, we were able to Lets hear from you and a Happy ship at recent meetings. Ellis Island get the necessary toilet articles New Year to all. Letters of appreciation from from the army PX on that island. 4 4 4. Pfc. C. M. Coffey the gift recipients already are Dear Editor: It wasn't until later at Iwo Jima that we were able to purchase coming in. In addition to Bro­ Hqs. Squadron I want to extend my heartfelt clothes from a Navy small stores. ther Bause's letter appearing MCAS Miramar thanks to all the members for I am now on another ship on on page 12, three other notes San Diego. Calif. their kind Christmas gift. It came the South African run. The very expressing the senders' senti­ in very handy for me. As you (Edilors Note: Brother Coffey same thing has happened on this ments follow: know, I am a married man with also enclosed a Christmas Card ship. There is nothing in the slop­ Deoir Editor: a wife and three children, and wishing all Seafarers a Merry chest except some cigarettes (and I have received your Christmas without any income. Worse yet, Christmas and a Happy New /ery few of these), and some overmessage and the check. I want I have spent three years in the Year. On the card he asks former over-sized khakis. to thank all the Brothers for their hospital,, and God knows whether crewmembers of the Andrew In conclusion, the undersigned kindness and thoughtfulness. or not I will ever get out. Jackson who made the trip to book members think some way Thanks a lot, and my very best India in December of 1945 to con­ The check from the Seafarers should be arranged whereby the wishes to you all at Christmas tact him at the above address.) helped me get a few little gifts slopchest could be inspected time. for my family that T otherwise either by the delegates on board, E. V. Ferrer would have beeun unable to buy. or the Union Patrolmen before Nesponsit Hospital I will close now wishing all the the ship sails. This would insure boys a Merry Christmas and a 4. 4. 4. an adequate slopchest for the Happy and Prosperous New Year. Dear Editor: needs of everyone. James S. Campbell. This is to advise you of the Eugene Howlelf Jr., Nesponsit Hospital and the rest of the crew. receipt of the Christmas gift Hospitalized Members Thank Brothers For Xmas Checks �Page Fifteen Unclaimed Baggage—A.H. Bull Seafarers who left their gear behind on Bull Line ships may now be able to regain their lost goods if their names appear on the list below. The com­ pany wishes to dispose of the goods as soon as possible to their rightful own­ ers. However, articles not claimed by April 1, 1947 will be donated to some charitable institution. Gear can be claimed at Pier 22, Brooklyn. GALVESTON Crew SS SS SS SS / ( / of the— Midway Hills J. Robbins Horace See M. M. Chassreau $ 5.00 1.00 10.00 2.00 Henry Anderson Frank G. Brown L. Bullock, Wm. Buckley NEW YORK J. A. Bean SS ORBIS W. S. Frew, $2.00; W. F. Dunn. $2.00; Robert Clewis W. D. Weise, $1.00; D. Krickovich. Edward Cullivan $1.00; H. Harnett, $1.00; D. F. Kellener, Jaimes J. Crawford $2.0; R. Crigsby, $1.00; R. Kiminsky, $1.00; M, Olvera, $1.00; L. J. Broyles, Dominic Calucmio Carmiel $2.00. SS OUCHITA VICTORY Dennis Gaboon J. D. McDaniel, $2.00; J. C. Laseter, Theo. Dorotus $1.00; R. C. Noe, $1.00; V, Suska, $1,00; C. H. Fox S. E. Jansen, $1.00; E. A. Duda, $1,00; R. R. Carlson, $1.00; N, H. Pratt, $1.00; Earnest Goodman P. C. Adkins, $1.00; W. J. Compton, Frank Gould $1.00; R. Peters, $1.00; J, L. Thomas, Louis Golman $1.00; K. P. Clausen, $1,00; W. G. Eudalley, $1.00; P. Winiarcryk, $1.00; John Graham H. J. Conin, $1.00; F. H. Houck, $2.00; J. J. Gustafson A. F. Roth, $2.00; J. Deal. $2.00; D. E. Leon W. Gray Dupree, $1.00; J. Griffith, $1.00, Gaylard G. O'Brien. $1.00; J. Michava, $1.00; C. C. Burkett, $1.00; C. Jurewicz, $1.00; Michael Getchins, T, F. Yarbrough, $1.00; F. H. Glover. P. Gallagher $1.00; A. J. Langan, $1.00; J, B. Bar­ Oscar Hassiner rier, $1.00; B. Stancil, $1.00; J. Nor- Harold Hardt gaard, $1.00; G. Fleming, $1.00; J. M, R. Hansen Kinstle, $1.00; V. Gerner, $1,00; C. W. A. Harrellson Pritchstt, $2.00; A. DeFilippie, $1.00. SS J. GIBBON Harper Crew of SS J. Gibbon $17.00 Jerome Henderson SS HUNNINGTON HILLS Geo. D. Jones J. W. McKiernan, $19.00; W. R. 'Wilklns, $2.50; C. Davis. $2.00; C, H. Reese, Raymond Joseph $2.00; G, Cascia, $5.00; W. Pikula, M. Jones : $5.00; C. B. Ivey, $5.00; E. S, McGuire, J. Jones •$5.00; T. Sustaire, $2.00; J. B, Sher­ Clarence Jones man, $2,00; H, Wiltshire, $5:00; C. L. Kepper, $5.00; J C. Baily, $5.00; S, R. P. Jones Hamilton, $5,00; H, C. McVay, $5.00; Kleppe I. J. Torre, $5.00, Ellis Kirkpatrick SS ALCOA PARTNER Francis W. Kenefic P. F. Spencer, $1.00; W. L, Paterson, Barry .Kooser $1.00; L. P. Chapman, $1.00; G. R. Sin clair, $1.00; G. Ontai, $2.00; J. G. Na Fred Knoll polenni.s, $1.00; D. B. Brown, $1.00; Hugh E. Lee T. Hong, $2.00; A. Tosado, $1,00; A, E, George Ling Anderson, $2.00; R. Flores, $1.00; R. M. Tussi, $3.00; J. Cornelius, $3.00; R, Sar- Salvadore Marty rano, $1,00; J. C. Bernard, $1,00; F, Michael Motko 1 brown suit case 1 suit case 1 sea bag 1 suit case 2 paper boxes 1 Valise 1 Valise 1 suit case 1 suit case 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 suit case 1 sea bag 1 tin suit case 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 valise Small black case bag Black suit case 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 card board box 1 card board box Small round bag 3 pes. 1 card board box 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 valise 1 valise 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 sea bag 1 valiso Black case one trunk 2 pes. 1 suit case 1 sea bag Brown suit case 2 pes. 1 sea bag J. P. Mikalozivas John A. Morris Herbert A. Miller Charles H. Murphy Guillcrmo Morales L. Maldonado P. Morsk Joseph Nelson R. Noaek George Newmann Edward Newcomb Patrick Oneil Emilio Pinilla Casper Pinedo Capt. A. J. Powell Robert Paris Damian Passina Pierce C. F. Rebedeau Francis L. Rappell Esteban Ramirez Luther Sutton P. Spierings A. Bund John E. Salisbury Steel George W. Sutton Louis Siebert U. Z. Stone T. B. Thompson R. O. Turpin John Torras J. Thiebes J. Urban Fred Werring Albert Warnk'e Joseph P. Waugh Robert Zaddock 1 sm HALLS 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 BOSTON 276 State St. Boudoin 445S BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. CleveUnd 7391 CHARLESTON 68 Society St. Phone 3-3G80 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 1 metal grip 2 pes Clair Ave. 1 sea bag CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Main 0147 1 sea bag CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi 3-1509 1 sea bag DETROIT 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6357 1 valise 531 W. Michigan St. 1 card board box DULUTH Melrose 4110 brown valise, 2 pes GALVESTON 305 Vi 22nd St. 2-8448 1 black bag HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 1 sea bag HOUSTON 1515 75th Street Phone Wentworth 3-3809 1 card board box 920 Main St. 1 sea bag JACKSONVILLE Phone 5-5919 1 sea bag MARCUS HOOK IVz W. 8tb St. Chester 5-3110 1 valise MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 1 suit case 2-1754 339 Chartres St. 1 trunk, 3 pes NEW ORLEANS Magnolia 6112-6113 1 sea bag NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. HAnover 2-2784 1 sea bag 127-129 Bank Street 1 sea bag NORFOLK 4-1083 1 sea bag PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Phone Lombard 3-7651 1 sea bag PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Worth Ave. 1 hat box Phone: 2-8532 Ill W. Bumside St. 2 Valises PORTLAND 257 5th St. 1 suit case RICHMOND, Calif SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. 2 suit cases Douglas 5475-8363 252 Ponce de Leon 1 sea bag SAN JUAN, P. R San Juan 2-5996 1 suit case 2 pes. SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 8-1728 2 packages 86 Seneca St. 1 Valise SEATTLE Main 0290 3 pes. 1 radio TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. M-1323 1 sea bag TOLEDO 615 Summit St. 1 sea bag WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. Terminal 4^3131 1 sea bag 602 Bough ton St. 1 sea bag VICTORIA, B. C VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. 1 sea bag -2 packages 1 sea bag 1 suit case Small grip BALTIMORE a PERSONALS- JOHN COLFER Your gear, from a Deconhil » tanker, is at the Corpus Christi Hall. i. J. 4. Jarocinski, $2.00; J. Serrano, $1,00; M. C. Getchell, $2.00; M. Lovet, $1.00; P. ROBERT M. RUTLEDGE Sanchez, $1.00; A, Moulier, $1.00. Your wife is very anxious to SS COLABEE hear from you. Contact her at Crw of SS Colabee $13.50 1718 Girard Avenue, Phila., Pa. SS PEPPEREL M. H. Smith, $1.00; Simon H. Nu­ 4. 4. 4. gent, $2.00; S. Mills, $1.00. WARREN LANTZ SS CAPE HATTARAS F. Dunn, $1.00; R. W. Satterfield, Richard M. Cantor is anxious pay their dues until they get $1.00; R. Rivera, $1,00; H, Prytulak, VANCOUVER, B, C. — The feel The vessels Prince Robert and to have you contact him immed­ $1,00; R, Galarza, $1.00, ings of seamen around this port their retroactive $12,80. This at­ Prince David, onetime crack pas­ iately, at 51 Chambers St., N. Y. SS AMERICAN PRESS who have been sailing "Park titude shows they have a very D. G. Miller, $1.00. senger liners on coastwise service Ships" is that they have been poor conception of unionism, and INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS and veterans of the Royal Canad­ R. Mueller, $5.00; C, A, Ericsson, given the merry run around since are just hangers-on, riding the <$1.00; V, Phillips, $0c. their joining up with the Canad­ backs of the membership taking ian Navy where both saw service The crew of the SS Jean La A. T, Bunch, $1.00; S. Mavromichalis, ian Seamen's Union, the gains and giving nothing in during the war as auxiliary, cruis­ $3.00; E. Bachiller, $1.00; A. Gold­ Fitte can collect linen money at ers, have recently been sold to a The majority of them admit it return. smith, $1,00; Charles Brilhart, $2.00; $1.00 per week by calling at the British firm. S. Jaegendorf, $2.00; M. Katrausky, was of their own fault when they They seem to think they have Waterman office. $E00; Lionel Gilmore, $1.00. foolishly voted CSU. They fully to do nothing for these condi­ It is understood that both ves­ 4. 4- 4. realize now that the rosy promises tions, that they just drop from sels will sail for Britain where PHILADELPHIA DAVID STICKEROD SS Coastal Defender Crew $4.00 dished out to them by the CSU the sky. The only security is in they will be gutted out and re­ stooges were just so much hot unity. Get together, get organi­ built for passenger service be­ Please fill out an Exemption HOUSTON air, and now that the CSU has zed. Hold your regular weekly tween England and Continental Certificate (Form W-4) and send INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Harry Hankec, $1.00; C. V. Burrow, control of these ships the condi­ meeting aboard your ship. The European ports. SIU crews will it to the Chicago Branch. This -91.00; H. J. Potier, $1.00; J. Owen Jr., tions are not above the British only way to get anything is man the ships, and deliver them was to be filled out when you $1.00; H, L, Wills, $1.00; R. L. Gar- standard. worked for the Fitzsimmons and through organization and unity of to their new owners. relty, $1.00; j, R. Clement, $ 1,00; D, They now complain that the all members. December 10, 1946, marked the Cornell Dredge and Dock Com­ E. Waters, $1.00; M. H, Mayberry, s$1.00; W. F, SeoRO, $1.00; T. H. job- CMU seems to be interested only Elections for officers in the 1st anniversary of the death of pany and it is important that this lom, $1.00; Wm. Sumrall, $6.00: M, A. in the collecting of dues and kow­ ports of Vancouver and Victoria Brother Pete B. Gill. Brother be done at once. Morse, $1,06; W. Cotton, $1.00; B. towing to every whim of the ship­ are proceeding on schedule and Gill, one of the oldest members 4. 4. 4. Jones, $2.00; A. Wasinger, $2,00. owners. Conditions are bad on will be completed January 31, of the SUP, and at the time of his Papers belonging to the follow­ J. T. Reagan, $2,00; J, A, Sastellion, $2.00; R. Bryant, $2.00; C. C. Jordan, these ships and only the SIU can 1947. death, had been port Agent at ing men are being held at the $2.00;. H. A. Robenson, $2.00; S, Garcia, improve them. All full book members must Seattle for many years. His work Baltimore Hall. They will be re­ $2.00; K, J, Kloundt, $2,00; M, R, WilThis is admitted somewhat call at the Hall and cast their and achievements diiiing his life­ turned to owners upon proper •Ilams, $2.00; Hannigan, $2.00; J, Becksheepishly, and is the main reason ballot. This is your Union, there­ time on behalf of the seamen shall identification. ner, $1.00; T. G. Morris, $1.00; H. Whitley, $1.00; G. O'Rouke, $3.00; J; why so many CSU men are seek­ fore, it is your primary duty to always be remembered. All sea­ John Davis, John Wulzen. Ru­ Foerster, $1,00; S. L, Rasco, $2.00; C. ing membership in the SIU. vote for the nominees on the bal­ men today reap the benefits of dolph Barber, Robert Lee Willis, N. Bolton, $2,00; W.'D, Austin,'.$2,00; The CPR is shaping up very lot who you think will serve your his labor. The world today is in Robert Earl Williams, R, E. Wil­ J, Carves, $2,00; E, M. Eaton, $2.00; J, well, except for a few men whoj best interests. Be sure to call at sore need of more men like Pete liams, Harry Sheilds, Aloysius W. Smith, $2,00; A. Stout, $2,00; H. don't figure they are obliged to' the Hall and vote. Gill. T, Slaven, $1.00, I Kessen, and Charles Hickis. 2 1 3 1 Unknown brown suit cases small brown trunk sea bags round bag NOTICE! �Page Sixteen «•» 555:5?:: Friday. January 3, 1947 THE SEAFARERS LO :yxyx; 5:SS$ I'i-xW;5SS: 555555555: 55555:; mmmwMm 5^; .•.•iW-x-r-SA::?::?:::::::: 555555555:555555555 :55^:5S5$:5i55: >X'I*X*X*X'X<'X^' 5555 ::::::;::::5:5:5::j5:::555 >555555:5555 i555i:5i55^55::g:gWi5^ * 5555555:5555 i;g«| .55^ 55555-^ :^555555^i^^^S ®55i5:5 555 555:5 S555555S 55555 55555555 55555 S55: 5555555 ;•:•;•• 5555 J X555555555 m^mi, *:'X-x-X'X'X-xy A5555:S5555555555555555? is .55:55:5:55 55:i55S:55555555S:i::5j tHESEAMeERS iNIfeRnlMKMAKMlON ..S$ S:S55555:S xi ..55 ..•K555555?i SS555ii^^ mmmmmmm 5;5:X::5555555:555:555:5:$ 55555 :55::::55-: •555:; 155-55555 55.5.X.X.:.>55:5555» •:5555-:*:-: 5S:5S$i :555-:555-; 5555555:5555:555555: 55555 5555 iiiSi-Sxi-i-i IHEAAt-MARlTiME IRADESPEfMRlMENT m m. * * * m i^^5555^ :-:i:::: -MEAMERlCAH nEPERADcMoFUeoR * ...5555555555 � 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 January 3, 1947 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. IX, No. 1 Description An account of the resource Headlines; 2 SIU SHIPS CRASH; 1 MAN IS INJURED TAMPA CITY HEADS HELP COPMPANY AGAINST STRIKING AFL TEAMSTERS NEW ISTHMIAN MEET CALLED BY THE NLRB SNUG HARBOR TRUSTEES TO TAKE UP SIU REQUEST FOR INVESTIGATION TRAINING STRIKEBREAKERS RANK AND FILE UPHOLDS CURRAN ON RESIGNATION 1946 WAS YEAR OF MANY VICTORIES FOR SIU; NEW DRIVES PROGRESSING ALABAMA POLICE USE BEATINGS, SPYING AND BRIBERY TO SMASH UNIONS NEW SMITH BILL WOULD STRIP LABOR OF ALL PROTECTION MEET TOMMY, GREAT LOVER TUGBOATS WILL HALT SATURDAY IF OPERATORS REFUSE TO BARGAIN SUP SIGNS CONTRACTS WITH DECONHILL, PACIFIC TANKERS AND AMERICAN PACIFIC NEW REVISION OF MARITIME LAWS WILL NOT DO SEAMEN ANY GOOD IT WAS HOT TIME ON CEDAR BREAK BUT THE BOYS FINALLY COOLED OFF LAKES CARRIERS SEAMEN LEARN; COME AROUND TO CHICAGO HALL CALMAR NOW READYING LIST FOR BACK PAY SHIPPING IS ON THE RISE IN CORPUS CHRISTI NORDOFF CREW PLAYS SANTA IN BALTIMORE NMU SLANDER CAMPAIGN ON LAKES FALLS FLAT AS SEAMEN LEARN TURTH BOSTON OFFICIALS BOLDLY MUSH INTO FAR NORTH TO SERVICE SHIPS MARITIME COMMISSION RIGGING UP GIGANTIC DOUBLECROSS FOR SEAMEN COST OF LIVING HITS NEW HIGH IN NOVEMBER AFL OFFICIALS GO TO ARGENTINA BOSSES' REFUSAL TO BARGAIN WILL BRING RECESSION VD CASES MUST FOLLOW THROUGH WITH TREATMENT KNIFE WIELDER WARNED BY HAWSER CREW LAFITTE'S CONDITIONS BLASTED BY DELEGATE G. WASHINGTON TO CONTINUE BERMUDA RUN UNTIL EASTER Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/11/1947 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1947 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/06a46e2d3aeed2bd59ae9d0bb15a6fbd.PDF e50ef05ac80fd20582a41abc791501ec PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America NEW YORK, N. Y« FRIDAY. DECEMBER 27. 1946 VOL VIII. SUPPORT FOR THE TUGBOATMEN No. 52 N.Y. Maritime Council Piedges Fuii Support To AFL Tugboatmon NEW YORK—The solidarity of the Greater New AFL Maritime Port Council, already a proven factor in bringing about quick settlements of disputes between waterfront unions and employers, is once more in evidence. The Tugboatment ,members of Local 33 3, ILA, Marine Division, who are now in the middle of negotiations with the companies, were pledged the support of this powerful body on Monday, Dec. 23. "* Paul Hall. SIU New York Port Agent, reads the resolution pledging SIU support to the Tugboatment in their tight for higher wages and better working conditions. Following this, the resolution was unanimously adopted by all present at the special meeting. Curran Resigns As Co-Cliairman Of CMU; Charges It With Disunity And Raiding NEW YORK — A showdown fight in the National Maritime Union, initiated a few months ago when Joseph Curran, Presi­ dent of the NMU, attacked some of tlie officials of that union as beirrg communists and working against the best interests of the membership, again flared into the open Tuesday when Curran resigned as co-Chairman of the communist - dominated Commit­ tee for Maritime Unity. Charging that the activities of the CMU had been to "promote warfare on the waterfront with the AFL and independent unions," and that the strategy of the CMU had prolonged strikes which were later settled without any gains being made by the CMU membership, Curran pub­ licly withdi'cw from the CIO Maritime group, and announced that he was prepared to defend his views to the membership of the NMU. Although no place in his 4000 wofd prepared blast against the CMU did he mentioned the other Co-Chairman, Harry Bridges, President of the International Longshoremen's and Warehouse­ men's Union, CIO, or Joseph Stack, red-tinged NMU VicePresident, nevertheless he made reference to them when he stated that "the CMU, as it now stands, is designed as an instrument to build up certain people as a means of giving them control over our union and carrying on warfare with the American Fed­ and to carry out raids against the eration of Labor sea unions." AFL Maritime Unions. Curran admits that certain tac­ ANOTHER BLOW tics of the CMU have lead to Curran's resignation from the jurisdictional disputes such as the CMU does not necessarily mean one which caused the AFL that the NMU will follow the Waterfront Unions to freeze Coos lead. When questioned on this Bay until the CMU was forced score, Curran said that he would to allow the SUP to crew ships recommend such action, but that with which they had a contract. it would be up to the member­ COMMIES ANGRY ship to vote such a move. No official action has yet been Following as it does on the heels of the decision taken by taken against Curran's remarks, the members of the Marine Fire­ but communist officials in the men, Oilers, Watertenders, and NMU are already openly talking Wipers, an independent union, about bringing him up on charges not to affiliate with the CMU, and ousting him from his $7,800 Curran's blast strikes another a year post. blow at this group of watei-front In a press interview following unions whose only apparent pm-- announcement of his resignation, pose has been to spread disunity Curran expressed doubt that his statement would be published in the Pilpt, the official organ of the NMU. "I'm going to try to get the Pilot to tell our membership why I resigned," he declared. "If The regular bi-weekly they don't print it, I'll get my Wednesday night member­ version to the rank-and-file even ship meeting of the New if I have to print 100,000 pamph­ York Branch, originally lets and pay for them myself." scheduled for Jan. 1 will be held the following night be­ The complete text oi Curran's cause of the New Year's holi­ reasons for resigning as co-Chairday. man of the CMU starts on Page 3. All members in the Port of A general membership meeting New York are urged to at­ of the NMU will be held in Man­ tend the meeting. Remember: hattan Center on Monday eve­ ning, December 30, at which, time The time—^Thursday. Jan. it is expected that the Curran 2 at 7 pjn. statement will be debated. The The place — Webster HalL National Council of the NMU has 119 East 11th Street, New also been called upon to meet on York City. January 6 to consider the same question. N.Y. MEETtNG SIU Demands Snug Harbor Investigation This action came on the heels of a pledge of support from the SIU and the SUP, and was em­ bodied in the resolution passed at a joint special membership; meeting of the two Unions. Here is the resolution, as it was proposed by Paul Hall, SIU New York Port Agent and Chairman of the Council: NEW YORK, December 27— WHEREAS: The Marine Division j Having sent two unproductive letof Ihe ILA (Tugboalmen of ters to Snug Harbor officials reGreater New York Harbor) garding sub-standard conditions have supported the SIU-SUP in reported by various inmates, the every one of their many beefs SIU today took further steps and strikes and leading to personal investigation VyfHEHEAS: Through this support of actual Snug Harbor conditions of the Tugboatmen, it has aided by two Seafarers representatives. the SIU-SUP membership In the latest SIU letter to Snug greatly in bettering conditions Harbor Governor Howard A. and wages for our membership, Flynn, Special Services Represen­ tative Joseph H. Volpian de­ and WHEREAS: At the present time, manded such an investigation to these same Tugboatmen are substantiate or refute SIU charges now fighting for a raise in and Snug Harbor denials. Two completely unsatisfactory wages and reduction in hours against their employers in the letters liave been received by the SIU in reply to letters sent on Port of New York, and WHEREAS: It is possible that December 4 to Snug Harbor Gov­ these men will need our assis­ ernor Flynn, and on December 16 tance in many ways if they are to the Snug Harbor Trustees. to successfully carry out this Dated December 18, the first let­ ter is from Governor Flynn. As­ fight, SO, THEREFORE, BE IT RE­ serting that SIU information re­ SOLVED: That we, the SIU- garding Snug Harbor conditions SUP membership, gathered at "is undoubtedly from the same this joint special meeting go on unreliable sources as like propa­ record as notifyng Capt. W. ganda that is brought to oiu- at­ Bradley, President of the Ma­ tention from time to time," Mr. rine Division of the ILA. that Flynn's complete letter read: we stand behind his Organiza­ December 18, 1946 tion solidly 100 percent and Mr. Joseph H. Volpian will assist them in any manner Special Services Representative possible or necessary to guaran­ Seafarers Int'l Union of N.A. tee that they win their de­ 51 Beaver Street mands. and New York 4. N.Y. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: That we notify also the AFL Dear Sir; This will acknowledge receipt Maritime Port Council of Great­ er New York of our action and of your letter of December fourth. The information which inspir­ request that Body to take simi­ lar action so that all AFL Mari­ ed your communication is un­ time Unions will be solidly doubtedly from the same unreli­ back of the ILA Tugboatmen in able source as like propaganda that is brought to our attention their beef. Morris Weisberger, SUP from time to time. You may rest assui'ed that in Paul Hall. SIU PASSED UNANIMOUSLY the future as in the past the Following the unanimous adop­ Trustees of the Sailor's Snug Har­ tion of the above resolution, the bor and the Administration will other affiliate-: of the Council continue to make every possible (Continued on Page 6) {Continued on Page IJ) •'31 I'31 • ''M • .TI .'51 �Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG FridaT' l>*e»nibM 27, 1946 SEAFARERS Piihlished Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 X XXX HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK - -- -- -- - Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station P, New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 The Best To Come The year 1946 shapes up as having been the best year in the history of the Seafarers International Union. Dur­ ing this past year the Union withstood raiding attempts by the commie-dominated Committee for Maritime Unity, and has decisively licked the Wage Stabilization Board, and >iyon the highest wages and best conditions in the history of xnaritime. And with all this activity, our organization of unorganized seamen has not been neglected. It would be fine if we could announce at this time that the Isthmian election was over, and that the SIU had been ^declared the bargaining agent for the Isthmian seamen. Al­ though we have gained the overwhelming majority of the votes, NMU disruptionist tactics are stalling the certifica­ tion of the SIU, and Isthmian seamen are being deprived of the representation they want. Hospital Patients The coming year should see even more gains on the part of the SIU. Our organization is tighter than it has ever been, and our organizing campaign in the tanker field is gaining new recruits every day. Building on the already firm foundation of the Union, we will go on to better con­ tracts and more and more members in our Union. When entering the hospital notify the delegate by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital ' You can contact your Hos­ The AFL Maritime Trades Department can also look pital delegate at the Staten forward to 1947 as a year of growth and strength. The Island Hospital at the follow­ great strides made by this grouping during the first six ing times: months of its existence show that the organization has be­ These are Ihe Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. come the most powerful combination of waterfront unions as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging (on 5th and 6th floors) ~-^n the United States. Using its terrific power for good pur­ heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ Thursday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) poses, the resultant solidarity will be a decisive factor in ing to them. Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. dealing with employers. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL L. L. MOODY Men Now In The Marine Hospitals 1946 was good, but 1947 looks like it will be even better. It should be because all the members of the SIU .will be working damn hard to make it so. Thieves Fall Out The many articles written in the Log which have pointed out the basic weaknesses of the Committee for Maritime Unity were substantiated recently by one who should know what he is talking about. When Joe Curran blasts his bed partners and says that they are not really working for maritime unity, but actually to dominate the maritime industry, it is well to pause and take note of his •^ords. H. G. DARNELL THOMAS BAIER K. PETTERSSON W. F. LEWIS F. BERGLAND SCOTTY ATKINS W. QUARLES CENTRAL MASON R. M. NOLAN MEL CONTANT JACINTO NAVARRO LIONEL ROTHERHAM J. W. DENNIS W. BROCE JR. ,H. GRAY R. E. FRINK MAX SEIDEL EDWARD CUSTER JOHN HANES S. BROTHERS Joe is the President of the National Maritime Union, land was until his recent resignation, the co-Chairman of xhe CMU. His frank statement, in which he accuses the XXX tCMU of raiding the AFL seamen's unions, and of spreading disruption along the waterfront, are printed on other pages STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL p{ this edition of the Log But Joe, while his words go quite a bit to break off bis relations with the communists in the NMU, still does not tell the complete truth. He makes certain statements Sabout the power-mad leaders of the CMU and the unions that are part of the CMU, but he does not take the final (Continued on Page i) M. TROCHA C. OLIVER T. WADSWORTH C. KUPLICKI G. A. LUETH E. F. SPEAR R. G. MOSSELLER W. G. H. BAUSE W. B. MUIR H. C. L. E. C. C. E. BELCHER RASMUSSEN A. CORNWALL N. DuPONT KOLSTE R. POTTER J. BONNER XXX BALTIMORE HOSPITAL PETER LOPEZ EMILLIO DI PIETRO LEO RHODES FRANCIS O'BRIEN HARRY WALSH OLIVER HEADDLEY JOHN AMENTA MICHAEL LUCAS JAMES DAVIS MANUEL ROMERO XXX GALVESTON HOSPITAL LONGKEMPT PAURGASON—SUP ALDERHOLDS KING MITCHELL DOWELL DEETRECH SWENSOI^ CASTAGNERE—B.C. MULKE (on 1st and 2nd floors.) NEPONSif HOSPITAL LINDER CLARK J. FIGUEROA L. L. LEWIS H. SELBY H. BURKE J. S. COMPBELL B. BRYDER B. LUFLIN G. F. McCOMB E. FERRF.R R. BLAKE J. R. HENCHEY XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL H. SWIM E. JOHNSTON E. DUNPHY G. RONDI E. MAY E. DELLAMANO R: BAASNER G. VICKERY X X X ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. MCDONALD J. KOSLUSKY �:•••• v-- VJ?/: ^ .^• Friday. December 27, 1946 T H E S E AP ARERS LOG Page Three Full Text Of Curran's Statement On His Resignation From CMU Joe Curran's fears that his statement blasting the CMU, and resigning from the coChairmanship of that organi­ zation would not reach the rank-and-file due to opposition^ from his own officials, are grouhdless. It is extremely possible that the pro-communist members of the NMU Executive Board may be able to prevent publication of the statement in the Pilot, or they may be able to only'quote certain sections which would spoil the effect Mr. Curran wanted to create, but if that is done, seamen and waterfront workers are not going to be de­ prived of the report which lays bare the inner workings of the Committee for Maritime Unity. For the first time, from an of­ ficial who helped to form the CMU, the true story of how the CMU helped to spread disrup­ tion on the waterfront is set down in black and white. This is of prime importance to the members of the NMU, and to all other waterfront workers, whether they are af­ filiated to the CMU or to the AFL Maritime Unions. F or the record, here is the complete text of Joe Curran's statement: Statement of JOSEPH CURRAN, President NATIONAL MARITIME UNION in connection with resignation as Co-Chairman of CMU. total membership of les^ than one-third of our membership, are able to dictate the policies of our Union, and we have no alterna­ tive, or even veto, but must fol­ low this type of "majority" rule. ILWU DICTATORSHIP The net result of this has been that these four craft Unions, lo­ cated .3000 miles away, together with the fifth Union, a shoreside organization, the ILWU, have been dictating all policies of CMU, and have made our great industrial Union virtually a stooge for their shot-gun "unity," so to speak. Under this setup, the NMU leadership, elected by the rank and file, cannot decide our Union's policies, or fulfill its constitutional duties and respon­ sibilities to our membership. 2. Decisions are made by what is termed the "West Coast Sec­ tion" of the CMU, and in many cases, after these decisions are in effect, we are asked to approve them, without the benefit of prop­ er information or discussion. This has resulted in our Union being made responsible for many de­ cisions in which we were not or should not have been involved, such as being made a party to the jurisdictional dispute between the MCS and MFOWW craft unions and the SIU-AFL over who was to man ships of a west coast company. Another decision, made by the West Coast Section of CMU in the recent strike was to issue an ultimatum to the Masters, Mates & Pilots, one of the unions on strike, to remove their picket lines within twenty-four hours or have them, smashed by CMU. The MMP required 48 hours in which to vote on their agreements, and this ultimatum was looked upon as open strike-breaking. Neither our Union, nor I as its President, would have wanted to be a party to crashing legitimate picket lines of any Union, but without our agreement, we were made a part of this. STRIKEBREAKING This type of decision, and the manner in v/hich they are made, are certainly not in the interests of our Union and creating mari­ time unity. Under this setup, the good name of our Union can be dragged in the mud; without our consent, our Union can be used for strike-breaking. 3. Financially, our Union has contributed $30,000 to CMU, in advance, while, aside from the ILWU, the four other Unions, (Continued on Page 14) Eyewitness Answers SovietCharge Of American, British Cowardice December 24, 1946 Members of the National The following letter by Wil­ Executive Committee, CMU liam H. Harrison, a member in and good standing of the MM&P. Members and Officers of all Book number 3158. is in an­ CMU affiliated Unions: swer to Captain Andreyev's I have submitted my resigna­ article in the New York Times tion as Co-Chairman of CMU, ef­ December 14, when he accused fective at once, by wire to Union American seamen of showing leaders on the National Execu­ cowardice and abandoning tive Committee of CMU. their ships during an attack by I have taken this action in or­ German Torpedo planes off the der to bring sharply to the atten­ Norwegian coast. tion of our membership the in­ Captain Andreyev of the So­ tolerable situation that now viet Navy made his charges in exists in CMU. the newspaper Red Fleet, Oct­ As President of the National ober 12 and 15. and was re­ Maritime Union, I am constitu­ printed in the New York Times. tionally bound to inform our Harrison, a crewmember of the membership any time I am aware convoy, gives his eyewitness of any dangers to our Union, and account of what actually took I am required to take all neces­ place during the attack: sary measures to safeguard our HARRISON'S REPLY Union, the interests of our mem­ In his "Lessons of One Convoy" bership and the maritime work­ the subject of which is the fate ers generally. of the 37 merchant vessels and NMU MISLED their escort that left Reykjavik, It is for these reasons that I Iceland, for the northern ports of have submitted this resignation: the Soviet Union on June 27, first, because I believe the pre.s- 1942, Captain Andreyev of the ent situation in CMU endangers Soviet Navy charges in the news­ pur Union; and second, because paper Red Fleet October 12 and the seamen, particularly the 15: membership of our Union, are .. the crew of the Allied trans­ being misled into believing that ports did not fight stubbornly for the unity which gained much for the lives of their ships. Nothing seamen in the June 15th nego­ else could explain the fact that tiations is still the same strong the transports Navaiino, William unity, and that the CMU is cre­ Hooper and others that remained ating unity among all seamen, afloat were deserted by their while the truth is that this is not crews and sunk by the fire of the so, and has not been so since the escort." conclusion of our victories in On the afternoon of July 4, June. 1942, when the British vessel NaNow as to the dangers to our varino, the American freighter Union that I see: William Hooper and the Russian 1. We are a Union of approxim­ tanker Donbass were torpedoed, ately 90,000 members. The four the writer was a seaman aboard other CMU seamen's Unions have the American freighter Peter a combined membership of not Kerr, one of the vessels of the more than 25,000. Under the vot­ convoy. ing arrangement on the CMU FOUR GUNS Executive Committee, all Unions As the gunners of the Peter have one vote each. Thus four Kerr could bring only their four of tke six CMU Unions, with a machineguns into play in this at­ tack, my assistance was not need­ ed; also I was off watch, and so with a group of shipmates was able to witness the entii-e action from the ship's stern. • As I was unschooled as yet in Captain Andreyev's "lessons," the firepower of the convoy, in united action, appeared to my untutored eyes as devastating. As the enemy aircraft slowly circled the convoj', the escorts and ack-ack vessels firing inter­ mittently made them keep their distance. We counted 34 planes; there (Continued on Page H) What A Difference 50 Years Have Made In Lives Of Seamen From Mobile, dated December 18, 1896, a clipping has been sent to the Log showing; the differ­ ence in the lives of seamen then and now. At that time some half a hundred seamen were on strike for higher wages, but their de­ mands were certainly moderate. They demanded wages of $20.00 per month, as opposed to the go­ ing wage of $14.00 monthly. But then, as now, the business­ men of the town, and especially the owners of rooming houses near the waterfront, lined up with the shipowners. They claim­ ed that most of the men on strike Were not seamen at all, but were actually hoboes, and that the real seafaring men were not on strike. The clipping does not give the results ,of the action, so if there are any oldtimers around who know what happened, how about writing to the,Log so that the in­ formation can be given to the membership. We just wonder whether or not they ever got their ^20.00. By PAUL HALL The New York Branch in a special meeting held jointly with the* SUP this last Monday unanimously voted all-out support to the AFL Tugboatmen, who are now taking a vote on whether to strike or submit their demands to arbitration." Whatever their decision these Tugboatmen, members of Local 333 of the ILA, now know that the entire apparatus of the New York Branch of the Seafarers is behind them in their beef. This action of the membership is not surprising if for no other reason than that the Tugboatmen were squarely behind us in all our beefs, and the Seafarers does not forget who its friends are. But more than that, it is the normal action for one AFL maritime union to take whenever another of its Maritime Trades Council affiliates takes economic action. And it should be noted here that the SIU was notalone in its decision. A meeting of the Greater New York AFL Maritime Council placed the moral, physical and eco­ nomic resources of the combined organizations at the disposal of the Tugboatmen. Here To Stay By this time the operators should know that whdn they tangle with one of the AFL waterfront unions they are also tangling with every other AFL union that is connected with the maritime indus­ try, and that the old days when they could isolate the weakest union and attempt to srnasii it is gone. The AFL Maritime Council, which started going at the time of of the SIU-SUP successful strike against the bureaucrats of the Wage Stabilization Board, is no longer an experimental outfit. By this time it has reached its full growth, knows its way around, and knows how to use all of its potential strength—, and. Brother, it has plenty of that—just ask the WSB, the shipowners and the finky union-raiding CMU of Harry Bridges. The Four Watch System One of the demands of the Tugboatmen is for a 40-hour week. That this should be fought so bitterly by the operators is just one more example of their placing profits above everything else. In prac­ tically every other major industry, the 40-hour week is common­ place; in some the 37- and 35-hour week has been established. The American Federation of Labor is about to start a campaign for the 30-hour week which, according to the economists, can be absoi'bed by industry without decreasing wages or raising prices. Only in maritime, the last great industry to escape from economic slavery, are skilled workers to be found putting in such long hours. From time to time the Seafarers has put forth the demand for a four watch system. Unfortunately, the time was not yet ripe, but the goal has not been forgotten. So the Seafarers looks with just more than plain curiosity at the Tugboatmen's demand for the 40hour week. The time will come, and it won't be long, when the four watch system will be a reality; and when it does it wiR be because the Seafai-ers seized the right time to throw its entire strength into the beef. Still On The March Although the active part of the Isthmian campaign was over with the end of the voting—what remains now is the consolidation of our strength in the fleet to protect ourselves during future con­ tract negotiations—it is not to be thought that the Seafarers has finished wih its organizing drive. The Seafarers is not standing still; we have many irons in the fire in the general dry cargo and tanker fields. It is true that Isthmian was the largest "unorganized line, but there are many smaller outfits that are getting our at­ tention. You'll hear more about these later. Watch the Log. In connection with this, the Agents Conference next year, which will meet directly after the new officials are installed, will have as one of its major jobs the question of further tightening the or­ ganization. Much progress was made during, the past two years, organizationally, and the streamlined Seafarers is running much more efficiently. However, the beefs we were in the past year have shown a few defects that must be straightened out before we can get the maximum efficiency. Nobody can deny that we did okay —our records speaks for itself—but we can do better than that. And we will! Thieves Fall Out (Continued from Page 2) step to show that they are all working under certain orders, and for purposes far removed from the labor movement. Joe Curran knows that the CMU was set up on orders of the communist party. "He knows that the CP dictates every move, and he has business to tell what he knows, so that the American labor movement can rid itself of the Moscow-directed traitors, and save itself from dictator­ ship by the red fascists. �mSE 9 EAmABEES hO^a Four WHAT Friday;» .D*oMnbec 27,- 18461 Qffi Silica On Isthmian Further proof that the NMU's charges of collusion between the SIU and the Isthmian Steamship Qompany rest on a shaky foun­ dation was brought out this week by a statement in the Pilot, of­ ficial organ of the NMU, that fur­ ther evidence would be withheld until a more opportune time. QUESTION — In what port would you like to spend New Years Eve? ROGER SWANSON. Wiper: I'm a New Yorker and Tm used lo the way people carry on in this town. If I had my way I'd spend this New Years Eve in Rio. That's one of the prettiest places in the whole world, and just as clean as it can be. The celebration there is colorful, and a fellow can have a fine time. I've been forced to spend many New Years Eve cele­ brations in slow ports, but Rio is a fine, fast moving port, and that's the one for me. Not this year of course, but next year I hope to make it. WILLIAM ABERCROMBIE, OS: I'd just as soon pass the time at sea as any other place. I usually take it easy on New Years Eve. As far as I'm concerned it's just like any other night, and I don't see any sense in blowing a bank­ roll in a night club. If things go okay with me, I'll get a ship and ^end New Years Eve at sea the way I like to. People have the -idea that all seamen like to drink and raise hell. Well, -that's not true. I know plenty of guys who feel the way I do about New Years Eve. After starting out the series on so-called collusive practices with a loud fanfare, the stories have now fizzled out without proving anything more than that the SIU was able to do a much better or­ ganizing job among Isthmian sea­ men than the NMU. The Pilot's stories were re­ ceived apathetically by practic­ ally all seamen and waterfront workers. No evidence was pre­ sented that bore out in the slight­ est detail the wild charges made When it became apparent that the NMU was suffering a decisive licking in the Isthmian election. JOHN ECOCK. Wiper: I know it's impossible this year, but my ambition is to spend one New Years Eve in Rio De Janiero. I've never been there, and I guess I might even be disap­ pointed, but still and all I want to be there for the celebration. Friends have told me of what goes on. down there, but I want to see for myself. A real.hot time is^a good way to start off the New. Year. Since I can't spend New Years Eve in Rio, I'll have to have my hot time in some New York bar. Well, that should be fun. ii iliil ilultillth Machine Makes Copy Fly, As Seafarers Are Kept Informed When the Union purchased a multililh offset printing machine in June 1946, it made one of the smartest investments an organi­ zation could make. Since that day, six months ago, the mach­ ine has paid for itself over again several times, and proved itself indispensable during beefs when leaflets and literature are needed in a hurry. When the machine was deliv­ ered bright and shiny last June and installed on the 5th floor of the New York Hall, only one thing kept the machine from go­ ing into immediate action; there Was no one who knew how to operate it. OPERATOR FOUND Immediately the call went out for a multilith operator, and just as. someone once said, "You can find any trade you want around a. Seafarers' hall," someone was found in the person of Hugh Eatherton. Hugh, 9 Seafarer since 1944 when he received his baptism of fire at Normandy, proved im­ mediately that he and a multilith machine were not strangers when he took over the operation and .started things humming. , Hugh, hailing from St. Louis, Mo., had started operating the same type machine ten years ago when he worked for a steel com­ pany in St. Louis. After working with the machine for a number of years with, various companies he developed, his skill. Expert operators of this type machine ALPHONSO PARKER, UtiUty; I'm going to spend this New Years Eve in New York, andihaf's the way. I' like it. My family lives here and so does my girl friend. The best wuy to start off the New Year is with people you like, so I'll spend the evening with my girl and my friends in some night cluh and the next day we'll go to a show. I spent one New Years Eve in New Orleans and I was very unhappy. Of course, that was during the war, but I still prefer to be home with my loved ones. LEAFLETS FOR THE SlU are difficult to find and the Un­ ion was fortunate to find one in its midst. ULTRA-MODERN The machine itself is one of the most modern means of printing clean, clear material at a mini­ mum of cost and has the greatest adaptability of any machine of its kind. The machine with all attachments cost approximately .$2500 and is used to print interbi-anch material such as bulletins, pamphlets, leaflets, pledge cards, "social register" feards, and over­ time sheets. Of the last mention­ ed over 100,000 copies have been run off. The machine has a run-off speed of 600a copies per hour and among its features are: automatic suction feed; thermo-dryer, which casts infra-red rays on the print as it comes off the rollers; a jog­ ger, which stacks the printed copies in neat piles; automatic counter; self-cleaning mats; auto­ matic roller cleaner; and auto­ matic inking. Although' everything on the machine sounds automatic it still needs someone to set the auto­ matic processes up for every job and that is where Hugh comes in. GREAT FLEXIBILITY The machine has a great deal of flexibility fpr it will handle all types of paper from tissue to 3 ply card stock. In addition, the machine will reproduce anything typewritten, or sketched with either pencil or ink in designs of, REPORT READY Now, with the findings of the National Labor Relations Board Field Examiner about ready for presentation to Mr. Howard LeBarron, Regional Director of the NLRB, the NMU and the Pilot have started to back water. : They know that the flimsy charges which they have made in an attempt to cover up their own inability to appeal to unor­ ganized Isthmian seamen cannot possibly do them any good in a fair investigation by an impartial board. The end is just about in sight, and soon Isthmian seamen will be represented by the Seafarers international Union—a Union not under the influence of the com­ munist party, and a Union in which the elected leaders are not fighting for personal power. Seafarers Grew To The Rescue Hugh Eatherton, SIU member and expert multilith op­ erator, holds a sample of the leaflets prepared by the machine. Hugh is in charge of the multilith, and is experienced in turn­ ing out the material which has played a large part in keeping the SIU membership quickly informed on all actions of the Union. any kind. The maehine can also reproduce photofi(raphs of any type. During the 1946 General Strike when literature of all kinds was necessary in a hurry, the machine really earned its spurs, when it operated day and night turning out literature for all ports at top speed. During the strike alone the machine paid for itself through low cost, of printing, "(approxi­ mately, ,1/2 to .l/3„ the regular cost) and the speed with which material was made available for distribution. During; the General Strike, ahdi the Masters, Mates, and Pilots strike, over one-half million copies of material were turned out. There is no way of detei'mining the value of having a well in­ formed membership during a critical period such as the Gen­ eral Strike, but the multilith machine did all that was possible to keep the membership up to date on the beef and that was the important thing. At present, the SIU's machine is still running along its merry way saving money for the union and- getting the necessary^ forms and leaflets out when necessary. MONT JOLI, Que., Dec. 27— The Seafarer crew of the SS Colabee was reported battling its way through the ice floes of the St. Lawrence River today on a. life-or-death rescue mission. The men are searching for two, and possibly, three, survivors of the Quebec Airways plane which was forced down on the river early this week. The victims are believed to be drifting seaward on floes. Four of the plane's seven oc­ cupants have already been brought to shore. The fourth man was rescued Wednesday night af­ ter he climbed into a dinghy dropped from a plane. He said the two men with him were too weak to get into the dinghy, and that he believed that the third man unaccounted for may have drowned. TANKERMEN If you are on coastwise ar­ ticles. give the head of your Department 24 hours notice before, arriving in port if you wish to payoff. This will,pre­ vent any trouble when, the ship, renohes port. �Friday.'Daeember'27, 1948 ON THE BAUXITE RUN Galmar's Gominamdnmiita For Making Seamen Scabs By JAMES PURCELL We went aboard the SS Wil­ liam Pepperell of the Calmer Line for a sign-on and found the crew in an uproar. While trying to get our bear­ ings we went into the saloon to see what was wrong. In there we found a company representa­ tive trying to high-pressure the men into signing the Articles with a phony set of rules at­ tached. • These rules are without doubt the finkiest and the most ob­ noxious set of rules that we have ever laid our eyes on. Why, even the Holy Rollers would never at­ tempt to saddle their member­ ship with so many silly and dan­ gerous "Thou Shalt Not's." Here are the regulations that caused all the to-do: It is understood that the wages payable under these ar­ ticles shall be adjusted at the lime of paying off in-order to give effect to the following: 1. Crew to work until 5 p. m. on day of arrival at final port of discharge. 2. Crew to work cargo and/or ballast if requested by Mas­ ter. 3. Crew to kep their respec­ tive quarters clean and sani­ tary under penalty of a fine. 4. No liberty granted other than by permission of the Master. 5. Any member of crew fail­ ing to report for duty at 7 a. m. on sailing day in a so­ ber condition shall be dis­ charged and substitute ship­ ped in his stead. 6. Seamen to keep galley sup­ plied with coal. 7. No smoking allowed on deck except at time and place designated by Master. 8. No overtime to be paid ex­ cept it is agreed to by Master. 9. You also agree that upon failure to return articles of bedding, issued to you on joining ship and life saving equipment and arctic cloth­ ing when issued to you, to reimburse the company and have cost of same deducted from your wage account. Page Five TRE SEAFARERS LOG and RAY GANZALES to read just like any other stand­ ard rider aproved by the Union for intercoastal runs. By this time he loked a .sorry mess, and he pleaded with us to get his ship out. He told us that he ain't a bad guy at heart, and that we should play ball with him. Oh, Bellevue, where is thy wagon! We called the Company this time and told them that in order to sail that ship they would have to reduce the time of the Articles from 12 months to six months; scrape the Nine Commandments; and insert the regular transpor­ tation rider. They hemmed and hawed, but they finally came through. Now Brothers, let this be a warning to all hands not to signon unless a Patrolman is present to examine the Articles. This will protect you, and will prevent the company from trying to saddle you with phony "Thou Shall", or "Thou Shalt Not." M A lot of the credit for making the Seaton the smooth sailing ship she is must go to the Deck > Gang. No names were submitted with this picture, which was sent in by the New Orleans •" Branch, so we just present the Deck Department, and if one of you Seaton hands will send the names to the Log, we will publish them in a subsequent edition. (Editor's Note: This should Show that names are important. Unless you send the names, of people in pictures to the Log, the Log cannot print those names with the pictures. Okay, New Orleans, better luck next time.) Members Must Be Self-Appointed Organizers To Keep SlU Growing By LOUIS GOFFIN With shipping on the upswing, our main thoughts now must be concerned with job security. Job security is the most important thing in any union, and the way we can maintain it is by going out and organizing all unorgani­ zed lines. That will mean more jobs, and higher standards in the industry. It is therefore the personal duty of all of us to constitute ourselves as volunteer organizers. We must all feel that we alone can do the job, and if we work out like that, than all of us will talk and reason unorganized men. We have the facts, and we can prove to any non-union seaman that sailing on union ships has many advantages. We have a good record to sell, and since our Union has been in the fore­ front of the fight for all seamen, That one about smoking is a we shouldn't have any trouble in rule that they don't even try to selling SIU to all unorganized enforce in prisons, and here free seamen. men are asked to live up to ^uch STRENGTH IN UNION a phony command. And that one More and more seamen are about the "crew to work cargo starting to realize that the only and/or ballast if required to by protection they can be sure of is Master." union protection. If they rely on Shades of Chowderhead Cohen! the shipowner or the Government, Even that finkmaster would not they usually wind up well behind ask that of his professional finks. the eight-ball," but when they Imagine the SHI agreeing to fink put their faith in the Union, and on longshoremen in case they put their strength behind the have labor trouble in some port. Union, they come out on top. Calmar and Company must Union contracts are the best have underestimated the intel­ guarantee of wages and work­ ligence of this crew, or else .they ing conditions. Plenty of bosses thought the signing on was being will say that they are willing to held in the loony ward of the give good conditions and high Bellevue Hospital. wages without "union interfer­ After much discussion with the ence." Well, if that is true, why company representative, the big- didn't they do it before the unions hearted guy, agreed to scratch off became strong enough to force six of the Acts of Calmar. We them to do so? refused to budge a single inch, Sailing in peacetime is a lot so off he went to make a tele­ different from sailing in wartime. phone call. During the war we were heroes He came back soon, and the in dungarees, but when the shoot­ gall to say that Mr. Squiers hq^ ing stopped, the people went called the Union Hall, and had right back to thinking of us as ben told that the crew should wanderers and vagabonds. sign-on without delay. FIGHT eONTINUES . Needless to say, we told him We must think of ourselves as what to do with that line of talk, and that we weren't going to tradesmen, trying to make a liv­ move until the rider was changed ing in our chosen profession. We want to sell our services for the highest possible price, and our contracts assure us that no oper­ ator will force us to accept less money or poorer conditions to get a job. The food aboard the William Seaion is iop order. Ask the man who eats if, and the men on this ship were very willing to talk about Ihe excellent meals prepared and served by the Stewards Department. In the usual order, Ed Steeley, Chief Cook; Albert Brickhouse, Night Cook; Thomas Foster, Steward; and Fred Knox, 3rd Cook. Remember that a short while ago, within the past few years, we hit the bricks many times just to gain the conditions and wages that are now part of our contracts. Now we have the job of bet­ tering our conditions and wages, and the only way that can be done is by organizing all seamen, so that the ohperators cannot break our solid ranks. Within our Union we must continue the same cooperation that has made us strong. All De­ partments must work together, and that makes for a clean ship, a well run ship, and a happy ship. Let's make 1947 a good organ­ izing year for our own benefit and for the benefit of all SIU Brothers. We believe in our Union, and we are proud of being the best maritime union in the world. New Orleans played host to the SS William Seaton, Alcoa, after she came in from one of the bauxite runs. Most of the crew decided to stay aboard her for another run, although a few men left to spend the holidays where snow is not thought of as a miracle. Pictured here is the Black Gang. Left to right, Albert Williams, George, Charles, and Louis Daniels, David Moore, and Don De Souza. MINES STILL THimATEN SEAMEM ^ W' •# The war in Europe ended over a year and a half ago, l^t to Sea­ farers danger still beckons ships that ply the continental Euro­ pean coast, for according to the master of an Army transport that recently returned to the United States, the English Channel and North Sea still contain many mines laid during the war years. The war is over for the men who fought in Europe, but to the seamen who sail these waters, the aftermath of that struggle still re­ mains below the water's surface to harass him. �•~r THB SEAFARERS LOG Page Six Rum And Fights Are No Help When Trying To Organize Committee Aids Anti-Fascists In Europe NEW YORK—The Internation­ al Solidarity Committee, 303 Fourth Avenue, New York, today announced tiie gift of $1,000 from the International Ladies Garment Workers Union, AFL, to be used for relief packages for Spanish exiles in France. The ISC is a non-communist, non-profit organization set up solely to aid in the rehabilitation of European anti-fascists and trade unionists who felt the brunt of the fascist heel. This is ac­ complished through the dispatch­ ing of packages of food and medicine abroad to them. The work of this Committee has been a great factor in keep­ ing the spirit of democratic trade unionism alive in the devastated sections of Europe. The packages sent abroad, the Committee points out, bring not only bodily nourishment, but also moral encouragement. The sur­ vivors of the Gestapo and con­ centration camps are anxious to rebuild the unions and demo­ cratic organizations which were destroyed by the fascists. These food packages are their only means of regaining enough strength to carry on this work. FAMILIES ADOPTED Another important function of the International Solidarity Committee is to transmit the names of the many anti-fascists who need help to people who will provide the needed assis­ tance. The Committee has on hand the names and addresses of many families of all nationalities in need of help. Hundreds of fami­ lies have already been adopted, but there are many more who would be helped to a new life by being adopted by an individual or a family. Names and addresses can be obtained by writing to the com­ mittee at their New York ad­ dress. 1 At the present time the com­ mittee is conducting a campaign to send more packages of food to anti-fascists in Europe. The standard package used is the army surplus ten-in-one which contains many of the things un­ obtainable in Europe today. This package can be purchased for shipment for $10.00. The daily press was fascinated by a report that picketing of a San Pedro, Calif., bakery had gone into its sixth year. This was quickly forgotten, Jiowever, when it discovered a 93-y'ear-old coal mine strike at Nanaimo, British Columbia. It seems that Indian miners went on strike for higher pay in 1853 and never went back to work. The Indians are demanding re­ troactive wages for 93 years with pprtal-to-portal pay, and the miner owner—reasonable as all mine owners are—says he's quite willing to meet their terms if he cap pay them off in -wampum. Friday, D^ember 27. 1946 By J. M. WALSH Bill Thompson (Editors Note; — This letter liability, and a number of other was sent in to the LOG by such' items to point out to the "Looking back on 27 years of "Windy" Walsh, Organizer for younger men, they can influence sailing," says Bill Thompson, the SIU in Port Arthur. His their actions to such an extent Deck Engineer, "I still think that ideas are strictly his own, but that they are lost as far as be­ it's the only life for a man." since they seem to represent a coming Union men. Bill ought to know because he problem, we are printing the SERIOUS MATTER tried other jobs, but only at­ letter as a signed article, in the I am citing this one incident tained happiness when he startec hope that this entire situation in order to bring this deplorable sailing. He came to the life of a can be discussed and settled state of affairs to the attention of merchant seaman almost by ac­ before it becomes more serious. our membership. It is serious. cident, but has never regrettec There is no reason "to believe Brothers, as we are actually en­ his choice. that this has happened on more gaged in an all out struggle for than this one ship, but even so our right to existence in the Thompson was raised in an or­ it bears discussing. The great Tanker field. phanage, but at an early age he success of the SIU Organizing slipped away in the night and has Many more such incidents as Drive has been made possible this one, and I wouldn't give a been on his own ever since. He solely because of the whole­ plugged dime for our chances in bummed around the country, try­ hearted cooperation of all mem­ this outfit. ing any sort of job he could get, bers; this cooperation will not and when the first World War Sometimes a shipside or shorebe reduced by an outspoken side organizer has to spend hours started, he was among the first beef by one of the officials of or even days in convincing some to enlist. unorganized sailor that unionism He sailed to France with the he made arrangements to ship the Union.) is the only way to security. famed 30th Division, and al­ out. I recently made a Cities Serv­ It takes more than just talk, though he was under fire for His first trips were made in the ice ship in Lake Charles, talking many months, he never was Steward's Department. He start­ with pi'actically every member of too. It takes good example, and touched. ed as a Second Cook, but after a ;he crew—SIU, NMU and non­ personal likeability to convince quite a lot of these men riding year and a half, he shifted to the union alike. "I must bear a charmed life," Engine Department, where he has he says. "In this war I came pret­ I had to wait for seven hours these ships since the only contact stayed ever since. ty close also, and this time I for the ship to arrive, and was most of them have ever had with Unions, is the very same shipside Most of the trips were routine wasn't touched, either." gratified to find that, the ship was voyages to the Far East and to in excellent shape with three organizers. SEA STUFF They look at our men riding Africa, and as Bill puts it, "One NMU men aboard ajid three unde­ these unorganized ships as repComing home after the Armis­ trip is very much like another cided and bewildered characters. resentaive of our whole mem­ tice, Bill got to talking with some when you have been sailing for I left her at ten o'clock, and at bership. That they are. And if of the merchant seamen on the 27 years." that time only one of our boys they choose to conduct them- • Thompson, deciding to make boat. Although they worked un­ was paying off. The crew as a selves in a sloppy manner, or in der poor conditions, and although the sea his life, also decided to whole assured me that they were an abusive manner, or with utter the pay was bad. Bill was im­ do something about making his going to make the ship SIU 100 disregard for the rights of their pressed with the stories they told life as pleasant as possible. First percent by the arrival time in shipmates, they are doing some­ him. So once back in the States, off, he joined the old ISU, and Boston. They were going to stay thing that cannot be undone. when the SIU was formed, he with her until such time. That A first impression goes a long came along. He holds Gulf book was the story at ten o'clock at way, if backed up with subse­ number 18 in the SIU. night. quent proof. The way to prove MORE WAR The next morning I got a rude that unionism does work is to be In the second World War, Bill shock to find seven of our good the best man in your Depart­ had his share of excitement. He Brothers in the hall. They had ment: do a little more than you was on a regular run in the North had an argument with one of the would on one of our ships. Atlantic, and while he never was Engineers, and one of them had Always maintain smooth rela­ forced to abandon ship, still there had a run in with the Mate and tions with the Licensed Officers, (Continued from Page 1) were many moments when the air was fired. It was all the result as they can, if they will, do us were notified, and they immed­ seemed full of bombs and the sea of too much drink and too much a lot of good, and they will do us iately went on record to back the seemed full of torpedoes. gin-mill palavering. a lot of harm if antagnoized-. Tugboatmen. 'Casablanca and Antwerp were Also, don't make any untrue POOR PICTURE statement that can be used The New York Council in­ the two places that wil stand out That ship could by this action cludes the following Unions: The in my memory for a long time," of our own brothers be lost to us. against you later on in rebuttal says Brother Thompson. "Those of your arguments. Seafarers International Union; There are on every type of un­ Sailors' Union of - the Pacific; buzz bombs in Antwerp were organized ships, new seamen who SOFT SOAPERS Masters, Mates and Pilots; Inter­ really something. They came actually do not know what un­ The commies have some very national Longshoremen's Asso­ from nowhere, and it was sure ionism and union men are. They plausible and smooth cookies ciation; Radio Officers' Union; hell on earth to have to stand must get a very pretty picture functioning aboard these tankers American Merchant Marine Staff there and take it without a chance from such actions. as organizers. If you have to Officers Association; and various to fight back." drink, don't do it on board a These men having Union books On 'ships, and on the picketwaterfront locals of the Team­ ship; if you get plastered ashore are supposed to know how to conline, Bill is a militant fighter. He sters. and return to the ship, hit the .duct themselves. It is well and was on the picketline in Savan­ sack—don't disturb everyone in "The entire support of the AFL nah during the 1936 Strike, and good to try to organize the un­ Maritime Trades Council of helped to close the docks in Tam­ licensed personnel, but we must your room or foc'sle, they too Greater New York is behind the pa during the 1946 General not lose sight of the fact that want to sleep . Don't get involved in anj'^ Tugboatmen," said Paul Hall, in Strike. we do not liave union conditions brawls, and don't smear the op­ announcing the pledge. "If they on board these ships, and until ALWAYS MILITANT position. Name-calling is an ever, should strike, no member of an such time as we do, we must As well as marching on picket- make every effort to get along present weapon of the opposite affiliate of the Council will cross side, and if we should start it lines, Brother Bill does not shirk with the Licensed personnel. their picketlines. his duty, aboard ship. He is aboard these ships, the prospec­ They can make it tough for the "In addition, the entire facili­ usually elected Ships Delegate— individual crewmember, as he has tive member may get bewildered ties of the member unions will "can't get out of it." no machinery for redress except and say, "The hell with both un­ be at the disposal of the Tugboat­ "I believe in unionism 100 per­ appeal to the Master, and you ions, I'll stay as I am." men, and that includes soup kit­ Remember it is the shipside or­ chens,''money and physical sup­ cent," he says, "and I think the know that in 99 percent of all ganizer that does 90 percent of SIU is always in the fight for cases he will not, intervene. port." all the organizing. The shoreside seamen. I talk Union to all my These Mates and Engineers can The worth of the Maritime shipmates, and that helps make organizer merely coordinates the do us harm by talking against us. Council, formed in June of this us all better Union men." functions of the shipside organi­ If they have concrete facts such year, has already been proven. Right now Bill is in port for a as drunkenness, fighting, unre- zer and maintains constant touch It actively aided the SIU and the short time—his ship just paid with the shipside units. SUP to win their General Strike off—but he will soon be off again Don't depend on us too much, against Government bureaucracy, on a trip. And wherever he goes, be self reliant, and if the spirit and played a major role in the on whatever ship he may find a of pooperation is maintained be­ recent strike of the Masters, berth, you can be sure that the tween you an us, there is no doubt If you don't find linen Mates and Pilots. that we can and will lick them militant spirit of the SIU will go, when you go aboard your The AFL Maritime Trades De­ too. all in the organizing of these ship, notify the Hall at once. partment will meet in Miami in tankers. That's what makes this Union A telegram from Le Havre or January, 1947, for the purpose of the best and strongest waterfront So, Brothers, I say: Keep your Singapore won't do you any drafting a Constitution, and to union in the world. Bill, and noses clean, and we will have good. It's your bed and you elect permanent officers. The men like Bill, have done the job everything which is unoi-ganized have to lie in it. SIU and the SUP will both be of carrying the word of the SIU at present, in the fold in the not represented at that, convention. too distant future. to all seamen. 0 AFL Port Council Votes Support To ILA Tugmen ATTENTION! a-A':, �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, December 27,. 1946 Galveston Sick * Still Waiting For Improvements Mobile Has Jobs For Men Broke Playing Santa By CHARLES KIMBALL By TED CUMMINGS MOBILE—Not only has ship­ ping and business picked up con­ siderably in the past few weeks in this port, but prospects for the future look very bright. After a dead period here, we look for­ ward eagerly to activity. From now on, Mobile will be a port with many jobs on the board, and with men shipping regularly and quickly. Well, any­ way, we hope so. Waterman Steamship Com­ pany has notified me that they are prepared to start operating about 23 more ships within the next week or so. They are bring­ ing the ships out of the boneyard, and the group will consist of 11 Liberties and 12 various other type vessels. The Liberties are going to tramp, but the others will be put on regular runs. In any case, these ships represent quite a num­ ber of jobs, and that ain't hay, Brothers. MEN WANTED The Tanker Companies have also been bringing out tankers during the past couple of weeks. This has just about exhausted our supply of men, mainly ABs, Cooks, Electricians, Oilers, and FWTs. So, after all you Brothers have spent Chirstmas and New Years at home, and after you have all gone broke playing Santa Clans, come down to Mobile where you can ship out in a hurry. To all the SlU Brothers, wher­ ever you may be, on the high seas or in some foreign port, 1 and the Brothers in Mobile wish you all a very merry Christmas. Seafarers' Hall In Port Arthur HO NEWS?? Is Due For A Good Face Lifting By LEON JOHNSON PORT ARTHUR — During the past few weeks this port has had not one payoff of any descrip­ tion. Business has fallen so low that you would have to get down on your knees to see it. On the other hand shipping and settling minor beefs has been in full swing. Since the last article 1 wrote we have had the following ships in this area: Brandy wine. Fort Matanzas, Capitol Reef, Klamath Falls, Fort Christina, William Schirmer, David Burnett, Wil­ liam Ogden, Verendrye, Brazil Victory and Zane Gray. We have been engaged in hav­ ing the Hall here remodeled a bit so that we would have something that looks presentable. We have coffee on practically all of the time, provide plenty of cards, etc., for the amusement of the small membership that we have on the beach here. Shipping for rated men is on the whole better at the present time than it was in the past. We are having two payoffs over the weekend, one a tanker going to France and the other an UNRRA rice load for Manila. Since it is so close to Christmas, we should have a little hard time in getting full crews for these scows. PICTURES COMING We will have pictures made of the Hall as soon as the front of the building is completely fin­ ished, with fancy blinds over the windows. We have with us at the pres­ ent time. Windy Walsh, Organ­ izer, with who we are cooperating to the best of our ability. It is a local rumor that this Casanova lOOK. PKETTr' To Hospitalized Seafarers Gives In keeping wih its annual cus­ tom of bringing a measure of cheer to its less fortunate mem­ bers who are confined to hos­ pitals during the holiday season, the Seafarers International Un­ ion last week distributed Christjuas checks to all hospitalized Seafarers in the Atlantic and Gulf District. The decision to remember the men whom illness prevented from fully enjoying the Yuletide season was made at recent meet­ ings by vote of the membership. Accompanying the checks was a message from the Union. The message follows: "The membership of the Sea­ farers International Union went on record to send a Christmas gift in the amount of $10.00 to' every member in the hospital. "With the gift goes our best wishes for a very Merry Christ­ mas and a speedy recovery in the New York." Page Seven, — HOtD ITI is getting himself spliced. We'll believe that when we see it. Voting in this port has been negligible as we have a hard time getting three full book men together at any one time, although we do have a fine crop of young­ er members who appear to be good prospects for good rankand-file members in the near fu­ ture. They take a great deal of interest in all phases of the Un­ ions activities. CROOKED WORK The Hall had a little run of bad luck recently when some character lifted our radio. He also left his mark on quite a few of the local boys on the beach. At present he has the dubious honor of being a full time member of the 99-year club. It is also a very good possibility that if he runs into any one of a number of re­ sentful persons here, he will be given some unwanted attention. The following books are on hand and can be picked up at any time by the interested parties: Edison H. Dobbs, 37069; Charles A. Pelt, 45339; and Charles O. Greenwood, 46501. We have received quite a num­ ber of Christmas and New Years greetings from the various branches and individual mem­ bers, and 1 wish to take this op­ portunity to thank each and every one. Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: CHARLESTON HOUSTON NORFOLK JACKSONVILLE TAMPA The deadline for port re­ ports. monies due, etc.. is the Monday preceeding publica­ tion. While every effort will be made to use in the current issue material received after that date, space commitments generally do not permit us to do so. So play safe—send your copy in on time. CMU Pulls New Phony Strike; SlU-SUP Ready For Anything By W. H. SIMMONS SAN FRANCISCO — The old Gold Coast is slowly coming back to life after too long a time. Things are moving along pretty good at this writing. However, am having a bad time with the Calmar Steamship Company. The ACA Radio Operators, CIO, has had a picketline around all Cal­ mar ships on this coast for the past thi-ee weeks. Calmar has had ROU, AFL, Operators on their ships since the war, and now, due to that fact, the ROU has called and filed for an election on the ships of this Company. The ACA saw that their only chance of making Cal­ mar sign with them was to act on this coast. They are sure to get the commie CMU backing, as Harry Bridges controls the Longshoremen. The CMU ordered the MEBA Local No. 38 to pull the En­ gineers off the SS J. Willard Gibbs, a Calmar ship, docked in Seattle. Now, the MEBA does not hold a contract with Calmar, or so far as that goes, 1 know of no closed shop agreement they have with any company. PHONY PICKETLINE When this thing first broke, the SUP, SIU, and MM&P went on record not to recognize this phony ACA picketline, due to the fact they did not have a legitimate right to put a picketline around thie Calmar ships. They do not have an existing agreement with the Company. However, these are the facts they are basing their claim to an agreement with Calmar on. Be­ fore the war Calmar did have ACA Radio Operators, but during the war all ships that they con­ trolled were sunk by enemy ac­ tion. As you know, during this time our Government started a vast ship building program and own­ ed and operated these ships. The WSA is still operating these ves­ sels and' does not recognize any agreement with the ACA Radio Operators. Therefore, under these conditions, we cannot recog­ nize this as a bona-fide picketine and we do not on the West Coast. GALVESTON —Wc have been having quite a few beefs on the treatment given at the Marine Hospital in Galveston. One in particular came up the other day. Brother Miller, who paid off in Galveston a few weeks ago, was suffering from the effecte of an operation he had under­ gone in the New York MarineHospital .several months ago. Acting on the advice of the Public Health doctor in Port Arthur he went to the Marino Hospital here. Here is Brother Miller's state­ ment: "Upon entering the hospit­ al I was asked nothing; they said nothing and told me nothing—• nor did they examine me. They merely put me in a car, and next I knew I was in the John Sealy Hospital. NO EXAMINATION "After five days they discharg­ ed me without a physical and I still have the nervous trouble. "1 went to the Union Hall where they called Dr. Lewis, who is in charge at the Marine Hos­ pital, concerning my case and he At present these ships are all idle and 1 can not say as this time how long the situation will con­ tinue. The MM&P and SIU men are still aboard these vessels and are going to stay there. Just in case the WSA tries to do any re­ allocating, 1 will see that Calmar Steamship lives up to their agree­ ment with the Union. SORRY MATE About ten days ago, the Joshua Bartlett, Eastern SS Company, arrived in this port. She had a referred me back to the doctor at full SIU crew from the East John Sealy HoBpital. Coast. This was as fine a crew "He in turn referred me back as I've bumped into for a long to Dr. Lewis for the following time. Brother Gardner brought day, with the understanding that her in in the old SIU style. He I was to be confined for one is a man who knows his Union, week's convalescence at the Mar­ and how to carry out his duties ine Hospital. as a Ship's Delegate. "Upon arriving there. Dr. Lewis When Brother Gardner gave changed my discharge from 'fit me the story on the Chief Mate, for duty' to read 'one week's cona Mr. Momfourquette, 1 knew valscent leave' and issued me a that it was correct. This Mr. box of vitamin B tablets and Momfourquette was anti-union. nembutal for sleeping. He remai-ked about his outfit out "It was understood I was sup­ on strike, saying they were all posed to have stayed in the Mar­ a bunch of dam fools for striking; ine Hospital for one week. Butthat no agent could fool with him; and he chiseled overtime and cus­ as this hospital is run, you go in sed the men. He was charged and out as you please and, if with about everything in the you wish, to a bar across the street if your crutches can carry book. you. Listening to all the capers this NOT FOR LIVING bully pulled on this voyage, there was nothing left to do but have "To this day they have not ex­ him removed from the ship. He amined me. 1 left the remainder will never sail as Mate or on any of the nembutal capsules in my other SIU ship again. room and went back and was is­ 1 had the Master, Mates and sued more. These capsules are Pilots Patrolman with me the day issued upon doctor's prescription 1 boarded the ship. He listened only, but 1 walked in twice and in on the meeting and was pres­ got them without even an exam­ ent when 1 called on the Mate. ination. The outcome is that this Mate "My trouble is from an opera­ was posted in all MM&P Branch­ tion which they don't even knovr es as NG. So goes it, fellows, he 1 had. But let them answer this has learned his lesson but a little article and they will be doing too late. something. These Mates and Captains will "My advice, fellow shipmates some day wake up and realize and members, is. to die first — that they just can't push an SIU then let them take you to the man around. 'Dem days are gone Galveston Marine Hospital and forever. For the benefit of those maybe the doctors will know men who had to endure this what is the matter with you Mate's doings on previous voy­ then." ages, they can rest assured they Outside of this everything is will never need tolerate him any going along nicely down here. more. He has gone the way of Shipping is good and everyone all bad Mates. is happy. I'll drop anchor here. �r— THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eight Friday. December 27. 1946 'a I mil , ' Big Business Makes Resolution For New Year; Smash Trade Unions By JOE ALGINA NEW YORK—The president of ord for beefs settled right on the CJeneral Motors Corporation, board ship. That's the way we Alfred Sloan, recently issued an operate—pressure at the point of eight point program designed to ^ production. keep labor in its place. He is the i We had a young fellow come last man to talk about such' into the Hall this week off the things because he is one guy who SS American Press. This ship would be dead set against any had just been taken over from rules that would limit bosses. the NMU, and the ship was in as To say that his ideas are all bad condition as any vessel could wet is very mild. They go even be in and still float. By the time further than that, and if put into the trip to Brownsville and back effect would wreck everything to New York was over, the ship we have done so far. It is not to had been cleaned up and was be expected tliat big business habitable. would play fair with labor, but The rest of the necessary re­ this time they want all the mar­ pairs have been listed, and the bles and the umpires, and then crew has resolved not to sign on they will be willing to start the game. One of his proposed rules would ban labor from contribut­ ing money to the campaign funds of any candidate for public of­ fice. Of course, he says nothing about big business contributions to the same campaign funds, con­ tributions so large that many of­ fice holders are owned body and soul by big business. LABOR'S RIGHT Labor has the right to expand as much as it possibly can. No matter what Sloan and guys like him can do, labor is in the poMtical picture to stay. Work­ ers have just as much right to go into politics as business has. Shipping and business in the port of New York are steady but not ^ectacular. There are ships paying off and signing on daily, and there are prospects of even more activity after the first of the year. The Patrolmen are being kept busy, and during the last few weeks have piled up quite a rec­ for another trip until everything has been completed. What interests me is how the NMU men can stand to sail on dirty ships, and why their Pa­ trolmen allow such goings-on. Even if the SlU members didn't complain, and they do, our Pa­ trolmen would never allow a crew to sign on a beat up, dirty ship. Here's wishing you all a Happy New Year from everyone in the New York Hall. But remember we all have to work together to make 1947 a really happy year. Bad Smell In Marcus Hook Hall Turns Out To Be CMU Propaganda By BLACKIE CARDULLO MARCUS HOOK—On opening better each week. It's like a the Hall this morning we noticed inowball that picks up speed as a very peculiar odor. At first we it travels down hill. Each man thought that the smell might come from a cat or dog that had been left in overnight, but on closer investigation tve found that it was caused by card sent by the NMU, a card all about Maritime Unity. Right off the bat we apologized to the cats and dogs whom we might have hurt. Then we start­ ed to think about the "maritime unity" that those hoys were preaching. The kind that left the MFOWW walking the picketlines, holding the bag while the NMU settled its beef. we talk to seems to me feels it his WHERE WAS NMU business to go out and talk to an­ .We'd also like to know where other new man. the NMU was when the SlU was SIU HONESTY PAYS OFF battling for seamen during the war. Every time the SIU went to The SIU really has something bat for seamen, Curran, Stack, to sell, and we are going our way, and Company did their well without outside influence from known double-cross. any politicians or political par­ For Joe Stalin's sake they de­ ties. Honest trade unionism al­ liberately sold the U. S. seamen ways pays off. down the river. As far as we We e-^yect to pay off the SS here in Marcus Hook are conCapital Reef this week. Shipping calmed, we want no part of the is good and getting better. Any­ phony Committee for Maritime body looking for a ship could do Unity, and before the NMU tries worse than come to this port. to- preach unity, they ought to first practice it. I^o knows, Shipping is fine and the wom­ I they might like it. en are beautiful. A nice room Oiir organizing campaign down can be had cheap. What more : heie is going along better and could a sailor want? A PROBLEM, BUD? The life of the present day seaman is difficult and often very complicated. He is at the mercy of unscrupulous companies, government agen­ cies, brass hats and human sharks of various descrip­ tions, everyone trying to take advantage of him. If he hap­ pens to know some of his rights, he is sneeringly refer­ red to as a Sea Lawyer. A Special Services Dept. of the Union has been set up to consult with you on all your problems involving the Coast Guard, Shipping Commission­ ers, Unemployment Insur­ ance, personal injury claims, your statutory rights when you become ill aboard ship. Immigration Laws, and your dear, beloved Draft Board. If you happen to be in New York, contact us personally, or if you are out of town, write and you will receive a prompt reply. Address all mail to SPE­ CIAL SERVICES, 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. Your Union is your shoreside contact. USE IT'S FACILI­ TIES. Baltimore Seafarers Are More Than Just Casual Union Brothers By WILLIAM RENT2 BALTIMORE — The best we from friends of the man whose can say about shipping in this life was saved by the transfu­ port is that it is just about fair. sion. Here is the letter: 1 am confident that it will all "I am writing this letter to pickup soon, but until then we be read to your membership are being patient and doing the publicly, to show our gratitude day to day job. to the seamen who so kindly From all indications, we will donated their blood for a dying have to wait until after the first man. By their great generosity, of the year before anything big he was able to go through the will take place. By that time needed operation, and is getting we hope that more ships will be along wonderfully. He will go coming into Baltimore for cargo, home soon, thanks to you swell and that-means payoffs and sigh- fellows. ons. Wo can use both. "Without your blood it would Here in this port, our members have been impossible to save have gotten reputations as being johnny-on-the-spot to volunteer as blood donors. Hardly a meet­ ing goes by that we don't have a request to give blood so that some poor guy can be given a transfusion. Our boys do this without pay; in fact, they fight among themselves for the honor. SEAMEN'S BLOOD Last meeting the .same thing happened, and on December 19 we received a letter of thanks Christmas Spirit is Very Much In Evidence In Boston Branch By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON—Business and ship­ ping has continued on the up­ grade for the past week, with every indication that conditions will remain pretty fair for this port in the coming weeks. Already we're beginning to feel the pinch when it comes to ob­ taining rated men in a hurry, and have had to send to New York for men. However, this fact does not mean necessarily that all our members have been shipped; rather, it means that a good per­ centage of them have decided to enjoy the Christmas holidays at home. Only two ships paid off in this area during tbe week, but both were good payoffs. The Muncie Victory paid off in good style, with all beefs settled on thp spot. The New Echota (Pacific tanker) paid off in Providence after a six-month voyage. This also was a clean payoff, after it was point­ ed out to the SIU men aboard that the tanker agreements are somewhat different from the SIU agreements. COOPERATION There was quite a job getting the overtime clauses straightened out; but the gang was one of the best and cooperated 100-plus per­ cent. In addition, they showed a truly brotherly spirit by con­ tributing $80.00 toward making Christmas for the boys in the Brighton Marine Hospital a little brighter. I made my regular Christmas visit to the Marine Hospital lasst week. We have only eight mem­ bers in there right now, all of them in good spirits, if not all in good health. Thanks to the gen­ erosity of the members, we were able to give each a sizable cash present, and on Christmas Eve we will be able to go back with more. SIU SPIRIT Many letters have been re­ ceived here from the members in the hospital, expressing apprecia­ tion to all the brothers for their generosity and thoughtfulness. It is not necessary or fitting that these letters should be re­ printed in this column, but any brother who ever donated to these hospitalized brothers .should know how much his gift is ap­ preciated. It might be added here, also, that SIU consideration for its members in the hospital has not passed without notice from hos­ pital attaches and all other pa­ tients. There isn't a great deal more to be said this week, except to thank all the officials and mem­ bers for their Christmas greet­ ings which are pouring in daily. At this time of the year, almostforgotten friendships are renew­ ed and strengthened by a Christ­ mas remembrance, each card turning back pages of memory to forgotten incidents and to friends long since moved' on to, other ports. To one and all, then, I say thanks for the remembrance, and may Christmas and the New Year be the best ever for all hands. his life. He wished to have me send you fellows his deepest gratitude and mllions of thanks for coming to his aid. He will never forget what you men did for us, and may God bles you, one and all. "Thanks a million times again, for all you did. We thank you from the depths of our hearts, and someday in some way hope to repay you somehow." Mr. and Mrs. Jack Watson 721 E. Chase Street, Baltimore. Maryland. That letter makes us all feel that what we are doing is worth­ while. Any time we have a chance to help out in any way like this, we are glad to do so. Blood banks are good things; we have all heard how transfu­ sions saved so many lives in the armed serWces and merchant marine during this past war. We Gay Street people are happy to help out. I'm sorry that I was unable to wish you all a Merry Christmas before the happy day, but I mean it from my heart. From all of us in this port, we send greetings for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all members of the SILT, wherever they may be. Seafarers Representation Gets Logs Dropped, Medical Bills Paid Effective Union representation enabled four Seafarers, who had been logged on the recent trip of the SS Walter Christensen, to breathe a little easier when SIU Patrolman successfully intervened in their behalf at the payoff. The logs entered against the men during the four-month trip to South America, were dropped by the Skipper after the Patrol­ man presented a convincing argu­ ment. With the logs out of the way, the Patrolmen attacked the Cap­ tain's policy of making the men pay their own bills for visits to medical doctors in Santos and various other ports.' They ap­ pealed the matter to Shipping Commissioner McGrath, who rul­ ed that the expenses incurred were the company's. The crewmembers who had paid bills out of their own pockets were to be reimbursed. The Patrolmen, Ray Ganzales and Salavador Colls, reported the payoff as being very clean, which they attributed to crew's cooper­ ation. Every man had his soiled linen in a pillow case ready for the. Steward before leaving the vessel. It was pointed out that "the ship was so clean, you cQuld eat off the decks." Three of the crew, Paul Miller, Ralph Garrett and Mike Hook, took up, a collection, proceeds of which were to be used for aiding; needy SIU seamen., �•• 7,r^il<P'-VJav:-', THE SEAFARERS LOG rriday, December 27, 1946 The Song Of The Strikehreakers Box-can-ed an' .stockaded; Bayonet-paraded— "Harnessed-buUs" behind us an' squad on either side. Awake, it's bricks an' curses; Asleep, we dream o' hearses— That's us! They call us Rough Necks, an' we're picked be­ cause we're tried! That's us! We're shy o' morals, an' flat in purse an' pride! Wet All Over By JOSEPH VOLPIAN In last week's column, we dis­ cussed the procedure of the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board in conducting an election, and this is a continuation of the same sub­ ject. The Field Examiner submits his report of his investigation as to the election, including his findings on challenged votes, to the Regional Director who then in turn makes his report to the Board in Washington. In this re­ port, he gives the result of the election. The union which was won is then certified. If no union received a clear majority and there are chal­ lenged ballots then he recom­ mends to the Board which bal­ lots should be counted and which should be rejected. A copy of his report is also sent to the interested parties who then have the right to make their objections as to the recommenda­ tions of the Regional Director. • These objections are submitted to the Board in Washington and the contestants are then permit­ ted to file briefs in support of their contentions. Branded vags by the hand o' God, from the strength o' eai'th On rare occasions, the Board we're barred— will permit, in addition to the An' in shame we're doin' our findings of the brief, an oral ar­ brother's work, backed by gument before' it. the Enoch Guard! Grind the wheels with a better RIGAMAROLE wail, as the soaped tracks If the Board finds there is merit jolt an' throb: to the argument of any contes­ tants, the case is then sent back to the local NLRB office for fur­ ther hearing. At these hearings all the charges are actually investigated and a formal trial is held where witnesses are examined and crossexamined by the opposing side. After the hearings are con­ cluded, the person conducting such hearings renders his report to the Regional Director, who in turn submits it to the Washington Am I my brother's keeper, too, Board and at that time a final de­ along with my brother's job? cision is rendered. Sometimes this procedui-e is Out o' the ground his blood it calls. Oh, the weight o' our rather a long drawn out affair and the losing union will assume a load is hai'd When we're tryin' to do our broth­ dog-in-the-manger attitude such er's,^ work, but minus his Union Card! The only Union you'll find today that's runnin' an Open Shop Is the one our friend Starvation keeps, an' it works you until you drop. For God is sore on the sons o' J Cain an' the work that we try to do— An' a curse growls out o' the mouth o' earth as our broth­ er's blood seeps thi'ough! "Scab! Scab! Scab! Oh you lousy labor scab!" But it's dollars a day to hear : 'em say— "Sca-a-ab!" Jeered, but feared—an' hated; Cemetery slated; Battered skulls an' shattered hulls; should we be satisfied? Awake, it's bricks an' curses; Asleep, we dream o' hearses— That's us! They call us Rough - Necks, an' we're flat in purse an' pride; That's us! There used to be some more, but several of us diedl t-.'. ' W'.y. • Page Nine The Patrolmen Say,,, By DAMON RUNYON To the present generation the late Damon Runyon is best known for his human tales of Broadway characters, "dolls" and "guys." His fame rest largely on his characterizations of New York's "Roarin* For­ ties," which he knew so well. Most of his eulogists, however, omit mention of his literary ac­ complishments of another era, written against an even more turbulent and historical back­ ground. In his early twenties, Runyon worked as a reporter on news­ papers in Colorado, scene of many a bloody labor strife. There he was an eye-witness to the brutal machinations of the powerful mine operators who were dedicated to the exter­ mination of labor. It was there, at the age of 25. that Runyon penned the fol­ lowing classic characterization of the strikebreaker: :vy- .<-, •c-^l'*^.:yV_ SlU Crews Give To Boston III Christmas was brightened somewhat for the Seafarers in the Brighton Marine Hos­ pital thanks to the thoughtfulness of Union Brothers in the Port of Boston. Holiday contributions for the hospi­ talized totalled $103.85. it was reported by Port Agent John Mogan. Each of the Seafarers in the Brighton hospital was to share equally in the proceeds, of which $79.85 was donated by the crew of the SS New Echota. The SS Cardinal Gibbons men gave $15.00. and the SS Muncie Victory added $4.00* to the gift pool. Seafarer Ernest Belkner con­ tributed $5.00 to bring the to­ tal up to $103.85. as the NMU did in the Esso Tank­ er Fleet case. SAD CASE NEW YORK —In a few instances lately it has been an un­ fortunate experience for me, and the crows of the ships I boarded for the payoff, to find one or more of the delegates all gassed up and unable to present the crew's beefs to the Patrolman. Fortunately for the crews, these occurences are in the great minority, but in the few instances chat they have arisen they have caused a great deal of inconven­ ience and trouble for everyone concerned. In this particular case the com­ pany union was certified as be­ ing the bargaining agent in the unlicensed personnel. The NMU BLACK EYE filed its objections and the case Everytime that something un­ was set down for a hearing by fortunate like this arises it is a the Washington Board. The hearings were so confused black eye for the Union, as these and took such a great length of men are regarded as representa­ time that when it was concluded tives of the union. The companies, always anxious and sent back to the Washington Board for a final decision, the ' to get something on the SIU, will Board threw the entire case out seize upon such cases to say that on the ground that ^ the original , the crew delegates are in no poselection was so old that the bar­ I ition to represent the crew and gaining agent which was selected ! the beefs they present cannot be might not be representative of relied upon, as the man is under the personnel now employed the influence of alchohol. aboard the ships. This makes it a hell of a tough This prolonged fight left the job for the Patrolman to gain an company union in power, and if adjustment of beefs, and some­ more time and effort had been times things like this mean the made to organize the men than loss of legitimate overtime and bickering with hearings then the money for the crew just because NMU might have represented the the delegate couldn't wait a few men instead of allowing the com­ hours until payoff was out of the way to tie up with 'John Barley­ pany union to do so. corn. From the present indications, it is our opinion that the NMU CONFUSION GALORE is pm-suing the same tactics in The result of the conduct by the Isthmian case. However, it is our opinion that they will not these brothers, who have taken be as successful in frustrating the responsibility of the problems the wishes of the Isthmian sea­ of their shipmates, leads to noth­ men as they were in the case of ing but confusion and a waste of time trying to iron out the beefs. the Esso Fleet. I don't wish to be misconstrued as a "dry", but it is the duty of all delegates aboard ship to be sober and present their beefs in an orderly manner so as to pro­ tect the interests of the member­ ship and maintain the good name of the SIU. James Purcell By JOHNNIE JOHNSTON There are many old terms, which when applied to a real sea­ man, must be said with a smile, otherwise a bang-up brawl us­ ually will result. One of the terms is "marine.' ' This is used for a man who is ignorant of seamanship and i.s slow to catch on or just doesn't care to learn. In the days of the clipper ships, the Mate or Bosun made such a man march fore and aft during his watch with a marlin spike on his shoulder, like a sentry walking his post. Within a short period of time, this treatment could be relied on to bring a quick change in the man. Another term is "sojer," or "soldier." This is the worst re­ proach that can be leveled at a seaman because it signifies a shirker, or someone who tries to goldbrick when there is work to be done. Even lazy men don't like to be called "sojers." These old sayings are rapidly fading from the sea, but there are still plenty of oldtimers sail­ ing on the bridge or in the foc'sle who use them. They remember telling these yarns while sitting around "splicing the main brace." lifeboats and shift for themselves the best way they could. UNHAPPY FOUR The ship, after nine days out of Charleston finally reached Broklyn where she unloaded four half-frozen Seafarers with empty bellies and curses of being shang­ haied. They're thawed out now and are heading back for the warmth of Charle.ston with the knowledge that never again will they go aboard a ship unless they have down in black and white exactly where it is going and the proper gear is aboard. Their experience is cautionenough for any man who is sent out on a similar job to see that he has the full dope before tak­ ing the ship out of the harbor. Jim Drawdy XXX Sweet Ship The SS Gervais, Pacific Tank­ ers, paid off this week, and she was one of the sweetest ships to pay off here in quite some time. The credit for this should go to the three Delegates, who did a swell job in bringing in a clean ship with no beefs. The Deck Gang averaged 500 hours overtime each for a threemonth trip, and not one penny of any overtime Was disputed. The other Departments did equally as well. James Purcell Howard Guinier Tillamook Crew Resents Pound Tax On Butts Anyone who has the idea that the days of piracy on the high seas are a thing of the past, had better take heed of a cablegram recently received by SecretaryTreasurer John Hawk. This mes­ sage, from the crew of the SS XXX Tillamook, protests the fact that Hungry, Thirsty, Cold cartons of cigarettes from the slopchest are subject to a tax of NEW YORK—When the Wa­ terman Steamship Company took one Pound which is approximateover the Henry W. Longfellow in Ij' $4.20 in good old U. S. coin. The Tillamook has been Charleston recently they called the SIU for four men to handle aground off Swansea for the past a short towing job to Wilming­ four weeks, and during this per­ ton. At least they said it would iod the slopche.st cigarettes have be short, so the HaU dispatched been taxed by the British Cus­ William Padget, H. D. Mace, of toms. Adding about $4.20 to the the SIU and L. Maltry, and M. normal cost of a carton of ci­ J. Armon, of the SUP down to garettes makes smoking an ex­ pensive pleasure, indeed. the ship. It is almost like watching your With rations for three days, the ship taken in tow by a Mo- money go up in smoke when you ran tug started for Wilmington, light up a cigarette off Swansea and the men settled back for a these days. Here is the cablegram which short and uneventful jaunt. The was received from the crew: ship soon reached Wilmington, but instead of tying up and pay­ We the crew of SS Tillamook ing off she merely changed tugs aground at Swansea for the past and pulled out in the sti-eam four weeks enter protest against again. the charge of one Pound tax The ci'ew was getting a little on slopchest cigarettes. Cap­ disturbed now for they were prac­ tain also protesting to Merchant tically out of food and they had Marine Association. Please en­ no gear for cold weather; but on ter in Seafarers Log. Deck Dele­ and on the ship went and soon gate Richard R. Weikas; Engine the fellows were standing on the Ray Lusko; Steward Marcus bow with binoculars looking for Robinson. an inlet where they hoped the There isn't to much that can be tug would swing the ship. done in such a situation since It was no use, however, for on British taxes are high, and this they went, past Norfolk the ship tax on cigaretes is no exception. was towed, and without rations, One word of advice, though: water and gear the crew was car­ Take a lesson from the Tillamook ried fui'ther north. crew and keep plenty of smokes' Soon they had no fresh food on hand if you are in any danger aboard and had to scurry around of going aground in British ter­ and pull the rations out of the ritorial waters. I �PM» T*a Friday, December 27. 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG smps'MINimS AMD NEWS MV COASTAL DEFENDER BRISTLES WITH ACTIVITY » » $ The lads aboard the Smith and Johnson vessel gingerly perform their tasks in the brisk Canadian atmosphere of Baf­ fin Island. Photo at left shows members of Deck Gang straightening out dunnage: stooping is Bosun Wiliams. in center is Fin Malland, AB; while "Ski" the Deck Maintenance stands in rear. Crew Slings Seme Changes On Goliath "There's got to be some changes made around here," isn't the title of one of the top tunes on radio's Hit Parade, although it certainly may sound like it. It is the tune, however, of the minutes of a recent meeting held aboard the SS Goliath, an East= ern Transportation Company tug. The crewmembers are downright disgusted with some of the pres­ ent goings-on, and at the meet­ ing they went on record to call a halt to things. LINEN CHANGE Rating top attention in the pro­ posed changes was the procedure whereby the Mates handle and distribute the linen aboard the vessel. The men are not getting "a proper amount" of linen this way, they charge. They passed a motion calling for the transfer of. the linen custodianship from the Mates to the Steward. Equally as bad was the situa­ tion in regard to matches and bath soap. Supplies of each are "supposed" to be given out to the men weekly but in practice it has been working out different­ ly. The. supplies are not forth­ coming regularly with the result that crewmembers have been \ At right, some of the men ready oil drums for unloading at Frobisher Bay. % % % Counter Offensive Planned Against Insects On Evelyn Two of the sturdy crew, Finn Malland (left) and Robert Brown, pose at the rail. Those are snow-capped peaks in the background. Brr-rr. MINUTES OF SlU SHIP MEETIN8S IIGESTED FOR ERSIER READING buying their own. To surmount this somewhat dark and dirty trick, it was unanimously recom­ mended that soap and matches, along with the linen supply, be turned over to the Steward for disposition. WILL SING NEW TUNE The conduct of the Skipper was discussed also with the object to get him to change his tune. His singing has a definitely unsavory slant. A motion, passed unani­ mously, stated that the "Agent (Patrolman) see Capt. Dan Hayman about his union-baiting, and his attempts to cause dissension among the crew. To also have him stop making slanderous re­ marks against the Union, and to stop trying to cause disruptions and hard feelings." Final of the changes recom­ mended at the Goliath meeting was one designed to wipe up a wet condition in the crew's quar­ ters. Pipe in the overhead have been sweating in the cold weath­ er, and the water has been drip­ ping into the men's bunks, and it's got to stop, the men said. If there's a Seafarer named Da­ vid aboard the Goliath maybe history will repeat itself. to' JOHN GALLUP, Oct. 28 — Chairman J. Coy; Secretary E. Youngblood. Motions carried; that Steward Department be permitted to paint their own quarters; that reprirs submit­ ted by Steward in regard to living quarters be carried out; that fines be donated to Hospi­ tal fund and that Delegates collect fines; to have new lock­ ers installed; that messrooms, ports, W.T. doors and locks be repaired; that all fans be re­ paired, linen be replaced, soap dishes be placed in all showers and washrooms; and that leak be repaired in Deck Depart­ ment head. 4 * COASTAL LIBERATOR. Sept. 27 — Chairman C. E. Chandler; Secretary K. G. Freyschlog. John Malcolm, Black Gang Delegate, reported that small boiler was not op­ erating properly. In order for it to supply adequate hot water during winter. months, he ad­ vised that it be repaired or re­ placed. Also reported that per­ colators are needed in Engine room and in messhril. Steward Delegate Robert Marion said that his department- had. left With the horde of insects aboard the SS Evelyn being "augmented daily by swarming reinforce­ ments, crew members planned strategy at recent shipboard meetings to combat the winged menace. The situation had reach­ ed such proportions that immed­ iate action was imperative in face of what appeared might be a disastrous rout by the rapidly multiplying bug brigades. The Steward reported that the charge of artillery operations on the. ground and in the air: The crew instructed him to order up additional buzz-bombs and to launch an immediate offensive. "Wipe them out," were the terse orders received. FIRE-POWER MISSING hTe Steward reported that the inescts had been able to establish a beachhead because his repeated galley in cleEm condition prior to strike, and returned after strike to find everything dirty. Security watch sent by Union had been denied access to stores. Several men were recommend­ ed for membership. t 4. 4. JEFFERSON CITY. Oct. 30— Chairman T. M. Jones; Secre­ tary T. A. Williams. Delegates gave their reports—everything in pretty good shape. Motions carried: that repair list be pre­ pared in duplicate—one to be turned in to the hedl, the other to be given oncoming crew; that repair list be posted in arrival. It was suggested that Delegates pick up books Emd turn them to agent or patrolman with amount each man wishes to pay, also that Delegates advise Captain to dump overboard food infested with weavels. DIAMOND HITCH, Sept. 27 Chairman Les -Goldinger; Sec­ retary J. DuBose. Deck—Com­ plaint made agEunst Chief Mate. Engine — Complaint was made against the First Assist­ ant concerning the logging of Paul Kent. The Second Assist­ ant degrades all crewmembers pleas for fire power were ignored or cut down. He said that al­ though he had put in an order for a considerable number of the bombs for a complete wipingout job, the company had refus­ ed to send him more than three at a time. This report of laxity in the rear stirred the crew meeting in­ to action. They formulated an ultimatum to the 'effect that if the company did not send up sufficient equipment with which the crew could combat the insect by defamation of their charact­ er. All beefs to be settled in New York. No one to pay off until Edl beefs axe settled. All three departments totally dis­ satisfied with the Chief Stew­ ard as <1 union man. They claim (Continued on Page 11) ravages, the Evelyn would be held alongside the dock. She would not be moved until such time as the company itself saw fit to take over and exterminate the invaders. This was the de­ cision reached at the Nov. 23 meeting held at sea. " SWIFT ACTION At the Dec. 1 meeting also held at sea, the situation was such that the members swiftly passed a motion saying "that extermina­ tors niust be bought aboard the vessel when she arrives in Balti­ more, and that all the insects on board must be exterminated be­ fore the ship will be allowed to leave the dock in Baltimore." All action, however, at this Evelyn meeting was not combat­ ive in nature. Brother Tilley motioned that a vote of thanks be given the Stewards deparfcment for the fine work they did in preparing such a splendid Thanksgiving dinner, and for their efforts on the whole." The question arose as to wheth­ er or not a holiday at sea for men on watch constituted overtime. It was agreed that the question would be resolved when the Ves­ sel pulled into port. It was con­ firmed, however, that crew mem­ bers of the ship "are entitled to the same holidays as longshore­ men in whatever port the vessel happens to be in." Also unanimously passed was a motion in regard to the water coolers in the Engine room, and on the main deck in the crew's quarters. "The two water cool­ ers must be prepared and put on suitable working condition be­ fore the ship sails from Balti­ more," the motion stated. The Thanksgiving dinner menu, which the crew recommended be sent to the Seafarers Log, follows: Table Celery Olives Consomme Roast Turkey Dressing and Giblei Gravy Baked Virginia Ham Pineapple Sauce Candied Yams Mashed Potatoes Cranberry Sauce Mixed Nuts Mince and Pumpkin Pies Plum Pudding and Hard Sauce Hot Rolls Apples Oranges Coffee Cocoa Fresh Milk �Friday, December 27, 1946 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Digested Minutes Of SlU Ship Meetings I SEAFARER SAM SAYS (Continued from Page 10) him to be a company stiff. The Steward boasts that he is an officer and must be respected aboard and ashore. Chief En­ gineer refuses to recognize Paul Kent as Deck Delegate. Sug­ gested that Purser's records concerning the rate of ex­ change of foreign money (BWI, Dutch Guiana) be investigated. Meeting was called by the crewmembers and not by the delegates. No one refused to turn to at anytime. J. t i ALCQA PILGRIM. Sept. IBChairman Nils Gronberg; Sec­ retary L. W. Highsmith. Dele­ gates reported no beefs and that overtime was okay. Crow pantry icebox had been re­ paired. Motions carried: that crew leave glasses in pantry for use during meals; to have some fruit juice left in box at night; to have notice of launch serv­ ice to and from ship posted on bulletin board. Genercil dis­ cussion on drinking glasses, spoons, knives, forks and win­ ter gear. %> i X WOLF CREEK, Nov. 17— Chairman LeRoy Nichols; Sec­ retary Gerald Laura. Reports from three department dele­ gates. Deck: everything okay; Engine: all okay; Steward: over 1.000 hours overtime and no disputes. Motions carried: to have Delegates make list of re­ pairs for their departments, to be turned in to Agent at Cor­ pus Christi; that delegates see that quarters are clean before payoff. Discussion on transpor­ tation rider. Vote of thanks tendered Steward department for "wonderful chow and ex­ cellent service and for carry­ ing on under very trying con­ ditions in Mobile, Ala." X X SAM JOHNSTON, Nov. 10— Chairman E. A. Lane; Secre­ tary G. Gallant. Lockers and fans in foc'sles to be checked and repaired, foc'sles to be painted. Chairs in messhall to be repaired. Men to leave quar­ ters clean when signing off ship. New coffee urn needed in crew's mess. Motions carried to have patrolmen to see that sufficient stores be stocked for next crew, and enough provi­ sions be alloted to care of pas­ sengers if taken aboard. One minute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. XXX ALCOA MASTER, Nov. 10— Chairman George A. Allen; Secrefary Lynn A. Poole. Deck Delegate reported disputed overtime believed to be col­ lected; Steward Delegate asked men to aid in keeping messhall cleaiu Delegates reports ac­ cepted. Steward said vegetable aboard are not enough for round trip and urged his men to go easy on them; vegetables in Aruba are "unfit for human consumption." Crew advised to read up and fully understand the new agreement. Motion cariried to elect one man from each department to study new agreement. LUTTIER HURD. Sept. 19— Chairman F. Nohlicki; Secre­ tary E. Powell. Reports of three delegates accepted. Motion passed that ship not be sailed until action was taken on ship's repairs. Suggested that crew 'members keep out of messman's way when he is setting up the meals; also that messman check the supply of milk. etc.. in mess­ hall each night. In memory of departed brothers one minute of silence observed prior to ad­ journment. Ailerix(Chiri6tAtas and Ro > X t X ETHIOPIA VICTORY, Aug. 6—Chairman W. A. Driver; Sec­ retary T. J. Roach. Beef made that chow is not being pre­ pared in right manner. Two men late for watch because they 1 3. t were not served immediately. ARGONAUT. Dec. 8—Chair­ Suggestioni that coffee urn be man George Meaney; Secretary cleaned out daily. Motions car­ J. Egga. Motions carried: to fine ried calling for fumigation of anyone abusing toaster, and entire ship in first port, and for those who put feet on chairs new mattresses and pillows to ' and cushions; dirty cups not be put aboard. Drinking glass­ to be left on tables, and cigar­ es to be kept cleaner. Motion ettes not to be thrown around made and passed that men keep deck. Ch. Steward nominated feet on deck and not on chairs. and elected to collect fines and XXX turn money over to Fort Stan­ STEEL ARTISAN (Isthmian). ton Tubercular hospital; com­ Nov. 28—Chairman Tannehill; mittee for same also elected. (Secretary not noted) Possibility Moved that one member of the of opening PO messhall dis­ crew designated to obtain books cussed. One messroom lacks for crew's libreiry. and a mo­ By HANK sufficient capacity for eating tion carried to have washboards entire crew. Steward asked to built on bulwards so crew can After recovering from our Christmas spirits we're right on the order mirrors for Jr. Engineer's wash clothes. Everyone voiced snow-ball with our weekly collection of bi'otherly news. . . Saj% if room. Crew assured by Bosim satisfaction with meeting. One those government bureaus and dreaming politicians don't knowthat deck head and showers minute of silence for seamen about this sky-high cost of living, then Brother Ralston "Curly" would be kept clean. Deck 12lost £it sea. Stuart can tell them. He's shipping out because he can't keep on 4 asked that fans be supplied XXX paying $11.29 weekly for his two-by four room in the YMCA any­ for laundry. Cook stated that HELEN. Nov. 26—Chairman more. . . Harry "Popeye"' Cronin just sailed into town from a thiity galley scupper was still plug­ Leroy Jackson; Secretary Red day trip to Greece. . . Little Paddy McCann shipped on the Waltged up although First Assistant Morgan. List of needed repairs ham "Victory. Let's hear from you, Paddy? ... Is smiling Mike was notified of this on last drawn up. Requested a speaker Rossi still turning to every day as a taxi-driver? How's tips treating trip. Motions carried: that Dele­ to be put in crew's mess and you. Senior Mike? . . . Brother K. Kain anchored into the hall. gates check slopchest and stores connected with radio in radio What's new and how was the trip, Brother Kain? . . . Boy, shipping and to get approximate size of room. Discussed need of an­ picked up so good in the last week that it made Leslie Brilhart say: clothes and shoes that are to other room for the freezers as "It's sure good to see those smiles on the guys when they get their be ordered. they have been carried in the jobs and leave the hall" . . . The best shipping however is down in hospital in the past. Commit­ Marcus Hook, brothers. . . tee of three men appointed to look over ship for a suitable place for another room. Agreed to have a book rack built in Last week we talked to Jimmy Mulligan, a swell guy, a messhall. and secure a library Boston Irishman, who lives in New York with the wife and kids. when ships gets in. One min­ Jimmy rather laughed when he remembered how the MM&P ute of silence observed for strike hit his ship down in Texas. You see, the only strike chow brothers lost at sea during war. they were lucky enough to get was some wild animals running XXX ^ i 1 around every day. Well, when you have to — you have to. Ypa MAE, Dec. 10—Chairman R, WILLIAM JOHNSON. Dec. can't wail for any strangers to feed you in a strike, indeed . . . Sechinger; Secretary A. Baker. 15—Chirman . Roy Thompson; Little Charlie Stevens, oldtimer bellyrobber, is anchored here in M Motions carried: that crew's Secretary John Bluitt. Officers our town and smoking up his beachy days with cigars. . . Stew­ quarters be heated while in are to be kept out of crew mess­ ard Eddie Kasnowski who lost his gear on some ship, is waiting port of Baltimore or notify hall. and crew is to kep out of to ship out. Write to the company, Eddie, and ask them for a crew's in advance so they can saloon. Food situation is get­ new cook-book and a new special pot for gravy overtime. If they find rooms ashore; have Stew­ ting bad. There is no Steward don't throw the Shipping Commissioner at them. . . ard order electric coffee pot and or Chief Cook; second cook and glasses for crew mess; that one pantry man are feeding the best of the small urns not in use be they can do. Special commit­ moved to crew mess. Repairs tee is to see the old man about Before Brother Harold Lawlor left for Korea recently in an needed in Oiler's foc'sle, pins this. Motion carried to keep Army suit, he retii-ed his book and then gave Patrolman Jimmy* needed for shower curtains, messhall and recreation room grattings for shower, keys for clean at all times and radio is Purcell a happy beef by chewing the Seafaring fat about old timesr Bosun's room, and fumigation and shipmates. . . Sal Volpi shipped Bosun on the SS Orbis with to be shut off at 10 p. m. necessary. Big Mike and Nick the Pollock. The ship is chartered to France so XXX she might shuttle. . . Isidore Levy is geting married in March, 194*^; '•M NOONDAY, Oct. 27—Chair­ man Clough; (Secretary not Does your girl want you to donate your sea blood to the Red Cros^-: ^1 noted). Motions carried: thai Bx-other Levy? . . . Bosqn Bera Smyley, aboard the SS Cape Rac% ;S'| sanitary work in laundry be will be saying hello to to Ray Sweeney when the ship hits Texas . '41 XXX done on regular sanitary hours GEORGE WASHINGTON (no and be alternated weekly be­ date)—Chairman Murphy; Sec­ tween deck and Black gang retary Hunt. Reports niade by and that room alloted for li­ Joe Barringer, who just finished a short trip to Canada, is the department delegates. Mo­ brary and writing room be hoping for a miraculous trip to Shanghai, China. The best tions carried: to put oil cloths taken care of by Steward de­ Chinese laundryman couldn't shanvjhai you for that trip for all on any and all mess room tables partment; thai before next the dirty shirts in New York, Joe. Joe asked Harvy Hill why that need them; to put door regular meeting, to be held be­ he didn't grab a ship. Harvey answered: "Now don't give me any • stops on messroom doors to pre­ fore arrival in England, each ideas, Joe. My wife has enough of them. Anyway, I'm wonder­ vent slaipming,' to put soap department meet and draw up ing where my paL Rodney Johnson is right now?". . . Probably trays in crejv's rooms; to elect list of repairs and/or recom­ in Shanghai. Harvey, wishing Ke was here in New York, getting, delegates for each and every mendations to be submited be­ into the Merry Christmas spirits. •. . Louis Galvani, who sails as department before leaving the fore joint meeting—those getting Deck Engineer, is in town now, charged with desertion, after dock. Discussion on cleanli­ final approval to be typed and missing his ship down in St. Thomas. . . Steward Vic Milazzo ness of engine department. One given to Master, Ch. Mate, Ch. just went up to Boston to get operated on his neck. Don't stick minute of silence for brothers Engineer and Steward and a your neck out too far, Vic. Kidding aside, Vic. good luck! . . lost at sea. copy sent to Union via airmail. •I cm and RUN • �Fiiday, 'December v27,4946 ** TB E SEAFARERS LO G Fa0« THE MEMBEBSmP aPCAKS FOUR MEN IN A BOAT Hill Spends His Christmas Night-Clubbing In New York Dear Editor: i Sealed across Ihe beam of a boal in Calculia, from left to right, are Seafarers E. Tassin, Carpenter; B. Marshall, OS; F. Hughe. Maintenance, and W. Wyman, Bosun, crewmembers of the SS Twin Falls Victory. Brother Wyman, who has been on several Isthmian ships, is now an organizer in New Orleans. Buck Stephens, acting New Orleans Agent submitted the photo to the Log. ^CHIPS' STEFANIK WRITES OF A HECTIC TRIP Dear Editor: I thought I'd drop you a few lines to let you know where we are. This American Steamship Company vessel went from Hol­ land to Poland, and we'll be in England tomorrow, for two days. From there we go to Venezuela, and Lord knows where from there. In- Rotterdam we went into drydock and had 5,000 rivets put in this scow, but she still leaks. When we left Cuba, the old man got 650 cartons of Ameri­ can cigarettes—and they were cheap. Just $2.89 a carton. At Rotterdam we got 500 cartons at $1.32 each. In Gdynia, Poland, no draw was allowed. The boys had to sell their personal clothing for spend­ ing money, and with things be­ ing so dear, it didn't last long. The old man says his name is Captain Bligh. He also called up one of the lads for a routine log, told him he was a "rummy," and asked why he couldn't stay sober when in port. (The pot call­ ing the'kettle black.) We've also had some good co­ operation from the Chief Stew­ ard,- the old man's wipe rag, whom we'd like to recommend to the NMU. Kay is Bosun aboard this scow, and Ed Hibbard of Cuba is 3rd Mate. We would like for you to have a few words with Curly Rentz for us,^ and have him write us a few lines in Venezuela sending as inuch information as possible, as yre haven't had but one letter from anyone. And we may be cut for a long time. Milan "Chips" Siefanik BROTHER TAKES STEP TOWARD U. S. CITIZENSHIP Dear Editor: I have what I think might be some very good news for alien seamen who are interested in getting United States citizenship papers. This week I made a start in that direction, and since there Well, here I am anchored in good old bc-wintered New York, waiting to ship out sometime af­ ter New Year's Day blows its brand new top. My wife, Louise, and of course, and my own good old self, kinda enjoyed spending (and I don't mean spending a lot of loose green-bills, either) a landlubbing Christmas together— which is always a good thing but always an expensive partnership! Now don't get me wrong, broth­ ers. I don't act like one of these 85 day wonderful sailors swaying over the-Christmas tree and drop­ might be some men interested, 1 thought I'd pass on the procedure. First off, you have to have your birth certificate, or a copy of it. Then you get an affidavit from the local police or municipal au­ thorities from the town in which you lived on the other side, at­ testing to the fact that you have a clean record. With these two documents, you go to your country's consul in whatever American city you hap­ pen to be in, and he will translate these papers into English, mak­ ing three copies. Finally, you get two photo­ static copies of your birth cer­ tificate and the affidavit. This is as far as 1 have gotten. My next step is to see one of the American consuls in a foreign city and apply for a permanent entry into the United States. Actually there is much yet to be done before 1 get citizenship, but 1 feel I've made a darned important start. ping his inherited sentimental tears on the colored bulbs and the drooping candles. You see, here's how we spread out our Christ­ mas feelings—and you know how those feelings spread out after a little encouragement. Well, after taking unhesitating care of a tur­ key—(which couldn't make the dead-line on Thanksgiving due to ihe fact that it was out in the late hours celebrating his last day of life on earth)—we went out for some dancing and club­ bing one or two night-clubs with our few cabbage leaves. MERRY XMAS Now although I'm kinda late in wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, 1 sure hope every­ Edmund Erikson body had a good time, without getting paid off in the morning with those traditional hang-over beefs. Now, as for me, with or with­ out Santa Claus, I'm getting along swell on the (temporary) wagon—which won't be used un­ til the little kid called 1947 starts running around wishing every­ body a whale year of less income tax—if the Republicans can count numbers right and give me the right change. WILL SHIP OUT Well, until 1 ship out sometime in January, Til probably still be coughing up the coffee-nickels to keep the dryness out of the plumbing works in a few guys— and those good old laughs in the ordinary kind of chewing-thefat which goes on through the Dispatching Hall floor. Before 1 knock off with this fancy and perhaps humor-sugar­ ed letter-writing—with which 1 ain't recently familiar enough with to keep on without getting off course, naturally—I'm going to go window-looking in some antique shop or wax museum and buy a long yellow-colored arm with a open hand so I can bring to the ne.xt union meeting so 1 can be recognized by the Chairman and have my shortworded say-so about anything popping on the floor. Harvey Hill By WAYNE McALLISTER Oh. to be a carefree sailor. Tying knots and splicing wires. With a marlinspike to help me. And a back that never tires; Let me climb up in the riggin' And gat nearer to the sky. While I watch some distant island As our ship goes sailing by. Off to some strange foreign country. Let me sail a course that's true. On a ship low-in with cargo. Let me be one of the crew; Just' to watch the playful porpoise. As it jumps up into view. Or to see the flying fishes. As they glide across the blue. Oh. to be on watch at midnight. On a night that's cool and clear. "Simper Apparatus" By Clyde B. Ward (Cuzzin Cisco) The height of ambition Of the Maritime Commission, With the aid of the Hooligan, Is to improve its position. No more Department of Com­ merce. Or Steamboat Inspectors. Just Hooligan brass-hat Injectors and rejectors. To survive an examination Without Coast Guard injection. Is sillier than a blood-poison Minus the infection. But with Hooligan's blessings. And a cute monkey-suit. They'll give you your ticket. And some ratings to boot. Almighty Admiral on high: We hail you. shoreside Captain Bligh, Lord of all seamen, the high and low. Though only the lowly know the weight of your blow. It's "have a drink. Captain, tsk, tsk and tut. tut. Bad Leg Keeps 'Tis the radical element—noth­ Brother In Bed ing else but, Dear Editor: I'll pull all their papers, on the Please send me the Seafarers beach they'll stay. Log as I'm laid up with a bad leg While you ship our brave lads and 1 don't know when I'll be from Sheepshead Bay." able to ship out again. 1 would like to keep up with You can knock the L out of Kelly, But Kely he still will be. the news of the Union and the Seafarers. So why not knock the gold braid St. Louis. Mo. Glen Junge Out of the peacetime industry. Oh, It's The Seaman's Life For Me A seamen's life is what I fancy. Out upon the open sea. To sail across God's oceans Where a man is really free; Just to see the sunset's glory On the crest of rolling waves. While the wind is blowing gently O'ei; the masthead and the stays. Log -A' Rhythms v- While the wind and tossing ocean. Brings soft, sweet music "to my ear; You can have your moonlit gardens. They're all quite pretty I'll allow. Biit I'd rather see the moon dancing In the foam around -the bow. If I had but a single wish. To chose what I would be, I would chose to be a sailor. On a ship far out at sea. Yes, it's a seaman's life I fancy. Out upon the open sea. To sail across God's oceans. Where a man is really free. 1 We have a brasshat Commiss­ ioner of Mining. A broken-down Admiral is King of the Sea. The Coast Guard is lord of all shipping— An Independent would be a wonder to see. Let's return the mines to the owners and miners. May the Hooligan just Coast Guardsmen be. Let ships return unto Commerce, And men who can handle them, by G". Dear Editor: Enclosed find a few of my Donkey Watch Dirges. Although 1 try to keep my scribbling straight in the English Channel, it gets off course occasionally. Anti-hoolinganly yours, Clyde (Cuzzin Cisco) Ward SS Nelson W. Aldrich Bound for Hither and Yon Speculation By I. H. Pepper What love is this rieam'to know. How is it nourished. And why does it grow? �TB.B SB AFARERS I a C: BrLday.. December 171.194fi Paa»: TbSrleto Himk J^hs, At Critic Of Seamen, Says Employers Prolong Strikes Dear Editor: Working my slow and' common brain through the daily paper I came across a shockingly chUdish editorial, headlined: "Futility of Strikes," and this definite deci­ sion was based and blamed on the maritime strike. Naturally my common sense immediately twisted and boiled when I fully realized what this land-lubbing, desk genius of an editorial writer gave birth to from his stagnant but happy sinecure environment of' office dust, coffee cups, ciga­ rette-overflowed ash-trays, empty cooa-cola bottles and racing noisy typewriters. Well, regardless of the fact that this mysteriously educated moron qualified enough to write impor­ tant editorials but didn't know any of the honestly basic details in the strike (especially the de­ tails from the working seamen's position), he still definitely stated that all strikes are worthless and futile (especially the maritime strike) because it really was set­ tled eventually through a peace­ ful conference. Now, brothers, wouldn't this moron be a rich, back-broken, happy company stiff if he acidentally but unfor­ tunately was ever a seaman? lars or two cents more to their workers. JUST A LITERARY STIFF But to get back to this overaged kid who wrote such an experl-like editorial. There were just two details this literary stiff knew from his big, overcrowded desk: (1—there was a strike; (2— it was settled eventually through a conference. And with these atomic facts, this satisfied lemon of an educated man cuts his fin­ gers and ruins his sixty dollar suit, climbing madly up the Mountain of Definite Truth and screaming to the eager, common people: "STRIKES ARE FU­ TILE!" Now, who ever heai-d of a com­ mon worker bravely going up to his boss, asking him for a raise and even telling him he wants 15 dollars more a week—because he can't live on his present salary ..So —THAT'S WMY i WANT /A RAISE. ! NEVER FUTILE Of course the strikers are futile—for the government and for the rich, greedy, cut-throat bosses. But strikes are never worthless for the workers and their families — in these days where a dollar is worth about 50 or 60 cents. • Why indeed shouldn't seamen strike for more decent wages and conditions, for the kind of lives they live when they have two strikes against them? (1) The higher cost of living, and (2) the fact that the rich bosses just don't feel like giving any more money because it means so much less of their precious profits rushing into their bank deposits. Seamen, like all workers, don't want more money because they want to buy mansions and yachts, or over­ load their wives with jewels and furs—and their children with slick clothes. due to the higher costs of food, clothes, etc? Why, the boss would be shocked. He would laugh. He would roar and scream and sob with genuine tears flow­ ing—and then he would say: "Well, that's too bad, my good man. I'm sorry, and you're fired." Would this be fair—would it be American democracy of man helping man in his job and sin­ cerely wishing everyone health and happiness. Merry Christmases and Happy New Years? Or would it be plain insane slav­ ery and dictatorship. PICTURE Picture it; The dirty, hard work­ ing, tired worker kneeling humb­ ly on his bony knees before the throne where sits the happy, fat rich American boss who tells him And the tragic thing about the. that if he can't live on his present rich bosses who are shedding j salary he can get another job crocodile tears because they are and the same thing will happen being so mistreated is that they again and again to the worker still raise the prices of their pro­ begging for just a little more ducts, etc., regardless of whether money for himself and his family. they were forced to give two dol­ In other words, a worker has to keep his little mouth shut, starve or steal, and just keep holding on to his lousy job—and let the boss make all the profits in the world—while the worker and his family keep on needing so much milk, meat and vegetables all through the week and new shoes and clothes now and then, in ad­ dition to paying the rent bill, the coal bill, the electric bill, the inaui'ance man, the medical treat­ ments now and then. HEAR THIS Let me quote .some of this writer's poisonous stupidity: "Obviously the maritime strike was wholly unnecesary and fla­ grantly unwise. There was never any lack of opportunity for col­ lective bargaining and the pro­ cess of bargaining continued throughout the strike and even­ tually produced agreement . . . It was a costly and stupid strike from all standpoints and it was a particularly costly and stupid strike from the standpoint of -la­ bor . . . Strikes . . . deprive workers of wagfcs and inflict severe privations and acute hard­ ships upon their families . . . im­ pair the organizations and facili­ ties of employers . . . and cause great annoyance and inconven­ ience to the general public." WHERE ARE THEIR BRAINS? Well, now, if the employers were ever aware of all that and sincerely wanted to prevent those severe hardships to their factories, their profits, their pres­ tige . . . and severe hardships on the workers and their families . . . and the annoyance and in­ convenience to the public—why didn't they use their quick-trig­ ger minds with figures and offer to accept a major portion of what the unions asked for—which seems to be what happened any­ way after several weeks of a strike? If the employers settled so much later after the strike, why didn't they use the same system weeks before the threat of a strike and avoid all those severe hard­ ships on public workers, govern­ ment and their own profits and continued operation of factories and services? But these greedy scheming employers deliberately avoided any day to day con­ ferences held in good faith weeks before the strike. In other words, the employers, with childishly stubborn but clever minds, con­ tinued the strike for the workers. "Cut and Run" Hank ABOARD THE SS MEREDITH VICTORY AT SEA Some of the crewmembers pose, for Seafarer Gilbert Parker, the Meredith's; ace cameraman. The picture, was te.>:en while the vessel — which the crew termed,'a fit. home, at-sea'— was re­ turning to its home port, of Norfolk.. Brother In Army Requests Info Regarding Future Status Prior to joining the army in September 1945, I was a member of the SIU, in good standing. My last vessel was a Waterman Victory, which I left in New Orleans sometime in August, a month before I entered the army. I had been sailing 26 months, and I liked going to sea. At present I have 26 months to go before being discharged from the army. Meanwhile, I would like to know if there is any way in which I can right myself with the Union, so that I majy be eligible to sail upon termination of my army service. I still have my papers and Union book. Please let me know what can be done in regard to restoring my status in the SIU. Jerry Rouse, Pfc. Troop A, 1st Cqnstab. Sq'n 15th Constab. Regiment APO 209, c/o Postmaster, N.Y. ^ Answer; — We have checked with the bookkeeping depart­ ment and they recommend that you mail your book to that de­ partment at the New York Hall, where it will be placed in the Armed Forces file. When you are discharged from the army, come to the New York Hall with your discharge papers. The book will be returned to you at that time, and you will have established yourself in good standing. 'Have A Heart' Begs Ski After Tearing It In Pieces Dear Editor: let would have gone right through your heart and killed Here's a couple of short ones— you." I'd like to pass along: To which the first OS replied: Two ordinary seamen were "Not me it didn't. I was so reminiscing on deck one day scared when he fired, my heart about their war experiences. was in my mouth." Said one: Then there were the Purser, "I'll never forget the time I the Pharmacist's Mate and the was torpoedoed. I was swim­ radio operator, who were shoot­ ming around when the sub ing the breeze about books and surfaced and came toward me. authors. "It got closer and closer. "Have you read Bacon?" Suddenly, I saw one of the asked one. enemy standing on the deck "No, but I've eaten it," came of the sub with a gun pointed the answer. right at my chest. Then he "I'm talking about Bacon the pulled the trigger. . . ." writer." "Hey, wait a minute," piped "Oh, him — sure, I knew him the other OS. "If he was that very well," said the second close to you and fired, the bulsmart guy. Why we used to. ." "Hey, Bacon's been dead 200 years." BROTHERS PASS "You don't say? How time ALONG NOTE ON flies." A HARD GUY Well, that's it fellows, but have a heart, wiP you. I'll be seeing Dear Editor: you fellows in New York within Today, Brother Richard Far­ a few days. ley and I, Arthur Hillai-y, were Alex (Ski) Janowski invited to have a dinner aboard the SS Siroco, an Isthmian ship. The invitation came from Broth­ WANTS THE LOG er Hefflin, another SIU brother, SENT TO THE who knew we were flat broke and LOG INN needed a square meal. We were eating our dinner in a Dear Editor: quiet, orderly manner, when the I have been getting the Log Chief Mate, Albert Meyers, pass­ every week and I have been en­ ed by. Noticing that we were not joying it very much reading members of the crew, he called about the good work the boys the Steward aside and told him J have been doing. I sure wish that meals are not to" be served, I could have been there to help. to any persons other than the I plan to ship out again around crew. the first of the year. I was living in Nevada, but I This little note might save a few brothers from an unnecessary moved to Rock Springs, Wyom­ hard trip. It has been said by ing, and I would like to have the members of the crew that this Log sent to me at the new ad­ mate is a very hard and unreason­ dress. Keep up the good work, boys. able man to get along with. He is also a non-union man—to put it And hello to the boys in New Orleans. mildly. A. J. Doty Arthur Hillary c/« Log Inn Richard. D; Farley Rock Springs, Wiyo. Honolulu,. T. H; .1 �Page Fourteen T B E SEAPAHtHf> L tt t. Friday, December 27. 1946 Curran's Statement On CMU Resignation porations to destroy the labor Stewards Division, would be set- ber two, for promoting warfare bloody warfare on the water­ ' (Coniinued from Page 5) whose votes decide the policy, movement, leave no stone un­ ting the pattern for all unions, on the waterfront with the Am­ front, while the shipowners and have contributed together less turned in seeking unity, even on and leave us in a position where erican Federation of Labor and reactionary forces stand by and than $13,000. Ordinarily it would a minimum basis, with the Am­ we would have to inform our op­ the independent unions. Because enjoy the sight of unions destroy­ not' be of much importance, this erican Federation of Labor, Rail­ erators that we were not able to of the dominating role played by ing each other-. question of money being contrib­ road Brotherhoods, and CIO, for negotiate but would submit our a few people on the west coast It may be argued that we are uted, but when that money does the mutual protection of the la­ demands to arbitration, thereby and their hatred of the unions of bound by a vote of our member­ injuring the bargaining power of the American Federation of La­ ship and therefore I cannot re­ not serve the purpose of creating bor movement in general. NMU for its Deck and Engine bor, the unions that we were able sign as Co-Chairman. The vote unity, then it is of great importIn many ports, CMU local com­ to work with before, such as the of our membership was a vote for •ance. It is also important, be­ mittees, which, under national Departments. MFOW, have been driven from affiliation to CMU based upon the cause under this setup, t'he NMU CMU policy, are not supposed to NO RIGHT the CMU, and their leadership, policy statement adopted in the treasury can be drained by CMU, carry out any programs not pre­ Arbitration has never been the whether we agree with them or whfle our Union, which carries viously authorized by the Execu­ instrument which did any good not, have been constantly sland­ May Convention, which gave full the main financial bui'den, does tive Committee, have gone off on for the workers unless tremend­ autonomies to unions, and recog­ not'have a decisive voice on how their own on political issues, etc., ous pressure was exerted similar ered and attacked. The MEBA, nized all of their rights, and which was moving towards na­ stated that what would be done our money should be spent. and involved our unions in*^m- to that of last June, September tional unity in their own ranks, is that the unions together would 4. Since June 15th, instead of barrassing situations. An example and October. I objected to this ha.s been divided further because work toward uniform agree­ gaiiis as a result of unity, and of this is the recent occurrence in procedure, and requested that in of the recent strikes and wrong ments, uniform expiration dates, oyer my objections, time and New Orleans, where CMU in­ line with CMU policy, the west strategy. So we are actually left and the promotion of greater time again, these union leaders volved itself in the .political situ­ coast unions wait until we had with, not 7 original unions which have elevated tactics to prin- ation occurring in that city. had an opportunity of having one instituted the CMU, but 5 unions, unity among all seamen, with the 'ciples, particularly during vari­ meeting with our operators for 4 of which, although given equal eventual objective of creating AUTONOMY ENDANGERED ous strikes in September and negotiation before discussing ar­ voting, make up less than one one union. The opposite is now Much more can be said of the October, and our Unions, al­ true. The vote of the member­ bitration. As I felt the east and though geographically complete­ activities of local commUtecs, west mast operators had trapped fifth of the membership of our ship did not bind me to remain a ly steparate, wore kept on all-out many of which actually usurped us into separate approaches and union. Co-Chairman. That was decided strikes bj' action of the CMU the authorities of individual weakened our unity. I was "voted at the CMU Convention, without CMU DISUNITY Executive Committee on the unions. The national policy of down, and I was informed that a vote of the membership. And I With the critical days ahead, basis that we should all stay on CMU, adopted in May, specifical­ under CMU policy we had no and unity so necessary, particul­ am sure the membership of our strike until both coasts were set­ ly does not permit this. That right to expect individual unions arly with the attacks from the Union would not want me to con­ tled; and in the end both coasts policy said that each union main­ to give up the possibilities of win­ Coast Guard growing and anti- tinue, knowing that our Union is had' to settle separately anyway, tains its full autonomy and the ning for their members conces­ labor legislation more serious in a B-ciass union in the CMU. The • in spite of the fact that the setup right to make its own decisions sions under arbitration on retro­ the maritime field than in the membership did not vote to have on both coasts made it impossible with respect to all parts of its active pay, and this motion was general labor field coming up, I 4 craft unions, with a total mem­ •for cither to be of value to the constitution. carried by the usual 4-1 vote. am sure that our membership, bership of less than one-fifth of other. We had great difficulty our membership, located three I have fought constantly to On the question of setting up a when they voted for CMU did not thousand miles away, dictate the keeping the support of ILA, AFL straighten these things out be­ realize, or they would have voted Longshoremen on the east coast cause I had believed, and believ­ national organization of CMU against it, that it would result in policies of the NMU, a powerful becaiise of these wrong tactics. ed up to the Executive Commit­ through a Convention, the west less unity and the promotion of industrial union, national in In the case of the MEBA, their tee meeting of December 16th coast unions insisted that a Con­ greater hatreds than we have character and with a proven rec­ strike was eventually concluded and 17th, that if these matters vention be held in March. I at­ had. Nor would they have voted ord of its strength.--Ijbr did they separately for the east coast and were straightened out, CMU tempted to point out that a Con­ for it if they knew that our vote to give the right to any or­ the west coast, and had the cor­ could still be a force for unity. vention in March would not have Union was to become a B-class ganizations, no matter how large rect policj'^ been adopted, the But the Executive Committee the desired effect because of the or .small, to dissolve the NMU. I Since union, without even the right to am sure also that our member­ strike, which lasted 21 days, meeting held in San Francisco changed circumstances. veto policies dictated by the.sc would have been much shorter, convinced me more than ever June, the Marine Firemen, Oilers small craft unions. Nor did they ship was under the impression as as they obtained in the end, that there not only is no possibil­ and Watertenders Union were no vote, I am sure, to be a part of I was, when they voted, that we through the National Strike, no ity of creating this unity that we longer in the CMU, and of the an open warfare with fellow would eventually establish unity more than they could have gotten desire, but there is a grave dan­ MEBA only the west coast half workers in unions of the Ameri­ of all seamen, AFL, CIO and in­ by settling separately in the first ger, because of the hatreds of in­ of it had voted, and there were can Federation of Labor, with dependent alike, and not just a place. dividual leaders on the west strong possibilities that the Con­ whom we were able to work in few unions, for the purpose of de­ On the west coast, MEBA, coast for each other, AFL and vention of the MEBA to be held unity during Jhe September and claring war against other unions,which had to continue on stidke CIO, that our Union would be­ in Los Angeles would vote October strikes, particularly the unless these unions agreed to for approximately 50 days along come the victim of and an inno­ against affiliation with CMU. I AFL longshoremen on the east unity on the terms of these few with the ILWU, because of the cent, assistant to creating bloody stated there that a Convention coast, who gave us full support in union leaders. refusal of the west coast operat­ warfare on the waterfront at a should not be held until at least spite of the attempts of some of LUST FOR POWER ors to deal on a national basis, time when unity of all seamen, October, when we knew where their leadei'S to break our strike. These are a few of the reasons actually got less than the east AFL and CIO alike, is the most we would be going, and we would When I participated in the which impel me to resign as Cohave a bettor idea of where the coast MEBA in the matter of important thing. Convention which established the Chairman of CMU. I am - con­ other unions stood on this allpreference of employment for DOUBLECROSSED important question. Still, a dele­ CMU, I was not aware that the vinced that unity -can be achieved their members. At that Executive Committee gated conference was voted, and CMU would be turned into this for all seamen, but only on the Millions of dollars in earnings kind of organization. Had I been basis of wiping out all the'past were lost because of this wrong meeting, which was called for it was left to this Conference to so, nothing would have made me hatreds and lust for power by istrategy. This situation has em­ the purpose of setting up the de­ decide if it wanted to turn itself participate in its inception. To some individual leaders, and mands of our various unions in into a Convention. My position bittered many engineers, because continue as Co-Chairman of such meeting together on a basis of of creating a uniform national the CMU for the wage review was against this on the basis that a set-up would be tantamount to Setup, it actually had the effect! January, in order that that conference should only mo­ selling out the seamen, in my recognition of the rights of all the unions, and to act on the min­ of furthering the division be- these demands would be uniform, bilize all our forces for the ex­ opinion, and strengthening the tween the east and west coast the approach of all our piration of agreements on June hatreds between unions which we imum things necessary to protect the interest of the meVnbership sections of the MEBA, and it was ""tons would be the same, Ihere- 15th of 1947 and not for the pur­ were actually beginning to break of all the maritime unions, such definitely misleadership through creating the greatest united pose of creating a national or­ down in a small way. Some may as; which our union was dragged as P' ossure to obtain these demands; ganization at that time as it would argue that this is a disruptive 1. To organize jointly against the a stooge union by the four craft I December 1st, before I left for be px-emature. That vote too was statement and will cause our peo­ activities of the Coast Guard unions voting solidly for that|tho Executive Committee meet- carried by the usual 4 to 1. ple to lose gains. Certainly the now becoming vicious against strategy developed by the west t"®' Union, upon request.of truth cannot be disruptive, and AGAINST AFL seamen. ' the west coast unions, submitted coast section of CMU. the truth is that if CMU continues 2. To organize jointly, CIO and no demands. to the shipowners, Now on the question of unity as it has in the past few months, FIGHTS AFL AFL and Independent, to de­ leaving these demands to be of all maritime workers, what The CMU has been used by the made up at the CMU Executive has happened? In June we had it would be the greatest disrup­ feat the. establishment of vi­ west coast unions since June also meeting. Arriving at the meet­ unity behind our issues. It was tive instrument. It has ah-eady cious anti-labor maritime laws as a weapon of warfare against ing, I found that the MC&S and not a name which won our de­ disrupted unity that existed be­ which forces among the ship­ .the American Federation of La­ the ILWU had already met with mands. It was solidarity of our tween our organization and the owners and in the govern­ bor and the MEOW and inde­ the operators on the west coast unions, and the support of other MFOW and parts of the MEBA, ment ar-e attempting now to pendent unions and has caused and wei-e asked to submit their unions that won them, and that and it would not be long before pass through the next Con­ a complete separation between demands by the following Friday unity could have grown had there it would be the cause of greater gress under the guise of re­ the eastern and western sections and then agree to throw them in­ been respect for the rights of losses to our membership and the codifying old maritime laws of the Marine Engineers, thus to arbitration, on which a decis­ other unions instead of policies rest of the seamen than have and bringing them up to date. opening the way for penetration ion would be rendered by Janu­ being jammed down their throats, been gained. 3. Organizing jointly all our of the officers' union by District ary 1st. This placed our Union in which drove these unions away unions, AFL and CIO and In­ OUTSIDE FORCES 50 of the United Mine Workers. the position where we had no and caused them to set up such dependent, for the purpose of Our Union is powerful. It has Constant blasts are made against meetings with the operators on organizations as the AFL Mari­ nothing to fear, except if it be­ getting the best possible the SUP, MFOW, MM&P, and the the east coast until January, and time Trades Department to de­ comes the tool of forces who wages, hours and conditions ILA on the east coast. This cer­ I was told that these unions were fend themselves in what was ob­ want to take it over from the out­ for all seamen without regard tainly is not in the . interest of going to follow this program of viously to be war between CMU side. It cannot at this date be­ to affiliation and also without unity of all maritime,workers for submitting their demands and and AFL Seamen's Unions. We come a B-class union to be used regard to the desire"" of the which we are striving and which their gains to arbitration with a succeeded in cutting the hours to^ heighten the prestige of a few leadership of some unions to has been recommended on a na­ decision coming out by January and raising the pay of seamen. individual leaders and be used by be either the first in getting tional scale by Philip Murray in 1st for stewards and longshore­ We made tremendous gains, but them to promote hatreds and dis­ these demands or refusing to his famous statement that we men, and we would be in the po­ since then CMU has been used unity among the seamen as a work together because of this, must, in the face of a reactionary sition where the MC&S, a craft for the purpose, number one, of whole under the guise of fake I can assure the membership Congress and the drive of cor- union, representing only the controlling our union, and num- unity which can only result in {Continued on Page IJ) �Friday^ December 27, 'W46 THE SEAFARERS LOR Pag* Fifleeii Seafarers Demands Investigation Into Snug Harbor Conditions AFL WATERFRONT SOLIDARITY ing to make a suggestion which (Continued from Page 1) should satisfy both your organi­ effort to so administer the affairs zation and the members of the of the Trust that the aged, de­ Seafarers International Union, crepit and worn out seamen of Our suggestion is that a suitable the U.S. Merchant Marine, as time be arranged by you in order specified in the will of the Found­ that two SIU representatives be er, may find here a quiet, respect­ allowed to visit the home, and able and Christian haven where satisfy themselves that the condi­ they may enjoy their advancing tions prevailing are as you stated years in an atmosphere of peace in your letter. and contentment. Surely, if^you have no doubts Very truly yours, as to the conditions being as you Howard A. Flynn have stated, none of the officials Governor. of The Sailor's Snug Harbor can The second letter was in an­ object to our proposal. In line swer to Volpian's 'letter to the with this, our Union shall be only Trustees, and is extremely brief. too glad to publish in our official It reads as follows: union paper, the Seafarers Log, December 23, 1946 the results of any such investi­ Mr. Joseph H. Volpian gation. We make this offer in or--*, Seafarers Int'l Union of N.A. der to show our willingness to 51 Beaver Street In recognition of the support given the SIU in the General Strike, and to assist the Tugboatdo all within our power to clear New York 4, N.Y. up, once and for all time, any men to gain their just demands, these SIU members met in a special meeting in the New York Dear Sir: doubts which may exist as to the Hall to adopt a resolution unanimously backing Local 333, Marine Division, ILA. Right after this Your communication of the actual conditions now existing at picture was taken, the resolution was carried by a standing vote. IGth instant, addressed to the Snug Harbor. Trustees, has been received and We shall be pleased to* hear a reply has been made to you by from you in the near future re­ Governor Flynn on the 18th in­ garding your compliance with our stant. reasonable request. In the event Yours very truly. that you do not see fit to grant Waller A. Guenlher this request, we shall be forced Comptroller. to assume the correctness of our Inasmuch as neither letter an­ original information regarding swered the criticism levelled at the existence of poor conditions North Russia, in July-August of ships, heavily loaded with sup­ Snug Harbor by those inmates (Continued from Page }) at The Sailor's Snug Harbor, and 1942, it was persistently rumored plies for Russia, alone and poorly who contacted the SIU for aid in may have been more. It was that you do not wish these condi­ that the Russian seamen who armed, were attacked and des­ bettering conditions, the SIU con­ about 4 P.M.; suddenly from the tions to become known. Thank­ "deserted" the Donbass in a life­ troyed by enemy submarines and tinued its campaign by sending right rear corner they charged ing you in advance for your fui-boat, when the explosion occur­ the nummerous enemy aircraft. another letter to Mr. Flynn re­ into the convoy. Flames, smoke ther cooperation in this matter, I questing that "two SIU represen­ red, were shot. and tracers issued from guns on am tatives be allowed to visit the Official eyewitness testimony is all sides. The lead enemy air­ Very truly yours, home, and satisfy themselves craft dropped two torpedoes also offered by Captain Andreyev Joseph H. Volpian that the conditions prevailing are which leaped, skimmed, and rush­ for he quotes a Captain Lowford, Special Services 14 North Gay St. as you stated in your letter." ed the water to their target; the in "official conversation" as say­ BALTIMORE Representative, Calvert 4539 Following is the letter in its William Hooper was torpedoed. ing, "the crews of the American BOSTON 276 State St. Seafarers International Boudoin 4455 entirety: transports left their ships at the Union of N.A. BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Howard A. Flynn, Governor PLANE DOWN first danger." Cleveland 7391 In line with the militant pro­ CHARLESTON 68 Society St. The Sailors Snug Harbor gram of the SIU to bring about The plane swerved up and over Captain Andreyev's eyewit­ Phone 3-3680 Staten Island 1, N.Y. the best possible conditions for Clearing the ships of that column ness is a very indefinite person. CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. Superior 5175 Dear Sir: seamen, whether at sea or ashore, and passing close by our. stern we While in his "lessons" the Cap­ Your communication of De­ CLEVELAND ...1014 E. St. Clair Ave. saw the streams of armor-pierc­ tain himself reminds us of those Main 0147 cember 18, and that of Mr. Walter the present Seafarers' campaign ing tracer bullets and millimeter Nazi tutors who instructed the CORPUS CHRISTI ..1824 Mesquite St. A. Guenther dated December 23, to investigate, and improve if Corpus Christi 3-1509 necessary, conditions prevailing shells tearing into the plane, and German youth, along with other DETROIT 1038 Third St. have both been received and the Cadillac 6857 at The Sailor's Snug Harbor will the puffs of the exploding shrap­ know-how, that "the Americans DULUTH 531 W. Michigan St. contents carefully noted. We no­ be carried through to a success­ nel around it. Bursting into are not soldiers." Melrose 4110 ticed particularly in the second flames it slowly pancaked to the 305'/a 22nd St. paragraph of your letter that you ful conclusion. Certainly, wheth­ Describing the attack on the GALVESTON 2-8448 er a seaman is "aged, decrepit and water's surface. . 10 Merchant St. specifically deny the reliability convoy. Captain Andreyev re­ HONOLULU worn out" or not, he deserves the 1515 75th Street of our information concerning the A German torpedo-bomber, ported, "one of the torpedoes hit HOUSTON best possible food and living con­ Phone Wentworth 3-3809 heading out of the convoy, passed the American transport Chris­ JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St alleged shortcomings of The Sail­ ditions; and whether that seaman Phone 5-5919 or's Snug Harbor. over our stern about mast high. topher Newport which was im­ is a retired member of the SIU, MARCUS HOOK IVz W. 8th St Such a statement on your part Smoke issued from his rear; he mediately left by her crew al­ Chester 5-3110 SUP, NMU, MCS, MFOWW or was wobbling; streaming steel though the damage was not MOBILE 7 St. I'ichael St is probably motivated by the 2-1754 findings of certain routine check­ any other maritime union, the spitted his bottom. Now, as the great." NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. SIU is going to fight to see that action died down, we saw the NaMagnolia 6112-6113 ups undoubtedly performed by he gets those conditions. NEW YORK 51 Beaver St you or the Trustees from time to PREVIOUSLY HIT varino out of her column and HAnover 2-2784 falling back; she was listing and 127-129 Bank Street time. However, there is a pos­ However, it was over thirteen NORFOLK 4-1083 sibility that the inmates might smoking. hours prior to the afternoon cele­ PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St not care to criticize the food, con­ Phone Lombard 3-7651 Heavy black smoke was billow­ bration of the Fourth of July that Worth Ave ditions or other matters concern­ ing skyward from the tanker two tin fish ripped the guts of PORT ARTHUR . .909 Fort Phone: 2-8532 ing the home with you or other Donbass. Two or three lifeboats the Christopher Newport. In a PORTLAND Ill W. Burnside St 257 5th St officials due to the fact that they could be seen among the ships, one surprise attack by an enemy RICHMOND, Calif 105 Market St might be afraid of retaliatory (Continued From Page 14J^ and behind the convoy a small aircraft at 2:30 A.M., she was SAN FRANCISCO Douglas 5475-8363 measures being taken against of our union that it is my inten­ group of German fliers adrift in struck squarely amidship—struck SAN JUAN, P. R 252 Ponce de Leon San Juan 2-5996 them. tion to follow the leadership of their inflated doughnut. Above where the Firemen, Oilers and SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St In view of this possibility, and Philip Murray, President of CIO, them a red distress flare, sus­ the Second Assistant Engineer 8-1728 also in view of the fact that our in his declaration of leaving no 86 Seneca St pended by its tiny parachute, were standing their 12 to 4 A.M. SEATTLE Main 0290 membership has specifically rec­ stone unturned in seeking at least descended slowly. Corvettes were watch. TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St ommended that an investigation M-1323 a minimum unity with all unions now scurrying to the stricken Thus we find in the Captain's TOLEDO 615 Summit St be made in order to determine in the maritime field in the days vessels. 440 Avalon Blvd the truth of conditions at The "lessons," that which Ernest Re- WILMINGTON to come, because I know it is in Terminal 4-3131 "The transports Navarino, Wil­ nan pointed out: "Precept is VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. Sailor's Snug Harbor, we are go­ the interests of our membership liam Hooper and others that re­ nothing, practice is everything." VANCOUVER 144 W. Hastings St. to do so, and it cannot be done mained afloat were deserted by Shortly after the main attack under the present structure of their crews and sunk by the fire, on the convoy the covering CMU. of the escort," says Captain An­ forces of British and American Members who forward In my report to the National dreyev in his "lessons." warships steamed by, taking our their membership books to Council, recently concluded, I The William Hooper and the destroyer escortr with them. The the New York Hall for retire­ made it clear that there were Navarino were examined by merchant ships were ordered to FRED DUNN ment are urged to mark the many activities of CMU which British boarding parlies, and then scatter and proceed to their des­ envelope with the notation would have to be straightened Get in touch with Eric Gronsunk. tinations, for the German fleet, "Attention: 8th floor." in or­ out, and I was in hopes that they we were told, had put to sea from berg, SS Alcoa Pilgrim, or at the der to insure quicker hand­ would be straightened out at the Dbl^BASS LUCKY Trbndhjem; the covering force Mobile Hall. ling of the matter. December meeting of the Execu­ The Donbass, fortunately for set out to engage them. Marking of the envelope in tive Committee. These hopes * 1 t the Russian seamen aboard was It was after the convoy's dis­ the manner advised above were not realized, and therefore KARL ALEX. ERIKSON hit in a compartment of linseed persal in the vicinity of the will save time and will result my resignation was submitted.' ' oil instead of her tanks of gaso­ North Cape, Norway, on our way in prompt return of the book Fraternally yours, Contact Salvation Army, 52 El­ line. She was able to proceed and to the North Russian ports, that lis St., N. E., Atlanta, Georgia re­ to th* sender. Joseph Curran, President. ^ later arrived safely in Russia. In most of the scattered merchant garding your family in FirJand. National Maritime Union ' American Seaman Answers Russian Charge Of American, British Cowardice in Convoy SIU HALLS Curran's Blast AtCMUMeddling RETIRING BOOKS PERSONALS �Friday, December 27, 1949 r a E S E 4F A R ERS LOG Page Sixteen J': fy. • tV pp eafarers Way Pays Off On Beefs, Again fe i me, T~ •aric Co\lu^ Union Action Brings $5,653 j) faSnug to^w ToEi %«. *• -.n,mneiengl 0/t/i Harb SIU Pledges Ail-Out All Rider Reel vfSAj To The Eight Victims Ol astGuardMiiitaryRuii n«» / '•"S* 'fie .'•"rfe. .'--i • 68 of the Seafarers International Unia apcis were suspended for six montlj [|^ilii«^M||^^UDnprt was pledgp J YORl •Ked to] cnilicJ Is ^'mar StrtkefcreaWng Ti Iff''' Si-0 vccmi '.tSS ''Oils lot ^^"'1' ^''ooks III R'fis'T-. "o„ ..••\ vOT^'i" lllUiieias>I«t^ Jffne^tlinei te'fl/dxes jKiM-SU ri- S^nun/iN I? o *• n ilL-iv-v'i? I_ =^1 'fic' otA,i " ;tiitcc frt '•itionl li'. ' SmS !!> ^ ^ c-V -V-.. vvV-l <ftW X 0- ... '€/» e/3 " t'i s 15 5-^S sS ss RicS-i ta. ^ «» i'* ^ i> In ® AFL Maritime unions Answer ridges'Raidii >-o» 7/j "04 r IK-D day., thel definite stci P"I."f the comnS iity 3gj] '•X- f. 1'\ 1946 M S. latere ^LMon rnalional ^ "lis. 2 if s" c> ^ ^ And AFl '"nlT'^ 'Company i»-V ®®feaf ''!' P'^", ^ 3* m •o m. rn hf NortJi NEW YORK, N. Y.. FRIDAY. MARCH 22, 194E Agents Confer in New YorkToPlanS^y^ »wl /'"Pressure;«,» K "arm Suuni 4fe<i..v, i' '"^CIIBWCOM.H^ &|ss^ • "IC/l ; withh t noivi r ycarf Fee*J lo' •„ir" '•'•'Ol f"" '•ffwi- Ife -1' ?®® Jo Crew |®f £ye (ract u «« 5ea6arers - T®^^ei Afg '%'PWC/ r'"'^" are ' mofe^-g-. is™".; 1 nurJ 'hf crbv;, ""aineill -,r_ tent to «comm«d 'tr ^oir"pt^^ -., ——«e-i rf^-r AFL Maritime Soiidarity Beats Bridges, CMU Raid On SIU Pacific NEW YORK—Ffl •fe F4 If*'® 'ey A/SA T- '.e""e' evidenced by^ «VI TuedaV. J«P« T „ cl,..Ve. end Joseph Suumw-^ � 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 December 27, 1946 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. VIII, No. 52 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: N.Y. MARITIME COUNCIL PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT TO AFL TUGBOATMEN SIU DEMANDS SNUG HARBOR INVESTIGATION CURRAN RESIGNS AS CO-CHAIRMAN OF CMU; CHARGES IT WITH DISUNITY AND RAIDING THE BEST TO COME THIEVES FALL OUT FULL TEXT OF CURRAN'S STATEMENT ON HIS RESIGNATION FROM CMU EYEWITNESS ANSWERS SOVIET CHARGE OF AMERICAN, BRITISH COWARDICE WHAT A DIFFERENCE 50 YEARS HAVE MADE IN LIVES OF SEAMEN NMU DECIDES ON SILENCE ON ISTHMIAN SEAFARERS CREW TO THE RESCUE CALMAR'S COMMANDMENTS FOR MAKING SEAMEN SCABS MEMBERS MUST BE SELF-APPOINTED ORGANIZERS TO KEEP SIU GROWING MINES STILL THREATEN SEAMEN RUM AND FIGHTS ARE NO HELP WHEN TRYING TO ORGANIZE COMMITTEE AIDS ANTI-FASCISTS IN EUROPE MOBILE HAS JOBS FOR MEN BROKE PLAYING SANTA SEAFARERS' HALL IN PORT ARTHUR IS DUE FOR A GOOD FACE LIFTING GALVESTON SICK STILL WAITING FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO HOSPITALIZED SEAFARERS GIVES BIG BUSINESS MAKES RESOLUTION FOR NEW YEAR: SMASH TRADE UNIONS CHRISTMAS SPIRIT IS VERY MUCH IN EVIDENCE IN BOSTON BRANCH BAD SMELL IN MARCUS HOKK HALL TURNS OUT TO BE CMU PROPAGANDA SEAFARERS REPRESENTATION GETS LOGS DROPPED, MEDICAL BILLS PAID TILLAMOOK CREW RESENTS POUND TAX ON BUTTS CREW SLINGS SOME CHANGES ON GOLIATH COUNTER OFFENSIVE PLANNED AGAINST INSECTS ON EVELYN Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/27/1946 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1946 Periodicals Seafarers Log